Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."