Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in exclusive 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 of this length - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed 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 could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."