Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

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

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."