Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class 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 established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented 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 ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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