Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal 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 persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."