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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

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, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

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

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

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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