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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured 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 this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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