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

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

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

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

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

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

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."