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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable 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 instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive 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 select.

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."