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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run places him in elite 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 never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run 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 summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

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

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as in shape 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."

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"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."