Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in elite 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 of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

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

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, 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 stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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