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

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally 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.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."