Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring run puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo 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 Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

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

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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