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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

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

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match runs.

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 tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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