Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive 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 head coach decides to select.

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