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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch 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 resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

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

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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