Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest forward in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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