Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

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

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory 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 difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter 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 neat little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."