Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

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

His six-game scoring streak puts him in exclusive 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

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

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager 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."