Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed striker in England following netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent 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 fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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