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

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

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

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole 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.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct 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, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "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 as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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