Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

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

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only 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 Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish 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 persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent 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 considerable period," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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