Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."