Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

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

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."