Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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