Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," 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

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also has the advantage 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 England manager decides to take.

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