Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

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

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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