Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive 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 closing stages.

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole 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.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic 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 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 backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds 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 meaningful impact at a major finals."

Finally, 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 includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."