Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

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.

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it 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 timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain 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 debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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