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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish 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 character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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