Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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 Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."