Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the leading 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 stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook 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 this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

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

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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