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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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