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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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