Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup 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 consecutive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match runs.

And the sole 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 Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced 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 had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations 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.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses 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 meaningful impact at a big competition."

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 hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."