Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick 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 test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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