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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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