Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-game scoring run puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

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

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."