Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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