Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

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

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in exclusive 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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