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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to 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.

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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