Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to 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.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious company as only 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 of this length - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit 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."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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