Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, 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 come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."