Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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.

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous 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 in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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