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

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

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

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

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed 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 highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix 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 maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

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

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."