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

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."