Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

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

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, 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 he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."