Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself 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.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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