Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues 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 as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."