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

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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