Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment 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," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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