Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think 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 considerable period," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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