Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system 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 consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at 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 Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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