Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed forward in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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