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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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 Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick 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 character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England recall.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," 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

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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