Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

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

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "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 behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."