Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

His six-match scoring run places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked conversations of an England recall.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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