Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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