Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked 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 the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."