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

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "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 turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains 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 as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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