Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated 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 moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"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 natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in consideration 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 maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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