Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree 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 recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

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

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