Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as 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, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation 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 successive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Conversation

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

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

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as sharp 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."

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently seen 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 get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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