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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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