Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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