Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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