Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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 fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

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

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