Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years 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 recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts 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, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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