Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he is the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate 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 Reason for the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

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

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."