Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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