Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

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

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations of an England call-up.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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