Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

"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 could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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