Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better 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?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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