Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top remains two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."