Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

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

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring run puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

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.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."