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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented 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 test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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