Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

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

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer 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 hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good 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 point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has 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 flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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