Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

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

His six-match scoring sequence sees 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. 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 expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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