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

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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