Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

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

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch 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 character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

"He also holds 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 may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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