Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become 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 free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

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

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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