Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."