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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring run places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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