Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "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 beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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