Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

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

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

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

"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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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