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

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

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

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played 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 sustain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of 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 analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."