Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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