Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."