Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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