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

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

Yet, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on 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 recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch 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 resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be 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 speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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