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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as only 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 of this length - his longest stands at 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

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

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England return.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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