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

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good 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 former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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