Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory 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 the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers 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 conversation for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."