Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart 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 box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."