Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions 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 in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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