Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented 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 highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Dilemma

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

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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