Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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 put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."