Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

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 separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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