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

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

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

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite 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 had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead 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 test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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