Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring sequence places 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 never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic 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 endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked conversations of an England call-up.

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

Analysts believe 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 long time," 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

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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