Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

But, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

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

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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

Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

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

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

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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