Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

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

World Cup Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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