Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

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

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy 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 lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."