Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring streak 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 this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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