Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole 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.

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, 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 pundit concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."