Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring run puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

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

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted 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 highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

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 featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation 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 match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

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

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