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

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

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

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart 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 turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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