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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era 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 hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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