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

A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."