Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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