Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

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

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

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

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

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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