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

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the ideal 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 positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."