Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical 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 persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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