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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer 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, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

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

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented 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 downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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