Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

Yet, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

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

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

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

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

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

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