Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs 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 shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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