Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish 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 test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix 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 debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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