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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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