Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"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 advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

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

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