Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given 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 classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

"He looks as sharp 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."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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