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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality 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, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think 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 commented. "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 behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

"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."