Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo 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?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."