Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick 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 character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

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

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," 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 intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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