Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous 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 at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted 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 ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."