Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

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

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring run puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for 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 keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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