Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced 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 latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.

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

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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