Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

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

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious 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 longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

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

"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."