Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best remains two separate 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 Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent 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 fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the last 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 sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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