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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.

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

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

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

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