Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

However, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in elite 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 was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick 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 persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

"He also has 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 head coach decides to select.

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