Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-match scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, 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 surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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