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

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as only 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 remains two distinct five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."