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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated 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, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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