Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about forward in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

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

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

His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just 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 separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind 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 makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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