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

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented 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 ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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