Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

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

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."