Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning 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 marred by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

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

Pundits 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 commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

But, the battle for places behind 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 opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."