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

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "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 established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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