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

Just one goal in his first ten English top division outings this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest 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, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

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

His six-game 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 did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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