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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only 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.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England recall.

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

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"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 debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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