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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

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

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

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Competition

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.

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