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

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top 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, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick 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 challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

The England Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."