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

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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