Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only 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 stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited discussions of an England call-up.

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

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."