Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

However, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team 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 remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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