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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top is 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.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

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

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration 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 debate for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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