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

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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 Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good 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 beloved player at his former team.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

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

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

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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