Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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 remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

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

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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