Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he is the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

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

Analysts highlight 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," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."