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

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

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

His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best is two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

"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 discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

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

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."