Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

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

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.

However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as just 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 this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into 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 typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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