Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

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

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.

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

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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