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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest is two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure 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, which has given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to take.

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