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

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through 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 backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.

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