Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

His six-match scoring run places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

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

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