Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish 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 this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.

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

"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "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 supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

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

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