Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division outings this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

His six-match scoring run places him in exclusive company as just 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 remains two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"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 meaningful impact at a major finals."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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