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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.

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

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

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."