Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

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

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.

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

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

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

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