Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a archetypal 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 experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts 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 long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

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

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