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

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

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

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

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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