Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring run sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch 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 persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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