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

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as sharp 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."

Fierce Rivalry

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, 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 said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

"I think it might depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."