Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

His six-game scoring run places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

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

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

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

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Intense Competition

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

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

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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