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

Only one goal in his opening ten English top division appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

However, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

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

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

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

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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