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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the data underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence puts him in prestigious 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 never managed a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.

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

Stiff Rivalry

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"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 possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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