Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably ignited discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," 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

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

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