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

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks on, he is the most talked-about forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts point to 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, thus given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic 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 endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Question

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

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."