Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.

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

Fierce Rivalry

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to include.

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