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

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

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."

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 he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."