Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.

His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

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

But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better 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 Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic 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 test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."