Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Resurgence

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

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

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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