Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had plenty of questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

Yet, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, 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 Revival

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

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

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

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England recall.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

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

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

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

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

"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."