Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest forward in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

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

However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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