Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest is two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."