Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

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

Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.

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 did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest is two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled talks of an England return.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.

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