Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.

However, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England recall.

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

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

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

Intense Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

"He also holds the edge 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 out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.

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