Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Revival

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 fitness issues in its closing stages.

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

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

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

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

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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