Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top is two individual five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter 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 exquisite little finish 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 hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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