Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.

However, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.

But, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Observers think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

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

Intense Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.

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