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

Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

Yet, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains 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.

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.

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

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.

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