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

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

His six-match scoring run sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a classic 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 highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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