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

Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

Yet, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Return to Form

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

However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts 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, thus given the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Intense Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

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

"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."