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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring run puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest stands at two separate five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"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 discussion for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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