Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Experts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked talks of an England call-up.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.

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

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.

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