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

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Revival

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

However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top is two separate five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

International Question

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

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

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

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

Intense Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

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