Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

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

However, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.

"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 nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

International Conversation

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

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

Pundits believe 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 long time," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.

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

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

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

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