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

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

And the only English striker to surpass 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 Hot Streak?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a typical 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 persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- 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 keep up this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," 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

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

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

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.

"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.

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