Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten top-flight outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its closing stages.

But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Secret to the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish 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 persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

The England Question

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

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

Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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