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

Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

The England Dilemma

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

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

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