Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest is two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart 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 beloved player at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."

His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England return.

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

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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