Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

An Impressive Return to Form

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 final stages.

However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.

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

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

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class 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 turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.

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

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

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

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

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, 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 hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."