Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League games this season had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.

His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.

But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.

His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.

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

That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has shown little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

The England Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain 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 Competition

But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.

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

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

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