Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

However, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about striker in England after bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.

However, the data underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in elite 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 did not achieve a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Competition

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

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

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

"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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