Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Resurgence

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

But, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.

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

To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

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

"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.

Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," commented 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 highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

The England Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.

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

Stiff Competition

Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.

"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 advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."

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

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