Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.

But, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

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

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

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

And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."

That natural ability and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he sustains 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 behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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