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

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.

However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

An Impressive Revival

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

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive 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 never managed a run this long - his best remains two separate five-match runs.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.

"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.

Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality 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 hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

International Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.

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