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

A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-match scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.

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

The Secret to the Purple Patch?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.

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

That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.

"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last 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 while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.

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