Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this campaign had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a only four weeks on, he stands as the hottest forward in England after netting seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

An Impressive Return to Form

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

However, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-match scoring run sees 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 was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Hot Streak?

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

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

That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.

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, which has provided the striker some extra space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Intense Competition

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double against Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.

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