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

A solitary goal in his first ten English top division games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.

But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.

A Stunning Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.

And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.

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

That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.

Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.

"He is a classic centre-forward," observed 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 character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

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

The England Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled discussions of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.

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

"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.

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

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

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

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