Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup

A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following netting seven goals in six straight games.

His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.

But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.

His six-game scoring sequence places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two distinct five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Hot Streak?

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

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.

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

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."

His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited conversations of an England recall.

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

Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.

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

Fierce Rivalry

Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.

"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."