Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup

Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Stunning Return to Form

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

However, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Scoring Form?

Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager described it aptly.

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

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

Experts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."

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

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked conversations of an England recall.

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with 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 sustain this standard.

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

Fierce Competition

However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind 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 may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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