Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.

But, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 straight games.

His most recent finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.

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

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.

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

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

Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.

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

"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."

His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.

World Cup Dilemma

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.

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