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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.

However, a mere four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six straight games.

His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Stunning Revival

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.

Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.

His six-game scoring sequence sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best stands at two separate 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 spree for Leicester City in 2019.

What's Behind the Scoring Form?

What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager summed it up 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 at the perfect moment."

That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.

Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.

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

"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."

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

World Cup Conversation

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

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.

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

Stiff Competition

However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

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

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.

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