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

Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.

However, a just four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.

His newest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.

A Remarkable Revival

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its final stages.

Yet, the statistics behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best is two individual five-match runs.

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

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 remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Experts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

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

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.

World Cup Question

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some assessment.

"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was stated.

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

Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.

"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."