Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup

Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

However, a only four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.

But, the statistics supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.

His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two separate five-match streaks.

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

The Reason for the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."

That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.

Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created 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 been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."

His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Question

Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England call-up.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.

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

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

Stiff Rivalry

However, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.

"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.

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

In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.

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