Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the World Cup

Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Revival

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

But, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.

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

To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match streaks.

And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory 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 difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.

"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."

"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."

His manager has shown no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England return.

The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.

Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.

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

Stiff Rivalry

Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.

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

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

"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."

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

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