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

Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.

But, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.

His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.

A Remarkable Return to Form

The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.

Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.

To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.

And the only 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 summed it up succinctly.

"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."

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

Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.

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

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

His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.

World Cup Conversation

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

The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.

Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.

"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."

Fierce Rivalry

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

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.

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

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.

"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."