Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup

Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.

But, a mere four weeks on, he is the hottest striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.

His newest strike, in a stalemate against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.

A Remarkable Resurgence

The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.

Yet, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely notable.

His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.

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

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

What's Behind the Purple Patch?

What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.

"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "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 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.

Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.

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

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

His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.

International Conversation

Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.

The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.

Analysts believe 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 while," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."

Intense Competition

But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.

Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.

"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.

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

Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.

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