Rise from the Ashes
After a rocky start to the season, with just one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is now the talk of England's football scene. With seven goals in six games, he has transformed his season and established himself as the top English scorer in the league.
His prowess came to light again during a recent match against Sunderland, where he equalized to take his tally to eight goals for the season. What a turnaround! He has redefined his role in Daniel Farke's dynamic 3-5-2 formation, a system that has played to his strengths, allowing him to thrive.
A Statistical Masterclass
We have to appreciate the numbers. Calvert-Lewin's recent six-game scoring streak places him in elite company — becoming only the eleventh English player to score in six consecutive Premier League appearances. And to think, England captain Harry Kane never had a streak this long, topping out at two separate five-match runs.
- Dominic Calvert-Lewin: 8 goals this season, with 7 in the last 6 games.
- Harry Kane: No streak longer than five consecutive appearances.
- Jamie Vardy: Only English striker with a longer streak (8 games) back in 2019.
Insights from the Experts
What changed? According to Sunderland's boss Regis Le Bris, it's all about timing and instinct. Following his strike against Sunderland, he noted that Calvert-Lewin possesses the perfect timing to position himself effectively. Coupled with Leeds adopting a formation that enhances attacking options, it's no wonder Calvert-Lewin is back in the spotlight.
“He has the perfect timing…smart and really good striker,” said Le Bris.
Can He Return to the National Stage?
With his resurgence, conversation about an England call-up is inevitable. The last time Calvert-Lewin wore the Three Lions jersey was during Euro 2020, where he earned just two substitute appearances. Now, as he looks to reclaim his spot on the team, pundits believe his current form can make a considerable impact.
Danny Murphy, former Liverpool midfielder, emphasized the importance of fitness and rhythm, stating, “He looks as fit as he has in a long time. If he keeps this up, he will certainly be in the conversation.” The positivity around Calvert-Lewin's recent performances offers hope for his World Cup ambitions.
The Competition is Fierce
Of course, competing for a slot in England's front line is no picnic. Players like Danny Welbeck, Marcus Rashford, and Ollie Watkins have all put in commendable performances this season, raising the stakes. Murphy pointed out that while Calvert-Lewin offers a unique skill set, Watkins currently holds the advantage with his pace and impactful tournament experience.
“Watkins has the edge in terms of speed and significant moments at major tournaments,” noted Murphy.
Final Countdown: World Cup Selection
As England gears up for the World Cup, Calvert-Lewin's future may depend on how many strikers are ultimately selected by coach Thomas Tuchel. The pressure is on him to maintain his current level of performance. “This is a test of character,” Calvert-Lewin stated, reflecting on his journey and determination.
In the high-stakes world of sports, every match counts, and Calvert-Lewin knows his moment is ripe for seizing. With his confidence back and the stats to back him up, we could very well see him don the England jersey again, ready to showcase his talent on the global stage.
Source reference: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cj69lj0w858o
