From Doubt to Focus: Calvert-Lewin’s Strong Resurgence
Scoring only one goal in the first 10 Premier League games of the season, Dominic Calvert-Lewin faced widespread doubts that his peak had passed. However, just four weeks later, the 28-year-old striker has become the most talked-about marksman in English football with a sensational run of seven goals in six games. His goal in the 1-1 draw against Sunderland lifted his seasonal tally to eight, securing his position as the top-scoring English player in the Premier League.
After joining Leeds United on a free transfer from Everton this summer, Calvert-Lewin, who has shaken off injury troubles, has regained his vitality in Daniel Farke’s 3-5-2 counter-attacking system. His feat of scoring in six consecutive games has catapulted him into the elite ranks—making him the 11th English player in Premier League history to score in six or more consecutive matches, an achievement even captain Harry Kane has not accomplished. Recently, only Jamie Vardy’s eight-game scoring streak during his Leicester City days in 2019 has been more impressive.
The Key to Resurgence: Formation Adaptation and Instinctive Return
In the eyes of Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris, the core reason behind Calvert-Lewin’s recent unstoppable form lies in his “perfect timing.” His goal against Sunderland is the best proof: in a fluid team move involving all 11 players, he received a low cross from Brenden Aaronson, evaded Nordi Mukiele, and found the net. Former Liverpool midfielder and pundit Danny Murphy pointed out that the 3-5-2 formation allows more players to pin down the defense in the penalty area, creating additional space for Calvert-Lewin.
Moreover, the team’s tactic of delivering crosses early to create sufficient shooting opportunities for him perfectly aligns with his technical characteristics. Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin praised his learning ability and striker instinct, noting that after missing an early chance at the near post in the first half, his clever chip goal in the second half following an adjusted run was a hallmark of a classic center-forward. Calvert-Lewin himself admitted that after many ups and downs, perseverance and confidence have helped him return to his peak.
The Race for World Cup Spot: Advantages and Challenges Coexist
Calvert-Lewin’s resurgence has naturally sparked discussions about his return to the England national team. The striker, who has 11 caps and four goals for England, has not represented his country since Euro 2020. Murphy believes that if he can maintain his current form, he stands a good chance of competing for a World Cup spot. Currently, he is in excellent physical condition, with consecutive appearances and goals boosting his confidence. His aerial dominance is notable, and he can provide the team with unique value as an impact substitute.
However, the competition is extremely fierce: Brighton’s Danny Welbeck is hot on his heels with seven goals this season, Barcelona’s Marcus Rashford is back in form, Al-Ittihad’s Ivan Toney was an efficient substitute at Euro 2024, and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has temporarily pulled ahead of him with a brace against Chelsea.
Watkins Has the Edge? The Key to Calvert-Lewin’s Comeback
Murphy analyzed that Watkins holds a slight advantage in terms of pace, crucial contributions in major tournaments, and familiarity with the existing squad—having scored the winning goal for England in the Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands, a major tournament resume that Calvert-Lewin, who only made two substitute appearances at Euro 2020, lacks. Nevertheless, Calvert-Lewin still has a chance, and his final inclusion will depend on Thomas Tuchel’s squad planning.
If the German manager plans to take three dedicated center-forwards, the in-form Leeds United striker has a strong chance of realizing his World Cup dream. After all, every player aspires to play for England, and Calvert-Lewin, who has previous goalscoring experience for the national team, is fully capable of competing at the international level.
