Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad
A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the hottest forward in England after scoring seven goals in six straight games.
His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Remarkable Revival
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.
Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.
His six-game scoring run puts him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest is two distinct five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his former team.
Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."
His manager has voiced complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.
"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."