Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad
A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division outings this season had many doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
But, a just four weeks later, he is the most discussed forward in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.
His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.
However, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.
His six-game scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it 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 at the perfect moment."
That natural ability and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.
Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.
The England Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked conversations 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 last European Championship.
Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."