Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad
Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight outings this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
However, a mere four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Stunning Return to Form
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its closing stages.
Yet, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely remarkable.
His six-game scoring streak puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Purple Patch?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker some extra space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
The England Question
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked conversations of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.
Observers feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."
