Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad
A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League games this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
But, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in six consecutive games.
His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Remarkable Resurgence
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.
However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.
His six-game scoring streak sees him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled talks of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some analysis.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.
"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."