Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the International Squad
A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
But, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about striker in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.
However, the numbers supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.
His six-match scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Scoring Form?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.
Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
