Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had plenty of wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
However, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.
His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.
But, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.
His six-game scoring run places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."
His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.
World Cup Question
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last 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 while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.
"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."
