Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
Yet, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 back-to-back games.
His most recent goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
A Remarkable Resurgence
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.
However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.
His six-game scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match streaks.
And the sole 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.
What's Behind the Scoring Form?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a popular figure at his previous club.
Pundits point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.
The England Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably fueled discussions of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.
Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as sharp 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."
Fierce Rivalry
But, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some opinion.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."