Watkins Maintains the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.
Yet, a only four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six straight games.
His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.
But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly notable.
His six-match scoring run puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.
Analysts point to 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," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."
His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
The England Question
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled conversations of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits think 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 long time," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."