Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup
A solitary goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
However, a just four weeks on, he stands as the hottest striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Remarkable Return to Form
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.
Yet, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.
His six-match scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Hot Streak?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."
His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
The England Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked discussions of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."