Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup
Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.
But, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in six straight games.
His newest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
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 hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.
However, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.
His six-game scoring sequence places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top remains two distinct five-match runs.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Purple Patch?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.
Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic 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 no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England call-up.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"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."
