Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.
But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.
His latest finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
An Impressive Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.
But, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.
His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Scoring Form?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.
Analysts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.
World Cup Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
But, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to select.
"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
