Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.
But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely notable.
His six-match scoring sequence sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best is two distinct five-match runs.
And the only 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.
The Reason for the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker a little more space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has voiced no surprise at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled talks of an England call-up.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was stated.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, 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 come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."
