Watkins Possesses the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad
A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight games this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
Yet, a only four weeks on, he is the most talked-about striker in England following scoring 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.
Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.
His six-match scoring run places 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 never managed a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.
And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Hot Streak?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his former team.
Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker a little more space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed little astonishment at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
International Question
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.
Pundits believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, 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 selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
