Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad
Only one goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.
Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England following netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.
His newest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading 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 hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.
However, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly remarkable.
His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.
Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker some extra space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the last European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was noted.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."