Watkins Possesses the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup
A solitary goal in his first ten Premier League outings this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.
But, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Return to Form
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.
Yet, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.
His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Scoring Form?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it perfectly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.
Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy 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 finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.
World Cup Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked discussions of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix 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 continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.
"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."