Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup
Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
However, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His most recent finish, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Remarkable Resurgence
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its closing stages.
But, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.
His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his best remains two distinct five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.
Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of mentality and I've persevered 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, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has inevitably fueled discussions of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to select.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."