Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the World Cup
Only one goal in his first ten English top division games this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.
Yet, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.
His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
A Remarkable Resurgence
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.
But, the statistics behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.
His six-game scoring streak puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two separate 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 run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.
"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.
"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."