Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad
A solitary goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.
But, a just four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.
His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.
But, the numbers supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.
His six-match scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his best stands at two individual five-match runs.
And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.
Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
The England Question
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the previous European Championship.
Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."