Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup
Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.
But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting 7 goals in six consecutive games.
His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Remarkable Revival
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.
However, the statistics supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.
His six-game scoring run places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top remains two separate five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.
Pundits point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited discussions of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."