Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad
Only one goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
But, a just four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.
However, the statistics behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.
His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Scoring Form?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.
Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker some extra space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."
His manager has expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.
World Cup Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled discussions of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not played for the national team since the previous European Championship.
Analysts feel 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 remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.
"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 might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."