Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
Yet, a just four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.
But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely notable.
His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two separate five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked 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 this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.
Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled discussions of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."