Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight games this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.
But, a mere four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England after scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His newest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
An Impressive Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.
However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.
His six-match scoring run places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top remains two distinct five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.
Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the country since the last European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he sustains 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 as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to test 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 may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."