Watkins Holds the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the World Cup
A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League games this season had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were in the past.
But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.
His newest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.
But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are extremely impressive.
His six-match scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to surpass 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 Scoring Form?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That natural ability and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.
Analysts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker some extra space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test 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 hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."