Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad
Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.
But, a only four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.
His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its final stages.
But, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.
His six-game scoring run places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.
Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."
His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
International Question
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably fueled conversations of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
However, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.
"I think it might hinge on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."
