Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his first ten Premier League games this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.
But, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.
His latest strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its latter stages.
Yet, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.
His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive 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 is two distinct five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Scoring Form?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and timing inside the box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.
Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted 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 lows. A challenge of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.
The England Question
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited talks of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
Yet, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the hierarchy, according to some analysis.
"If you look at 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 tournament."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to select.
"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."