Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad
A solitary goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.
However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His newest finish, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.
Yet, the numbers underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.
His six-game scoring sequence puts him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his best remains two separate five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up aptly.
"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 nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.
Experts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter 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 neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."
His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably sparked discussions of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.
Observers feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
Yet, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."