Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the World Cup
Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.
However, a only four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Remarkable Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.
Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.
His six-match scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his longest remains two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Scoring Form?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker some extra space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test 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 purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally fueled conversations of an England call-up.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Finally, 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 depend on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."