Watkins Maintains the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.
But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England following bagging 7 goals in 6 straight games.
His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its final stages.
Yet, the statistics supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are extremely remarkable.
His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best stands at two separate five-match runs.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A latest 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 positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.
Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."
His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked conversations of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the country since the last European Championship.
Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
