Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup
Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.
But, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England following netting seven goals in 6 consecutive games.
His most recent finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.
Yet, the numbers behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.
His six-game scoring streak sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Hot Streak?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.
Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups 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 expressed complete confidence at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in contention 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 sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
Yet, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some assessment.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."