Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
However, a mere four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about striker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.
His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, establishing him as the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Remarkable Revival
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.
But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.
His six-match scoring sequence sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Scoring Form?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has created the striker a little more space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured 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 here I am now."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled talks of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.
"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now seen as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you compare 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 could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.
"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."