Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the International Squad
Only one goal in his first ten top-flight games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the hottest striker in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.
His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, took his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.
Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely impressive.
His six-game scoring run puts him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two individual five-match runs.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.
Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling more players to occupy 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 exquisite 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 mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.
The England Question
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," 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
However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.
"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."