Watkins Holds the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad
A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had plenty of questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.
His latest finish, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Remarkable Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.
However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are extremely impressive.
His six-game scoring streak puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two distinct five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.
Analysts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."
His manager has voiced little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited talks of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
But, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.
"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."