Watkins Possesses the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup
A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division games this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.
However, a just four weeks later, he stands as the hottest attacker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 consecutive games.
His newest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the highest English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by injuries in its closing stages.
But, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.
His six-match scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best stands at two distinct 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 streak for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it aptly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That instinct and timing 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 major factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited discussions of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.
"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 conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was stated.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."