Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the International Squad
Just one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its latter stages.
But, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.
His six-match scoring streak places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run this long - his top 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 run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.
"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 natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.
Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented 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 challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
The England Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally ignited talks of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.
Observers think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
But, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.
"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."