Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most talked-about attacker in England after netting seven goals in 6 straight games.
His newest finish, in a stalemate against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its closing stages.
But, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.
His six-game scoring streak puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his longest stands at two individual five-match runs.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.
Experts point to the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
The England Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.
Observers feel the striker will be in contention 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 continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently seen as leading in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.
"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."