Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had plenty of wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
But, a only four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest attacker in England following netting 7 goals in six straight games.
His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Remarkable Return to Form
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.
However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely notable.
His six-game scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best stands at two individual five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good 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 made him a beloved player at his former team.
Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus created the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish 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 resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."
His manager has voiced little astonishment at this rich vein of form, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
International Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited conversations of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one commented. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is right now considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."