Watkins Maintains the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.
However, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 straight games.
His latest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its final stages.
Yet, the numbers behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.
His six-match scoring run puts him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his longest stands at two distinct five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Hot Streak?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what made him a beloved player at his former team.
Experts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
International Question
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the last European Championship.
Analysts believe 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 continues 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 as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.
"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to select.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."
