Watkins Maintains the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Make the International Squad
A solitary goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
Yet, a only four weeks afterwards, he stands as the most discussed forward in England following scoring seven goals in six straight games.
His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, seeing him become the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
An Impressive Return to Form
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.
Yet, the numbers 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 provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two individual five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a popular figure at his former team.
Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal 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 highs and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has shown no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.
World Cup Question
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the national team since the last European Championship.
Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be in front in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might come down to whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
