Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup
Just one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this campaign had numerous questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.
Yet, a mere four weeks on, he has become the most discussed forward in England after netting 7 goals in 6 straight games.
His most recent goal, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.
But, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.
His six-game scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League outings.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - his top stands at two distinct five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Hot Streak?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.
Pundits highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups 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 expressed no surprise at this rich vein of form, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the league.
International Question
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, with four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was said.
"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."