Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad
Only one goal in his initial ten top-flight appearances this season had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were in the past.
Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he has become the hottest attacker in England after netting seven goals in six consecutive games.
His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Remarkable Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by injuries in its final stages.
However, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are extremely notable.
His six-game scoring sequence puts him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two individual 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 Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"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 natural ability and positional sense inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his former team.
Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the previous European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Stiff Competition
However, competition for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also holds the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might depend on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."