Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Make the International Squad
A solitary goal in his opening ten Premier League appearances this campaign had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
But, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.
His most recent goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Remarkable Resurgence
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its final stages.
However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.
His six-game scoring sequence puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run of this length - his best is two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A latest opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker some extra space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."
His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
The England Question
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.
Observers think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is right now seen as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."