Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Secure the World Cup
A solitary goal in his first ten top-flight games this season had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
But, a just four weeks on, he has become the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in 6 consecutive games.
His latest strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its latter stages.
But, the numbers underpinning his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.
His six-game scoring sequence places him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to better 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 Purple Patch?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That instinct and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.
Pundits note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, enabling 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," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
World Cup Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably fueled discussions of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a while," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive two goals against Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the pecking order, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was said.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."
