Watkins Possesses the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Yet Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his initial ten English top division appearances this campaign had many questioning if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
Yet, a mere four weeks afterwards, he is the hottest striker in England following scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.
His latest goal, in a stalemate against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its latter stages.
However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.
His six-match scoring streak places him in prestigious company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two individual five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.
Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, helping a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker some extra space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A challenge of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and here I am now."
His manager has voiced no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the division.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably fueled conversations of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.
Analysts think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double versus Chelsea, is right now seen as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to select.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
