Watkins Holds the Edge - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup
Only one goal in his first ten Premier League appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were over.
But, a just four weeks later, he stands as the most discussed forward in England after bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His latest finish, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his total to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its latter stages.
However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are extremely impressive.
His six-match scoring streak puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top remains two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Hot Streak?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager summed it up aptly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's intelligent and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That instinct and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what made him a beloved player at his previous club.
Experts 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 given the striker some extra space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little finish beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably ignited discussions of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this form.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning double against Chelsea, is presently considered to be leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the England manager decides to take.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."