Watkins Holds the Advantage - Yet Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad
Only one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were behind him.
Yet, a just four weeks afterwards, he is the most talked-about forward in England after scoring seven goals in six consecutive games.
His most recent strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by injuries in its final stages.
However, the data behind his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly impressive.
His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top stands at two separate five-match streaks.
And the only 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.
What's Behind the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That instinct and timing inside the 18-yard box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.
Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing more players to enter the box and occupy defenders, which has given the striker some extra space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick 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 challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."
His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked discussions of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the previous European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
But, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was noted.
"He also possesses the edge 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 specialist strikers the England manager decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."