Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his first ten top-flight appearances this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
Yet, a just four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England following bagging seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his season's haul to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
An Impressive Resurgence
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its closing stages.
However, the data behind his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are genuinely remarkable.
His six-game scoring streak places him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League outings.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his best stands at two distinct five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager explained it succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what made him a fan favourite at his previous club.
Analysts point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little touch beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of lows. A test of resolve and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "a top strikers" in the division.
International Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally sparked talks of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.
Pundits feel the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a while," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Fierce Rivalry
Yet, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning two goals against Chelsea, is currently regarded as in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds 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 decisive impact at a big competition."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to select.
"I think it might hinge on whether he takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."