Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup
Just one goal in his opening ten English top division games this campaign had many wondering whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
Yet, a mere four weeks later, he has become the most talked-about forward in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.
His most recent strike, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this term.
An Impressive Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its latter stages.
However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly impressive.
His six-match scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run this long - his best remains two individual five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on 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 previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and timing inside the box was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.
Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker additional space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."
His manager has voiced no surprise at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
The England Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked conversations of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this standard.
"He looks as fit as he has in a considerable period," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is currently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major finals."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
