Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the World Cup
Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had many wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.
Yet, a mere four weeks on, he stands as the most discussed striker in England after scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.
His newest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his season's haul to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.
An Impressive Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.
However, the data underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.
His six-match scoring run puts him in exclusive 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 never managed a run this long - his best is two distinct five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That natural ability and timing inside the penalty area was what turned him into a popular figure at his previous club.
Pundits note the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to enter the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker a little more space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."
His manager has expressed no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
The England Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled talks of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the last European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is presently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was stated.
"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."
