Watkins Possesses the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Still Make the International Squad
Only one goal in his initial ten Premier League outings this season had numerous doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
However, a mere four weeks on, he is the most talked-about attacker in England following scoring seven goals in 6 consecutive games.
His latest goal, in a 1-1 draw versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the leading English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.
But, the numbers underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.
His six-match scoring streak sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run of this length - his top is two individual 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 Secret to the Scoring Form?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what made him a popular figure at his previous club.
Analysts highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus provided the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely 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 test of character and I've persisted and kept going... I've believed in myself and this is the result."
His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
World Cup Question
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably fueled conversations of an England call-up.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, scoring four goals, but has not represented the Three Lions since the most recent European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this form.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Fierce Competition
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as in front in the hierarchy, according to some assessment.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major finals."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."