Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Might Yet Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his opening ten Premier League outings this season had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.
But, a just four weeks later, he has become the most discussed forward in England after scoring 7 goals in six consecutive games.
His newest goal, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, establishing him as the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.
An Impressive Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its latter stages.
Yet, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 setup are truly impressive.
His six-match scoring run puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more successive Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his longest remains two individual five-match runs.
And the only English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Reason for the Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager described it perfectly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker a little more space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has shown no surprise at this purple patch, emphasizing that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.
World Cup Question
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has inevitably ignited discussions of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not featured for the country since the most recent European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this form.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
Yet, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as ahead in the selection race, according to some opinion.
"If you contrast the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
Ultimately, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.
"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."