Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Yet Make the World Cup
A solitary goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
Yet, a only four weeks on, he stands as the most talked-about forward in England following bagging 7 goals in six straight games.
His newest strike, in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.
However, the statistics underpinning his revival in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.
His six-game scoring streak sees him in exclusive company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League outings.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run this long - his top is two individual five-match runs.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Hot Streak?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in the past month? A latest opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager stated. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his former team.
Experts point to the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of ups and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.
The England Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally sparked talks of an England call-up.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England caps, scoring four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as fit as he has in a long time," one commented. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning two goals versus Chelsea, is presently seen as in front in the pecking order, according to some opinion.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his pace to test teams," it was noted.
"He also possesses the advantage when it comes to making a significant impact at a major tournament."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might depend on whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
