Watkins Possesses the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Secure the International Squad
Only one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had many questioning whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
However, a mere four weeks later, he has become the hottest attacker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.
His latest goal, in a stalemate versus Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Remarkable Revival
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year stint with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.
But, the statistics underpinning his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.
His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best is two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who produced an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Hot Streak?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in recent weeks? A previous opponent's manager summed it up perfectly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That instinct and timing inside the box was what established him as a popular figure at his former team.
Pundits note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key 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," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little finish beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A challenge of mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've backed myself and here I am now."
His manager has expressed little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.
World Cup Question
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has inevitably sparked discussions of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England caps, netting four goals, but has not represented 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 standard.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
However, the battle for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently considered to be ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to stretch teams," it was noted.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"I think it might come down to whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an expert summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."