Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the World Cup
Only one goal in his opening ten top-flight games this campaign had many doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
However, a only four weeks afterwards, he has become the most talked-about forward in England following netting 7 goals in six back-to-back games.
His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, brought his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this term.
A Stunning Resurgence
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, after a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by setbacks in its final stages.
However, the numbers supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 formation are extremely remarkable.
His six-match scoring streak puts him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League fixtures.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two distinct five-match runs.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era 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 difficult to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager summed it up succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager stated. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That nose for goal and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.
Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a major factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch 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 persevered and kept going... I've believed in myself and here I am now."
His manager has shown complete confidence at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the division.
World Cup Question
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not represented the national team since the last European Championship.
Analysts feel the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," one said. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a debate for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive two goals versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the advantage in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was said.
"He also has the advantage when it comes to making a decisive impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the head coach decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."