Watkins Maintains the Edge - But Calvert-Lewin May Still Secure the International Squad
Just one goal in his opening ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's best days were behind him.
Yet, a mere four weeks later, he is the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in six consecutive games.
His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his tally to eight, establishing him as the highest English scorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by setbacks in its latter stages.
However, the data supporting his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly notable.
His six-game scoring streak places him in elite company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his best remains two distinct five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What has made Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in recent weeks? A recent opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his former team.
Analysts note the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, helping a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, which has provided the striker a little more space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat 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 lows. A test of mentality and I've hung in there and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has shown little astonishment at this purple patch, reiterating that the player is "a top strikers" in the league.
World Cup Conversation
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has naturally ignited discussions of an England return.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the most recent European Championship.
Analysts think the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this standard.
"He looks as sharp as he has in a long time," one said. "If he maintains this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
Intense Competition
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now regarded as ahead in the pecking order, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his pace to stretch teams," it was stated.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many out-and-out strikers the England manager decides to take.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an analyst summarized. "If it is three, he absolutely has a chance."