Watkins Maintains the Edge - Yet Calvert-Lewin May Yet Secure the World Cup
Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this campaign had numerous doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were over.
But, a only four weeks later, he has become the hottest forward in England after bagging 7 goals in 6 back-to-back games.
His latest finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the top English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Remarkable Resurgence
The 28-year-old moved to Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year period with Everton that was marred by fitness issues in its closing stages.
Yet, the numbers behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are truly remarkable.
His six-match scoring sequence places him in exclusive company as just the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.
To provide context, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run lasting this many games - his best remains two separate five-match runs.
And the sole English striker to outdo Calvert-Lewin in recent years is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Hot Streak?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in this period? A recent opponent's manager explained it perfectly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's smart and a genuinely top-class striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That natural ability and positional sense inside the box was what turned him into a fan favourite at his previous club.
Experts highlight the tactical shift to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby created the striker additional space.
"He is a classic centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a classic centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A challenge of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has shown little astonishment at this hot streak, stating again that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the competition.
World Cup Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has naturally fueled discussions of an England recall.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, netting four goals, but has not represented the country since the most recent European Championship.
Observers believe the striker will be in contention for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.
"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 discussion for a World Cup place."
Stiff Rivalry
However, the battle for places behind Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, fresh off a match-winning brace against Chelsea, is currently seen as leading in the selection race, according to some opinion.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins has the edge in terms of using his speed to test teams," it was stated.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major tournament."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad might come down to how many natural strikers the national team coach decides to take.
"I think it might hinge on whether he selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."