Watkins Holds the Advantage - However Calvert-Lewin May Still Make the World Cup
Just one goal in his first ten top-flight outings this season had plenty of doubting if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
However, a only four weeks later, he stands as the hottest striker in England following scoring seven goals in six back-to-back games.
His most recent strike, in a tie against Sunderland, elevated his total to eight, seeing him become the top English scorer in the Premier League so far this season.
A Remarkable Return to Form
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by fitness issues in its closing stages.
However, the data behind his comeback in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 setup are genuinely remarkable.
His six-game scoring run sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League fixtures.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane did not achieve a run lasting this many games - his top stands at two individual five-match streaks.
And the sole English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring run for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
What is behind Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A latest opponent's manager explained it perfectly.
"He has the ideal timing," the manager said. "He's clever and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That nose for goal and timing inside the box was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.
Pundits point to the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, helping more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thus given the striker additional space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've experienced a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of resolve and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "among the elite strikers" in the competition.
World Cup Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably ignited discussions of an England return.
The former Sheffield United player has 11 England appearances, with four goals, but has not represented the national team since the previous European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in consideration for the World Cup squad if he can keep up this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a considerable period," 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
Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is fierce.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a decisive brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be in front in the selection race, according to some analysis.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his pace to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also has the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad might come down to how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might come down to whether he includes two or three centre-forwards," an expert concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."