Watkins Holds the Advantage - But Calvert-Lewin Could Still Make the International Squad
Just one goal in his initial ten English top division outings this campaign had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's prime were behind him.
However, a only four weeks later, he is the most talked-about attacker in England after netting seven goals in six straight games.
His most recent finish, in a tie against Sunderland, took his total to eight, making him the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League so far this season.
An Impressive Resurgence
The 28-year-old joined Leeds United on a Bosman move in the summer, after a nine-year period with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.
But, the data supporting his resurgence in Daniel Farke's new counter-attacking 3-5-2 system are genuinely impressive.
His six-match scoring run sees him in elite company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To frame that statistic, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his best is two individual five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to surpass Calvert-Lewin in recent memory is Jamie Vardy, who embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
The Secret to the Purple Patch?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so difficult to stop in the past month? A previous opponent's manager described it succinctly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's smart and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive exactly when needed."
That nose for goal and timing inside the 18-yard box was what turned him into a beloved player at his previous club.
Analysts note the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, enabling a greater number of players to get into the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," observed a former professional. "For the goal... it was a neat little touch beyond the keeper, a textbook centre-forward's goal."
"I've been through a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of downs. A test of character and I've persevered and kept going... I've had faith and now I'm reaping the rewards."
His manager has expressed little astonishment at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
The England Question
Calvert-Lewin's scoring run has predictably sparked conversations of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the country since the previous European Championship.
Observers 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
But, competition for places as backup to Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning brace versus Chelsea, is right now considered to be leading in the pecking order, according to some analysis.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins possesses the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was said.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a decisive impact at a major tournament."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin makes it to the squad may depend on how many specialist strikers the national team coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager selects two or three centre-forwards," an pundit added. "If it is three, he definitely has a chance."