Just one goal in his initial ten Premier League appearances this season had plenty of doubting whether Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were in the past.
Yet, a mere four weeks later, he is the most discussed attacker in England following bagging seven goals in six consecutive games.
His latest goal, in a tie against Sunderland, took his tally to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
A Stunning Revival
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was blighted by fitness issues in its closing stages.
But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 system are genuinely remarkable.
His six-match scoring streak places him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more consecutive Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane never managed a run lasting this many games - his longest stands at two separate five-match streaks.
And the only English striker to better Calvert-Lewin in the modern era is Jamie Vardy, who went on an eight-game scoring streak for Leicester City in 2019.
What's Behind the Scoring Form?
Why has Calvert-Lewin so tough to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the impeccable timing," the manager remarked. "He's clever and a excellent striker and he found the timing to arrive at the perfect moment."
That instinct and positional sense inside the penalty area was what established him as a fan favourite at his previous club.
Pundits highlight the system adjustment to a 3-5-2 as a significant factor, allowing more players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby given the striker additional space.
"He is a archetypal centre-forward," noted a former professional. "For the goal... it was a exquisite little touch 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 mentality and I've persisted and kept going... I've had faith and this is the result."
His manager has voiced complete confidence at this purple patch, stating again that the player is "a top strikers" in the competition.
International Dilemma
Calvert-Lewin's return to form has predictably ignited conversations of an England call-up.
The ex- Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, with four goals, but has not played for the Three Lions since the previous European Championship.
Analysts believe the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can sustain this level.
"He looks as in shape as he has in a long time," one remarked. "If he sustains this level of form... then he's going to be in a conversation for a World Cup place."
Intense Rivalry
Yet, the battle for places as backup to Harry Kane is intense.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, following a match-winning double versus Chelsea, is presently regarded as ahead in the hierarchy, according to some opinion.
"If you look at the two players, Watkins holds the advantage in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also possesses the edge when it comes to making a significant impact at a big competition."
In the end, whether Calvert-Lewin is part of the squad could hinge on how many out-and-out strikers the head coach decides to include.
"I think it might hinge on whether the manager takes two or three centre-forwards," an expert added. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
