Only one goal in his first ten English top division appearances this season had numerous wondering if Dominic Calvert-Lewin's peak were over.
But, a mere four weeks on, he is the most discussed striker in England after scoring 7 goals in 6 straight games.
His most recent strike, in a tie versus Sunderland, elevated his season's haul to eight, making him the highest English goalscorer in the Premier League this campaign.
The 28-year-old signed for Leeds United on a free transfer in the summer, following a nine-year spell with Everton that was hampered by setbacks in its final stages.
But, the data supporting his revival in Daniel Farke's new fast-breaking 3-5-2 formation are truly notable.
His six-game scoring sequence sees him in prestigious company as only the 11th English player to score in six or more straight Premier League matches.
To put that into perspective, even England captain Harry Kane was unable to produce a run of this length - 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 embarked on an eight-game scoring spree for Leicester City in 2019.
Why has Calvert-Lewin so hard to stop in this period? A previous opponent's manager explained it aptly.
"He has the perfect timing," the manager said. "He's intelligent and a really good striker and he found the timing to arrive just on time."
That instinct and positional sense inside the box was what established him as a beloved player at his former team.
Analysts highlight the formation change to a 3-5-2 as a key factor, allowing a greater number of players to occupy the box and occupy defenders, thereby provided the striker a little more space.
"He is a traditional centre-forward," commented a former professional. "For the goal... it was a lovely little flick beyond the keeper, a typical centre-forward's goal."
"I've endured a lot since then. Lots of highs and lots of lows. A test of character and I've hung in there and kept going... I've backed myself and this is the result."
His manager has voiced little astonishment at this hot streak, reiterating that the player is "one of the best strikers" in the league.
Calvert-Lewin's resurgence has predictably sparked talks of an England recall.
The former Sheffield United player has eleven England appearances, scoring four goals, but has not featured for the national team since the last European Championship.
Pundits think the striker will be in the mix for the World Cup squad if he can maintain this level.
"He looks as fit as he has in a while," one said. "If he continues this level of form... then he's going to be in a discussion for a World Cup place."
However, competition for places supporting Harry Kane is incredibly tough.
Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa, coming off a decisive double against Chelsea, is right now regarded as leading in the selection race, according to some assessment.
"If you compare the two players, Watkins holds the edge in terms of using his speed to get behind teams," it was noted.
"He also holds the edge when it comes to making a meaningful impact at a major finals."
Finally, whether Calvert-Lewin will be the squad may depend on how many natural strikers the England manager decides to select.
"I think it might depend on whether the manager includes two or three centre-forwards," an pundit concluded. "If it is three, he certainly has a chance."
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