Danny Ings was the man of the hour after netting a brace in Southampton's 3-1 win over Watford on Sunday.

The former Liverpool man seems to have really found his calling on the south coast as he now boasts 18 goals in this Premier League season. Ings is just one goal behind leading scorer Jamie Vardy of Leicester as the race for the Golden Boot becomes even more heated (via BBC Sport).

From an Anfield tragedy to Southampton's driving force, Ings has made arguably the most impressive transformation over the last couple of seasons. The 27-year-old missed a total of 85 Liverpool games after ongoing knee injuries impacted his time on the pitch (via Transfermarkt).

He made the switch to Southampton colours last summer for a fee of £20m and has made a colossal impact to a side who just managed to stay up last season. Not only is Ings only one goal behind Vardy, he is one ahead of former Anfield teammate Mohamed Salah, who has 17 league goals to his name this term.

The Foxes got their 2019/20 season off to a flying start but have gradually slipped away from the top of the table as Liverpool and Manchester City excelled. However, they could still clinch Champions League football if they can maintain third place and stay ahead of the likes of Chelsea, Wolves and Manchester United.

However, winning the Golden Boot will be a huge boost for both Vardy and Leicester and, if he wants to ensure that happens, he must not underestimate Ings. The Winchester-born striker may have come into this season as an underdog but he is a force to be reckoned with and certainly threatens any mainstream Golden Boot race.

Do you think Jamie Vardy can hang onto his lead and win the Golden Boot this season? Have your say in the comments below!