Welcome to The Radar, a Sky Sports feature where Nick Wright blends statistics and insight to illuminate the Premier League stories you need to know. This edition covers three main topics: - The dynamic partnership of Palmer and Rogers - Scott’s standout performances for Bournemouth - The hard‑tackling reputation of Crystal Palace The chemistry between Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer was on full display after Chelsea’s recent victory over Leeds. Rogers was visibly surprised when Palmer was named man of the match.
"I recorded four assists," Rogers joked, "so I think you deserved it." Palmer laughed and replied, "Don’t bring me into it – I was just watching from the sidelines," to which Rogers added, "I’m just a bystander too." The banter, captured by Sky Sports cameras before the post‑match interview, highlighted the ease with which the two interact on the pitch. When asked if they felt as though they had been playing together for years, Rogers answered, "We pretty much have." Both players grew up together in the England and Manchester City youth setups, and they have quickly re‑established that connection at Chelsea. In just five league games they have combined for a total of eleven goals and assists, a contribution that only Arsenal has managed to limit effectively. Their interplay was a catalyst for Chelsea’s comeback on Wednesday.
After Rogers cleverly flicked the ball with his rear to set up Palmer’s equaliser, the duo were again involved in the build‑up to the third and sixth goals. Such one‑two combinations have become a recurring theme. In Chelsea’s first five matches of the season, Rogers has completed 19 passes to Palmer – almost twice as many as any other teammate – while only defender Josh Acheampong has received more passes from Palmer, with 15. Surprisingly, the pair have directly combined for only one goal so far, but the potential for more is evident.
In the 4‑3 win over Brighton, they alternated creating chances for each other, only to be thwarted by last‑minute blocks. In the season opener against Fulham, Rogers fashioned three clear‑cut shooting opportunities for Palmer, who was unable to finish. Overall, Rogers and Palmer have generated nine chances for one another, more than double any other partnership in the Premier League. The next‑closest duos – Palmer with Joao Pedro and Antoine Semenyo with Erling Haaland – have each produced four.
While many expected Palmer to be the primary provider for Rogers, the early data suggests the reverse is often true. Palmer struggled for goals last season, scoring just once in 13 appearances, but this term he has already netted four in five games, a surge partly attributable to his new teammate’s support. Rogers explained their mutual goals after his arrival: "We bring different qualities and playing styles to the game.
Ultimately it’s about scoring, creating chances and linking play, and we each do that in our own way." Their differing strengths are evident in how they feed each other. Rogers frequently looks to thread passes into the space between the opposition’s defensive line and midfield, a zone where Palmer thrives. Conversely, Palmer often attempts to exploit Rogers’ runs behind the defense with incisive through‑balls.
Xabi Alonso’s system further enhances their partnership. The wing‑backs provide width, allowing Rogers and Palmer to drift inside and operate in close proximity in central areas. This positional freedom has resulted in Chelsea directing a higher proportion of attacks through the middle third of the pitch than any other Premier League side.
The next test comes against Hull City at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Hull have kept three clean sheets in a row, but their defensive solidity may be challenged by the Rogers‑Palmer link. Chelsea’s attack has been bolstered by Rogers, yet their midfield reinforcements have not delivered the same impact. One summer acquisition who slipped away has continued to flourish at Bournemouth.
Alex Scott, highly praised by both Andoni Iraola and Marco Rose, has become a key figure for Bournemouth. After a 2‑2 draw with Newcastle, Rose said, "I love him," referring to Scott’s influence.
The 23‑year‑old, who scored Bournemouth’s opening goal against Everton, was the standout player at St James’ Park, registering the most touches, final‑third passes and duels won for his side. Scott’s blend of physicality and technique, combined with relentless work‑rate, has seen him shuttle between both penalty areas.
He appears to be taking on greater responsibility, and his performances bode well for his future. If he maintains this level, clubs that pursued him in the summer window may return with offers in January. For now, Bournemouth will hope he continues his form when they meet Brentford at the Vitality Stadium.
At Crystal Palace, Anan Khalaili has big shoes to fill after replacing Daniel Munoz on the right wing‑back. He demonstrated his attacking instincts with a driving run that set up Ben Chilwell’s winning goal against Fulham last weekend. Defensively, Khalaili has been busier.
Though he has had a few awkward moments, he relishes one‑on‑one battles and usually comes out on top. He currently ranks second in the league for duels won and leads all players in tackles, with 17 successful challenges – a remarkable feat given he has started only twice. Brentford’s Igor Thiago will face Bournemouth on Saturday, seeking his first goal of the season. Despite an expected‑goals total of 2.30 across three matches, he has yet to find the net, the highest xG figure among players still waiting for a breakthrough.
The upcoming fixture may finally turn his luck around. Sky Sports will broadcast four Premier League games this weekend. Saturday kicks off with Tottenham versus Everton, followed by Coventry hosting Brighton on Sunday at 2 pm, and the Manchester derby – Manchester United versus Manchester City – at 4.30 pm. Monday Night Football concludes the weekend with Leeds taking on Newcastle at 8 pm, with coverage beginning at 6.30 pm.
The previous column focused on Arsenal’s improving defence ahead of their clash with Morgan Rogers and Chelsea. Finally, readers can enter the Super 6 competition for a chance to win £1 million – entry is free.