Welcome to The Radar, a Sky Sports feature where Nick Wright blends statistics with personal insight to highlight the Premier League stories you need to know. This edition covers three main topics: the Palmer‑Rogers partnership, Scott’s impact for Bournemouth, and a hard‑tackling figure at Crystal Palace. Morgan Rogers was clearly taken aback when he learned that Cole Palmer had been named man of the match after Chelsea’s victory over Leeds. "I got four assists," Rogers protested, "so I think you should have taken it." Palmer, smiling, replied, "You earned it.
I’m just watching from the sidelines." Rogers added, "Don’t mention me – I’m just a bystander." The banter, captured by Sky Sports cameras before their post‑match interview, revealed the natural chemistry between the two. That connection is evident on the field as well. Do they feel like lifelong teammates? "Pretty much," Rogers answered without hesitation.
Both players grew up together in England and were part of Manchester City’s youth set‑up before reuniting at Chelsea. Since linking up, they have caused chaos on either side of João Pedro, contributing a combined 11 goals and assists in just five league games. So far, only Arsenal have been able to keep their output relatively quiet. Their half‑time pep talk sparked Chelsea’s comeback on Wednesday.
After Rogers cleverly flicked the ball off his backside to set up Palmer’s equaliser, the duo were again involved in the build‑up to Chelsea’s third and sixth goals. These intertwined moves have become a recurring theme. In Chelsea’s first five fixtures, Rogers has delivered 19 passes to Palmer – almost twice as many as to any other teammate – while only defender Josh Acheampong has received more passes from Palmer, with 15. Surprisingly, the pair have directly combined for just one goal so far, but the potential for more is obvious.
In the 4‑3 win over Brighton, they each tried to set each other up, only to be denied by last‑minute blocks. In the opening match against Fulham, Rogers created three clear‑cut chances for Palmer, but the latter could not finish. Overall, they have generated nine chances for one another, more than double any other partnership in the Premier League. The next‑closest duos – Palmer with João Pedro and Antoine Semenyo with Erling Haaland – have produced four each.
While many expected Palmer to be the primary creator for Rogers, the reality has been the opposite in several games. Palmer struggled last season, scoring just one goal in 13 appearances, but this term he has already netted four in five matches, a resurgence partly driven by his new teammate. Rogers explained their mutual support after his arrival: "We bring different qualities and styles to the game.
In the end it’s about scoring, creating chances and linking play. We each do that in our own way." This philosophy is evident in how they feed each other. Rogers often looks to thread the ball into the space between the opposition’s back line and midfield, a zone where Palmer thrives. Conversely, Palmer attempts to exploit Rogers’ runs behind the defence with well‑timed passes.
Xabi Alonso’s system further enhances their partnership. The wing‑backs provide width, allowing Rogers and Palmer to drift inside and operate close together in central areas. As a result, Chelsea now directs a higher proportion of its attacks through the middle third than any other side in the league.
Hull City, who travel to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, will be the next test for the duo. Recent data suggests their three‑game clean‑sheet streak could be under threat if Rogers and Palmer continue to dominate the middle of the park. Chelsea’s offensive upgrade with Rogers has been clear, but their midfield reinforcement efforts have not yielded the same success. One summer signing who slipped away continues to flourish at Bournemouth.
Alex Scott has become a favourite of both Andoni Iraola and Marco Rose. "I love him," Rose said after their 2‑2 draw with Newcastle last weekend – the third consecutive match in which they surrendered a late lead, a disappointment that hit Scott particularly hard. The 23‑year‑old, who scored Bournemouth’s opener against Everton in the previous game, was the standout at St James’ Park. He contributed to both Bournemouth goals, logged the most touches, delivered the highest number of final‑third passes and won more duels than any of his teammates.
His performances underline a strong start to the season. Scott blends physicality with technical skill, working tirelessly and covering ground as he shuttles between both penalty areas. There is a growing sense that he is taking on greater responsibility, which bodes well for his future.
If he maintains this level, the clubs that chased him in the summer window may return with offers in January. For now, Bournemouth will hope he continues his form when they face Brentford at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday. At Crystal Palace, Anan Khalaili has big shoes to fill after replacing Daniel Muñoz 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 clearly enjoys one‑on‑one battles and has emerged victorious more often than not. In fact, he currently ranks second in the division for duels won and leads the league in tackles, with 17 – a remarkable tally given he has only started twice.
Brentford’s Igor Thiago faces Bournemouth on Saturday looking to open his goal‑scoring account. Despite an expected‑goals total of 2.30 in the first three games, he has yet to find the net, the highest xG figure for any player still awaiting a first‑league goal.
He will be eager to convert that promise into a real goal soon. Sky Sports will broadcast four Premier League matches live this weekend, beginning with Tottenham versus Everton on Saturday evening.
Sunday’s slate features Coventry hosting Brighton at 2 pm, followed by the Manchester derby as United take on City at 4.30 pm. The weekend concludes with Monday Night Football, where Leeds host Newcastle at 8 pm, with coverage starting at 6.30 pm. The previous column focused on Arsenal’s ever‑improving defence ahead of their clash with Morgan Rogers and Chelsea. Play Super 6 for a chance to win £1 million – entry is free!