Welcome to The Radar, Sky Sports' analytical column where Nick Wright blends statistics with insight to highlight the Premier League stories that matter. This edition focuses on four key topics: - Calvert-Lewin's all‑round attacking threat - Brobbey as the ultimate hold‑up specialist - Anderson stepping into Rodri's shoes at City - A player to keep an eye on this weekend An appeal to the goal‑accreditation panel has officially credited Dominic Calvert‑Lewin with three Premier League goals this season, moving him just behind Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in the league’s scoring chart and reigniting talk of an England recall. For those watching, using Chrome will give you the best video experience.
When you factor in cup competitions, Calvert‑Lewin has found the net nine times in 15 appearances since April. Leeds United manager Daniel Farke praised his form after the striker helped his side to a 4‑1 victory over Newcastle United, saying, “He’s in superb shape and playing with a lot of confidence.” The striker has always possessed an instinct for occupying the most dangerous zones in the box.
Shot‑map data from his time at Leeds and his final two seasons at Everton reveal a high concentration of attempts from central areas. The crucial difference now is his increased conversion rate.
At Everton, Calvert‑Lewin was often labeled as wasteful, a reputation that seems to be fading. Remarkably, he has already matched the total Premier League goals he scored during his last four seasons at Everton, despite being at Leeds for a much shorter period.
Sky Sports analyst Jamie Carragher summed it up succinctly: “Sometimes a change of scenery revitalises a player.” The statistics back up the narrative. The gap between his expected goals (xG) and actual goals has narrowed dramatically, indicating that he is finally delivering on the chances he creates.
Carragher added, “Perhaps composure has let him down in the past, but not here.” His recent brace against Newcastle showcased the variety of ways he can threaten a defence. The first goal came from a textbook leap and powerful header off a James Justin cross. The second was a blistering run behind the back line, timing a perfect first‑time finish from a Tarik Muharemović pass that left the goalkeeper stranded.
Farke called him “one of the standout strikers in the league” after the match, and with his renewed finishing edge, that assessment is hard to dispute. At 29, Calvert‑Lewin now offers the rare combination of pace and aerial prowess.
Monday’s performance reminded everyone how he can dominate centre‑backs on long balls and crosses, while also making intelligent runs that stretch the opposition and create space behind the defence. The numbers paint a picture of a truly complete No 9. He is tied for the most aerial duels won in the Premier League this season with Sunderland defender Dan Ballard, and he is the only player near the top of that list who also ranks within the top ten for runs behind the defence.
Tracking data shows he has logged some of the highest top‑speeds recorded in the league this campaign. His off‑the‑ball work rate is equally valuable. Farke noted, “It’s not just about scoring; his work‑rate is top‑class.” Calvert‑Lewin leads Leeds in pressing, consistently cutting off passing lanes, forcing turnovers, and helping his side regain possession in dangerous areas.
Since the start of last term, only six teams have generated more high‑press turnovers than Leeds. Availability has also been a pivotal factor in his resurgence. When Leeds signed him on a free transfer, his injury history at Everton made the deal a gamble.
So far, he has avoided the recurring problems that once plagued him, staying fit and on the pitch. Leeds have managed his workload carefully, substituting him in 15 of his 34 Premier League starts. Nevertheless, he logged nearly 80 % of the club’s league minutes last season—his highest proportion since 2020/21—and has already featured in 92 % of Leeds’ minutes this term.
Consistent selection has benefitted both player and club, and Leeds will be hoping the pattern continues when they host Crystal Palace at Elland Road on Sunday, live on Sky Sports. Calvert‑Lewin will be looking to extend his streak of scoring in consecutive home Premier League matches to six. Given his current form, betting against him would be ill‑advised.
Switching focus, another striker worth watching is Brian Brobbey. The Dutch international, who scored three goals at the World Cup, has yet to open his account for Sunderland this season, but he delivered a masterclass in hold‑up play against Arsenal. His physical battle with Arsenal centre‑back Ezri Konsa was a spectacle; Brobbey repeatedly used his body to shield the ball, demonstrating exceptional strength and allowing Sunderland to retain possession from long balls.
According to GeniusIQ, he has recorded more hold‑ups—defined as using the body to protect the ball from a defender—than any other player this season, repeating his dominance from the previous term despite starting only 22 matches. Although the goals have not yet come, Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris praised his contribution: “The performance against Arsenal shows that even against the strongest teams in the league or Europe, he is highly competitive.” Sunderland will need a similar display at the Etihad when they face Manchester City.
Elliot Anderson will be tasked with disrupting Brobbey’s supply line on Sunday. The £116 million acquisition from Nottingham Forest appears to be adapting well to the role vacated by Rodri in City’s midfield. In his debut derby win at Old Trafford, Anderson matched Rodri’s numbers in passes, final‑third distribution, and duels won, suggesting a smooth transition under manager Enzo Maresca.
Meanwhile, Fulham may add to Manchester United’s woes this weekend. Although they have not yet secured a Premier League win under Alvaro Arbeloa, they boast a promising young talent in Josh King, who is currently in fine form.
Sky Sports will broadcast five Premier League matches live this weekend, beginning with Brentford versus Chelsea on Friday night. Saturday’s action includes Nottingham Forest versus Coventry, followed by four Sunday fixtures: Bournemouth versus Liverpool, Leeds versus Crystal Palace, Manchester City versus Sunderland at 2 pm, and finally Fulham versus Manchester United at 4.30 pm.
Last week’s column highlighted the statistical link between Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, while Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Crystal Palace’s Anan Khalaili also featured, the latter after his goal against Ipswich. Play Super 6 for a chance to win £1 million!
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