Welcome to The Radar, a Sky Sports feature where Nick Wright blends statistics with insight to highlight the Premier League stories that matter most. This edition covers three key topics: - The dynamic partnership of Palmer and Rogers - Scott’s standout performances for Bournemouth - Crystal Palace’s aggressive wing‑back Morgan Rogers was clearly surprised when he discovered that Cole Palmer had been named man of the match after Chelsea’s victory over Leeds. "I logged four assists," Rogers protested. "I think you should have taken it," Palmer replied with a grin.
"Don’t bring me up. I’m just watching from the sidelines," Rogers added. The banter, caught on Sky Sports cameras before the post‑match interview, highlighted the easy rapport between the two. Their on‑field chemistry mirrors that off the pitch.
"It feels like we’ve been playing together forever," Rogers said when asked. 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 contributed a combined 11 goals and assists, a tally only Arsenal has managed to keep relatively modest. Their halftime 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. Those linked movements have become a hallmark of Chelsea’s attacking play.
Statistically, Rogers has already delivered almost twice as many passes to Palmer as to any other teammate – 19 in total – while only defender Josh Acheampong has received more passes from Palmer (15). Despite the volume of interplay, they have directly combined for just one goal so far, but the potential for more is evident. In the 4‑3 win over Brighton, each took turns setting the other up, only to be denied by last‑minute blocks. In the season‑opening match against Fulham, Rogers created three clear‑cut chances for Palmer, though the striker was unable to finish.
Overall, the pair have generated nine chances for each other, more than double any other partnership in the league. They sit ahead of five other duos, including Palmer with Joao Pedro and Antoine Semenyo with Erling Haaland, who have each produced four chances for their teammate.
While many expected Palmer to be the primary creator for Rogers, the early data suggests the reverse is often true. Palmer finished last season with a modest return of one goal in 13 appearances, but he has already found the net four times in five games this term, a surge partly attributable to his new teammate’s support. Rogers explained their mutual approach after his arrival at Chelsea: "We bring different qualities and styles to the game.
Ultimately it’s about scoring, creating and linking play, and we each do that in our own way." This philosophy is evident in how they feed each other. Rogers frequently looks to thread passes into the space between the opposition’s back line and midfield, giving Palmer room to operate. Conversely, Palmer often seeks to exploit Rogers’ runs behind the defense with through‑balls that aim to release him on goal‑bound sprints. Xabi Alonso’s system further amplifies their partnership.
The wing‑backs provide width, allowing Rogers and Palmer to drift inside and operate in close proximity within the central zones. 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 on Saturday when Hull City travel to Stamford Bridge. Hull have kept three consecutive clean sheets, but the combined threat of Rogers and Palmer could put that record in jeopardy. Chelsea’s offensive upgrade with Rogers has been clear, yet their midfield reinforcements have not delivered the same impact.
One summer departure, a player who now thrives at Bournemouth, continues to excel. Alex Scott has earned high praise from Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, as has Marco Rose from his own side.
"I love him," Iraola said after their 2‑2 draw with Newcastle, noting that it was the third consecutive game in which Bournemouth surrendered a late lead – a disappointment that fell heavily on Scott. The 23‑year‑old, who scored Bournemouth’s opening goal against Everton, was the standout at St James’ Park.
He contributed to both Bournemouth goals, registered 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, covering ground tirelessly as he shuttles between both penalty areas. There are signs he is assuming greater responsibility, a development that bodes well for his future. If he maintains this level, the clubs that pursued him during the summer window are likely to return with offers in January. For now, Bournemouth will hope he continues to deliver when they face Brentford at the Vitality Stadium.
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 more active.
While he has had a few awkward moments, he clearly enjoys one‑on‑one battles and has come out on top more often than not. He currently ranks second in the league for duels won and leads the division in tackles with 17, a remarkable figure given he has only started twice.
Brentford’s Igor Thiago will face Bournemouth on Saturday, hoping to break his goal drought. He has accumulated an expected‑goals total of 2.30 after three games without scoring – the highest xG of any player yet to find the net.
The upcoming match could be the catalyst he needs. Sky Sports will broadcast four Premier League fixtures this weekend. Saturday kicks off with Tottenham versus Everton, followed by Coventry hosting Brighton at 2 pm on Sunday, and the Manchester derby – Manchester United versus Manchester City – at 4.30 pm. Monday Night Football concludes the weekend’s live coverage with Leeds taking on Newcastle at 8 pm, with pre‑match analysis beginning at 6.30 pm.
The previous column focused on Arsenal’s increasingly solid defence ahead of their clash with Morgan Rogers and Chelsea. Finally, don’t miss the chance to play Super 6 for a chance to win £1 million – entry is free!