Welcome to The Radar, Sky Sports' data‑driven column where Nick Wright mixes statistics with insight to highlight the Premier League stories you need to know. This week’s focus includes: - Calvert‑Lewin’s all‑round attacking threat - Brobbey’s mastery of the hold‑up game - Anderson stepping into Rodri’s shoes - A player to keep an eye on over the weekend After a technical correction by the goal‑accreditation appeals panel, Dominic Calvert‑Lewin’s Premier League tally has been adjusted to three goals for the current season, placing him just behind Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in the league’s scoring chart.
The correction has helped cement his place back in the England squad, a decision many pundits felt was overdue. When you look at his output across all competitions, Calvert‑Lewin has netted nine times in 15 appearances since April. Leeds United manager Daniel Farke praised the striker after his standout performance in the 4‑1 victory over Newcastle United, noting, “He is in superb shape and playing with a lot of confidence.” Historically, Calvert‑Lewin has always possessed a keen instinct for finding the right spaces inside the box. Shot‑map analyses from his time at Leeds and his final two seasons with Everton reveal a concentration of attempts from central areas.
The key difference now is his conversion rate – he is turning a significantly higher proportion of those chances into goals. At Everton, his reputation was often defined by a lack of finishing polish.
Yet, since joining Leeds, he has already matched the total Premier League goals he scored in his last four seasons at Everton. As Sky Sports analyst Jamie Carragher observed, “Sometimes a change of environment can rejuvenate a player.” The data backs this narrative. The gap between his expected goals (xG) and actual goals has narrowed dramatically, indicating that he is finally delivering on the quality of chances he creates.
Carragher added, “He may have struggled with composure in the past, but that’s not the case now.” His brace against Newcastle illustrated the breadth of his skill set. The first goal came from a textbook leap and powerful header to meet James Justin’s cross. The second was a swift, intelligent run behind the defense, receiving Tarik Muharemovic’s first‑time pass and finishing cleanly past the goalkeeper.
Farke described him after the match as “one of the standout strikers in the league,” a sentiment that is hard to dispute given his recent resurgence. At 29, Calvert‑Lewin offers the coveted blend of pace and aerial ability that modern No 9s are expected to possess.
The Newcastle game reminded observers how he can dominate centre‑backs on long balls and crosses, while also making diagonal runs that stretch defenses and create space for teammates. His versatility is reflected in the statistics: he shares the top spot for aerial duels won with Sunderland defender Dan Ballard and is one of the few players who also ranks among the top ten for runs behind the defence. Tracking data shows he has recorded some of the highest top‑speed readings in the Premier League this season, underscoring his off‑the‑ball dynamism.
Farke emphasized that Calvert‑Lewin’s contribution extends beyond goal‑scoring, stating, “His work‑rate is exceptional; he helps us defensively by pressing, closing passing lanes, and winning the ball back in dangerous areas.” Indeed, Leeds have been among the teams forcing the most high‑turnover situations since the start of the campaign, with only six opponents generating more turnovers. Calvert‑Lewin’s relentless pressing and intelligent positioning play a vital role in that statistic. Injury concerns had made his free‑transfer signing a calculated risk for Leeds, given his previous fitness issues at Everton.
So far, he has avoided any major setbacks, and the coaching staff have managed his workload carefully. While he has been substituted in 15 of his 34 league starts, he still featured in roughly 80% of Leeds’ Premier League minutes last season – his highest involvement since 2020/21 – and has already logged 92% of available minutes this term. Consistent selection has clearly benefited both player and club. Leeds will be hoping the pattern continues when they host Crystal Palace at Elland Road, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports on Sunday.
Calvert‑Lewin will be looking to extend his streak of scoring in consecutive home league games to six. Given his current form, it would be unwise to underestimate his impact.
Switching focus, Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey has emerged as a powerful hold‑up striker. The Dutch international, who scored three goals at the World Cup, has yet to open his Premier League account for Sunderland this season but displayed a masterclass in physical play against Arsenal. His repeated battles with centre‑back Ezri Konsa highlighted his ability to shield the ball and retain possession under pressure. According to analytics provider GeniusIQ, Brobbey has recorded more hold‑up actions – defined as using his body to protect the ball from defenders – than any other player this season, repeating his dominance from the previous term despite limited starts.
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris praised his performances, noting that the Arsenal game showed Brobbey can compete against top‑class opposition. Sunderland will need a similar display at the Etihad when they face Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Elliot Anderson is tasked with disrupting Brobbey’s supply line on Sunday. The 23‑year‑old, who arrived from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, appears to be fulfilling the role left by Rodri in City’s midfield. In the recent Manchester derby, Anderson matched Rodri’s pass volume in the final third and won a comparable number of duels, suggesting a smooth transition under manager Enzo Maresca.
In the lower‑profile fixture, Fulham will look to add to Manchester United’s woes. Though they have yet to secure a league win under Alvaro Arbeloa, striker Josh King is in fine form and could prove decisive. Sky Sports will broadcast five Premier League matches this weekend, beginning with Brentford versus Chelsea on Friday night.
Saturday’s action includes Nottingham Forest versus Coventry, followed on Sunday by Bournemouth versus Liverpool, Leeds versus Crystal Palace, Manchester City versus Sunderland at 2 p.m., and finally Fulham versus Manchester United at 4.30 p.m. Last week’s column also highlighted the on‑pitch chemistry between Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, featured Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, and showcased Crystal Palace’s Anan Khalaili’s goal against Ipswich. For a chance to win £1 million, play Super 6 – entry is free.