Welcome to The Radar, Sky Sports' analytical column where Nick Wright blends statistics with insight to highlight the Premier League's most compelling narratives. This edition covers: - Calvert-Lewin's evolution into a multifaceted threat - Brobbey's mastery of hold‑up play - Anderson stepping into Rodri's shoes at City - A player to keep an eye on this weekend After a recent appeal to the goal‑accreditation panel, Dominic Calvert‑Lewin's tally for the current Premier League season has been adjusted to three goals, placing him just behind Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. This correction reflects his true contribution and has helped him earn a spot back in the England squad.
For the best viewing experience, use the Chrome browser to access the video player. When all competitions are considered, Calvert‑Lewin has found the net nine times in 15 appearances since April. Leeds United manager Daniel Farke praised his form after the striker starred in a 4‑1 victory over Newcastle United, saying, "He is in outstanding shape and playing with a lot of confidence." Historically, Calvert‑Lewin has possessed an instinct for positioning. Shot‑map data from his time at Leeds and his final two seasons at Everton reveal a concentration of attempts from the heart of the penalty area.
The key difference now is his increased conversion rate. At Everton, his reputation was marred by a tendency to waste chances. Yet, at Leeds he has already matched the total Premier League goals he scored during his last four seasons with the Toffees. Sky Sports analyst Jamie Carragher observed, "Sometimes a change of environment revitalises a player." The statistics underline a narrowing gap between his expected goals (xG) and actual goals, indicating that the finishing slump that once plagued him is fading.
Carragher added, "Perhaps composure was an issue in the past, but not any more." Calvert‑Lewin's brace against Newcastle illustrated the breadth of his attacking arsenal. He first rose above the defence to meet James Justin's cross with a powerful header, then sprinted onto Tarik Muharemovic's first‑time pass and slotted the ball past the keeper. Farke lauded him as "one of the standout strikers in the league" after the match, a sentiment that now seems hard to dispute.
At 29, the English forward combines pace with aerial prowess. Monday's performance reminded fans how he can dominate centre‑backs on long balls and crosses, while also making diagonal runs that stretch defences and create space behind them. His all‑round capabilities are evident in the numbers as well. Calvert‑Lewin currently shares the Premier League lead for aerial duels won 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 recorded some of the highest sprint speeds in the league this season. His off‑the‑ball work rate benefits Leeds both offensively and defensively. "It's not just about scoring," Farke noted, "his work‑rate is exceptional." Beyond goal‑scoring, Calvert‑Lewin contributes to Leeds' pressing system, frequently closing down opposition defenders, blocking passing lanes, and helping his side win back possession in dangerous areas. Leeds have forced fewer high‑turnover situations than only six other clubs since the start of last term.
Availability has also played a crucial role in his resurgence. When Leeds signed him on a free transfer, his injury history at Everton made the deal appear risky. However, he has avoided any major setbacks so far. The coaching staff have managed his workload carefully, substituting him in 15 of his 34 league starts.
Nonetheless, he featured in nearly 80% of Leeds' Premier League minutes last season – his highest proportion since 2020/21 – and has already logged 92% of possible minutes this campaign. Consistent selection has benefitted both player and club, and Leeds will hope the pattern continues when they host Crystal Palace at Elland Road on Sunday, live on Sky Sports. Calvert‑Lewin will be aiming to extend his streak of Premier League home goals to six consecutive matches.
Given his current form, betting against him would be ill‑advised. Switching focus, Sunderland's Brian Brobbey, a Dutch international who scored three goals at the World Cup, has yet to open his account for the Black Cats this season. Nevertheless, he delivered a masterclass in hold‑up play against Arsenal, repeatedly shielding the ball from centre‑back Ezri Konsa and using his strength to retain possession from long balls. Brobbey's ability to protect the ball is a rare talent.
According to GeniusIQ, he has recorded more hold‑ups – defined as moments where a player uses his body to shield a defender and retain possession – than any other player this season, repeating his dominance from the previous term despite starting only 22 games. Although the goals have not yet materialised, Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris praised his striker, saying, "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 when they travel to the Etihad Stadium.
Meanwhile, Elliot Anderson of Manchester City is expected to help contain Brobbey on Sunday. The 23‑year‑old, who arrived from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, appears to be filling the creative void left by Rodri.
In the recent Manchester derby, Anderson matched Rodri's passing volume in the final third and won a comparable number of duels, suggesting a smooth transition under manager Enzo Maresca. Could Fulham add to Manchester United's woes this weekend? Though they have yet to secure a Premier League win under Alvaro Arbeloa, they boast the in‑form youngster Josh King, who could prove decisive.
Sky Sports will broadcast five Premier League fixtures this weekend, beginning with Brentford versus Chelsea on Friday night. Saturday's action features Nottingham Forest versus Coventry City, followed on Sunday by Bournemouth versus Liverpool, Leeds versus Crystal Palace, and Manchester City versus Sunderland at 2 pm, with the final match – Fulham versus Manchester United – kicking off at 4.30 pm. Last week's column highlighted the statistical synergy between Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, while Bournemouth's Alex Scott and Crystal Palace's Anan Khalaili (who scored against Ipswich) also featured. Play Super 6 for a chance to win £1 million – entry is free.