Welcome to The Radar, Sky Sports' analytical column where Nick Wright blends statistics with insight to illuminate the Premier League's most compelling narratives. This edition covers four key topics: - Calvert-Lewin's all‑round attacking potency - Brian Brobbey’s mastery of hold‑up play - Elliot Anderson stepping into Rodri's role at Manchester City - A player to keep an eye on this weekend Dominic Calvert‑Lewin, after a successful appeal to the goal‑accreditation panel, now boasts three Premier League goals for the current season.
That tally places him just behind Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland and has earned him a well‑deserved recall to the England squad. When you consider all competitions, Calvert‑Lewin has found the net nine times in 15 appearances since April. Leeds United manager Daniel Farke praised his form, stating, "He is in outstanding shape and playing with lots of confidence" after the striker’s standout performance in Leeds' 4‑1 victory over Newcastle United on Monday. Historically, Calvert‑Lewin has demonstrated an instinct for occupying the right spaces inside the box.
Shot‑map data from his time at both Leeds and his final two seasons at Everton reveal a concentration of attempts from central areas. The crucial difference now is his increased conversion rate. At Everton, wastefulness was a recurring theme in his game.
Yet, since joining Leeds, he has already matched the total Premier League goals he scored in his last four seasons at Everton. Sky Sports analyst Jamie Carragher observed, "Sometimes a move rejuvenates a player," highlighting the transformative effect of the transfer.
The statistical gap between his expected goals (xG) and actual goals has narrowed dramatically, indicating that the finishing slump that once plagued him is fading. Carragher added, "Maybe composure let him down in the past, but not here." Calvert‑Lewin’s brace against Newcastle showcased the breadth of his attacking arsenal. The first goal came from a classic leaping header, meeting James Justin’s cross with authority.
The second was a swift, timed run behind the defense, latching onto Tarik Muharemovic’s first‑time pass and slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. Farke described him as "one of the standout strikers in the league" after the match. With his renewed sharpness in front of goal, it is hard to dispute that assessment. At 29, Calvert‑Lewin combines pace with aerial prowess—a rare blend for a traditional No 9.
The Newcastle game reminded everyone how he can dominate centre‑backs from long balls and crosses while also making incisive runs that stretch the opposition and create space behind the back line. His all‑round capabilities are reflected in the numbers. He shares the Premier League lead for aerial duels won with Sunderland defender Dan Ballard and is the only player near the top of that list who also ranks within the top ten for runs behind the defence.
Tracking data confirms he has recorded one of the highest top speeds in the league this season, underscoring his off‑the‑ball dynamism. Farke emphasized that Calvert‑Lewin’s contribution extends beyond scoring: "It’s not just about the goals. His work‑rate is top‑notch." The striker frequently leads the press, disrupts defensive lines, blocks passing lanes, and helps Leeds win possession in dangerous zones.
Leeds have forced fewer high‑turnover situations than only six other clubs since the start of the previous term. Availability has also been a critical factor 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, and Leeds have managed his minutes carefully. Farke has substituted him in 15 of his 34 Premier League starts, yet Calvert‑Lewin still featured in roughly 80 % of the total league minutes last season—his highest participation rate since 2020/21—and has already logged 92 % of possible minutes this campaign. Consistent selection has benefitted both player and club, and Leeds will be hoping for a similar pattern when they host Crystal Palace at Elland Road on Sunday, live on Sky Sports.
Calvert‑Lewin will be aiming to extend his streak of scoring in home Premier League matches to six consecutive games. Given his current form, it would be unwise to bet against him. Turning to another striker, Brian Brobbey has emerged as a powerful hold‑up specialist for Sunderland. The Dutch international, who scored three goals at the World Cup, has yet to open his account this season but impressed with a masterclass in retaining possession against Arsenal.
His physical battle with centre‑back Ezri Konsa highlighted his ability to shield the ball and bring teammates into play. According to data provider GeniusIQ, Brobbey recorded more hold‑up actions—defined as using his body to protect the ball from defenders—than any other player this season, repeating his lead from the previous term despite starting only 22 matches.
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris praised his impact, saying, "The performance against Arsenal shows that even against the strongest teams, he is highly competitive." The club will look for a similar display when they travel to the Etihad Stadium. Elliot Anderson, Manchester City’s £116 million acquisition from Nottingham Forest, is expected to help contain Brobbey on Sunday.
Early indications suggest Anderson is adapting well to the void left by Rodri in City’s midfield. In the recent Manchester derby, the 23‑year‑old matched Rodri’s passing volume in the final third and won a comparable number of duels, facilitating a smooth transition under manager Enzo Maresca. Meanwhile, Fulham may seek to add to Manchester United’s woes this weekend.
Although they have yet to secure a Premier League victory under Alvaro Arbeloa, striker Josh King has been in fine form and could be a key factor. Sky Sports will broadcast five Premier League fixtures this weekend, beginning with Brentford versus Chelsea on Friday night. Saturday’s action features Nottingham Forest against Coventry City, followed by four Sunday matches: Bournemouth vs Liverpool, Leeds vs Crystal Palace, Manchester City vs Sunderland at 2 pm, and finally Fulham vs Manchester United at 4.30 pm.
Last week’s column highlighted the statistical chemistry between Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, while Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Crystal Palace’s Anan Khalaili also featured prominently, the latter scoring against Ipswich. For a chance to win £1 million, play Super 6 – entry is free.