Welcome to The Radar, Sky Sports' data‑driven column where Nick Wright blends statistics with insight to highlight the Premier League stories you need to know. This week’s focus includes: - Calvert‑Lewin’s all‑round attacking prowess - Brobbey’s mastery of hold‑up play - Anderson stepping into Rodri’s shoes - A player to watch this weekend After a technical correction by the goal‑accreditation appeals panel, Dominic Calvert‑Lewin’s tally now stands at three Premier League goals for the current season, placing him just behind Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. The adjustment reflects his true contribution and has earned him a deserved place back in the England squad. When you watch the video highlights, using Chrome for the best experience, you’ll see why his numbers are impressive.
Across all competitions, Calvert‑Lewin has scored nine times in 15 appearances since April. Leeds United manager Daniel Farke praised his form, saying, “He is in outstanding shape and playing with a lot of confidence,” after the striker’s starring performance in the 4‑1 victory over Newcastle United on Monday. Calvert‑Lewin has always possessed an instinct for finding the right spaces in the box.
Shot‑map analysis from his time at Leeds and his final two seasons at Everton reveals a concentration of attempts from central areas. The key difference now is his conversion rate – he is turning those chances into goals at a much higher frequency.
At Everton, his reputation was built around wastefulness; he often created opportunities but failed to finish them. Since joining Leeds, he has already matched the total Premier League goals he scored during his last four seasons at Everton.
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher summed it up: “Sometimes a move rejuvenates a player.” The underlying data supports 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, “Maybe composure let him down in the past, but not here.” His brace against Newcastle showcased the breadth of his attacking skill set. The first goal came from a textbook leap and header, meeting James Justin’s cross with authority.
The second was a lightning‑quick run behind the defence, latching onto Tarik Muharemović’s first‑time pass and slotting the ball past the keeper. Farke described him as “one of the standout strikers in the league” after the match, a claim that is hard to dispute now that his goal‑scoring edge has returned. At 29, Calvert‑Lewin offers the coveted blend of pace and aerial dominance.
Monday’s game reminded us how he can outmuscle centre‑backs on long balls and crosses, while also making incisive runs that stretch the opposition and create space behind the back line. Statistically, his completeness as a No 9 is evident. He is tied with Sunderland defender Dan Ballard for the most aerial duels won in the Premier League this season, and he is one of the few players in the top‑10 for aerial success who also ranks among the leaders for runs behind the defence. Tracking data shows he has recorded some of the highest top speeds recorded in the league this term.
His off‑the‑ball work rate is equally valuable. Farke noted, “It’s not just scoring goals – his work‑rate is top‑notch.” Calvert‑Lewin consistently pressures defenders, blocks passing lanes, and helps Leeds win back possession in dangerous areas.
Leeds have forced more high‑turnover situations than only six other clubs since the start of last season, a testament to his defensive contribution. 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 seem risky. Yet 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, but he still featured in nearly 80% of the league minutes last season – his highest ratio 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 looking to extend his streak of Premier League home goals to six. Given his current form, it would be unwise to bet against him. The column also compares Calvert‑Lewin to another powerful forward, 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 battle with Arsenal centre‑back Ezri Konsa was a showcase of strength, as Brobbey repeatedly shielded the ball and kept possession under pressure.
According to GeniusIQ, Brobbey has recorded more hold‑ups – defined as using the body to protect the ball from a defender – than any other player this season, and he topped the same metric last term despite starting only 22 games. Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris is delighted with his striker’s impact, stating, “The game against Arsenal shows that even against the strongest teams in the league or Europe, he is really competitive.” Sunderland will need a similar performance at the Etihad Stadium.
Elliot Anderson, the £116 million midfielder signed from Nottingham Forest, is expected to help Manchester City contain Brobbey on Sunday. Early signs suggest Anderson is filling the void left by Rodri effectively. In the recent Manchester derby win at Old Trafford, the 23‑year‑old matched Rodri’s passing volume in the final third and his duel‑winning numbers, indicating a smooth transition under manager Enzo Maresca.
Meanwhile, Fulham may add to Manchester United’s woes on Sunday. Though they have yet to secure a Premier League win under Alvaro Arbeloa, they have a promising youngster in Josh King, who is currently in fine form. Sky Sports will broadcast five Premier League matches this weekend, starting with Brentford versus Chelsea on Friday night.
Saturday’s live action features 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 (who scored against Ipswich) also featured. Play Super 6 for a chance to win £1 million – entry is free.