🔗 Share this article

One. Anderson Receives Sympathy from Each Coaches

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Nottingham Forest's two-nil defeat at Newcastle, reminding Eddie Howe what he lost when Premier League spending rules compelled the player's sale to prevent a points deduction. This occurred during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has excelled ever since joining Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he surpassed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was comfortably the Forest manager's best player. However the player is only human, and when his misplaced ball gave Bruno Guimarães an chance, his resulting attempted tackle was mistimed and sent the Newcastle player falling in the area. The Brazilian had previously fired Newcastle ahead from long range, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade netted his fourth of the season in five starts. Tellingly, at the end of the match, both Postecoglou and Howe made obvious gestures to comfort Anderson. If Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will inevitably be reliant upon the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would welcome the chance to re-sign the former youth product. Should Nottingham Forest, whether or not they have Postecoglou, continue to founder, the Tyneside club could have an opportunity.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Overshadows Manchester City Victory

His look told its own story. When he went down to the Griffin Park surface staring at his feet, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his body language was very telling. Another setback for the Spanish midfielder? The signs were not good. The City manager has made efforts to manage Rodri's game time this season since his tentative return from a significant knee problem; he now has to trust replacements. Nico González is the most obvious replacement in City's squad, yet has only been selected to play from the outset one league game since 23 August. The £49.8m signing was a £49.8m signing and will be required to contribute more often after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in west London. Regarding if he can bring a measure of control similar to peak Rodri, the jury is still out.

3. Mount Advances the Pecking Order at United

Fitness issues have affected Mason Mount's United career. His start against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the league since arriving in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His quality has never been in doubt, but securing a regular role and enough game time to build momentum has proved problematic. During the fixture, his first touch was excellent and he brought inventiveness and work rate in equal measure, which might explain why Ruben Amorim selected him over Matheus Cunha. He scored expertly, getting the quickest opener for the Red Devils since his first game in charge last season. Under pressure, Mount's experience could be important. I consider myself bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, supporting my teammates and really adding intensity. Finding the net was hugely important for me.”

Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Demonstrates Trust in Youngster Callum Marshall

The West Ham manager's choice to send on Callum Marshall for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, in place of the established the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield. Since Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have managed only a single goal combined so far in the top flight, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's post-game remarks are anything to go by. It's a tough decision to give a debut in ahead of an experienced player,” said the manager. Our priority is, as rapidly, to have complete awareness of who we have in the squad. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a sharp in the box, movement, he can recognize the gaps in the final third. In my view we have a useful option.”

5. Calm Thomas Frank Steadily Gains his Spurs Progress

Nobody seems quite sure how strong Tottenham can be this season, least of all themselves. What is clear is that they are making progress under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from four unbeaten away games this season, belief is growing that Tottenham are developing into a much more united and resilient outfit compared to the team which slumped to their poorest season under the previous manager last season. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who was very positive of his team’s mentality and team spirit in defeating a pugnacious Leeds side at a raucous, windswept their home ground. Frank had been unable to overcome his opposite number and good friend the Leeds manager in their head-to-head record, but goals from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, before and after Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, ensured the result went his way. It is early days, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

6. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca sought a new centre-back after the injury to the young defender to a serious knee issue in pre-season. Chelsea's decision-makers had a different view. The playing staff are extensive and a rushed signing was not needed. Then came additional setbacks, leaving Maresca stretched. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back lining up against the Reds on the weekend, but there need not have been. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but many believe in his ability. He contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp