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1. Anderson Receives Support from Each Managers

Elliot Anderson featured heavily in Nottingham Forest's 2-0 setback away to Newcastle, demonstrating the Newcastle manager what he lost when top-flight financial regulations required the midfielder's sale to avoid a points deduction. It happened in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has excelled ever since his switch to Forest. Throughout the initial 45 minutes he surpassed even the Italian midfielder and, in total, was easily the Forest manager's best player. However the player is only human, and when his wayward pass offered Bruno Guimarães an opening, his resulting recovery tackle was ill-judged and resulted in the Newcastle player falling in the box. Guimarães had already shot the Magpies into the lead from 25 yards, and from the penalty spot the striker netted his fourth goal in his last five games. Tellingly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and Howe made concerted efforts to encourage the young midfielder. If Forest's manager is to establish himself at Forest, he will certainly be heavily dependent on Anderson's talent. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would be keen to bring back the homegrown talent. Should Forest, with or without their manager, continue to founder, the Tyneside club might get another opportunity.

2. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Overshadows City Success

The midfielder's expression was very revealing. As he sank to the Griffin Park surface gazing at the ground, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his body language said a lot. Another setback for the City star? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has attempted to manage Rodri's game time this season since his comeback from a significant knee problem; it's time for him to rely more on replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the natural stand-in in City's squad, but has only been selected to begin one league game since 23 August. The former Porto man was a January purchase and will be needed to step up regularly after his early substitution for City in the capital. On whether he can provide stability like Rodri at his best, it remains to be seen.

3. Mount Advances the Ranking at Manchester United

Setbacks have hampered the midfielder's United career. His start against Sunderland was only his 17th in the Premier League since arriving in 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has always been recognized, but establishing himself and regular playing time to play himself into form has proved problematic. On Saturday, his first touch was superb and he offered creativity and work rate in equal measure, which could be the reason why the United manager preferred him to the alternative option. He finished expertly, netting the fastest early goal for United since his first game in charge last season. Under pressure, his background could be crucial. I consider myself injecting intensity into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, assisting those nearby and really adding intensity. To get the goal was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Confidence in Young Player Marshall

The West Ham manager's decision to introduce the young striker for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, instead of the veteran the seasoned forward, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Ireland striker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield Town. Considering Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and the German striker have contributed just one goal together so far in the top flight, Marshall could be given further game time if the Nuno's comments after the game are a guide. “It’s not easy to give a debut in over an experienced player,” said Nuno. We need, as soon as possible, to have a full understanding of the players available. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a sharp in the box, pace, he can identify openings in the attack. In my view we have something we can use.”

5. Composed Thomas Frank Gradually Secures his Tottenham Rewards

There is uncertainty how good Tottenham can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is evident is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. After a third win from a solid away record this campaign, confidence is building that Tottenham are evolving into a much more united and resilient outfit to the one which slumped to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou previously. He brings stability to the manager, who was very positive of his players' mindset and collective desire in seeing off a combative Leeds United side at a atmospheric their home ground. Frank had failed to defeat his rival manager and friend Daniel Farke in their head-to-head record, but strikes by the French forward and the Ghanaian winger, before and after Noah Okafor's leveler before the break, meant the tables were turned. The season is young, but prospects are improving for Tottenham.

6. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca sought a reinforcement at the back after being without Levi Colwill to a knee injury in pre-season. Chelsea's decision-makers had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are extensive and a rushed signing was not needed. Later more injuries, leaving the coach with limited options. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile featuring against Liverpool on the weekend, but their fears were misplaced. Acheampong is only 19 but he is highly rated. The teenager handled Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp