🔗 Share this article

One. Elliot Anderson Gets Sympathy from The Two Managers

The Nottingham Forest midfielder spent much of Nottingham Forest's 2-0 setback away to Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager what he lost when Premier League profit and sustainability rules compelled the player's sale to avert a sanction. That was during the 2024 summer window, and Anderson has rarely looked back his switch to Forest. Throughout the first half he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, in total, was clearly Ange Postecoglou's top performer. But the player is only human, and when his loose pass gave the Brazilian midfielder an opening, his subsequent attempted tackle was poorly timed and sent Guimarães tumbling in the area. The Brazilian had previously fired the Magpies into the lead from outside the box, and from the resulting penalty Nick Woltemade netted his fourth goal in five starts. Notably, at the end of the match, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to encourage Anderson. In the event that Forest's manager is to establish himself at the club, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on the midfielder's ability. Howe, in contrast, would welcome the chance to bring back the homegrown talent. Should Forest, regardless of Postecoglou, struggle, the Tyneside club may yet be in with a chance.

Two. Rodri Setback Mars City Victory

His look told its own story. When he went down to the Brentford pitch looking down, there was a almost imperceptible shake of the head – though his body language spoke volumes. Another setback for the City star? The signs were not good. The City manager has made efforts to manage Rodri's game time this season since his comeback from a long-term layoff; now he must rely more on other options. Nico González is the most obvious replacement in City's squad, yet has only been trusted to start just one Premier League fixture since 23 August. González was a big-money acquisition and will be required to contribute regularly after his 22nd-minute introduction for Manchester City in the capital. As to whether he can bring a measure of control like peak Rodri, opinions are divided.

3. Mason Mount Advances the Pecking Order at United

Fitness issues have hampered Mason Mount's United career. Being named in the first XI against Sunderland was only his 17th in the Premier League since arriving in 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been in doubt, but securing a regular role and sufficient minutes to play himself into form has been a challenge. During the fixture, his touch was excellent and he offered inventiveness and work rate in balance, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim chose him ahead of the alternative option. He finished superbly, netting the earliest goal for the Red Devils since his initial match almost a year ago. In an intense environment, his background could prove vital. “I see myself as providing energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I focus on, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Displays Confidence in Young Player Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's decision to introduce the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, rather than the veteran Callum Wilson, was an enormous show of faith in the young Northern Ireland attacker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield Town. Given that Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once between them so far in the Premier League, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's post-match assessment are any indication. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in front of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. Our priority is, as quickly, to have total knowledge of our squad options. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a sharp in the box, movement, he can recognize the gaps in the final third. I believe we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Composed Frank Steadily Secures his Spurs Results

There is uncertainty how competitive Tottenham can be this campaign, especially within the squad. What is undeniable is that they are making progress under Thomas Frank. With a third success from four unbeaten away games this season, confidence is building that Spurs are evolving into a much more united and resilient outfit to the one which slumped to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou last season. He brings stability to Frank, who was very positive of his players' mindset and collective desire in seeing off a combative Leeds side at a atmospheric their home ground. Frank had been unable to overcome his opposite number and good friend Daniel Farke in five previous meetings, but scores from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, either side of the Swiss striker's first-half equaliser, meant the tables were turned. There's a long way to go, but the future appears bright for Spurs.

6. Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver

The Chelsea manager sought a additional defender after being without the young defender to a long-term problem ahead of the campaign. Chelsea's decision-makers thought otherwise. The squad depth are extensive and a rushed signing was not needed. Later more injuries, leaving the coach stretched. Some were worried about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on Saturday, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is just a teenager but he is highly rated. The teenager dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp