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1. Anderson Gets Support from Each Coaches

The Nottingham Forest midfielder was prominent during Forest's 2-0 defeat at Newcastle, reminding the Newcastle manager what he lost when top-flight profit and sustainability rules compelled the midfielder's departure to avert a points deduction. This occurred during the 2024 summer window, and Anderson has excelled ever since moving to Nottingham Forest. During the opening period he outshone even the Italian midfielder and, in total, was easily Ange Postecoglou's best player. However the player is only human, and when his loose pass presented the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his following attempted tackle was poorly timed and resulted in the Newcastle player tumbling in the area. The Brazilian had already scored Newcastle ahead from outside the box, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade scored his fourth strike in five starts. Notably, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and Howe made obvious gestures to encourage the young midfielder. If Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will undoubtedly be leaning on Anderson's talent. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would welcome the chance to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. If Forest, with or without Postecoglou, fail to improve, Newcastle could have an opportunity.

2. The Spanish Midfielder Fitness Worry Mars Manchester City Victory

His look was very revealing. As he sank to the Griffin Park surface staring at his feet, there was a slight shake of the head – though his posture spoke volumes. A fresh injury for the key player? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has made efforts to limit Rodri's game time this campaign since his return from injury from a significant knee problem; now he must trust replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, but has only been trusted to begin just one Premier League fixture since late August. The former Porto man was a £49.8m signing and will be required to contribute regularly after his early substitution for City in the capital. Regarding if he can offer composure like peak Rodri, the jury is still out.

Three. Mason Mount Climbs the Pecking Order at Manchester United

Setbacks have hampered Mason Mount's spell with the club. His inclusion in the starting lineup against the Black Cats was only his 17th in the Premier League since joining in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His quality has never been questioned, but finding a position and regular playing time to play himself into form has proved problematic. In the latest match, his first touch was impeccable and he brought creativity and tactical awareness in similar amounts, which could be the reason why the United manager preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He scored brilliantly, netting the quickest opener for the Red Devils since his first game in charge 11 months ago. At a big club, his background could prove vital. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Trust in Young Player Callum Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to send on the young striker for his bow at the Emirates against Arsenal, in place of the established the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the young Northern Irish attacker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield. Considering Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the off-season – and the German striker have scored only once combined so far in the Premier League, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's comments after the game are any indication. It's difficult to select a youngster in over an experienced player,” said the manager. Our priority is, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of the players available. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a clinical in front of goal, good mobility, he can recognize the gaps in the final third. In my view we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Composed Thomas Frank Steadily Gains his Spurs Rewards

It's unclear how competitive Spurs can be this season, including the players. What is undeniable is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. With a third success from a solid away record this campaign, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a much more united and tough side to the one which slumped to their worst Premier League finish under the previous manager last season. There is a calm assuredness to Frank, who was very positive of his squad's attitude and unity in seeing off a feisty Leeds United side at a atmospheric Elland Road. Frank had been unable to overcome his opposite number and friend Daniel Farke in their head-to-head record, but goals from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, around Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, ensured the result went his way. It is early days, but the future appears bright for Spurs.

Six. Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up

The Chelsea manager sought a new centre-back after losing the young defender to a long-term problem before the start of the season. The club hierarchy disagreed. The playing staff are extensive and a panic buy was unnecessary. Then came additional setbacks, leaving the coach short-handed. There were nerves about the teenage defender and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on the weekend, but there need not have been. Acheampong is just a teenager but few doubt his potential. The teenager contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp