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1. Elliot Anderson Receives Sympathy from Both Bosses

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Forest's 2-0 loss at Newcastle, reminding the Newcastle manager the talent he parted with when Premier League spending rules forced the player's sale to avert a points deduction. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has thrived since moving to Nottingham Forest. Throughout the initial 45 minutes he surpassed even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was easily the Forest manager's best player. Yet Anderson is human, and when his loose pass gave the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his subsequent attempted tackle was mistimed and sent Guimarães crashing in the area. Guimarães had earlier fired the Magpies into the lead from 25 yards, and from the penalty spot the striker converted his fourth strike in five starting appearances. Notably, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and Howe made obvious gestures to comfort Anderson. Should Postecoglou is to establish himself at the club, he will inevitably be heavily dependent on the midfielder's ability. Howe, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to buy the homegrown talent. Should Forest, with or without Postecoglou, fail to improve, Newcastle could have an opportunity.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Mars Manchester City Success

The midfielder's expression told its own story. As he sank to the Griffin Park surface gazing at the ground, there was a slight head shake – though his demeanor said a lot. Another setback for the Spanish midfielder? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to limit his involvement this season since his comeback from a long-term layoff; he now has to rely more on alternatives. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in the lineup, yet has only started to play from the outset a single league match since the start of the season. González was a big-money acquisition and will be needed to step up frequently after his early substitution for City in the capital. As to whether he can bring a measure of control akin to the influential midfielder, opinions are divided.

3. Mason Mount Advances the Hierarchy at Manchester United

Fitness issues have hampered Mason Mount's spell with the club. His start against the Black Cats was only his 17th in the Premier League since signing in 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been questioned, but securing a regular role and enough game time to play himself into form has proved problematic. In the latest match, his control was superb and he offered inventiveness and discipline in equal measure, which could be the reason why the United manager chose him ahead of the alternative option. He finished brilliantly, netting the earliest goal for United since his debut as manager almost a year ago. At a big club, his background could be crucial. I consider myself injecting intensity into the team and initiating the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, helping the people around me and really adding intensity. To get the goal was a big moment for me.”

4. Nuno Shows Confidence in Youngster Callum Marshall

The West Ham manager's move to send on the young striker for his bow at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, instead of the more experienced Callum Wilson, was an enormous show of faith in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland forward who was on loan last season at Huddersfield Town. Considering Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the summer – and the German striker have managed only a single goal between them so far in the Premier League, the youngster could receive more chances if the new manager's post-game remarks are any indication. “It’s not easy to put a young lad in front of Callum Wilson,” said Nuno. We need, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of the players available. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a good finisher, good mobility, he can identify openings in the attack. In my view we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Calm Thomas Frank Slowly Gains his Tottenham Progress

It's unclear how good Tottenham can be this campaign, especially within the squad. What is clear is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. With a third success from a solid away record this campaign, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a far more cohesive and tough side to the one which slumped to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou 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 their home ground. Frank had been unable to overcome his opposite number and close friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but strikes by the French forward and the Ghanaian winger, before and after the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, ensured the result went his way. There's a long way to go, but things are looking up for Tottenham.

6. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

The Chelsea manager wanted a additional defender after the injury to Levi Colwill to a long-term problem before the start of the season. The club hierarchy disagreed. Chelsea’s resources are strong and a desperate purchase was unnecessary. Later further fitness issues, leaving Maresca with limited options. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back lining up against the Reds on Saturday, but there need not have been. Acheampong is only 19 but he is highly rated. The teenager contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp