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One. Elliot Anderson Receives Encouragement from Each Bosses

Elliot Anderson spent much of Nottingham Forest's 2-0 defeat on Tyneside, demonstrating Eddie Howe the talent he parted with when Premier League financial regulations compelled the midfielder's transfer to avert a points deduction. It happened during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has rarely looked back joining Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, overall, was clearly Ange Postecoglou's best player. Yet the player is only human, and when his misplaced ball presented Bruno Guimarães an opening, his resulting recovery tackle was poorly timed and caused the Newcastle player tumbling in the area. The Brazilian had earlier shot the Magpies into the lead from outside the box, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade netted his fourth goal in his last five games. Notably, at the conclusion, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made obvious gestures to comfort Anderson. In the event that Forest's manager is to establish himself at Forest, he will inevitably be heavily dependent on the midfielder's ability. Howe, in contrast, would love to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. If Nottingham Forest, with or without their manager, continue to founder, Newcastle could have an opportunity.

Two. Rodri Setback Mars City Success

Rodri's face told its own story. After collapsing to the Brentford pitch staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible disappointed gesture – though his demeanor said a lot. A fresh injury for the Spanish midfielder? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has tried his best to limit his involvement this campaign since his return from injury from a significant knee problem; it's time for him to rely more on replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, however has only been selected to begin a single league match since late August. González was a January purchase and will be needed to step up regularly after his early substitution for Manchester City in west London. As to whether he can offer composure akin to the influential midfielder, it remains to be seen.

Three. Mason Mount Climbs the Pecking Order at United

Setbacks have hindered 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 signing in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea. His ability has always been recognized, but establishing himself and regular playing time to build momentum has been a challenge. In the latest match, his control was excellent and he provided inventiveness and tactical awareness in similar amounts, which might explain why the United manager preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He finished superbly, netting the earliest goal for the Red Devils since his initial match last season. Under pressure, his background could prove vital. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and initiating the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, assisting those nearby and really adding intensity. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Demonstrates Faith in Young Player Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's decision to send on Callum Marshall for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, rather than the established Callum Wilson, was an enormous show of faith in the young Northern Ireland forward who had a loan spell at Huddersfield. Given that Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug 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 a guide. “It’s not easy to put a young lad in front of Callum Wilson,” said Nuno. “It’s important for us, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of our squad options. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a sharp in the box, pace, he can identify openings in the final third. I believe we have a useful option.”

Five. Composed Frank Steadily Secures his Spurs Rewards

There is uncertainty how good Tottenham can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is evident is that they are making progress under Thomas Frank. With a third success from a solid away record this campaign, optimism is rising that Spurs are developing into a much more united and durable team to the one which fell to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou last term. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and unity in seeing off a combative Leeds United side at a noisy, windy their home ground. Frank had failed to defeat his rival manager and close friend the Leeds manager in five previous meetings, but goals from Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, either side of Noah Okafor's tying goal, ensured the tables were turned. It is early days, but prospects are improving for Spurs.

Six. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca wanted a new centre-back after the injury to Levi Colwill to a long-term problem ahead of the campaign. Chelsea's decision-makers had a different view. The squad depth are strong and a panic buy was unnecessary. Later additional setbacks, leaving Maresca stretched. There were nerves about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile starting against Liverpool on the weekend, but there need not have been. Acheampong is very young but few doubt his potential. He contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp