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1. Elliot Anderson Receives Sympathy from Both Coaches

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Nottingham Forest's 2-0 loss on Tyneside, reminding the Newcastle manager the talent he parted with when top-flight spending rules forced the player's departure to avoid a sanction. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has thrived since joining Forest. During the opening period he surpassed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was easily the Forest manager's top performer. But Anderson is human, and when his misplaced ball presented Bruno Guimarães an opening, his subsequent recovery tackle was ill-judged and sent Guimarães crashing in the box. The Brazilian had previously scored Newcastle ahead from long range, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade converted his fourth strike in five starting appearances. Significantly, at the conclusion, both Postecoglou and Howe made obvious gestures to encourage Anderson. Should Postecoglou is to succeed and progress at the club, he will inevitably be leaning on the midfielder's ability. Howe, on the other hand, would welcome the chance to buy the Newcastle academy graduate. Should Forest, with or without Postecoglou, continue to founder, the Tyneside club might get another opportunity.

Two. Rodri Fitness Worry Mars Manchester City Victory

His look was very revealing. When he went down to the Griffin Park surface staring at his feet, there was a slight shake of the head – though his body language said a lot. A fresh injury for the City star? The signs were not good. The City manager has tried his best to carefully use the player's minutes this season since his comeback from a long-term layoff; he now has to put more faith in other options. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in the lineup, however has only been selected to play from the outset a single league match since late August. The former Porto man was a big-money acquisition and will be needed to step up regularly after his introduction as a substitute for City in west London. On whether he can provide stability like Rodri at his best, opinions are divided.

Three. Mount Rises the Hierarchy at United

Setbacks have hindered the midfielder's time at United. His start against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the league since arriving in 2023 from his former club. His quality has always been recognized, but finding a position and enough game time to play himself into form has been a challenge. During the fixture, his touch was impeccable and he provided creativity and work rate in balance, which perhaps influenced why the United manager preferred him to the alternative option. He took his goal brilliantly, scoring the earliest goal for the Red Devils since his first game in charge last season. In an intense environment, his background could be crucial. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really bringing the energy. To get the goal was hugely important for me.”

Four. Nuno Demonstrates Trust in Young Player Marshall

The West Ham manager's choice to bring on Callum Marshall for his bow at the Emirates against Arsenal, instead of the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Considering Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once between them so far in the Premier League, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's post-match assessment are anything to go by. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in ahead of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. Our priority is, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of our squad options. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a sharp in the box, movement, he can find space in the attack. I believe we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Assured Frank Gradually Secures his Tottenham Rewards

There is uncertainty how strong Tottenham can be this season, including the players. What is clear is that they are heading in the right direction under the Danish manager. With a third success from four unbeaten away games this season, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a far more cohesive and resilient outfit to the one which slumped to their poorest season under Ange Postecoglou last term. Frank exudes calm confidence to the manager, who was very positive of his players' mindset and unity in defeating a feisty Leeds side at a atmospheric their home ground. Frank had been unable to overcome his rival manager and good friend the Leeds manager in their head-to-head record, but strikes by Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, around Noah Okafor's tying goal, meant the outcome was different. There's a long way to go, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

6. Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver

Enzo Maresca wanted a additional defender after being without Levi Colwill to a knee injury in pre-season. Chelsea's decision-makers had a different view. The playing staff are extensive and a rushed signing was not required. Subsequently additional setbacks, leaving the coach short-handed. Some were worried about the teenage defender and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on the weekend, but their fears were misplaced. Acheampong is only 19 but many believe in his ability. He dealt with Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp