🔗 Share this article

One. Elliot Anderson Earns Support from Both Coaches

The Nottingham Forest midfielder spent much of Nottingham Forest's 2-0 defeat at Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager what he lost when top-flight spending rules forced the player's departure to avoid a points penalty. It happened back in the summer of 2024, and the England international has excelled ever since his switch to Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he outshone even Sandro Tonali and, across the match, was easily Ange Postecoglou's top performer. However mistakes can happen, and when his misplaced ball gave the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his resulting challenge was mistimed and sent the Newcastle player crashing in the area. Guimarães had already scored Newcastle ahead from 25 yards, and from the spot the striker converted his fourth of the season in his last five games. Tellingly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and Howe made obvious gestures to encourage the young midfielder. Should Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will certainly be heavily dependent on the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would be keen to buy the Newcastle academy graduate. If Nottingham Forest, with or without Postecoglou, continue to founder, Newcastle might get another opportunity.

Two. Rodri Setback Dampens City Win

Rodri's face was very revealing. When he went down to the Brentford turf looking down, there was a barely discernible head shake – though his demeanor said a lot. Another setback for the City star? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to limit the player's minutes this campaign since his tentative return from a serious knee injury; it's time for him to trust other options. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in the lineup, but has only been trusted 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 frequently after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in west London. As to whether he can provide stability similar to peak Rodri, it remains to be seen.

3. Mount Rises the Pecking Order at United

Setbacks have hindered Mason Mount's spell with the club. Being named in the first XI against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the Premier League since signing in 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has always been recognized, but finding a position and regular playing time to build momentum has proved problematic. On Saturday, his touch was superb and he offered creativity and discipline in balance, which could be the reason why the United manager selected him over the alternative option. He finished brilliantly, scoring the quickest opener for Amorim's team since his initial match last season. In an intense environment, his know-how could be important. “I see myself as bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Confidence in Young Player Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's move to send on Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates against the Gunners, rather than the veteran Callum Wilson, was an major statement in the young Northern Ireland forward who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield Town. Considering Callum Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have managed only a single goal between them so far in the Premier League, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's post-match assessment are anything to go by. It's difficult to give a debut in over an experienced player,” said Nuno. “It’s important for us, as rapidly, to have total knowledge of our squad options. Based on training, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a clinical in front of goal, movement, he can identify openings in the space. I believe we have a useful option.”

5. Calm Frank Gradually Secures his Spurs Rewards

It's unclear how competitive Tottenham can be this campaign, including the players. What is undeniable is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. After a third win from four unbeaten away games this season, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a increasingly organized and durable team than the squad which slumped to their worst Premier League finish under Ange Postecoglou last season. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who praised highly of his squad's attitude and team spirit in beating a feisty Leeds United side at a noisy, windy Elland Road. Frank had not beaten his opposite number and good friend Daniel Farke in five previous meetings, but strikes by the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, around Noah Okafor's leveler before the break, resulted in the result went his way. The season is young, but prospects are improving for Tottenham.

Six. Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca sought a new centre-back after being without the young defender to a serious knee issue before the start of the season. His bosses disagreed. Chelsea’s resources are extensive and a panic buy was unnecessary. Then came more injuries, leaving Maresca stretched. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile featuring against Liverpool on Saturday, but there need not have been. Acheampong is very young but few doubt his potential. The teenager contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp