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1. Elliot Anderson Earns Support from Each Coaches

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Nottingham Forest's 2-0 loss on Tyneside, showing Eddie Howe the talent he parted with when top-flight spending rules forced the midfielder's departure to avoid a points penalty. This occurred in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has rarely looked back moving to Nottingham Forest. For much of the opening period he outshone even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was easily Ange Postecoglou's standout individual. Yet Anderson is human, and when his misplaced ball gave Bruno Guimarães an opportunity, his subsequent challenge was poorly timed and sent the Newcastle player falling in the penalty area. The Brazilian had already fired Newcastle into the lead from 25 yards, and from the spot the striker converted his fourth of the season in five starting appearances. Notably, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to encourage Anderson. If Postecoglou is to establish himself at the club, he will undoubtedly be leaning on the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would be keen to re-sign the former youth product. If Nottingham Forest, regardless of their manager, fail to improve, Newcastle might get another opportunity.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Fitness Worry Dampens Manchester City Victory

The midfielder's expression said it all. After collapsing to the Brentford pitch gazing at the ground, there was a barely discernible disappointed gesture – though his body language spoke volumes. Another setback for the City star? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has tried his best to manage the player's minutes this season since his comeback from a significant knee problem; now he must put more faith in other options. Nico González is the natural stand-in in the lineup, however has only started to play from the outset a single league match since 23 August. González was a big-money acquisition and will be required to contribute regularly after his early substitution for City in the capital. On whether he can offer composure akin to the influential midfielder, the jury is still out.

3. Mount Rises the Pecking Order at United

Setbacks have hindered the midfielder's United career. Being named in the first XI against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the Premier League since joining in 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has never been in doubt, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to play himself into form has been a challenge. During the fixture, his control was excellent and he offered inventiveness and discipline in equal measure, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim selected him over Matheus Cunha. He took his goal superbly, scoring the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his first game in charge almost a year ago. At a big club, Mount's experience could be crucial. I consider myself bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. To get the goal was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Demonstrates Confidence in Youngster Callum Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's move to introduce the young striker for his debut at the Emirates against Arsenal, rather than the established the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Since Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have managed only a single goal between them so far in the top flight, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's post-game remarks are any indication. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in over an experienced player,” said the manager. Our priority is, as quickly, to have total knowledge of who we have in the squad. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a sharp in the box, pace, he can find space in the final third. In my view we have a useful option.”

Five. Assured Frank Steadily Gains his Spurs Results

There is uncertainty how good Tottenham can be this season, including the players. What is clear is that they are improving under the Danish manager. After a third win from four unbeaten away games this campaign, confidence is building that Spurs are evolving into a increasingly organized and resilient outfit to the one which dropped to their poorest season under Ange Postecoglou last term. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who was very positive of his players' mindset and collective desire in defeating a pugnacious Leeds side at a raucous, windswept their home ground. Frank had been unable to overcome his rival manager and close friend the Leeds manager in their head-to-head record, but strikes by Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, around the Swiss striker's tying goal, meant the outcome was different. It is early days, but things are looking up for Tottenham.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Step Up

The Chelsea manager desired a new centre-back after being without the young defender to a knee injury ahead of the campaign. The club hierarchy disagreed. The playing staff are deep and a panic buy was unnecessary. Then came more injuries, leaving Maresca with limited options. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back starting against Liverpool on Saturday, but there need not have been. Acheampong is very young but he is highly rated. The teenager handled Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp