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One. Anderson Receives Support from The Two Managers

Elliot Anderson featured heavily in Forest's 2-0 defeat on Tyneside, demonstrating the Newcastle manager what he lost when Premier League financial regulations compelled the player's transfer to prevent a points deduction. It happened in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has thrived since moving to Nottingham Forest. Throughout the initial 45 minutes he surpassed even the Italian midfielder and, in total, was clearly the Forest manager's top performer. Yet mistakes can happen, and when his wayward pass presented the Brazilian midfielder an chance, his resulting recovery tackle was mistimed and caused the Newcastle player crashing in the box. The Brazilian had previously scored Newcastle ahead from long range, and from the spot the striker scored his fourth goal in his last five games. Notably, at the end of the match, both the Forest boss and Howe made obvious gestures to comfort the young midfielder. If Forest's manager is to establish himself at Forest, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on his star player. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would love to re-sign the former youth product. Should Nottingham Forest, with or without their manager, struggle, the Tyneside club may yet be in with a chance.

2. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Dampens Manchester City Win

His look said it all. As he sank to the Brentford pitch looking down, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his posture said a lot. A fresh injury for the City star? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to limit his involvement this campaign since his return from injury from a serious knee injury; he now has to put more faith in replacements. Nico González is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, yet has only been selected to start just one Premier League fixture since 23 August. The former Porto man was a £49.8m signing and will be needed to step up more often after his introduction as a substitute for City in the capital. On whether he can bring a measure of control similar to the influential midfielder, it remains to be seen.

Three. Mason Mount Rises the Pecking Order at Manchester United

Fitness issues have hampered Mason Mount's United career. His start against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the league since signing in 2023 from his former club. His quality has never been in doubt, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to play himself into form has been difficult. During the fixture, his first touch was excellent and he offered inventiveness and discipline in balance, which could be the reason why the United manager chose him ahead of Matheus Cunha. He scored superbly, getting the fastest early goal for Amorim's team since his debut as manager almost a year ago. Under pressure, Mount's experience could be crucial. My role is injecting intensity into the team and setting off the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Finding the net was hugely important for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Demonstrates Confidence in Young Player Callum Marshall

The West Ham manager's decision to introduce Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, in place of the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland attacker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield Town. Given that Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have contributed just one goal together so far in the top flight, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's post-game remarks are a guide. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in over Callum Wilson,” said the manager. “It’s important for us, as soon as possible, to have a full understanding of our squad options. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a clinical in front of goal, pace, he can identify openings in the attack. I think we have something we can use.”

5. Assured Frank Slowly Earns his Tottenham Rewards

Nobody seems quite sure how good Spurs can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is evident is that they are improving under the Danish manager. After a third win from four matches on the road without defeat this season, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a far more cohesive and resilient outfit to the one which fell to their worst Premier League finish under Ange Postecoglou previously. He brings stability to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and team spirit in defeating a pugnacious Leeds side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had not beaten his rival manager and close friend the Leeds manager in their past five encounters, but strikes by Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, before and after Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, ensured the tables were turned. It is early days, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver

Enzo Maresca desired a reinforcement at the back after being without the young defender to a knee injury ahead of the campaign. The club hierarchy had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are strong and a panic buy was not required. Later further fitness issues, leaving the coach with limited options. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile starting against Liverpool on the weekend, but their fears were misplaced. Acheampong is just a teenager but few doubt his potential. He contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp