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One. Anderson Gets Support from The Two Bosses

The Nottingham Forest midfielder spent much of Nottingham Forest's 2-0 defeat on Tyneside, showing Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when top-flight spending rules forced the player's sale to prevent a points deduction. It happened during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has thrived since his switch to Forest. For much of the opening period he eclipsed even Sandro Tonali and, overall, was comfortably the Forest manager's best player. But mistakes can happen, and when his misplaced ball presented the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his following challenge was poorly timed and sent the Newcastle player crashing in the box. The Brazilian had already scored Newcastle ahead from outside the box, and from the spot Nick Woltemade netted his fourth of the season in five starts. Significantly, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and Howe made clear attempts to console Anderson. If Postecoglou is to establish himself at the club, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to buy the Newcastle academy graduate. In case Nottingham Forest, with or without Postecoglou, continue to founder, the Tyneside club may yet be in with a chance.

Two. Rodri Injury Concern Overshadows City Success

His look said it all. After collapsing to the Griffin Park surface staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible shake of the head – though his body language was very telling. Another setback for the City star? It looked more than likely. Pep Guardiola has attempted to manage his involvement this campaign since his return from injury from a long-term layoff; it's time for him to trust alternatives. The Spanish midfielder is the most obvious replacement in City's squad, yet has only been trusted to start just one Premier League fixture since 23 August. González was a January purchase and will be required to contribute regularly after his introduction as a substitute for City in the capital. Regarding if he can provide stability akin to peak Rodri, opinions are divided.

Three. Mount Advances the Hierarchy at United

Injuries have affected Mason Mount's United career. Being named in the first XI against Sunderland was only his 17th in the league since signing in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been questioned, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to build momentum has proved problematic. During the fixture, his control was superb and he brought inventiveness and work rate in similar amounts, which perhaps influenced why Ruben Amorim selected him over the alternative option. He scored superbly, scoring the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his debut as manager last season. Under pressure, his know-how could prove vital. “I see myself as injecting intensity into the team and initiating the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, helping the people around me and really adding intensity. Finding the net was obviously massive for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Displays Faith in Youngster Callum Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's move to introduce Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the established the seasoned forward, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Ireland striker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield Town. Considering Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and the German striker have scored only once between them so far in the Premier League, the youngster could receive more chances if the new manager's comments after the game are a guide. “It’s not easy to put a young lad in front of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. Our priority is, as quickly, to have a full understanding of who we have in the squad. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a clinical in front of goal, pace, he can find space in the attack. In my view we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Calm Thomas Frank Gradually Secures his Spurs Rewards

Nobody seems quite sure how competitive Spurs can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is undeniable is that they are improving under the Danish manager. After a third win from four matches on the road without defeat this season, confidence is building that Tottenham are developing into a increasingly organized and tough side to the one which dropped to their lowest league position under the previous manager last season. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and team spirit in beating a pugnacious Leeds United side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had failed to defeat his opposite number and good friend the Leeds manager in their past five encounters, but strikes by the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, either side of the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, ensured the tables were turned. The season is young, but prospects are improving for Spurs.

Six. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

The Chelsea manager sought a additional defender after the injury to Levi Colwill to a knee injury before the start of the season. The club hierarchy disagreed. The squad depth are deep and a rushed signing was unnecessary. Subsequently further fitness issues, leaving Maresca short-handed. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back starting against Liverpool on Saturday, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is just a teenager but many believe in his ability. He handled Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp