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1. Elliot Anderson Gets Encouragement from The Two Managers

Elliot Anderson featured heavily in Forest's 2-0 defeat at Newcastle, demonstrating Eddie Howe the talent he parted with when top-flight spending rules forced the player's sale to prevent a points penalty. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has thrived since joining Forest. Throughout the first half he surpassed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was clearly the Forest manager's top performer. But mistakes can happen, and when his wayward pass offered Bruno Guimarães an opportunity, his following recovery tackle was poorly timed and resulted in the Newcastle player crashing in the penalty area. The Brazilian had already fired Newcastle into the lead from 25 yards, and from the resulting penalty Nick Woltemade scored his fourth goal in five starting appearances. Significantly, at the conclusion, both Postecoglou and Howe made clear attempts to comfort Anderson. Should Postecoglou is to survive and then thrive at the club, he will certainly be heavily dependent on Anderson's talent. Howe, in contrast, would be keen to bring back the Newcastle academy graduate. If Nottingham Forest, with or without Postecoglou, struggle, the Tyneside club could have an opportunity.

2. Rodri Fitness Worry Mars City Success

Rodri's face told its own story. As he sank to the Brentford turf staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible shake of the head – though his posture said a lot. A fresh injury for the key player? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to limit his involvement this season since his comeback from a long-term layoff; he now has to rely more on replacements. Nico González is the natural stand-in in the lineup, however has only been selected to begin just one Premier League fixture since the start of the season. The former Porto man was a £49.8m signing and will be required to contribute more often after his introduction as a substitute for City in west London. Regarding if he can provide stability akin to peak Rodri, it remains to be seen.

3. Mount Climbs the Pecking Order at Manchester United

Fitness issues have hampered the midfielder's United career. Being named in the first XI against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the Premier League since signing in 2023 from Chelsea. His quality has always been recognized, but securing a regular role and sufficient minutes to regain his best has been difficult. On Saturday, his control was impeccable and he offered vision and work rate in equal measure, which might explain why the United manager chose him ahead of Matheus Cunha. He finished brilliantly, getting the fastest early goal for Amorim's team since his first game in charge last season. Under pressure, his background could be crucial. I consider myself injecting intensity into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a key instigator going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, supporting my teammates and really raising the tempo. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”

4. Nuno Demonstrates Trust in Youngster Callum Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's move to introduce the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates against Arsenal, in place of the veteran the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the young Northern Ireland attacker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield Town. Since Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the off-season – and the German striker have scored only once together so far in the top flight, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's post-game remarks are any indication. It's a tough decision to put a young lad in front of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. Our priority is, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of the players available. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a sharp in the box, pace, he can find space in the attack. I think we have a player who can contribute.”

5. Assured Thomas Frank Slowly Gains his Spurs Results

It's unclear how strong Spurs can be this campaign, including the players. What is evident is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from a solid away record this season, confidence is building that Tottenham are developing into a far more cohesive and durable team to the one which dropped to their lowest league position under the previous manager last term. He brings stability to Frank, who was very positive of his team’s mentality and collective desire in defeating a combative Leeds United side at a raucous, windswept their home ground. Frank had been unable to overcome his Leeds counterpart and good friend Daniel Farke in their head-to-head record, but goals from Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, either side of Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, meant the tables were turned. The season is young, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

6. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver

The Chelsea manager wanted a new centre-back after being without the young defender to a long-term problem in pre-season. His bosses disagreed. Chelsea’s resources are strong and a desperate purchase was not needed. Then came more injuries, leaving the coach stretched. Some were worried about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile starting against Liverpool on the weekend, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is only 19 but few doubt his potential. The teenager contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp