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1. Anderson Gets Sympathy from Each Coaches

The Nottingham Forest midfielder featured heavily in Forest's two-nil defeat away to Newcastle, demonstrating the Newcastle manager the talent he parted with when top-flight profit and sustainability rules forced the midfielder's departure to avoid a sanction. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has excelled ever since joining Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he surpassed even Sandro Tonali and, across the match, was comfortably the Forest manager's best player. However Anderson is human, and when his wayward pass offered the Brazilian midfielder an opening, his subsequent recovery tackle was mistimed and sent the Newcastle player crashing in the area. Guimarães had already scored Newcastle into the lead from 25 yards, and from the spot the striker scored his fourth goal in five starts. Tellingly, at the end of the match, both the Forest boss and Howe made clear attempts to encourage Anderson. In the event that Postecoglou is to succeed and progress at the club, he will certainly be leaning on Anderson's talent. Howe, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to re-sign the homegrown talent. Should Forest, regardless of Postecoglou, continue to founder, the Tyneside club may yet be in with a chance.

2. Rodri Injury Concern Dampens Manchester City Win

His look told its own story. When he went down to the Brentford turf looking down, there was a slight head shake – though his body language spoke volumes. A new problem for the City star? It looked more than likely. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to limit Rodri's game time this campaign since his comeback from a long-term layoff; it's time for him to rely more on other options. The Spanish midfielder is the natural stand-in in the team, but has only started to start one league game since 23 August. González was a January purchase and will be called upon more frequently after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in west London. On whether he can provide stability similar to Rodri at his best, it remains to be seen.

Three. Mason Mount Advances the Hierarchy at United

Fitness issues have hindered Mason Mount's United career. His start against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the Premier League since arriving in 2023 from Chelsea. His quality has never been in doubt, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to build momentum has been a challenge. In the latest match, his first touch was excellent and he offered creativity and tactical awareness in balance, which might explain why the United manager selected him over the alternative option. He scored brilliantly, netting the quickest opener for United since his first game in charge 11 months ago. Under pressure, Mount's experience could be important. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a driving force going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really bringing the energy. Scoring was a big moment 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 the Gunners, in place of the more experienced Callum Wilson, was an enormous show of faith in the young Northern Ireland striker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Since Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have managed only a single goal combined so far in the Premier League, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's comments after the game are any indication. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in over an experienced player,” said the manager. We need, as rapidly, to have a full understanding of who we have in the squad. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a sharp in the box, good mobility, he can recognize the gaps in the space. I believe we have something we can use.”

5. Calm Thomas Frank Gradually Gains his Tottenham Rewards

Nobody seems quite sure how competitive Tottenham can be this campaign, including the players. What is clear is that they are making progress under the Danish manager. With a third success from four unbeaten away games this campaign, confidence is building that Spurs are evolving into a far more cohesive and durable team to the one which dropped to their lowest league position under the previous manager last term. Frank exudes calm confidence to the manager, who praised highly of his team’s mentality and unity in beating a pugnacious Leeds side at a noisy, windy Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had failed to defeat his rival manager and good friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but scores from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, before and after the Swiss striker's tying goal, resulted in the tables were turned. There's a long way to go, but prospects are improving for Spurs.

6. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Step Up

The Chelsea manager sought a additional defender after the injury to Levi Colwill to a long-term problem in pre-season. Chelsea's decision-makers had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are strong and a desperate purchase was not needed. Later more injuries, leaving the coach with limited options. Some were worried about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile starting against the Reds on the weekend, but it was unfounded. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but he is highly rated. He contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp