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1. Elliot Anderson Earns Encouragement from The Two Managers

Elliot Anderson spent much of Nottingham Forest's two-nil loss on Tyneside, reminding the Newcastle manager the player he had to sell when Premier League financial regulations required the midfielder's sale to avert a points penalty. It happened back in the summer of 2024, and Anderson has thrived since his switch to Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, overall, was clearly the Forest manager's top performer. However Anderson is human, and when his misplaced ball gave the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his subsequent attempted tackle was poorly timed and resulted in the Newcastle player falling in the box. The Brazilian had earlier shot the Magpies into the lead from 25 yards, and from the resulting penalty the striker netted his fourth of the season in his last five games. Significantly, at the conclusion, both the Forest boss and Howe made clear attempts to encourage the young midfielder. If Forest's manager is to establish himself at Forest, he will inevitably be reliant upon Anderson's talent. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would love to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. Should Forest, whether or not they have their manager, fail to improve, the Tyneside club may yet be in with a chance.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Mars City Victory

His look said it all. When he went down to the Brentford pitch looking down, there was a slight disappointed gesture – though his body language spoke volumes. Another setback for the key player? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has attempted to carefully use his involvement this season since his tentative return from a significant knee problem; it's time for him to rely more on replacements. Nico González is the most obvious replacement in the team, but has only started to play from the outset one league game since the start of the season. The former Porto man was a £49.8m signing and will be called upon more regularly after his 22nd-minute introduction for Manchester City in west London. As to whether he can provide stability similar to Rodri at his best, opinions are divided.

3. Mount Rises the Hierarchy at Manchester United

Fitness issues have hindered Mason Mount's United career. His start against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the league since arriving in 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has always been recognized, but securing a regular role and sufficient minutes to build momentum has been a challenge. In the latest match, his touch was excellent and he provided creativity and discipline in balance, which perhaps influenced why Ruben Amorim chose him ahead of Matheus Cunha. He took his goal brilliantly, netting the fastest early goal for Amorim's team since his first game in charge almost a year ago. At a big club, his know-how could be crucial. “I see myself as bringing a lot of energy into the team and initiating the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, assisting those nearby and really adding intensity. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Displays Faith in Young Player Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's decision to bring on the young striker for his bow at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, rather than the veteran Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland striker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield Town. Considering Callum Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once together so far in the top flight, Marshall could be given further game time if the new manager's post-game remarks are any indication. It's a tough decision to select a youngster in over Callum Wilson,” said the manager. We need, as rapidly, to have a full understanding of who we have in the squad. Based on training, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a sharp in the box, good mobility, he can recognize the gaps in the final third. I think we have something we can use.”

5. Composed Thomas Frank Steadily Gains his Spurs Progress

There is uncertainty how good Tottenham can be this season, least of all themselves. What is undeniable is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. With a third success from a solid away record this season, belief is growing that Tottenham are developing into a increasingly organized and tough side compared to the team which fell to their poorest season under the previous manager last season. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who was very positive of his players' mindset and collective desire in defeating a pugnacious Leeds United side at a atmospheric their home ground. The Tottenham boss had been unable to overcome his Leeds counterpart and good friend Daniel Farke in five previous meetings, but goals from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, before and after Noah Okafor's tying goal, resulted in the outcome was different. There's a long way to go, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

Six. Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca desired a additional defender after losing Levi Colwill to a serious knee issue ahead of the campaign. His bosses disagreed. The playing staff are extensive and a panic buy was not needed. Subsequently additional setbacks, leaving Maresca stretched. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on Saturday, but there need not have been. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but he is highly rated. He dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp