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One. Elliot Anderson Earns Support from The Two Bosses

Elliot Anderson spent much of Forest's 2-0 loss at Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager the player he had to sell when Premier League financial regulations required the midfielder's transfer to prevent a points penalty. That was during the 2024 summer window, and Anderson has excelled ever since his switch to Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, in total, was comfortably the Forest manager's top performer. But mistakes can happen, and when his misplaced ball offered the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his following recovery tackle was poorly timed and resulted in the Newcastle player falling in the penalty area. The Brazilian had previously fired the Magpies into the lead from outside the box, and from the spot Nick Woltemade converted his fourth strike in his last five games. Tellingly, at the conclusion, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to encourage the young midfielder. If Postecoglou is to establish himself at the club, he will inevitably be reliant upon Anderson's talent. Howe, in contrast, would be keen to buy the Newcastle academy graduate. In case Forest, whether or not they have Postecoglou, struggle, the Tyneside club may yet be in with a chance.

Two. Rodri Setback Mars City Success

Rodri's face told its own story. As he sank to the Brentford pitch staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible shake of the head – though his body language said a lot. Another setback for the City star? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has made efforts to carefully use Rodri's game time this season since his tentative return from a long-term layoff; he now has to put more faith in replacements. Nico González is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, but has only started to start one league game since the start of the season. The £49.8m signing was a big-money acquisition and will be called upon more more often after his early substitution for City in the capital. On whether he can bring a measure of control akin to the influential midfielder, opinions are divided.

Three. Mount Rises the Pecking Order at United

Fitness issues have affected the midfielder's United career. His start against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the Premier League since signing in 2023 from Chelsea. His quality has always been recognized, but finding a position and sufficient minutes to regain his best has been a challenge. On Saturday, his first touch was impeccable and he brought inventiveness and tactical awareness in balance, which might explain why Ruben Amorim preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He finished expertly, netting the fastest early goal for Amorim's team since his debut as manager 11 months ago. At a big club, Mount's experience could be crucial. 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 focus on, helping the people around me and really raising the tempo. Finding the net was hugely important for me.”

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

Nuno Espírito Santo's decision to bring on the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Ireland forward who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield Town. Since Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the summer – and the German striker have contributed just one goal between them so far in the Premier League, Marshall could receive more chances if the new manager's post-match assessment are anything to go by. It's difficult to give a debut in ahead of an experienced player,” said Nuno. Our priority is, as quickly, to have total knowledge of our squad options. Based on training, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a good finisher, movement, he can identify openings in the attack. I believe we have something we can use.”

Five. Assured Frank Steadily Gains his Spurs Progress

There is uncertainty how competitive Spurs can be this season, especially within the squad. What is clear is that they are making progress under the Danish manager. Following another victory from a solid away record this campaign, belief is growing that Tottenham are becoming a far more cohesive and durable team to the one which fell to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou last term. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his players' mindset and collective desire in seeing off a pugnacious Leeds side at a noisy, windy Elland Road. Frank had not beaten his rival manager and friend the Leeds manager in five previous meetings, but strikes by Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, before and after the Swiss striker's first-half equaliser, resulted in the outcome was different. There's a long way to go, but prospects are improving for Tottenham.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up

The Chelsea manager wanted a new centre-back after being without the young defender to a serious knee issue ahead of the campaign. His bosses thought otherwise. The squad depth are strong and a panic buy was not required. Then came additional setbacks, leaving the coach stretched. There were nerves about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile starting against the Reds on Saturday, but there need not have been. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but few doubt his potential. He dealt with Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp