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1. Elliot Anderson Receives Sympathy from The Two Bosses

Elliot Anderson spent much of Nottingham Forest's two-nil setback at Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager the player he had to sell when Premier League profit and sustainability rules required the player's transfer to avoid a points penalty. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has rarely looked back joining Forest. For much of the first half he outshone even Sandro Tonali and, overall, was easily Ange Postecoglou's top performer. But Anderson is human, and when his misplaced ball offered Bruno Guimarães an opening, his following recovery tackle was ill-judged and sent the Newcastle player crashing in the penalty area. The Brazilian had earlier shot Newcastle ahead from 25 yards, and from the resulting penalty Nick Woltemade scored his fourth goal in his last five games. Significantly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and Howe made concerted efforts to console Anderson. In the event that Forest's manager is to survive and then thrive at Forest, he will certainly be leaning on Anderson's talent. Howe, in contrast, would be keen to buy the former youth product. If Nottingham Forest, regardless of Postecoglou, continue to founder, Newcastle could have an opportunity.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Dampens Manchester City Win

Rodri's face was very revealing. When he went down to the Brentford turf staring at his feet, there was a almost imperceptible disappointed gesture – though his posture spoke volumes. A fresh injury for the Spanish midfielder? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has made efforts to manage the player's minutes this campaign since his comeback from a significant knee problem; he now has to put more faith in replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in the team, yet has only been trusted to start a single league match since late August. The former Porto man was a big-money acquisition and will be required to contribute regularly after his early substitution for Manchester City in west London. On whether he can offer composure akin to the influential midfielder, it remains to be seen.

Three. Mason Mount Climbs the Ranking at Manchester United

Injuries have affected Mason Mount's time at United. His start against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the Premier League since arriving in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been questioned, but securing a regular role and sufficient minutes to play himself into form has proved problematic. In the latest match, his control was impeccable and he provided creativity and discipline in similar amounts, which perhaps influenced why Ruben Amorim preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He took his goal expertly, netting the fastest early goal for the Red Devils since his first game in charge last season. In an intense environment, Mount's experience could prove vital. My role is 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 focus on, supporting my teammates and really raising the tempo. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”

4. Nuno Demonstrates Confidence in Youngster Callum Marshall

The West Ham manager's choice to bring on Callum Marshall for his bow at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, instead of the veteran the seasoned forward, was an enormous show of faith in the 20-year-old Northern Irish striker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield. Since Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the summer – and the German striker have scored only once between them so far in the Premier League, Marshall could be given further game time if the new manager's post-match assessment are a guide. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in ahead of Callum Wilson,” said Nuno. Our priority is, as soon as possible, to have a full understanding of our squad options. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a good finisher, movement, he can find space in the space. In my view we have something we can use.”

Five. Assured Thomas Frank Steadily Gains his Tottenham Rewards

It's unclear how good Tottenham can be this campaign, especially within the squad. What is evident is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from a solid away record this campaign, belief is growing that Tottenham are becoming a much more united and tough side than the squad which dropped to their worst Premier League finish under Ange Postecoglou last season. There is a calm assuredness to Frank, who praised highly of his squad's attitude and unity in seeing off a feisty Leeds side at a atmospheric their home ground. The Tottenham boss had not beaten his Leeds counterpart and close friend Daniel Farke in their head-to-head record, but goals from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, either side of Noah Okafor's leveler before the break, meant the tables were turned. The season is young, but things are looking up for Spurs.

6. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

Enzo Maresca sought a reinforcement at the back after losing the young defender to a serious knee issue in pre-season. His bosses disagreed. Chelsea’s resources are deep and a desperate purchase was not required. Later more injuries, leaving Maresca short-handed. Some were worried about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back featuring against the Reds on the weekend, but their fears were misplaced. The 19-year-old is very young but few doubt his potential. The teenager dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp