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1. Elliot Anderson Receives Encouragement from The Two Coaches

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Forest's two-nil setback at Newcastle, showing Eddie Howe what he lost when top-flight profit and sustainability rules required the midfielder's sale to prevent a points penalty. This occurred back in the summer of 2024, and Anderson has thrived since joining Forest. For much of the first half he surpassed even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was clearly Ange Postecoglou's standout individual. However Anderson is human, and when his loose pass gave Bruno Guimarães an opening, his following challenge was ill-judged and caused the Newcastle player crashing in the penalty area. The Brazilian had previously shot the Magpies ahead from long range, and from the spot the striker scored his fourth strike in his last five games. Tellingly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to encourage the young midfielder. Should Postecoglou is to survive and then thrive at the club, he will inevitably be leaning on his star player. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would be keen to buy the homegrown talent. Should Nottingham Forest, whether or not they have their manager, struggle, the Tyneside club could have an opportunity.

2. The Spanish Midfielder Fitness Worry Dampens Manchester City Success

Rodri's face said it all. After collapsing to the Griffin Park surface looking down, there was a almost imperceptible shake of the head – though his demeanor said a lot. A new problem for the City star? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has tried his best to manage the player's minutes this campaign since his tentative return from a significant knee problem; now he must rely more on replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the most obvious replacement in the team, but has only started to play from the outset a single league match since late August. González was a January purchase and will be required to contribute frequently after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in the capital. On whether he can offer composure akin to the influential midfielder, opinions are divided.

3. Mount Climbs the Hierarchy at Manchester United

Setbacks have affected the midfielder's time at United. His inclusion in the starting lineup against Sunderland was only his 17th in the Premier League since arriving in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has always been recognized, but establishing himself and enough game time to regain his best has proved problematic. On Saturday, his first touch was impeccable and he brought inventiveness and discipline in similar amounts, which perhaps influenced why the United manager preferred him to the alternative option. He took his goal superbly, scoring the quickest opener for United since his first game in charge almost a year ago. In an intense environment, his know-how could be crucial. “I see myself as bringing a lot of energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a driving force going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, assisting those nearby and really bringing the energy. Scoring was hugely important for me.”

4. Nuno Shows Confidence in Youngster Callum Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to bring on the young striker for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, rather than the established Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield. Given that Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have contributed just one goal combined so far in the top flight, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's post-match assessment are anything to go by. It's a tough decision to give a debut in front of an experienced player,” said Nuno. We need, as rapidly, to have total knowledge of who we have in the squad. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a sharp in the box, movement, he can find space in the final third. I believe we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Calm Frank Gradually Gains his Spurs Results

There is uncertainty how strong Spurs can be this season, especially within the squad. What is undeniable 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 Spurs are developing into a increasingly organized and durable team compared to the team which dropped to their poorest season under Ange Postecoglou previously. Frank exudes calm confidence to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his squad's attitude and collective desire in seeing off a combative Leeds side at a atmospheric Elland Road. Frank had failed to defeat his opposite number and close friend Daniel Farke in their head-to-head record, but scores from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, either side of the Swiss striker's tying goal, ensured the result went his way. There's a long way to go, but things are looking up for Spurs.

6. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Deliver

Enzo Maresca wanted a reinforcement at the back after being without Levi Colwill to a long-term problem ahead of the campaign. The club hierarchy disagreed. Chelsea’s resources are extensive and a panic buy was not needed. Then came more injuries, leaving the coach stretched. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile featuring against the Reds on Saturday, but there need not have been. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but he is highly rated. The teenager contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp