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1. Elliot Anderson Earns Encouragement from The Two Coaches

Elliot Anderson spent much of Forest's two-nil loss at Newcastle, showing the Newcastle manager what he lost when Premier League profit and sustainability rules compelled the player's transfer to prevent a points penalty. That was during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has excelled ever since joining Forest. Throughout the first half he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was clearly the Forest manager's standout individual. Yet the player is only human, and when his loose pass offered the Brazilian midfielder an chance, his resulting attempted tackle was poorly timed and resulted in the Newcastle player falling in the penalty area. The Brazilian had already shot Newcastle ahead from 25 yards, and from the resulting penalty Nick Woltemade converted his fourth goal in five starts. Tellingly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and Howe made obvious gestures to console Anderson. If Postecoglou is to succeed and progress at the club, he will inevitably be leaning on Anderson's talent. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to buy the homegrown talent. If Forest, regardless of their manager, continue to founder, Newcastle may yet be in with a chance.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Fitness Worry Overshadows Manchester City Win

The midfielder's expression was very revealing. As he sank to the Brentford turf looking down, there was a almost imperceptible shake of the head – though his body language spoke volumes. Another setback for the key player? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has tried his best to carefully use the player's minutes this season since his tentative return from a long-term layoff; now he must rely more on other options. Nico González is the most obvious replacement in the lineup, yet has only been trusted to start one league game since the start of the season. The £49.8m signing was a January purchase and will be needed to step up frequently after his 22nd-minute introduction for Manchester City in the capital. Regarding if he can bring a measure of control like the influential midfielder, it remains to be seen.

3. Mason Mount Rises the Pecking Order at Manchester United

Fitness issues have hindered the midfielder's time at United. Being named in the first XI against Sunderland was only his 17th in the league since signing in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His ability has always been recognized, but finding a position and regular playing time to play himself into form has been a challenge. During the fixture, his control was impeccable and he provided creativity and tactical awareness in balance, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim chose him ahead of Matheus Cunha. He scored brilliantly, scoring the fastest early goal for United since his debut as manager 11 months ago. At a big club, his background could prove vital. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Scoring was a big moment for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Trust in Young Player Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to send on Callum Marshall for his bow at the Emirates against Arsenal, in place of the more experienced Callum Wilson, was an major statement in the young Northern Ireland forward who was on loan last season at Huddersfield Town. Since Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have contributed just one goal between them so far in the Premier League, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's post-game remarks are anything to go by. It's a tough decision to give a debut in front of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. Our priority is, as soon as possible, to have a full understanding of who we have in the squad. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a good finisher, pace, he can recognize the gaps in the attack. In my view we have something we can use.”

Five. Calm Frank Steadily Earns his Spurs Results

Nobody seems quite sure how good Spurs can be this campaign, especially within the squad. What is clear is that they are heading in the right direction under the Danish manager. With a third success from four matches on the road without defeat this season, belief is growing that Spurs are becoming a far more cohesive and durable team compared to the team which dropped to their worst Premier League finish under the previous manager previously. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his players' mindset and collective desire in defeating a pugnacious Leeds side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. Frank had failed to defeat his rival manager and close friend the Leeds manager in five previous meetings, but scores from Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, before and after Noah Okafor's tying goal, meant the tables were turned. It is early days, but prospects are improving for Spurs.

6. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Step Up

Enzo Maresca sought a reinforcement at the back after being without Levi Colwill to a serious knee issue ahead of the campaign. The club hierarchy thought otherwise. The squad depth are deep and a rushed signing was not needed. Then came more injuries, leaving the coach short-handed. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile featuring against the Reds on the weekend, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is very young but few doubt his potential. He dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp