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One. Elliot Anderson Gets Encouragement from The Two Managers

The Nottingham Forest midfielder was prominent during Nottingham Forest's 2-0 loss on Tyneside, showing Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when top-flight profit and sustainability rules required the player's sale to prevent a points deduction. That was during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has rarely looked back his switch to Forest. During the opening period he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was comfortably Ange Postecoglou's best player. However Anderson is human, and when his loose pass presented Bruno Guimarães an opportunity, his subsequent attempted tackle was mistimed and sent the Newcastle player falling in the area. Guimarães had already fired the Magpies into the lead from long range, and from the spot the striker converted his fourth goal in five starts. Significantly, at the conclusion, both the Forest boss and Howe made obvious gestures to encourage Anderson. Should Postecoglou is to establish himself at the club, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on his star player. Howe, in contrast, would be keen to bring back the homegrown talent. If Forest, whether or not they have their manager, continue to founder, Newcastle could have an opportunity.

Two. Rodri Injury Concern Mars Manchester City Win

His look was very revealing. After collapsing to the Brentford pitch gazing at the ground, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his demeanor said a lot. Another setback for the Spanish midfielder? The signs were not good. The City manager has made efforts to manage his involvement this season since his comeback from a significant knee problem; he now has to rely more on other options. The Spanish midfielder is the natural stand-in in the team, but has only been trusted to play from the outset a single league match since late August. The former Porto man was a big-money acquisition and will be required to contribute frequently after his 22nd-minute introduction for City in the capital. Regarding if he can provide stability similar to peak Rodri, opinions are divided.

Three. Mount Advances the Ranking at Manchester United

Injuries have hindered Mason Mount's spell with the club. His start against Sunderland was merely his 17th in the Premier League since arriving in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has always been recognized, but establishing himself and enough game time to play himself into form has been a challenge. On Saturday, his control was excellent and he offered creativity and tactical awareness in equal measure, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim preferred him to the alternative option. He finished superbly, getting the earliest goal for the Red Devils since his first game in charge last season. Under pressure, his know-how could be important. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really adding intensity. Finding the net was obviously massive for me.”

Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Faith in Youngster Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to introduce the young striker for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, in place of the established Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Irish forward who was on loan last season at Huddersfield. Considering Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have contributed just one goal together so far in the Premier League, Marshall could be given further game time if the new manager's comments after the game are a guide. It's a tough decision to give a debut in over an experienced player,” said Nuno. Our priority is, as quickly, to have total knowledge of the players available. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a clinical in front of goal, pace, he can find space in the final third. I believe we have something we can use.”

Five. Calm Thomas Frank Gradually Secures his Spurs Progress

There is uncertainty how strong Tottenham can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is evident is that they are heading in the right direction under the Danish manager. After a third win from four matches on the road without defeat this season, confidence is building that Spurs are developing into a much more united 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 Frank, who praised highly of his squad's attitude and collective desire in defeating a feisty Leeds side at a noisy, windy Elland Road. Frank had not beaten his opposite number and good friend the Leeds manager in five previous meetings, but strikes by Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, either side of Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, meant the tables were turned. There's a long way to go, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

The Chelsea manager wanted a new centre-back after being without Levi Colwill to a long-term problem ahead of the campaign. His bosses disagreed. The playing staff are deep and a panic buy was unnecessary. Later more injuries, leaving the coach stretched. There were nerves about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile lining up against the Reds on the weekend, but it was unfounded. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but many believe in his ability. He contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp