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1. Anderson Gets Support from Both Coaches

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Nottingham Forest's two-nil setback at Newcastle, demonstrating Eddie Howe the talent he parted with when Premier League financial regulations required the midfielder's departure to prevent a points penalty. That was during the 2024 summer window, and Anderson has rarely looked back joining Forest. For much of the opening period he surpassed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was clearly the Forest manager's standout individual. Yet Anderson is human, and when his misplaced ball gave the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his subsequent recovery tackle was ill-judged and sent Guimarães tumbling in the area. The Brazilian had already scored Newcastle into the lead from long range, and from the resulting penalty the striker netted his fourth of the season in his last five games. Notably, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and Howe made concerted efforts to console Anderson. If Forest's manager is to establish himself at Forest, he will undoubtedly be leaning on his star player. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would love to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. In case Forest, with or without their manager, struggle, the Tyneside club might get another opportunity.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Fitness Worry Overshadows City Win

His look said it all. When he went down to the Griffin Park surface gazing at the ground, there was a slight disappointed gesture – though his posture spoke volumes. A new problem for the key player? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has tried his best to limit the player's minutes this campaign since his comeback from a serious knee injury; he now has to trust alternatives. Nico González is the first-choice alternative in the team, but has only been trusted to play from the outset just one Premier League fixture since 23 August. The former Porto man was a £49.8m signing and will be needed to step up more often after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in the capital. On whether he can provide stability similar to peak Rodri, it remains to be seen.

Three. Mount Advances the Hierarchy at Manchester United

Injuries have hindered the midfielder's time at United. His inclusion in the starting lineup against Sunderland was merely his 17th in the league since signing in 2023 from Chelsea. His ability has never been in doubt, but securing a regular role and sufficient minutes to build momentum has proved problematic. On Saturday, his touch was impeccable and he provided vision and discipline in balance, which might explain why Ruben Amorim preferred him to the alternative option. He finished superbly, scoring the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his initial match 11 months ago. At a big club, Mount's experience could be crucial. “I see myself as bringing a lot of energy into the team and setting off the press at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”

4. Nuno Displays Trust in Youngster Callum Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's move to bring on Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the established Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Irish forward who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Considering Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and the German striker have contributed just one goal together so far in the Premier League, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's comments after the game are any indication. It's a tough decision to select a youngster in over Callum Wilson,” said the manager. We need, as quickly, to have total knowledge of the players available. Based on training, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a clinical in front of goal, pace, he can find space in the attack. I believe we have something we can use.”

5. Assured Frank Gradually Gains his Tottenham Rewards

It's unclear how good Spurs can be this season, especially within the squad. What is evident is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from four matches on the road without defeat this season, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a increasingly organized and durable team to the one which slumped to their worst Premier League finish under the previous manager last term. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his squad's attitude and unity in beating a feisty Leeds United side at a noisy, windy Elland Road. Frank had been unable to overcome his Leeds counterpart and close friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but goals from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, either side of the Swiss striker's tying goal, meant the result went his way. It is early days, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

6. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

Enzo Maresca wanted a reinforcement at the back after being without Levi Colwill to a knee injury in pre-season. Chelsea's decision-makers disagreed. Chelsea’s resources are deep and a panic buy was unnecessary. Later more injuries, leaving Maresca short-handed. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back featuring against Liverpool on Saturday, but there need not have been. The 19-year-old is very young but many believe in his ability. The teenager dealt with Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp