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One. Elliot Anderson Gets Encouragement from Each Bosses

The Nottingham Forest midfielder spent much of Nottingham Forest's 2-0 setback away to Newcastle, reminding Eddie Howe the talent he parted with when top-flight financial regulations forced the midfielder's departure to avoid a points penalty. It happened in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has excelled ever since his switch to Forest. For much of the first half he surpassed even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was easily the Forest manager's standout individual. Yet Anderson is human, and when his loose pass offered Bruno Guimarães an opening, his resulting attempted tackle was poorly timed and resulted in the Newcastle player falling in the penalty area. Guimarães had earlier fired the Magpies ahead from long range, and from the resulting penalty the striker converted his fourth goal in five starts. Tellingly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to console Anderson. In the event that Postecoglou is to survive and then thrive at the club, he will inevitably be heavily dependent on the midfielder's ability. Howe, in contrast, would be keen to buy the former youth product. In case Forest, regardless of their manager, struggle, the Tyneside club might get another opportunity.

Two. Rodri Setback Dampens Manchester City Win

The midfielder's expression told its own story. After collapsing to the Griffin Park surface staring at his feet, there was a slight shake of the head – though his posture said a lot. A fresh injury for the key player? It looked more than likely. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to limit Rodri's game time this season since his tentative return from a long-term layoff; it's time for him to trust replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, yet has only started to begin one league game since late August. The former Porto man was a January purchase and will be called upon more frequently after his early substitution for Manchester City in west London. As to whether he can provide stability akin to peak Rodri, it remains to be seen.

Three. Mason Mount Rises the Hierarchy at United

Fitness issues have hindered Mason Mount's United career. His inclusion in the starting lineup 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 establishing himself and sufficient minutes to regain his best has been difficult. In the latest match, his control was impeccable and he brought creativity and work rate in equal measure, which perhaps influenced why the United manager chose him ahead of Matheus Cunha. He took his goal expertly, scoring the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his debut as manager last season. Under pressure, his background could be crucial. My role is bringing a lot of energy into the team and initiating the press at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really adding intensity. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”

4. Nuno Demonstrates Faith in Youngster Callum Marshall

The West Ham manager's choice to send on Callum Marshall for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, rather than the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Ireland striker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield Town. Considering Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once together so far in the Premier League, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's post-game remarks are a guide. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in over an experienced player,” said the manager. Our priority is, as soon as possible, to have a full understanding of our squad options. Based on training, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a good finisher, good mobility, he can find space in the space. In my view we have a useful option.”

5. Composed Frank Slowly Secures his Spurs Progress

It's unclear how competitive Spurs can be this season, least of all themselves. What is evident is that they are heading in the right direction under the Danish manager. With a third success from a solid away record this season, belief is growing that Tottenham are evolving into a far more cohesive and resilient outfit than the squad which dropped to their poorest season under the previous manager last season. There is a calm assuredness to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his squad's attitude and unity in seeing off a combative Leeds side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. Frank had failed to defeat his rival manager and friend the Leeds manager in their past five encounters, but strikes by Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, around the Swiss striker's first-half equaliser, ensured the result went his way. There's a long way to go, but things are looking up for Spurs.

6. Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

The Chelsea manager wanted a new centre-back after losing Levi Colwill to a knee injury ahead of the campaign. Chelsea's decision-makers thought otherwise. The squad depth are strong and a rushed signing was not required. Later additional setbacks, leaving the coach stretched. There were nerves about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile lining up against the Reds on the weekend, but there need not have been. Acheampong is very young but many believe in his ability. He dealt with Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp