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One. Elliot Anderson Earns Support from Both Bosses

The Nottingham Forest midfielder featured heavily in Nottingham Forest's two-nil defeat away to Newcastle, showing Eddie Howe what he lost when top-flight financial regulations required the player's sale to prevent a points penalty. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has excelled ever since moving to Nottingham Forest. During the first half he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, overall, was easily the Forest manager's best player. However Anderson is human, and when his misplaced ball presented Bruno Guimarães an opportunity, his subsequent challenge was poorly timed and caused the Newcastle player falling in the area. The Brazilian had previously shot Newcastle ahead from 25 yards, and from the resulting penalty Nick Woltemade converted his fourth goal in five starting appearances. Significantly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to comfort the young midfielder. In the event that Forest's manager is to establish himself at the club, he will undoubtedly be leaning on Anderson's talent. Howe, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to buy the homegrown talent. Should Forest, whether or not they have Postecoglou, fail to improve, Newcastle may yet be in with a chance.

Two. Rodri Fitness Worry Mars City Win

His look said it all. After collapsing to the Brentford pitch gazing at the ground, there was a slight shake of the head – though his posture spoke volumes. Another setback for the City star? The signs were not good. The City manager has attempted to limit his involvement this season since his tentative return from a long-term layoff; now he must trust replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in the team, however has only been trusted to play from the outset just one Premier League fixture since the start of the season. The former Porto man was a January purchase and will be needed to step up frequently after his early substitution for Manchester City in west London. On whether he can bring a measure of control similar to Rodri at his best, the jury is still out.

Three. Mount Advances the Ranking at Manchester United

Injuries have hampered the midfielder's spell with the club. His inclusion in the starting lineup against Sunderland was just his 17th in the league since signing in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His ability has never been in doubt, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to regain his best has proved problematic. In the latest match, his first touch was impeccable and he brought inventiveness and discipline in similar amounts, which could be the reason why the United manager selected him over the alternative option. He finished superbly, getting the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his initial match 11 months ago. Under pressure, his background could prove vital. I consider myself injecting intensity into the team and setting off the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I focus on, assisting those nearby and really adding intensity. Scoring was hugely important for me.”

Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Trust in Youngster Marshall

The West Ham manager's move to introduce Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, in place of the more experienced Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland attacker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield Town. Since Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once combined so far in the Premier League, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's comments after the game are a guide. It's difficult to put a young lad in ahead of an experienced player,” said the manager. “It’s important for us, as soon as possible, to have a full understanding of who we have in the squad. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a sharp in the box, movement, he can find space in the final third. I think we have a player who can contribute.”

5. Composed Frank Steadily Earns his Tottenham Rewards

There is uncertainty how strong Spurs can be this campaign, including the players. What is clear is that they are making progress under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from a solid away record this campaign, optimism is rising that Tottenham are evolving into a far more cohesive and resilient outfit than the squad which dropped to their poorest season under Ange Postecoglou previously. There is a calm assuredness to Frank, who praised highly of his squad's attitude and collective desire in defeating a combative Leeds side at a noisy, windy their home ground. The Tottenham boss had not beaten his Leeds counterpart and friend the Leeds manager in five previous meetings, but strikes by the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, either side of the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, ensured the tables were turned. There's a long way to go, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Deliver

Enzo Maresca sought a new centre-back after the injury to Levi Colwill to a knee injury before the start of the season. His bosses had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are extensive and a desperate purchase was unnecessary. Then came additional setbacks, leaving the coach short-handed. There was concern about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on Saturday, but their fears were misplaced. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but many believe in his ability. He dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp