Premier League: Ten Major Talking Points from the Latest Round of Matches

One. Anderson Gets Sympathy from Each Coaches

Elliot Anderson was prominent during Forest's two-nil loss on Tyneside, reminding the Newcastle manager the talent he parted with when Premier League spending rules required the player's sale to avert a sanction. That was back in the summer of 2024, and the England international has thrived since his switch to Forest. During the first half he surpassed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was comfortably the Forest manager's standout individual. However the player is only human, and when his misplaced ball gave Bruno Guimarães an opening, his following attempted tackle was poorly timed and caused the Newcastle player crashing in the area. The Brazilian had already shot the Magpies into the lead from long range, and from the resulting penalty Nick Woltemade scored his fourth of the season in five starts. Notably, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to console Anderson. If Postecoglou is to establish himself at Forest, he will inevitably be leaning on the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would love to buy the Newcastle academy graduate. In case Nottingham Forest, regardless of their manager, struggle, the Tyneside club might get another opportunity.

Two. Rodri Fitness Worry Overshadows City Success

The midfielder's expression said it all. When he went down to the Brentford turf staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible disappointed gesture – though his body language spoke volumes. A new problem for the key player? It looked more than likely. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to manage the player's minutes this season since his return from injury from a significant knee problem; now he must put more faith in replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the most obvious replacement in City's squad, yet has only started to begin one league game since late 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 City in the capital. On whether he can provide stability like peak Rodri, the jury is still out.

Three. Mason Mount Climbs the Ranking at United

Setbacks have hampered Mason Mount's spell with the club. Being named in the first XI against Sunderland was merely his 17th in the league since joining in the summer of 2023 from Chelsea. His quality has never been questioned, but establishing himself and regular playing time to regain his best has been a challenge. During the fixture, his touch was superb and he brought creativity and discipline in balance, which perhaps influenced why Ruben Amorim preferred him to the alternative option. He finished superbly, netting the fastest early goal for United since his initial match 11 months ago. Under pressure, his know-how could prove vital. “I see myself as providing 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, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”

4. Nuno Demonstrates Confidence in Young Player Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to send on the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the young Northern Ireland forward who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield Town. Considering Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have contributed just one goal together so far in the top flight, Marshall could receive more chances if the Nuno's comments after the game are any indication. It's difficult to put a young lad in front of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. “It’s important for us, as quickly, to have complete awareness of our squad options. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a clinical in front of goal, good mobility, he can identify openings in the space. I think we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Assured Thomas Frank Slowly Secures his Spurs Rewards

It's unclear how strong Spurs can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is undeniable is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from a solid away record this season, optimism is rising that Tottenham are evolving into a far more cohesive and resilient outfit to the one which slumped to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou last term. There is a calm assuredness to Frank, who praised highly of his squad's attitude and unity in seeing off a pugnacious Leeds side at a atmospheric Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had failed to defeat his rival manager and good friend Daniel Farke in five previous meetings, but goals from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, either side of the Swiss striker's tying goal, ensured the tables were turned. There's a long way to go, but the future appears bright for Spurs.

6. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Deliver

The Chelsea manager sought a reinforcement at the back after being without Levi Colwill to a long-term problem in pre-season. His bosses disagreed. The squad depth are extensive and a rushed signing was not needed. Later more injuries, leaving the coach with limited options. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile starting against Liverpool on Saturday, but their fears were misplaced. Acheampong is very young but he is highly rated. He contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp