Premier League: Ten Important Talking Points from the Weekend Action

One. Anderson Gets Encouragement from The Two Coaches

The Nottingham Forest midfielder was prominent during Forest's two-nil loss away to Newcastle, showing Eddie Howe what he lost when top-flight financial regulations compelled the player's transfer to prevent a sanction. This occurred during the 2024 summer window, and Anderson has thrived since joining Forest. During the initial 45 minutes he outshone even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was easily Ange Postecoglou's top performer. However Anderson is human, and when his loose pass gave the Brazilian midfielder an opening, his following recovery tackle was poorly timed and caused Guimarães crashing in the area. The Brazilian had previously shot the Magpies into the lead from long range, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade netted his fourth strike in his last five games. Significantly, at the conclusion, both the Forest boss and Howe made concerted efforts to encourage the young midfielder. Should Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will inevitably be leaning on the midfielder's ability. Howe, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to bring back the former youth product. If Nottingham Forest, regardless of Postecoglou, continue to founder, Newcastle may yet be in with a chance.

Two. The Spanish Midfielder Setback Mars City Win

His look told its own story. As he sank to the Brentford pitch looking down, there was a almost imperceptible shake of the head – though his demeanor spoke volumes. Another setback for the City star? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has made efforts to carefully use the player's minutes this campaign since his comeback from a long-term layoff; it's time for him to rely more on replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, but has only started to play from the outset a single league match since the start of the season. The £49.8m signing was a big-money acquisition and will be needed to step up more often after his introduction as a substitute for City in west London. As to whether he can provide stability similar to Rodri at his best, the jury is still out.

3. Mason Mount Climbs the Ranking at Manchester United

Injuries have hampered Mason Mount's spell with the club. His start against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the league since arriving in 2023 from his former club. His ability has never been in doubt, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to play himself into form has proved problematic. During the fixture, his control was impeccable and he provided inventiveness and work rate in balance, which perhaps influenced why Ruben Amorim selected him over the alternative option. He finished expertly, netting the fastest early goal for United since his debut as manager 11 months ago. At a big club, Mount's experience could be important. “I see myself as bringing a lot of energy into the team and initiating the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I focus on, supporting my teammates and really bringing the energy. To get the goal was a big moment for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Confidence in Youngster Marshall

Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to introduce Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, rather than the established the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland attacker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Given that Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the summer – and the German striker have contributed just one goal together so far in the top flight, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's comments after the game are any indication. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in ahead of Callum Wilson,” said Nuno. We need, as quickly, to have total knowledge of our squad options. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a clinical in front of goal, good mobility, he can recognize the gaps in the final third. I believe we have a player who can contribute.”

Five. Composed Frank Gradually Secures his Spurs Results

It's unclear how competitive Tottenham can be this campaign, including the players. What is evident is that they are improving under Thomas Frank. After a third win from four matches on the road without defeat this campaign, confidence is building that Tottenham are developing into a far more cohesive and tough side to the one which fell to their lowest league position under the previous manager previously. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his players' mindset and collective desire in defeating a feisty Leeds United side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had been unable to overcome his opposite number and close friend the Leeds manager in their head-to-head record, but scores from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, before and after Noah Okafor's tying goal, resulted in the outcome was different. There's a long way to go, but things are looking up for Tottenham.

Six. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Rise to the Occasion

Enzo Maresca desired a additional defender after the injury to the young defender to a long-term problem in pre-season. The club hierarchy had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are extensive and a rushed signing was not required. Later more injuries, leaving Maresca short-handed. Some were worried about the teenage defender and the French centre-back featuring 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 handled Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp