English Premier League: 10 Major Discussion Points from the Weekend's Action

1. Elliot Anderson Receives Support from Each Coaches

The Nottingham Forest midfielder featured heavily in Nottingham Forest's two-nil setback at Newcastle, demonstrating Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when top-flight financial regulations required the player's sale to avert a sanction. It happened back in the summer of 2024, and the England international has excelled ever since joining Forest. Throughout the initial 45 minutes he outshone even the Italian midfielder and, overall, was comfortably the Forest manager's best player. But Anderson is human, and when his wayward pass gave the Brazilian midfielder an opportunity, his subsequent challenge was ill-judged and caused the Newcastle player tumbling in the box. Guimarães had earlier shot Newcastle into the lead from outside the box, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade converted his fourth of the season in five starts. Significantly, at the end of the match, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made concerted efforts to encourage Anderson. Should Postecoglou is to survive and then thrive at Forest, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on his star player. The Newcastle coach, on the other hand, would be keen to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. Should Nottingham Forest, with or without Postecoglou, continue to founder, the Tyneside club could have an opportunity.

2. Rodri Injury Concern Overshadows Manchester City Success

Rodri's face said it all. As he sank to the Brentford pitch gazing at the ground, there was a slight disappointed gesture – though his demeanor was very telling. Another setback for the key player? The signs were not good. The City manager has tried his best to limit Rodri's game time this campaign since his tentative return from a long-term layoff; he now has to rely more on other options. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in City's squad, 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 £49.8m signing and will be needed to step up regularly after his introduction as a substitute for Manchester City in the capital. On whether he can offer composure like Rodri at his best, opinions are divided.

Three. Mason Mount Rises the Hierarchy at Manchester United

Setbacks have hindered the midfielder's time at United. His start against Sunderland was merely his 17th in the league since signing in 2023 from his former club. His quality has always been recognized, but finding a position and regular playing time to regain his best has been a challenge. In the latest match, his touch was impeccable and he offered inventiveness and discipline in similar amounts, which could be the reason why the United manager selected him over the alternative option. He took his goal brilliantly, getting the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his initial match 11 months ago. At a big club, his know-how could prove vital. I consider myself injecting intensity into the team and setting off the press at times, being a bit of a catalyst going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I aim to do, assisting those nearby and really adding intensity. Finding the net was a big moment for me.”

Four. Nuno Displays Confidence in Youngster Marshall

The West Ham manager's decision to send on Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, rather than the established Callum Wilson, was an enormous show of faith in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland striker who was on loan last season at Huddersfield. Considering Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and the German striker have managed only a single goal combined so far in the Premier League, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's post-game remarks are any indication. It's difficult to select a youngster in front of an experienced player,” said Nuno. Our priority is, as quickly, to have a full understanding of who we have in the squad. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a clinical in front of goal, pace, he can identify openings in the attack. I think we have something we can use.”

Five. Composed Thomas Frank Slowly Earns his Tottenham Results

It's unclear how competitive Spurs can be this season, especially within the squad. What is undeniable is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. With a third success from a solid away record this season, confidence is building that Spurs are becoming a far more cohesive and durable team compared to the team which dropped to their worst Premier League finish under Ange Postecoglou last term. He brings stability to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his squad's attitude and collective desire in seeing off a pugnacious Leeds United side at a atmospheric Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had been unable to overcome his rival manager and friend the Leeds manager in their head-to-head record, but scores from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, around Noah Okafor's leveler before the break, meant the tables were turned. 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 desired a additional defender after being without the young defender to a long-term problem before the start of the season. Chelsea's decision-makers thought otherwise. The playing staff are extensive and a panic buy was not required. Subsequently additional setbacks, leaving the coach stretched. There was concern about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile lining up against Liverpool on Saturday, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is only 19 but many believe in his ability. The teenager contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp

Brandon Ochoa
Brandon Ochoa

A tech enthusiast and productivity expert passionate about sharing insights on automation and efficient work practices.