Premier League: Ten Important Talking Points from the Weekend Action
1. Anderson Receives Sympathy from Both Bosses
The Nottingham Forest midfielder featured heavily in Nottingham Forest's two-nil defeat at Newcastle, demonstrating Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when top-flight profit and sustainability rules required the midfielder's transfer to prevent a sanction. That was back in the summer of 2024, and the England international has thrived since joining Forest. For much of the initial 45 minutes he surpassed even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was clearly Ange Postecoglou's best player. However the player is only human, and when his misplaced ball presented Bruno Guimarães an chance, his resulting recovery tackle was mistimed and caused the Newcastle player tumbling in the penalty area. The Brazilian had earlier shot the Magpies ahead from 25 yards, and from the spot Nick Woltemade converted his fourth of the season in five starting appearances. Notably, at the final whistle, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to comfort Anderson. Should Forest's manager is to survive and then thrive at the club, he will inevitably be heavily dependent on his star player. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would be keen to bring back the Newcastle academy graduate. In case Nottingham Forest, regardless of their manager, fail to improve, Newcastle could have an opportunity.
Two. Rodri Fitness Worry Mars Manchester City Victory
His look was very revealing. After collapsing to the Brentford pitch staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible shake of the head – though his demeanor spoke volumes. Another setback for the key player? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has tried his best to manage his involvement this season since his comeback from a significant knee problem; he now has to trust replacements. Nico González is the natural stand-in in the lineup, yet has only been trusted to play from the outset just one Premier League fixture since late August. González was a big-money acquisition and will be required to contribute more often after his 22nd-minute introduction for City in the capital. As to whether he can provide stability akin to Rodri at his best, opinions are divided.
3. Mount Advances the Ranking at United
Fitness issues have hampered Mason Mount's time at United. Being named in the first XI against the Black Cats was just his 17th in the Premier League since signing in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His quality 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 equal measure, which might explain why the United manager selected him over the alternative option. He scored expertly, getting the earliest goal for the Red Devils since his debut as manager almost a year ago. In an intense environment, Mount's experience could prove vital. My role is providing energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a key instigator going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, helping the people around me and really adding intensity. Scoring was a big moment for me.”
Four. Nuno Espírito Santo Demonstrates Faith in Youngster Marshall
The West Ham manager's choice to send on the young striker for his bow at the Emirates against Arsenal, rather than the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the 20-year-old Northern Irish attacker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield Town. Considering Callum Wilson – who joined on a free transfer in the summer – and Niclas Füllkrug have scored only once combined so far in the Premier League, the youngster could be given further game time if the Nuno's post-game remarks are a guide. It's a tough decision to put a young lad in over an experienced player,” said Nuno. We need, as quickly, to have total knowledge of the players available. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, he’s a clinical in front of goal, movement, he can identify openings in the space. In my view we have something we can use.”
5. Composed Thomas Frank Gradually Secures his Tottenham Progress
There is uncertainty how competitive Tottenham can be this season, especially within the squad. What is evident is that they are making progress under the Danish manager. After a third win from four matches on the road without defeat this season, confidence is building that Spurs are developing into a far more cohesive and durable team compared to the team which slumped to their lowest league position under the previous manager previously. Frank exudes calm confidence to the manager, who was very positive of his team’s mentality and collective desire in defeating a feisty Leeds United side at a raucous, windswept Elland Road. Frank had failed to defeat his rival manager and close friend the Leeds manager in their past five encounters, but strikes by the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, around Noah Okafor's first-half equaliser, ensured the result went his way. It is early days, but the future appears bright for Tottenham.
Six. Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver
The Chelsea manager wanted a new centre-back after losing the young defender to a knee injury ahead of the campaign. The club hierarchy thought otherwise. Chelsea’s resources are strong and a desperate purchase was not required. Subsequently additional setbacks, leaving the coach with limited options. There was concern about the teenage defender and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on Saturday, but it was unfounded. The 19-year-old is only 19 but many believe in his ability. He dealt with Palace's {Jean-Philipp