Premier League: 10 Key Discussion Points from the Latest Round of Fixtures

1. Anderson Gets Sympathy from The Two Bosses

Elliot Anderson spent much of Forest's two-nil setback away to Newcastle, reminding Eddie Howe what he lost when top-flight profit and sustainability rules forced the player's departure to avert a points penalty. That was in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has excelled ever since joining Forest. During the first half he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was easily the Forest manager's top performer. But Anderson is human, and when his wayward pass gave Bruno Guimarães an chance, his following challenge was poorly timed and resulted in the Newcastle player crashing in the area. The Brazilian had previously shot the Magpies into the lead from long range, and from the resulting penalty the striker scored his fourth of the season in his last five games. Significantly, at the conclusion, both Postecoglou and the Newcastle manager made obvious gestures to console Anderson. In the event that Postecoglou is to survive and then thrive at Forest, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on his star player. Howe, meanwhile, would welcome the chance to bring back the former youth product. In case Forest, whether or not they have their manager, fail to improve, the Tyneside club might get another opportunity.

2. The Spanish Midfielder Setback Mars Manchester City Win

The midfielder's expression told its own story. After collapsing to the Brentford turf staring at his feet, there was a barely discernible shake of the head – though his demeanor spoke volumes. Another setback for the City star? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has tried his best to carefully use Rodri's game time this campaign since his return from injury from a significant knee problem; it's time for him to rely more on other options. Nico González is the natural stand-in in the lineup, but has only been trusted to begin just one Premier League fixture since late August. The £49.8m signing was a £49.8m signing and will be called upon more more often after his early substitution for City in west London. On whether he can offer composure like peak Rodri, it remains to be seen.

Three. Mount Rises the Ranking at United

Injuries have affected the midfielder's United career. His inclusion in the starting lineup against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the league since joining in the summer of 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been questioned, but establishing himself and regular playing time to play himself into form has been difficult. In the latest match, his first touch was excellent and he offered creativity and work rate in balance, which perhaps influenced why Ruben Amorim chose him ahead of Matheus Cunha. He finished superbly, netting the earliest goal for Amorim's team since his debut as manager last season. At a big club, his know-how could be important. I consider myself bringing a lot of energy into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a key instigator going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I aim to do, supporting my teammates and really adding intensity. Scoring was a big moment for me.”

4. Nuno Espírito Santo Displays Confidence in Young Player Callum Marshall

The West Ham manager's choice to bring on Callum Marshall for his debut at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the established the seasoned forward, was an enormous show of faith in the young Northern Ireland attacker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield. Considering Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the summer – and the German striker have scored only once between them so far in the top flight, Marshall could receive more chances if the new manager's post-game remarks are anything to go by. It's a tough decision to select a youngster in front of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. We need, as rapidly, to have complete awareness of our squad options. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has work rate, he’s a good finisher, movement, he can recognize the gaps in the space. In my view we have something we can use.”

Five. Composed Thomas Frank Steadily Earns his Spurs Results

It's unclear how good Tottenham can be this campaign, least of all themselves. What is evident 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 Tottenham are becoming a far more cohesive and tough side to the one which dropped to their worst Premier League finish under the previous manager previously. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and unity in defeating a pugnacious Leeds United side at a atmospheric their home ground. The Tottenham boss had not beaten his Leeds counterpart and friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but strikes by Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, around the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, ensured 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

The Chelsea manager sought a reinforcement at the back after the injury to Levi Colwill to a knee injury before the start of the season. The club hierarchy disagreed. The squad depth are extensive and a desperate purchase was unnecessary. Later more injuries, leaving Maresca stretched. There was concern about the teenage defender and the French centre-back starting against the Reds on the weekend, but their fears were misplaced. The 19-year-old is only 19 but few doubt his potential. He contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp

Harry Conley
Harry Conley

Digital strategist and tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in content creation and trend analysis.