EPL: Ten Major Discussion Points from the Weekend Action
1. Elliot Anderson Gets Sympathy from The Two Managers
Elliot Anderson was prominent during Nottingham Forest's two-nil setback on Tyneside, reminding Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when top-flight financial regulations required the midfielder's sale to avert a points penalty. It happened in the summer transfer window of 2024, and Anderson has excelled ever since his switch to Forest. Throughout the opening period he eclipsed even the Italian midfielder and, across the match, was clearly Ange Postecoglou's top performer. Yet the player is only human, and when his misplaced ball gave the Brazilian midfielder an chance, his subsequent challenge was mistimed and resulted in Guimarães falling in the area. Guimarães had already fired the Magpies ahead from long range, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade converted his fourth of the season in five starting appearances. Significantly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and the Newcastle manager made clear attempts to encourage Anderson. If Postecoglou is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on his star player. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would love to re-sign the former youth product. Should Forest, regardless of Postecoglou, continue to founder, Newcastle could have an opportunity.
2. Rodri Setback Overshadows Manchester City Victory
Rodri's face told its own story. When he went down to the Brentford turf looking down, there was a slight head shake – though his posture was very telling. A new problem for the key player? That appeared to be the case. The City manager has tried his best to carefully use the player's minutes this season since his comeback from a significant knee problem; it's time for him to trust replacements. The Spanish midfielder is the most obvious replacement in City's squad, yet has only been selected to begin just one Premier League fixture since 23 August. González was a January purchase and will be needed to step up more often after his introduction as a substitute for City in west London. On whether he can provide stability similar to the influential midfielder, the jury is still out.
3. Mason Mount Advances the Hierarchy at Manchester United
Setbacks 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 the summer of 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has never been in doubt, but finding a position and enough game time to play himself into form has been difficult. During the fixture, his first touch was excellent and he provided vision and tactical awareness in equal measure, which could be the reason why the United manager chose him ahead of the alternative option. He finished superbly, scoring the quickest opener for the Red Devils since his initial match almost a year ago. Under pressure, his background could be crucial. I consider myself injecting intensity into the team and leading the pressing at times, being a driving force going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I aim to do, supporting my teammates and really adding intensity. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”
4. Nuno Espírito Santo Shows Faith in Youngster Callum Marshall
The West Ham manager's move to bring on Callum Marshall for his bow at the Emirates against the Gunners, in place of the established Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the young Northern Ireland attacker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Considering Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have managed only a single goal together so far in the top flight, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's comments after the game are any indication. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in ahead of an experienced player,” said the manager. We need, as quickly, to have total knowledge of our squad options. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a sharp in the box, movement, he can recognize the gaps in the final third. I think we have a useful option.”
Five. Composed Thomas Frank Slowly Secures his Spurs Progress
It's unclear how good Spurs can be this campaign, especially within the squad. What is evident is that they are making progress under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from four matches on the road without defeat this campaign, optimism is rising that Spurs are evolving into a far more cohesive and durable team than the squad which dropped to their worst Premier League finish under Ange Postecoglou last term. There is a calm assuredness to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his squad's attitude and unity in defeating a pugnacious Leeds side at a noisy, windy their home ground. The Tottenham boss had been unable to overcome his opposite number and friend the Leeds manager in their past five encounters, but goals from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, either side of the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, resulted in the outcome was different. There's a long way to go, but prospects are improving for Tottenham.
Six. Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile Deliver
The Chelsea manager wanted a additional defender after losing the young defender to a serious knee issue ahead of the campaign. Chelsea's decision-makers had a different view. The playing staff are strong and a desperate purchase was not required. Subsequently additional setbacks, leaving Maresca short-handed. Some were worried about Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile lining up against the Reds on the weekend, but their fears were misplaced. The 19-year-old is only 19 but few doubt his potential. He handled Palace's {Jean-Philipp
