Premier League: Ten Important Discussion Points from the Weekend Action
One. Anderson Gets Support from The Two Bosses
The Nottingham Forest midfielder was prominent during Nottingham Forest's two-nil defeat away to Newcastle, demonstrating Eddie Howe the player he had to sell when Premier League financial regulations required the player's transfer to prevent a sanction. That was during the 2024 summer window, and the England international has thrived since his switch to Forest. Throughout the first half he outshone even the Italian midfielder and, overall, was easily the Forest manager's standout individual. But the player is only human, and when his wayward pass presented Bruno Guimarães an chance, his following attempted tackle was mistimed and caused the Newcastle player crashing in the penalty area. The Brazilian had previously shot Newcastle ahead from 25 yards, and from the penalty spot the striker scored his fourth goal in five starts. Tellingly, at the conclusion, both Postecoglou and Howe made clear attempts to console the young midfielder. Should Postecoglou is to succeed and progress at the club, he will undoubtedly be heavily dependent on Anderson's talent. The Newcastle coach, on the other hand, would love to bring back the Newcastle academy graduate. Should Nottingham Forest, whether or not they have their manager, fail to improve, the Tyneside club may yet be in with a chance.
Two. The Spanish Midfielder Setback Mars City Victory
The midfielder's expression was very revealing. As he sank to the Brentford pitch staring at his feet, there was a almost imperceptible disappointed gesture – though his posture spoke volumes. Another setback for the City star? That appeared to be the case. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to manage Rodri's game time this campaign since his return from injury from a serious knee injury; it's time for him to put more faith in alternatives. Nico González is the natural stand-in in City's squad, yet has only been trusted to start just one Premier League fixture since 23 August. González was a £49.8m signing and will be called upon more frequently after his 22nd-minute introduction for City in west London. On whether he can offer composure akin to the influential midfielder, opinions are divided.
3. Mount Advances the Hierarchy at United
Setbacks have hampered the midfielder's United career. His start against the Black Cats was merely his 17th in the league since joining in 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has always been recognized, but securing a regular role and regular playing time to regain his best has proved problematic. In the latest match, his control was excellent and he provided vision and work rate in balance, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim selected him over Matheus Cunha. He finished superbly, scoring the quickest opener for Amorim's team since his first game in charge 11 months ago. At a big club, Mount's experience could prove vital. “I see myself as bringing a lot of energy into the team and initiating the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” Mount said. “That’s always something that I focus on, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Scoring was a big moment for me.”
Four. Nuno Shows Faith in Young Player Marshall
The West Ham manager's move to bring on the young striker for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the more experienced Callum Wilson, was an significant vote of confidence in the 20-year-old Northern Ireland attacker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield Town. Since Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and Niclas Füllkrug have contributed just one goal between them so far in the Premier League, Marshall could get plenty of more opportunities if the Nuno's post-game remarks are a guide. “It’s not easy to give a debut in ahead of Callum Wilson,” said the manager. We need, as soon as possible, to have total knowledge of who we have in the squad. From what I've observed, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a sharp in the box, pace, he can find space in the space. I think we have something we can use.”
5. Assured Frank Gradually Secures his Tottenham Results
Nobody seems quite sure how competitive Spurs can be this season, especially within the squad. What is evident is that they are improving under the Danish manager. Following another victory from a solid away record this campaign, confidence is building that Spurs are evolving into a increasingly organized and resilient outfit than the squad which fell to their lowest league position under the previous manager last season. He brings stability to the manager, who was very positive of his players' mindset and unity in seeing off a feisty Leeds United side at a noisy, windy Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had been unable to overcome his opposite number and friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but goals from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, before and after the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, ensured the result went his way. The season is young, but prospects are improving for Spurs.
6. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver
Enzo Maresca wanted a reinforcement at the back after the injury to 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 panic buy was not required. Then came additional setbacks, leaving Maresca short-handed. There were nerves about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back featuring against Liverpool on the weekend, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is very young but many believe in his ability. The teenager contained Palace's {Jean-Philipp
