Premier League: Ten Important Highlights from the Weekend Fixtures
One. Elliot Anderson Receives Sympathy from The Two Managers
Elliot Anderson featured heavily in Nottingham Forest's two-nil loss at Newcastle, reminding the Newcastle manager what he lost when top-flight financial regulations required the player's transfer to avoid a points deduction. It happened in the summer transfer window of 2024, and the England international has rarely looked back moving to Nottingham Forest. For much of the first half he surpassed 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 opportunity, his resulting recovery tackle was ill-judged and sent the Newcastle player tumbling in the box. The Brazilian had previously scored Newcastle into the lead from long range, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade netted his fourth of the season in five starting appearances. Notably, at the conclusion, both the Forest boss and Howe made clear attempts to console the young midfielder. Should Forest's manager is to succeed and progress at Forest, he will inevitably be reliant upon the midfielder's ability. The Newcastle coach, meanwhile, would love to re-sign the Newcastle academy graduate. Should Nottingham Forest, with or without Postecoglou, struggle, Newcastle may yet be in with a chance.
Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Dampens Manchester City Victory
The midfielder's expression said it all. When he went down to the Griffin Park surface gazing at the ground, there was a almost imperceptible head shake – though his body language spoke volumes. A fresh injury for the Spanish midfielder? The signs were not good. Pep Guardiola has made efforts to manage Rodri's game time this season since his comeback from a significant knee problem; he now has to rely more on alternatives. The Spanish midfielder is the first-choice alternative in the lineup, however has only been selected to start just one Premier League fixture since the start of the season. The former Porto man was a January purchase and will be called upon more frequently after his 22nd-minute introduction for City in west London. Regarding if he can bring a measure of control like Rodri at his best, the jury is still out.
Three. Mason Mount Climbs the Pecking Order at United
Setbacks have hindered Mason Mount's time at United. His inclusion in the starting lineup against Sunderland was just his 17th in the Premier League since joining in 2023 from Chelsea. His pedigree has never been in doubt, but establishing himself and sufficient minutes to build momentum has been difficult. On Saturday, his first touch was impeccable and he offered vision and work rate in balance, which could be the reason why Ruben Amorim preferred him to the alternative option. He finished brilliantly, getting the earliest goal for United since his debut as manager 11 months ago. At a big club, his background could prove vital. “I see myself as injecting intensity into the team and setting off the press at times, being a key instigator going forward,” stated. “That’s always something that I focus on, helping the people around me and really raising the tempo. Scoring was a big moment for me.”
Four. Nuno Shows Confidence in Youngster Callum Marshall
The West Ham manager's move to bring on Callum Marshall for his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium against the Gunners, in place of the more experienced the seasoned forward, was an significant vote of confidence in the 20-year-old Northern Irish striker who had a loan spell at Huddersfield Town. Given that Callum Wilson – who was signed for nothing in the off-season – and the German striker have scored only once between them so far in the Premier League, the youngster could receive more chances if the Nuno's comments after the game are a guide. “It’s not easy to select a youngster in over Callum Wilson,” said the manager. We need, as soon as possible, to have complete awareness of our squad options. What I’ve been seeing, [Marshall] has enthusiasm, 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 Frank Steadily Gains his Spurs Results
It's unclear how competitive Spurs can be this season, including the players. What is evident is that they are heading in the right direction under Thomas Frank. Following another victory from four unbeaten away games this campaign, confidence is building that Tottenham are evolving into a increasingly organized and resilient outfit to the one which dropped to their lowest league position under the previous manager last season. Frank exudes calm confidence to Frank, who was very positive of his players' mindset and team spirit in defeating a combative Leeds United side at a atmospheric Elland Road. The Tottenham boss had failed to defeat his opposite number and friend Daniel Farke in their head-to-head record, but scores from Mathys Tel and the Ghanaian winger, either side of the Swiss striker's leveler before the break, meant the outcome was different. There's a long way to go, but prospects are improving for Spurs.
6. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver
Enzo Maresca desired a additional defender after being without Levi Colwill to a knee injury before the start of the season. His bosses had a different view. Chelsea’s resources are extensive and a panic buy was not needed. Then came further fitness issues, leaving Maresca stretched. There was concern about the teenage defender and Benoît Badiashile featuring against the Reds on Saturday, but it was unfounded. The 19-year-old is just a teenager but he is highly rated. The teenager dealt with Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp
