EPL: 10 Important Discussion Points from the Weekend's Fixtures
1. Anderson Receives Sympathy from The Two Coaches
Elliot Anderson spent much of Nottingham Forest's two-nil setback at Newcastle, reminding Eddie Howe what he lost when Premier League financial regulations required the player's sale to prevent a points penalty. This occurred back in the summer of 2024, and Anderson has excelled ever since joining Forest. Throughout the first half he eclipsed even Sandro Tonali and, in total, was easily the Forest manager's top performer. Yet mistakes can happen, and when his wayward pass gave Bruno Guimarães an opportunity, his following attempted tackle was ill-judged and caused Guimarães falling in the penalty area. The Brazilian had earlier shot the Magpies ahead from long range, and from the penalty spot Nick Woltemade scored his fourth strike in his last five games. Tellingly, at the final whistle, both the Forest boss and Howe made clear attempts to comfort the young midfielder. In the event that Postecoglou is to establish himself at the club, he will inevitably be leaning on his star player. The Newcastle coach, in contrast, would be keen to buy the Newcastle academy graduate. Should Forest, whether or not they have their manager, struggle, Newcastle might get another opportunity.
Two. The Spanish Midfielder Injury Concern Mars City Success
His look said it all. As he sank to the Griffin Park surface gazing at the ground, there was a barely discernible head shake – though his body language was very telling. Another setback for the City star? It looked more than likely. The City manager has made efforts to manage the player's minutes this season since his return from injury from a serious knee injury; now he must rely more on alternatives. The Spanish midfielder is the most obvious replacement in the team, yet has only been selected to play from the outset a single league match since the start of the season. The £49.8m signing was a January purchase and will be required to contribute frequently after his 22nd-minute introduction for Manchester City in the capital. As to whether he can bring a measure of control akin to Rodri at his best, opinions are divided.
Three. Mount Advances the Ranking at Manchester United
Fitness issues have affected Mason Mount's spell with the club. Being named in the first XI against Sunderland was only his 17th in the league since signing in 2023 from his former club. His pedigree has never been in doubt, but finding a position and sufficient minutes to regain his best has proved problematic. On Saturday, his first touch was excellent and he provided vision and work rate in balance, which might explain why the United manager preferred him to Matheus Cunha. He took his goal expertly, netting the fastest early goal for the Red Devils since his debut as manager almost a year ago. In an intense environment, Mount's experience could be important. My role is injecting intensity into the team and setting off the press at times, being a driving force going forward,” commented. “That’s always something that I concentrate on, assisting those nearby and really raising the tempo. Scoring was obviously massive for me.”
4. Nuno Demonstrates Trust in Youngster Callum Marshall
Nuno Espírito Santo's choice to introduce the young striker for his bow at the Emirates against Arsenal, in place of the veteran the seasoned forward, was an major statement in the young Northern Irish striker who spent last year on loan at Huddersfield. Considering Callum Wilson – who arrived as a free agent in the off-season – and the German striker have scored only once combined so far in the top flight, the youngster could get plenty of more opportunities if the new manager's comments after the game are anything to go by. It's a tough decision to give a debut in front of an experienced player,” said Nuno. We need, as quickly, to have total knowledge of our squad options. Based on training, [Marshall] has energy, he’s a sharp in the box, movement, he can find space in the attack. I believe we have a player who can contribute.”
5. Assured Thomas Frank Steadily Secures his Spurs Results
Nobody seems quite sure how strong Spurs can be this campaign, including the players. What is evident is that they are heading in the right direction under the Danish manager. After a third win from four matches on the road without defeat this season, confidence is building that Tottenham are developing into a increasingly organized and resilient outfit to the one which slumped to their lowest league position under Ange Postecoglou last term. He brings stability to the manager, who spoke glowingly of his team’s mentality and unity in seeing off a pugnacious Leeds United side at a noisy, windy their home ground. The Tottenham boss had been unable to overcome his Leeds counterpart and friend Daniel Farke in their past five encounters, but scores from the French forward and Mohammed Kudus, around the Swiss striker's tying goal, meant the result went his way. There's a long way to go, but prospects are improving for Spurs.
Six. Josh Acheampong and Badiashile Deliver
Enzo Maresca wanted a additional defender after the injury to Levi Colwill to a long-term problem before the start of the season. The club hierarchy had a different view. The squad depth are strong and a desperate purchase was unnecessary. Later more injuries, leaving Maresca with limited options. Some were worried about Josh Acheampong and the French centre-back featuring against Liverpool on Saturday, but it was unfounded. Acheampong is only 19 but many believe in his ability. He contained Crystal Palace’s {Jean-Philipp
