Interesting that Nicotero is not directing this episode. His usual line up is to direct the premiers and finales (season premiere, MSF, MSP, and season finale). He has Creepshow so maybe that explains his absence as director. Smeh - just an observation. On to the matters at hand.....

Episode 1008 The World Before - synopsis:
A fight causes tensions in Oceanside while the Alexandrians set out on a high-stakes mission.
(hmm is the high stakes mission to find Lydia??)

Episode 1008 The World Before - directed by John Dahl
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Dahl#Director

• First time directing for TWD
• Past credits include Yellowstone; The Affair; Hannibal; Outlander; The Americans; Breaking Bad

Episode 1008 The World Before - Written by Julia Ruchman

• No previous TWD writing credits
• Writer for The Son