Weekend Scout Notes
Another efficient Chelsea display cancels out United’s dismantling of West Ham to take the title to the final day. Good news for us fantasy managers, as we now look to locate those players who have the incentive to turn in the points for us next Sunday. Here’s my notes on the penultimate set of matches.
Team Notes
Chelsea
Grant’s team selection at Newcastle had a few surprises. It saw him restore Essien to the midfield with Lampard rested to the bench, that meant Ferreira returned to right-back. Bridge came in at left-back with Ashley Cole out of the sixteen. Indeed, both Cole’s missed out on starts with Joe Cole relegated to the bench to make way for Anelka who played a wide role in support of Drogba. Kalou also dropped out of the starting lineup and out of the sixteen with Malouda getting a start.
There will be changes again for the final game against Bolton. Anelka is ineligible against his former club because of rulings surrounding the transfer between the two clubs - I’ve written more on that here. Drogba is assured of a start again and I’d imagine that Joe Cole will return in a wide role. Lampard would also seem likely to bow out with the home game so I’d expect Obi to make way with Essien remaining in a midfield role. I’d also expect Ashley Cole to return for Bridge.
Chelsea’s players, along with United’s, appear to offer the biggest potential for points on the final day then. Ballack, Drogba, and possibly Lampard will get worthy attention. However, the back four recorded their 21st clean sheet against Newcastle and must surely be worth a look against Bolton. Perhaps Terry over Drogba would be a wise move for that second transfer?
Man United
United swept passed West Ham with Ronaldo and Tevez predictably profiting. After the Chelsea win at Newcastle, Ferguson will surely go with strength at Wigan next weekend. Nani is suspended for that one so I’d expect Giggs to start with a similar midfield to this weekend alongside him. Rooney is unlikely to be risked however as I’m betting that his hip injury is more fragile than Ferguson is letting on.
Again, it’s United players that will be top of fantasy manager’s wanted list going into the final game. Ronaldo is a given, Tevez will also be popular. The United back four is also worth a look of course if they can be afforded. Interestingly, and in many ways, unjustiably, Ferdinand picked up the maximum FPL bonus points in the win over West Ham - could be a pointer on how the FPL decision makers are currently seeing things.
Everton
Played for the draw at the Emirates with Moyes employng a 5-man midfield and just Johnson up front. They looked comfortable throughout however, Bendtner’s goal and the defeat will mean that they will need to go for the three points against Newcastle next weekend. They are certainly struggling for goals and form so, on paper, they don’t look an obvious source of points. They are, along with Villa, one of the few sides with something to play for on the final day.
Aston Villa
Despite the defeat to Wigan, Everton’s result at the Emirates means that they still have fifth place and a UEFA cup spot in their sights on the last day. They travel to West Ham in a game which looks likely to have goals in it. There still appears to be value in Young, Barry, Agbonlahor and Carew right to the end then, despite this weekend’s result.
Blackburn
They need a top six placing to grab an Intertoto spot - hardly a glittering prize but some incentive for the final game at Birmingham. Of course their opponents have a little more to play for so this game could well bring some decent returns all round. Ridgewell’s injury against Fulham could make him a doubt on Sunday and with Birmingham’s defence already shaky you can easily see Blackburn notching which normally means points for Bentley and Santa Cruz - more on them later.
Fulham
A superb run of results has seen Hodgson scramble his side out of the relegation places. They will now travel to Pompey needing a victory to seal their survival. Fratton Park is not an easy place to get a result but Redknapp’s side will once again be likely to have their minds on the FA Cup Final - a factor that has clearly played a part in recent matches. With huge incentive on the final day - Davies, Bullard and McBride all offer some mid-price potential.
Player Notes
Cesc Fabregas
Out of the sixteen for the Everton game through injury. Wenger confirmed in his post-match press conference that the midfielder had suffered a groin injury in training and that scans had revealed a three-week layoff. That will of course see him miss the trip to Sunderland on the final day - he’ll be offloaded by fantasy managers throughout the land and the cash from his sale should come in handy for that final push over the last set of fixtures. As for who you should look to replace him with - check out the new poll in the left hand menu bar for the latest current opinion from site visitors. From my own perspective, right now I think I’ll try to free up some cash with a cheap option like Everton’s Osman and go for Drogba up front. Ballack is certainly tempting in a straight swap though. More on the Chelsea pair in a bit though.
Dimitar Berbatov
Missed out at Reading after reportedly injuring his groin in training on Friday. The Bulgarian would seem likely to be recalled for the home game with Liverpool, the question is how committed will he and Spurs be to the cause for this final game? It could be an end-to-end showpiece finale for the fans of both clubs. Alternatively, and more likely, it could play out like a training ground stroll. As a quality striker with a home game, Berbatov remains an option although with transfer speculation a likely distraction for him, there appears to be better options for the final day should you be able to free the cash to consider Drogba or Tevez for example.
Santa Cruz
He repaid the heavy fantasy investment in him against Derby with another brace. That prolongs his outstanding form which has seen him hit 5 in the last 4 games. He faces the Birmingham defence next weekend - their weakness at set-plays will be compounded by the tension of the occasion - the Paraguayan looks a good bet to add to his goal tally again then.
David Bentley
An assist and a couple of FPL bonus points for the midfielder - a modest return but certainly in-keeping with his current run - yesterdays was only his second assist in 6 games. Still worth keeping hold of for the final game though, his set-pieces are likely to test a fragile Birmingham defence.
Chris Riggott
His goal, clean sheet and FPL bonus saw him top score amongst defenders this week. A home game with City next weekend represents another opportunity for a clean sheet, making Riggott a worthy purchase if you’re looking to balance the budget for a big price signing.
Antonio Valencia
Finishing strongly and will get some attention after the brace at Villa. However, 3 goals, 4 assists and 12 FPL bonus for the season is a modest return. Up against United next weekend, a club that are rumoured to be amongst his suitors. Will look to shine but could struggle to make an impact. Certainly one who should be considered next season if he remains at Wigan.
Carlos Tevez
A stunning goal against his former club - he looks likely to start once again at Wigan next weekend with Rooney likely to be kept on the bench with the Champions League final in mind.
Jimmy Bullard
An assist and more FPL bonus in a Fulham win. His set pieces and drive from midfield will be vital again as Fulham go for the win at Pompey next weekend. If Fulham get the result, which looks on the cards given Portsmouth current state of mind, you can expect more points from Jimmy.
Michael Ballack
A priceless opening goal for Chelsea his third goal in 3 games - compounded by another 3 FPL bonus points to go with the other maximum he collected against United last time out. The German midfielder is in fine form and has stepped up whilst Lampard has been mourning the death of his mother. He looks strong going into the final game against Bolton - the obvious contender for a straight swap with the injured Fabregas.
Didier Drogba
Just an assist for the big striker against Newcastle but Drogba will be assured a start at home to Bolton next weekend with Anelka unavailable. That appears to offer potential for a decent haul on the final day. Affording the striker will likely require surgery to your lineup but with Fabregas sidelined - Drogba offers a decent incentive for the double transfer.
Yakubu
Dropped to the bench as Moyes went with 4-5-1 as expected but preferred Johnson up front. Will earn a recall against Newcastle next weekend but then many fantasy managers have long given up on the Everton man who has struck just a single goal in his last 8 Premiership starts. He does however join the likes of Drogba, Tevez and Santa Cruz, as “big” strikers who go into the final game with some incentive.
Injuries
Dean Ashton picked up an injury against United and was replaced by Carlton Cole on 55-minutes.
Alfonso Alves sustained a knock against Portsmouth and was replaced by Aliadiere on the hour-mark.
Andre Bikey suffered an injury for Reading against Spurs and was replaced by Matejovsky after 62-minutes.
Diomansy Kamara sufferd a knock against Birmingham and was replaced on 65-minutes.
Liam Ridgewell suffered an ankle injury in the same game and was replaced by Queudrue at half-time.
Steven Pienaar suffered an injury late on against Arsenal and could be a doubt next weekend given his recent fragility.
Ricardo Carvalho picked up a back injury and was replaced by Alex on 77-minutes.
Mark Viduka suffered a blow to his dodgy Achilles in the same match and was replaced by Smith at half-time.
Suspensions
Nani will miss the trip to Wigan and the opening two games of next season for his clash with Lucas Neill.
I have both Fabregas and Berbatov, but am nursing a very very tight lead in 2 of my mini-leagues (one of them is only 9 points!). I currently have 0 in the bank, so do I
a) make one change… not worth a 4 point hit
b) bring in Barry and Young and ignore the 4mil spare money
c) bring in Lampard and Young
d) bring in Ballack and Drogba
I think I’m leaning towards option d, but would love some advice!
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Reply by danster12 on May 6, 2008 1:44 am:
I’m in the same boat Sam with fabs and berbs but lagging behind by 8 points.have young already so going for Ballack and Tevez, but tempted by a third transfer to afford to bring in Drogba instead of Tevez. from ur options I’d definitely go for d and invest in a Chelsea mauling of Bolton.
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Reply by CK on May 6, 2008 6:04 pm:
I’m in exactly same boat as you mate and am going for option d. Ballack and Drogba should get points and worth the 4 point hit
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Any thoughts on the wisdom of picking a Reading striker vs Derby?
Adebayor vs Sunderland: how dependent is he on Fabregas?
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Reply by Arul on May 6, 2008 8:34 am:
Dude I may sound like a fool, but I’m really considering Lita for DER(A)! He was their best player against spurs, and though Royals haven’t netted for ages, it’s a must-win game for ‘em and I see him profiting.
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Reply by cuajimalpense on May 6, 2008 1:14 pm:
or Kitson . . ., he’s got 9 goals on the year and may be highly motivated to hit the double digit mark.
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Reply by cuajimalpense on May 6, 2008 5:02 pm:
Adebayor might also be inspired to remain in 2nd in the scoring race ahead of Torres.
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Reply by Sam (Team Sam) on May 6, 2008 9:06 am:
when he scored the hattrick against derby the other day, only the last one was set up by cesc (his only assist of the day), so i think he can still do something without him
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Reply by P-Willy on May 6, 2008 9:36 am:
Is anyone considering bringing in Bendtner? I am - he’s damn cheap, is playing whilst either Adebayor is rested or VP is injured and has 2 in 2, plus some bonus points = good form. I’m bringing him in for Berbs to free up cash for Ballack or Cole in midfield
Anyone care to rubbish my suggestions??
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Reply by cuajimalpense on May 6, 2008 1:16 pm:
Bendtner does sound like a promising option, and even though neither team has much to play for, Arsenal’s quality will show.
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Have subbed in Ballack and Terry using my extra cash from Fabregas.
Left Berbatov in the line up. (I’ve got a pretty solid back 5 if he decides he wants to bow out again — Terry, Ferdinand, Laursen, Clichy, wheater)
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Who to make captain… Drogba or Ronaldo??
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Reply by Niall Quinn's Disco Pants on May 6, 2008 10:13 am:
My thoughts entirely, this question could go right down to the wire
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Any advice on what to do this week? I’m currently second in my league 13points behind the leader.
heres my team
Friedel
Terry Carvalho Bouma Knight Gallas
Ronny Fabregas Pienaar Huddlestone Downing
Santa Cruz Berba Young
Was thinking of taking a 4pt hit and bring in Drogba and Bullard for Berba and Fabregas..
But if carvalho is injured maybe i should swap him??
Captain??
Help…
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Reply by P-Willy on May 6, 2008 9:43 am:
Not that i’m an expert but here’s my suggestion…
3-4-3; Terry, Bouma, Gallas; Ronny, Bullard, Pienaar, Downing; SC, Drog, Young
(that’s assuming you do the transfers you suggest)
Personally i don’t like playing 2 defenders in the same team, too many eggs in one basket.
Captain, you can’t look far past Ronny. Maybe Downing or Young if you want to take a risk.
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yeah this carvalho situation has really pissed me off…thats a clean sheet in the bag and i needed my 2 transfers elsewhere…ive taken a double hit fab and berbs for drogba and ballack…thinkin drogba for captain (hes awesome at home and theyll kill bolton) and man u arent gonna rip wigan apart, that i can guarentee!
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your 4 point hit looks worth it tho longjohn….dunno how u cant think that drogba can outscore ronnie this week willy?
Friedel
Carvalho-Terry-Gallas
Ronnie-Bullard-Downing-Pienaar
RSC-Drogba-Young
thats what id do…
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Had a 6 pt lead in my mini league, just taken 4pt hit for drogba and ballack so its even tighter at the top… I’d feel worried going into the last day without Ronaldo captain but really don’t know what to do on that front!
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Yeah i feel u on that one Niall, always a worry when u dont captain him…obviously depends on ur situation in ur league and what the guys near u might do.. in ur case prob gotta stick wit ronnie but dont be suprised if drogba bags a brace
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Yeah i feel u on that one Niall, always a worry when u dont captain him…obviously depends on ur situation in ur league and what the guys near u might do.. in ur case prob gotta stick wit ronnie but dont be suprised if drogba bags a brace
your double hit will work out tho…who did u bring em in for by the way?
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Reply by Niall Quinn's Disco Pants on May 6, 2008 2:02 pm:
Fabregas and Berbatov… Only got rid of Berbatov coz that’s what other people here seem to be doing! And also coz 4mil sitting in the bank didnt feel right! Won’t decide on captain till last minute, that’s for certain, Drog/Ron..
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i’ve just taken an 8 point hit after getting ballack, forsell and Larsson in for the final week. Problem now is that i dont know who to bench..
This is the squad
Howard, Cerny
Jagielka, Gallas, Hangeland, Geremi, Terry
Ballack, Larsson, Ronaldo, Carrick, Gerrard
Forsell, Ashton, SantaCruz
So many (good) selection Problems
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Reply by Niall Quinn's Disco Pants on May 6, 2008 2:07 pm:
Probably a bit late now but if u have a selection headache it prob means u didn’t need the 8 point hit!
I’d bench Carrick Jags and maybe Deano Ashton…
Any word on Ashton’s injury?
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Help Guys
Just gone into 2nd place after weeks of outscoring my rival by a couple, even if he had Young and Adebayor!! I have a 3 point lead over him, but my squad is not ideal:
James Hart
Lescott Ferdinand Laursen Wheater Geremi
Fabregas Barry Ronaldo Huddlestone Pienaar
Berbatov Santa Cruz Defoe
My initial thought is to get rid of Fab and Berb for Ballack and Drogba, but also consider Torres, Bullard, Lampard, Gerrard and Carew as options.
Still find it difficult to look past Ronaldo as captain, cos my main rival will have him, and I can’t get it wrong!!!
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any news on carvalho?? iv got him in my team and i’m almost assured 6pts if he plays.. dont want to have to take another hit!
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Reply by jpw on May 6, 2008 6:42 pm:
I’m thinking Grant would rather have him fit for Europe and may not risk him against Bolton. Its not like they offer much going forward and they’re pretty much safe now anyway. I’ve got him too and will have him in my 11. . . .just in case!!
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Just noticed some players values going up already and of course some going down as guys off load Fabregas etc
..so I have just brought in Ballack & Drogba for Fabrgegas & Berbatov. Winning mini league by 27 points so will most likely just play safe and make Ronnie capt again. Tempted by Drogba though
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Reply by jpw on May 6, 2008 8:05 pm:
Why are people making early changes!!!!?????!!!!!! The only benifit was to make some cash. There is no point now??
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Reply by CK on May 6, 2008 8:29 pm:
I have just enough money for the purchases I needed to make so couldnt risk values going up further and then not being able to buy players that I wanted. Ballacks value alone has gone up since last night so had to make a move today!
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Reply by Niall Quinn's Disco Pants on May 6, 2008 8:39 pm:
I made my changes coz I should be studying so I wanted to get it out of the way!
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Reply by the Moz on May 6, 2008 9:13 pm:
Dude, that is so mature! Excellent tactics!
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I’m playing the Yahoo fantasy league and I’m first in my mini league (190 pts clear)I’m thinking of putting in the whole Derby lineup just for grins
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Well this isn’t studying young man.
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My current lineup with 1 transfer already made;
howard (niemi)
lescott, w.brown, terry, clichy (scharner)
bentley, downing, ronaldo, ballack (j.obrien)
santa, adebayor (forssell)
Is there any improvements that can be made here?
sadly i’m 0.2m short of swapping adebayor with drog. is adebayor def going to play or be rested?
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Fabregas and Berbatov out, Ballack and Drogba in… I have a feeling nearly everyone joined me in this double transfer!
Played both the United and Chelsea games on pro evo last night… Ronaldo scores twice, as does Drogba, with Ballack getting a goal and an assist. Ronaldo for captain, decision made (plus he’ll surely be desperate to break the league goals in a season record!!)
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Although Ballack is on form at the mo is no one considering Fabregas for Lampard?
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Reply by NMc on May 7, 2008 10:50 am:
Damn right Woo. 3 games in a row above 10 points? Cant see it. Lamps will bow out in style…Lamps in for Fabregas for me
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Reply by Moo on May 7, 2008 10:54 am:
Do you mean Lampard for Fabregas? As I don’t think anyone wants to take out Lampard and replace him with Fabregas.
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Ye, sorry, Lampard IN, Fabregas OUT
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Reply by NMc on May 7, 2008 11:23 am:
Who would you play given the choice: Terry home to Bolton or Adebayor away to Sunderland (I feel Terry edges it as Clean sheet looks likely and they actually have something to play for/incentive?) help please!…
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Reply by jpw on May 7, 2008 11:31 am:
Terry. He’ll be well up for it and could even get a goal, he’s always a threat. I’m actually thinking about taking Ade out; he could be rested and Sunderland at home on the last game of the season will be keen to send their fans home for the summer happy.
Anyone got any news on Carvalho?
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I would go for Terry, Arsenal have lost alot of their inspirational midfielders
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Reply by NMc on May 7, 2008 11:50 am:
thanks gents, much appreciated
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Hey guys, I need some help please, my currant team is:
Friedel
Carvalho (doubt); Toure; Wheater; Bikey (doubt)
Gerrard; Fabregas (inj); Downing
Berbatov (doubt); A.Young; S.Cruz
Subs: Hart; Hutton; Muntari (isn’t playing?); Mighty Waghorn!
As you can see I have 6 players who may not play on Sunday so should I:
(a) Bring in Drogba and Lampard for Berbs and Fabs and hope that 1 of Carvalho or Bikey plays… OR…
(b) Bring in Tevez, Ballack and Lampard for Muntari, Berbs and Fabs, take an 8 point hit and hope that Drogba doesn’t demolish the Bolton defense?
Your comments would be very helpful!
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Reply by jpw on May 7, 2008 7:03 pm:
I’d go with;
Friedel
Carvalho (doubt); Toure; Wheater
Gerrard; Ballack; Bullard; Downing
Drogba; A.Young; S.Cruz
Though this depends on your league position and what your chasing/defending. You may not be able to afford these in which case I’d look for an alternative to Ballack, maybe even Laursen?
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does anyone know if Pienaar is a doubt for sunday??
if not who would you guys put on the starting line up, Pienaar or Bouma?
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