The Technical Area – Chelsea’s Number Tens
Filed under: The Technical Area - Posted by: Paul
Having splashed the cash on Eden Hazard and Oscar over the summer, Chelsea’s attacking midfield options looked mouth-watering going into the new season. The prospect of the pair lining up with Juan Mata behind Fernando Torres suggested a change in the Blues’ playing style but until last weekend the trio of number 10 types had failed to feature together from the start in any competition.
While Hazard has made an instant impact this season, Mata and Oscar have been used tentatively by Roberto Di Matteo after a summer of Olympic activity with Spain and Brazil respectively. As they both start to approach full match-fitness, Di Matteo unleashed the pair alongside Hazard for the visit of Stoke on Saturday. A late Ashley Cole finally broke the stubborn Stoke resistance as the Blues earned a narrow 1-0 win and, post-match, the Chelsea manager admitted the trio will require plenty more game time together in order to build up an understanding:
“It’s the first time we have tried it, it certainly needs more work and practice, to tactically integrate them into our system. I thought today it worked very well, but it will take time for them to know each other better. I want them to have mobility and rotation, they are very intelligent at finding free space, we lacked a bit of width at times so we needed our full backs to provide us with that.”
The average position map from the Stoke game (below left) sums up Di Matteo’s words perfectly. Mata (10), Oscar (11), Hazard (17) and Fernando Torres (9, obscured) were all in virtually identical positions when in possession. Interchanging positions, dropping deep and foraging forward, the three attacking midfielders ensured Chelsea had plenty of possession in the final third of the pitch; the hosts had 281 touches in this crucial area compared to 204 in the previous home match against Newcastle (below right).
Indeed, looking at the Magpies showdown, the player positions were a lot more defined. Mata’s (10) tendency to drift inside when on the ball is in direct opposition to his replacement Ramires (7) in that Gameweek 2 match. With Ryan Bertrand (34) offering natural width on the left, the 4-2-3-1 formation is far more apparent. Di Matteo’s remark on the full-backs is also reflected in both maps – Branislav Ivanovic (2) and Ashley Cole (3) were far more prominent in attack in the Stoke game (left), foraging forward and offering balance on the flanks.
| Mins/Tch | Touches Final 3rd | Passes Rcvd Final 3rd | Dribbles | Pen Area Tchs | Chance Crtd | Goal Attmpts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mata | 1 | 55 | 32 | 2 | 5 | 5 | 3 |
| Oscar | 1.1 | 50 | 27 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 5 |
| Hazard | 1.1 | 45 | 30 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
Looking at the stats of the attacking midfield three from Saturday, what’s immediately apparent is that they are almost identical for minutes per touch, with Mata judging edging in with one every minute. Despite his substitute withdrawal just after the hour mark, Hazard’s stats still stand up well in comparison to the other two here – indeed, he received only two less passes in the final third than Mata, despite playing almost half an hour less than the Spaniard. There’s no doubt his display was less than sparkling; he made the fewest dribbles and had the least number of goal attempts against Stoke but Hazard’s creativity saw him provide two goalscoring opportunities for team mates; the same number as Oscar, who managed the full game.
Hazard Gameweek 1-4 v Gameweek 5
Hazard’s Fantasy owners may be a little concerned after his home blank last weekend. The Belgian was our Captain Poll favourite for Gameweek 5 but lasted just 62 minutes before making way for Victor Moses as Di Matteo chose to rest the Belgian after the midweek Champions League match with Juventus. A look at his average positions in the first five Gameweeks (below left), however, show that he was actually further forward when on the ball last weekend than in any match so far. It’s also reflected in the stats – although Hazard averaged 87.8 minutes over his first four matches, he was more involved in Chelsea’s play against the Potters.
| Mins | Touches Final 3rd | Mins/ Touch | Mins/ Pass Rcvd | Passes Rcvd Final 3rd | Dribbles | Pen Area Tchs | Min/Chance Crtd | Goal Attempts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hazard GW 5 | 62 | 45 | 1.1 | 1.7 | 30 | 1 | 3 | 31.1 | 1 |
| Hazard GW1-4 | 87.8 | 36 | 1.3 | 1.8 | 21.2 | 4.5 | 5.8 | 35.1 | 3 |
He managed 45 touches in the final third on Saturday, bettering his Gameweek 1-4 average of 36, while the Belgian was also on the ball more often – 1.1 minutes per touch to 1.3. Hazard also received 30 passes in the final third against Stoke, well up on his previous average of 21.2. The issue here, though, is that while his overall team involvement improved, his individual stats regressed. A single successful dribble was way down on the 4.5 per game, just three touches in the box versus 5.8, and one shot at goal compared to the average of three – Hazard needs to perhaps rediscover his selfish streak a little more rather than get caught up in intricate passing patterns.
Mata Gameweek 1-4 v Gameweek 5
As the average position map shows (above right), Mata was further forward on Saturday than in any of his previous Gameweeks. His stats are alarmingly better and suggests the Spaniard could well be set for a resurgence in such a system. In his previous matches, Mata played a more withdrawn role, allowing Hazard to wreak havoc but last weekend his role took a significant turn for the better.
| Mins | Touches Final 3rd | Mins/ Touch | Mins/ Pass Rcvd | Passes Rcvd Final 3rd | Dribbles | Pen Area Tchs | Min/Chance Crtd | Goal Attempts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mata GW 5 | 89 | 55 | 1 | 1.5 | 32 | 2 | 5 | 17.8 | 3 |
| Mata GW1-4 | 78.3 | 23 | 1.1 | 1.3 | 17 | 1 | 3 | 58.8 | 1.3 |
In the attacking final third, Mata had 55 touches and received 32 passes against Stoke – his averages across the first four Gameweeks were 23 and 17 respectively. He made double the number of dribbles, found his way into the box more (five touches to three). In terms of creativity, he provided a goalscoring opportunity every 17.8 minutes against the Potters, compared to his previous average of 58.8 minutes and Mata also fired three shots at goal in the Gameweek 5 win – again, a real improvement on his 1.3 average.
It’s an intriguing turn of events that may well bring Mata back onto the Fantasy radar. Both he and Hazard began the Fantasy Premier League season priced at 9.5 but while the Belgian has soared to 10.3, Mata has dropped down to 8.9. The signs are certainly promising – indeed, Mata supplied the assist for Cole’s winner – if Di Matteo gives the trio regular outings together.
Full Backs Gameweek 1-4 v Gameweek 5
Finally, a quick look at the full-back stats. As the average position maps highlight, both Ivanovic (left) and Cole (right) were further forward against Stoke than they managed in any other Gameweek.
The comparison for both players in Gameweek 5 against their Gameweek 1-4 averages clearly indicates how the pair’s potential for attacking points could be further increased. Although both players actually saw less of the ball overall, Ivanovic made 29 touches on the Stoke final third, up on his previous average of 18.2. He also received more passes in this area, by 21 to 12.2, while the right-back produced more crosses and saw more of the ball in the box. The same applies to Cole in all the above categories. More touches (23 to 15) and passes received in the final third (15 to nine), more crosses and touches in the box, with the left-back slotting home the late winner.
| Mins/Touch | Touches Final 3rd | Passes Rcvd Final 3rd | Pen Area Tchs | Crosses | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ivanovic GW 5 | 1.5 | 29 | 21 | 6 | 4 |
| Ivanovic GW1-4 | 1.2 | 18.2 | 12.2 | 2.8 | 3.8 |
| Cole GW 5 | 1.5 | 23 | 15 | 3 | 2 |
| Cole GW1-4 | 1.3 | 15 | 9 | 1 | 1.2 |
It may well be that Di Matteo uses such a system in more straightforward home games as it clearly asks more from the pair from an attacking perspective – such a formation away from home could leave the Blues exposed on the flanks if the pair bomb forward as they did against Stoke. Their contribution will be key to the system, though, and if the Blue can continue the defensive resolve that has already accrued four clean sheets in the first five, Ivanovic and Cole – already first and second in the FPL defender rankings – could well maintain their strong showings as Chelsea continue to evolve.
*The Technical Area is put together using the statistics and maps available in our members area. For access to such data and tools on every player, team and match of the 2012/13 season, and for exclusive members articles like this, click here for details.
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paul
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September 25 at 8:58 am
big oak says:
rep:
first of all lets be clear, i have sterling since gw2
but what is all the fuss about him
would you be intersted in any player priced 4.5 who scored 2-2-5-2
he is a great prospect for the future but in fantasy terms i dnt see the appeal
September 25 at 8:58 am
big oak says:
first of all lets be clear, i have sterling since gw2
but what is all the fuss about him
would you be intersted in any player priced 4.5 who scored 2-2-5-2
he is a great prospect for the future but in fantasy terms i dnt see the appeal
September 25 at 9:03 am
Anonymous says:
But it was Man City, Arsenal, Sunderland and then Man U which has to be taken into consideration
September 25 at 9:06 am
big oak says:
i needed a punt on a 4.5 mid to warm my bench thats why i brought him
September 25 at 9:12 am
1mills says:
Are people buying him for any other reason?
I will only play for REA, STO
September 25 at 9:16 am
big oak says:
i still believe guthrie is a better bet
playing in the hole of reading
September 25 at 9:22 am
Wabba (no longer Yes the Sess!) says:
Reading is a bit of a hole
September 25 at 9:23 am
1mills says:
Why did you get Sterling then?
I think Guthrie will bring home some random returns and obviously will probably play more games, but think Sterling will be a BAP magnet on games where he gets assists/goals because of the dribbles (like Mcclean was last year).
I view Sterling as a possible punt for a few decent returns, but also to make some value and dump.
September 26 at 11:53 am
masyuris says:
Puncheon is better with very friendly next fixtures for SOTON
September 25 at 9:04 am
Malcolm Tucker for England Manager says:
Agreed. I think he is a great prospect but until they start converting his assists he’ll be a makeweight in fantasy terms
September 25 at 9:07 am
1mills says:
He played MCI, ARS, sun, MUN before.
His next three fixtures are nor, STO, REA.
He’s got good underlying stats (for a 4.6 player in one of the “top” teams in the league).
Casuals will jump on the bandwagon regardless of the above, so his price will probably shoot up loads in the next few weeks.
I got him before the Sunderland game and he subbed in for A Johnson so I’m quite happy so far with him.
September 25 at 9:08 am
1mills says:
Also I reckon he’ll score more points than Guthrie who was nailed on for that slot in my team.
September 25 at 9:12 am
tosey says:
sterling is a 3-week punt for me, cnat do that much harm having him for that time
September 25 at 8:59 am
Andres Fuzzash-Warblash says:
i just done played my WC.
FEELS GOOD
September 25 at 9:04 am
Andres Fuzzash-Warblash says:
press conference to come at the Lane soon.
September 25 at 9:06 am
Malcolm Tucker for England Manager says:
To name your Wildcard team? You must be pulling some serious strings
September 25 at 9:06 am
Malcolm Tucker for England Manager says:
Just don’t trust AVB not to f@ck it up
September 25 at 9:17 am
Zep - Where's that confounded bridge? says:
Why do I read your name with a Sean Connery accent?
How are you Fuzzy, haven’t seen you around in a while, hope the WC improves your fortunes…
Any interesting punts?
September 25 at 9:01 am
Mr.Fantasy says:
Which combo is a better long-term + better points option?
A. Foster + Demel (will cost me 9.2)
B. Jaaskelainen + Ridgewell (currently have both, cost me 9.5 as I bought them before their price rises)
P.S Wildcard active
September 25 at 9:06 am
big oak says:
jas ridg is working
never change a winning team
ridg has more potential in attack
September 25 at 9:02 am
Madine4Life says:
Are we worried about Man U/Citeh rotation come saturday with the next round of Champions League fixtures coming? Or do we think that Spuds at home and Fulham away will be deemed dangerous fixtures by Fergie and Mancini?
September 25 at 9:03 am
ChristIna says:
I can’t see Rvp / tevez being rested or rotated this week
September 25 at 9:04 am
Anonymous says:
It scares me to death but if you take any players on from those teams then you have to be prepared for the inevitable.
September 25 at 9:05 am
Madine4Life says:
Thanks, being a Tevez and Rvp owner the thought of having over 23 million pounds worth of players benched to come on and get 1 pointers is a concern
September 25 at 9:07 am
big oak says:
but they may be pulled off if the game is secured by the hr mark
September 25 at 9:12 am
Madine4Life says:
As you say, buying them that is the risk you take. Roonpig may also be fit by saturday too. I think Dzeko’s lack of performance on sunday may move him back to being an impact sub
September 25 at 9:06 am
big oak says:
well light rotation is expected but key players should remain
rvp vidic evra and rafa are untouchable
citys full backs are always a risk
wouldnt be surprised in the new CB replaces lescott
up front is a lottery
and tevez should play coz if he’s rested 2 games, he will go and resurrect his gold career
September 25 at 9:10 am
Mr.Fantasy says:
yea about Tevez, apparently Mancini is gonna start Balotelli and Tevez in the Capitol One Cup tie agains Villa.
Imo, not worth the risk, i’ve had Tevez since GW1, he’s done his job, now time to look for better options. There’s no scarcity of good mid-budget strikers in good form + easier fixtures + almost zero rotation risk!
September 25 at 9:12 am
Madine4Life says:
The spectre of Ba, Fletch and Lambert is there…
September 25 at 9:17 am
Mr.Fantasy says:
Precisely.
September 25 at 9:18 am
eagles4ever says:
My sentiments exactly. Made my profit on tevez, time to sell for fletch
September 25 at 11:09 am
philthy says:
I went AgueroI
September 25 at 9:18 am
big oak says:
and jelavic
September 25 at 9:07 am
hazza44 says:
Play Bego (Home Swansea) or Foster (Away Villa)??
September 25 at 9:12 am
tosey says:
bego
September 25 at 9:19 am
ChristIna says:
+1
September 25 at 9:12 am
1mills says:
I’m going Bego at home.
It’s a tough one, but quite fancy Stoke to keep it tight in the home games.
September 25 at 9:13 am
Deicide88 says:
Foster.
September 25 at 9:15 am
Mr.Fantasy says:
very difficult choice. i’d go with Bego, since Stoke are at home and Swansea, well they were so bad at home, there’s no telling how they would fare away. I’m expecting a Stoke win by 1 or 2 goals.
September 25 at 9:18 am
GreenWindmill says:
Bego, the whole point of that rotation is that both teams are strong at home and leak goals away.
September 25 at 9:21 am
Berbilly Gilmore - Nuevo Gerente del Betis says:
^ This
September 25 at 9:28 am
GreenWindmill says:
Hey Berbilly, always rely on you to back me up on this one
September 25 at 9:33 am
Berbilly Gilmore - Nuevo Gerente del Betis says:
It’s a pity I didn’t take my own advice
But who am I to complain when Foster / Ruddy has worked a treat so far
I’m seriously thinking of WCing in the next international break and bringing in Bego 
September 25 at 9:18 am
Hanamichi says:
hard choice.
Stoke looks solid and Begovic will get fewer saves and leak 1 goal concede I’m afraid. Foster gets more saves and has a chance to keep CS vs Shit Villa
September 25 at 9:19 am
ChristIna says:
Villa 1-1 WBA i think.
Is that not a massive derby?
September 25 at 9:15 am
Joey Barton and Friends says:
anyone know if Simpson will be back this week? I am unfortunately keeping the faith with Graham
September 25 at 9:18 am
ChristIna says:
Lose Graham asap.
I also still have Simpson/Cuellar. I hope they are back after the 2 week Int break post gw 7.
September 25 at 9:27 am
Wabba (no longer Yes the Sess!) says:
Lose graham. Lambert, berb, fletcher are all much better options. Graham is quite frankly pants.
September 25 at 9:16 am
stevexp says:
Don’t know whether to grt rid of Torres or Tevez and bring Suarez in ?
September 25 at 9:16 am
Joey Barton and Friends says:
Torres obviously. Why would you be getting Suarez in?
September 25 at 9:18 am
hazza44 says:
Ba, Berb or Fletcher over Suarez. Get rid of Torres
September 25 at 9:34 am
stevexp says:
I have Berb
September 25 at 9:18 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
Don’t bother with Suarez, I’d rather Podolski myself.
September 25 at 9:19 am
big oak says:
dnt have tevez but had torres and jelavic
i kept jelavic despite his injury and brought suarez in for torres
September 25 at 9:27 am
Wabba (no longer Yes the Sess!) says:
Why would you get suarez in?!
September 25 at 9:35 am
stevexp says:
Good fixtures coming up and he is due a few goals
September 25 at 9:16 am
heartsattack says:
Gonna try and stop tinkering.
Already on a four point hit for-
Vorm
Baines Vermaillen Cuellar
Ben Arfa Hazard Cazorla Ramirez
Tevez Fletcher Ba
Cerny Colocinni Gunter Maloney
Anything worth another hit?
Opinions appreciated.
September 25 at 9:21 am
Goonther says:
i think im taking out Tevez and Graham this week. In comes Ba and Berba
September 25 at 9:24 am
heartsattack says:
thinking of captianing Ba. Was going to last week but didn`t because of his agents big piehole,
September 25 at 9:17 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
Any Tevez owners out there getting rid of him?
I was but I read an article somewhere y’day stating that it was Mancini’s intention to play Tevez and Aguero together.
Discuss….
September 25 at 9:19 am
big oak says:
i think when mancini wants to play his strongest 11
tevez and aguero will be the forst 2 names on the sheet
but it wnt be week in week out
September 25 at 9:22 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
Thats what I was thinking…..are you keeping him then?
September 25 at 9:24 am
ChristIna says:
At his price he is money for money and a pain to get back. Unless he gets homesick again I’m keeping.
I’d rather lose Rvp for Rooney.
September 25 at 9:30 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
I think I am keeping with RVP, will be more of a focal point of attacking points rather than Rooney IMO!
September 25 at 9:33 am
big oak says:
i dnt have him
i prefer the security of rvp and jelavic
and the ount on suarez for the next 3 weeks (especially with borini’s injury so hopefully he will play further up front)
September 25 at 9:20 am
heartsattack says:
If he’s playing Tevez with Aguero most weeks I think it`s worth keeping him even if he is rotated the odd time. They were lethal together at the end of last season.
September 25 at 9:22 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
I know…..personally I think the return of Agero will simply increase Tevezs’ points haul IMO
September 25 at 9:25 am
heartsattack says:
I believe this is what will happen.
September 25 at 9:27 am
1mills says:
I’m not convinced on that.
Think Aguero will play higher up, so will get the bigger scores.
Tevez is still good shout at the value, I’m going Aguero to mix it up, plus when he gets going he’ll be £12.5mil in no time.
Aguero does have a similar rotation risk though.
September 25 at 9:29 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
I see what you are saying but like you said I am speaking in terms of value. I have RVP as my big hitter, getting Aguero in too will mess up the balance of my team…..and I rather RVP to Aguero.
September 25 at 9:36 am
1mills says:
I’m surprised I can fit them both in but my team will be
Foster, Begovic
Baines, Rafael, Demel, Davies, Gorkks
Cazorla, A Johnson, Fellaini, Michu, Sterling
RVP, Aguero, Berbatov
Got £3m in bank, so Michu becomes Ben Arfa after the good games in a few weeks, or possibly Bale or someone else.
September 25 at 9:37 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
Very nice mate
September 25 at 9:41 am
1mills says:
Hold on I thought that couldn’t be right.
I’m doing Tevez to Aguero next week, so actually have £1.6 in the bank.
I can do Michu to Ben Arfa (Bale is out of the price range).
September 25 at 9:33 am
heartsattack says:
Why aren’t you convinced? They played together at the end of last season and scored about the same amount of points in those games. Aguero may outscore Tevez but I doubt it will be by much.
September 25 at 9:38 am
1mills says:
I could be remembering wrong, but I thought Aguero was ahead?
Also over the course of the season, Aguero will score more doubles and hatricks because of penalties coming into consideration. (Especially important with captain choice).
September 25 at 9:22 am
Parklane says:
I got rid so I could have Berb and Fletcher last week with RVP instead of Graham.
September 25 at 9:24 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
Good shout…..I have just purchased Fletcher to play alongside Tevez and RVP. Could be a leathal combo!
September 25 at 9:32 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
theres always getting both Tevez+Aguero if City have amazing fixtures!
September 25 at 9:17 am
Hanamichi says:
@Mr KK you’re still here?
September 25 at 9:24 am
Mr.KK says:
Yes, I’m here.
September 25 at 9:30 am
Hanamichi says:
You’re still live in VN? Have not seen you here much this season, how is this season going on? Any interesting mini league in VN you’re joining?
September 25 at 9:31 am
Hanamichi says:
*you still live
September 25 at 9:35 am
Mr.KK says:
Yeah, I’m still in VN. I’m just in a league with my mates. This season has gone quite badly for me. Some bad decisions and bad luck here and there. I need to be more careful with my captain pick in the future.
Your Lambert (C) was pretty impressive. High hope this season, aye!
September 25 at 9:17 am
hazza44 says:
Who to play with for FIFA 12 Newcastle, West Brom, Sunderland ir Fulham?
September 25 at 9:20 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
Fulham
September 25 at 9:22 am
Mr.Fantasy says:
Newcastle. Good budget. Lots of young players with good potential like Santon, Krul.
September 25 at 9:32 am
nedfoo says:
Newcastle, no question.
September 25 at 9:22 am
GreenWindmill says:
Hey Zep,
Just seen your reply on the previous page, seems odd if that is the case but in this case it’s probably worked in my favour so I won’t complain too bitterly. Also seems to fly in the face of the precedent set last season where RVP had a BP removed following Gervinhogate. Ah well, fpl towers move in mysterious ways, their BPs to distribute!
September 25 at 9:27 am
Zep - Where's that confounded bridge? says:
Maybe with the introduction to the status page, and the confirmation of points updates etc, has brought about that as a new rule…
But now that they have set this precedent, I want to see some continuity with it being implemented…
One way or the other, then, at least we will know…
September 25 at 9:31 am
GreenWindmill says:
I suppose there’s nothing we can do anyway, we end up with the points they give us! Would be nice to have some sort of certainty/clarity on things though!
September 25 at 9:28 am
Pasqualinho says:
Saves not worth much, by my reckoning. PPIs for Long/Brunt went up/down by 7 due to the changed assist – but Foster/McCarthy’s didn’t change. I thought that a save for GKs would count the same as a block for outfield players, but obviously not.
September 25 at 9:32 am
GreenWindmill says:
Worthless apparently. Seems harsh/absurd.
September 25 at 9:36 am
Pasqualinho says:
Does seem daft – what else can GKs be measured on? I remember Friedel getting a few BPs last season for games where he made one save. I think successful passes has a big effect on GKs – so a keeper who punts it long is less likely to get them than one who rolls the ball out. But this is not the way a good GK should be rated.
September 25 at 9:33 am
Zep - Where's that confounded bridge? says:
Actually, just having read your reply on the previous page, it stands to reason that Pienaar’s PPI would increase if, indeed, Brunt’s was reduced…
This is confusing…
September 25 at 9:37 am
Pasqualinho says:
It did, I think. He went from 10 to 17 – which is consistent with the Long assist.
September 25 at 9:23 am
Sporting ABG says:
brought in Baines already and no WC for me yet.
going to limp on with this band of mothers until the next break:
Foster, Federici
Baines, Demel, Hangeland, Rangel, Clyne
Cazorla, Hazard, Piennar, Nolan, Kaca
RvP, Tevez, Graham
any other thoughts to tighten it up? (would be for a -4 hit)
September 25 at 9:26 am
ChristIna says:
Graham. Aah Pleeeeasse.
Get a life.
September 25 at 9:32 am
Sporting ABG says:
since you WC’d in GW 3, my pile of crap team (incl. Graham) has only scored 5 points less than your hand picked super team.
September 25 at 9:41 am
ChristIna says:
There you go.
WC early.
September 25 at 9:27 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
I think you’ll be fine mate, nice team. Initially I wasn’t that impressed with your defence but I think you can rotate between them so I think you’ll be fine.
If you have any spare cash get rid of Graham at some point soon!
September 25 at 9:27 am
heartsattack says:
With Ba, Fletcher and Lambert in good form I think it`s brave sticking by Graham. It`s not difficult to imagine Swansea scoring 3 or 4 goals in a game and Graham being involved in none of them.
September 25 at 9:28 am
Mr.KK says:
Your team is actually in very good shape apart from Fed. I’d leave it for this week and save a free transfer.
September 25 at 9:26 am
roscola says:
Well, I’m still spinning round in circles trying to decide whether to get Pienaar or Fellaini. Procrastination has already cost me a price rise on each and Fellaini will go up again today. I must decide today.
Can anyone say anything to help me decide?
September 25 at 9:27 am
Parklane says:
Fellaini if money is no object…
September 25 at 9:28 am
Mr. Paul With the ICE-CREAM says:
i am a proud pienaar owner
September 25 at 9:28 am
Wabba (no longer Yes the Sess!) says:
I’m going with neither but if I had to choose I’d got pienaar. He’s an assist machine and will pop up with the odd goal. Fellaini will get some big hauls but a lot of 2/3′s in between.
September 25 at 9:28 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
Pienaar has scored almost as many and is cheaper. It’s been said that once everyone is fit Fellaini won’t be as far forward. I’ve gone with Pienaar.
September 25 at 9:31 am
Wabba (no longer Yes the Sess!) says:
Yeah when jelavic back won’t mirelles play in behind?
September 25 at 9:29 am
ChristIna says:
I went Fellatio last night after thinking Pienaar all weekend.
Only problem is Fellatio can only increase by 0.1m(tonight) since he has already risen 0.2m this week.
It’s a toss up between the two. I’m hoping Fell can head his head to some Baines crosses.
Is that enough?
September 25 at 9:30 am
ChristIna says:
give head even.
September 25 at 9:33 am
Bubbles - No, I will not rate your team. Go away. says:
Does he get boner points for that?
September 25 at 9:34 am
roscola says:
yummy
September 25 at 9:32 am
Mr.KK says:
I hope your Fellatio turn out well this week!
September 25 at 9:32 am
Bubbles - No, I will not rate your team. Go away. says:
I just burst out laughing at “I’m hoping Fell can head his head to some Baines crosses”. Bravo.
September 25 at 9:29 am
Berbilly Gilmore - Nuevo Gerente del Betis says:
Fellaini will likely play ‘in the hole’ regardless of whether it’s Jelavic, Anichebe or anyone else for that matter at striker. Moyes is playing others in CM to allow for Fellaini to play CAM, and as long as he’s playing there he is the better pick of the 2.
September 25 at 9:29 am
ChristIna says:
Like Timmy Cahill of old?
September 25 at 9:34 am
Berbilly Gilmore - Nuevo Gerente del Betis says:
Exactly like Timmy Cahill, but not as good as he’s not Aussie
September 25 at 9:29 am
Bubbles - No, I will not rate your team. Go away. says:
Get Fellaini.
If that doesn’t convince you, I don’t know what will.
September 25 at 9:32 am
Mr.Fantasy says:
Imo, both are in terrific form. And I plan to have both, atleast till one of them flatlines. But if I had to choose one, i’d go with Fellaini, since he gets into better scoring positions! Pienaar for assists.
September 25 at 9:34 am
roscola says:
Thanks guys. Fellaini it is. No wait, Pienaar. Or Fellaini. Maybe both.
September 25 at 9:34 am
big oak says:
i have jelavic and baines
thats enough everton cover for me
September 25 at 9:27 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
Loving my team at the moment! I shouldn’t have to touch my back 7 until the winter wildcard
Foster,Begovic
Baines,Clyne,Demel,Gorkss,Vermaelen
Michu,Pienaar,Guthrie,Hazard,Santi Cazorla
Tevez,Van Persie,Lambert
September 25 at 9:29 am
ChristIna says:
Wens ek het my kop gevolg en Lambert gekoop.
Top 1k al weer vir jou.
September 25 at 9:33 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
September 25 at 9:36 am
Sporting ABG says:
my playing team is almost the same and yet you wrote it off.
waardeloos advies.
September 25 at 9:37 am
llamaZA says:
Checked your team and saw it was very similar to mine, then saw you had 2.2m in the bank and I was in shock (since I have 0).
But now I see you have done a transfer this week.
Random story
September 25 at 9:31 am
llamaZA says:
We’re pretty much going to track each other this season then:
Begovic/Jaaskelainen
Baines/Rangel/Demel/Clyne/Jenkinson
Michu/Hazard/Yaya Toure/Santi Cazorla/El Ahmadi
Lambert/Tevez/Van Persie
September 25 at 9:34 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
mines better!
September 25 at 9:42 am
llamaZA says:
Hmmm, I’m not sure about that, it’s effectively:
Foster vs. Jaaskelainen
Gorkss/Verm vs. Rangel/Jenkinson
Pienaar/Guthrie vs. Yaya Toure/El Ahmadi
The Verm is a big feather in your cap though
September 25 at 9:45 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
you’re comparing gorkks with Rangel, but in fact its: gorkks/demel/clyne vs rangel/demel/clyne. you have to bench players remember…
September 25 at 9:49 am
llamaZA says:
Jenkinson is on his way out, probably for Clark – possibly for Johnson or Kompany (if I downgrade RvP)
GK and Midfield are a draw.
I think the Verm puts you over the top at the moment though – even though I think my rotation with Clyne/Demel/Clark may make up the difference between Rangel and Verm
September 25 at 9:43 am
llamaZA says:
I’m 0.2 short of your team
September 25 at 9:37 am
Wabba (no longer Yes the Sess!) says:
Well maybe apart from gorkss. Great team though. Don’t know how you’ve managed a front 8 like that, with Baines & Vermaelen.
September 25 at 9:41 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
I can afford that team because I rotate 3 4.0′s for 1 spot…
September 25 at 9:28 am
Mr. Paul With the ICE-CREAM says:
Gaston Ramirez, Adam Johnson,Jelavic to all of you
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8uztB31eUw
September 25 at 9:31 am
Kostja says:
thanks, but that song is wack
September 25 at 9:35 am
Mr. Paul With the ICE-CREAM says:
i like it though
September 25 at 9:33 am
Podge says:
Holy God thats muck
September 25 at 9:33 am
China Mag says:
Lee Ryder @lee_ryder
Danny Simpson back in training at the end of the week more in tonight’s Chronicle #nufc Tim Krul also hoping for all clear for return.
With Colo and Tiote back this week, we will be pretty much full strength after the international break (before the inevitable next round of injuries!). Will correspond with our nice run of fixtures, so hopefully we can push on after a very MEH start.
September 25 at 9:34 am
Dr. BerbaRog says:
Over the last couple of seasons, TotalFPL used to have a feature where you could see the %age NTI for each of your team members.
This season, I no longer see this function, has it disappeared?
September 25 at 9:37 am
China Mag says:
I was looking for this too. Anybody seen it??
September 25 at 9:34 am
gatzi says:
Well guys
I resisted (or missed the boat) on Michu & Hazard….I held firm with Ashley Cole, Lescott & Bale
and I actually got a good score this week.
Shame I still have Torres & Graham up front
September 25 at 9:34 am
Kostja says:
Graham could actually score a few as well in the coming weeks
September 25 at 9:34 am
busteddocket says:
Hazard and Tevez to Toure and Aguero given the fixtures? Good/bad???? Thanks.
September 25 at 9:36 am
big oak says:
the only good thing about it is the low ownership of aguero which makes him a differential
but as u know it can go both ways
September 25 at 9:36 am
Mr.KK says:
Why a sideway move? Don’t you have other weakness in your team to improve?
September 25 at 9:44 am
busteddocket says:
My team
Foster, Begovic
Baines, Clark, Demel, Figueroa, Cuellar
Hazard, Cazorla, Pienaar, Michu, Nolan
RVP, Tevez Lambert
Chelsea’s fixtures are bad, Aguero will get more game time?
September 25 at 9:45 am
busteddocket says:
I have 2FT.
September 25 at 9:52 am
ela_999 says:
im considering the exact same transfer – what are peoples opinion on Tevez Vs Aguero
September 25 at 9:34 am
nedfoo says:
Sorry for repost, but I’m really torn with wether to do this transfer or not.
Lescott > Baines for -4
Baines has both the form and the fixtures, but surely City are going to turn a corner and keep some cleanies in the not so distant future? They have the fixtures to do it..
September 25 at 9:36 am
busteddocket says:
I’d hold especially as it’s for a hit.
September 25 at 9:36 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
Anyone care to take a glance below? Any changes required? I have already used my ft and nothing in the bank!
Begovic (Jass)
Cueller (If fit) Ivanovic Baines (Demel) (Hughes)
Hazard Pienaar Michu Yaya Toure (Kancaniclic)
Fletcher RVP Tevez
Cheers all
September 25 at 9:39 am
Kostja says:
Just fine IMO, no hit needed for sure
September 25 at 9:44 am
Hay Number 2- "Screw you Blackpool" says:
cheers dude!
September 25 at 9:36 am
TorresMagic™ - Check my link for Early Bird qualification says:
37 in the Early Bird League so far, 2 knocked out this week. Plenty of FPL managers out there that qualify. Check your GW history & my link to see if you do.
September 25 at 9:39 am
big oak says:
im already eliminated twice so far
so i cnt join the league or it starts counting when i join?
September 25 at 9:41 am
TorresMagic™ - Check my link for Early Bird qualification says:
Last 2 weeks = eliminated.
Millionaire Club later in the season is your next knockout chance.
September 25 at 9:37 am
Dr. BerbaRog says:
A couple of years ago there used to be a website which updated league standings in Real Time.
Is anyone aware of where this went?
September 25 at 9:39 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
who cares. realtime or 5 days later, the outcome will be the same.
September 25 at 9:43 am
Dr. BerbaRog says:
you clearly haven’t built up a strong enough addiction to the game yet
September 25 at 9:48 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
you clearly need to learn about patience and learn to do other things with your time.
September 25 at 9:42 am
big oak says:
it used to be the PM livematch
it used to also give immediatly the scorers assists and cards within 2 mins
plus a live league table
at the start of last year they killed it
September 25 at 9:44 am
Dr. BerbaRog says:
thats the one.
boo.
September 25 at 9:38 am
Brian (Not the Messiah) says:
new article. http://www.fantasyfootballscou.....tral-role/
September 25 at 9:44 am
Malkmus says:
Morning all,
Who to start with this week out of Demel or Nelsen ??
Cheers
September 25 at 10:27 am
Captain Berbarossa - arrrrrrr!!! says:
I’d personally go with the home player
September 25 at 10:25 am
Captain Berbarossa - arrrrrrr!!! says:
Rangel (sto) or Demel (qpr)?
September 25 at 11:30 am
dripsey3 says:
Clean Sheet potential: Demel.
Goal or Assist Potential: Rangel. He could have had a couple of goals against Everton.
September 25 at 10:37 am
Butters_lfc9 says:
How nailed on is Gibbs in the Arsenal backline?
September 25 at 11:27 am
dripsey3 says:
More nailed on with every game. He’s been brilliant this season…….