Scout Notes

Scout Notes – Gameweek 22 – Sunday

Edin Dzeko is amongst the goals again as City clinch victory at the Emirates. The champions’ joy is somewhat tempered by a red card that will see Vincent Kompany miss the next two league games – Roberto Mancini is likely to appeal, however. Mikel Arteta is ruled out of Arsenal’s double Gameweek with a calf injury, Robin Van Persie and Patrice Evra are amongst the points again for United, while Daniel Sturridge finds the net just 12 minutes into his league debut for Liverpool…

Dzeko Stakes a Claim
The Bosnian netted for the third Gameweek in a row and continues to banish his “supersub” tag with a series of strong displays for City. Dzeko has notched just once over the last six times he has climbed off the bench but is starting to suggest he is deserving of a regular role – despite missing a spot-kick, his goal, supplemented by a bonus point, means he has returned 26 points over his last trio of fixtures. With a FPL price tag of just 7.4, he’s an intriguing option for Roberto Mancini’s side but with Carlos Tevez returning to form with a pair of assists and Sergio Aguero expected to come back from a hamstring problem imminently, Dzeko’s acquisition doesn’t come without risk. A home clash against a Fulham side that have shipped 23 goals on their travels looks appealing – if Aguero fails to make it for next weekend, Dzeko would seem certain of another start and could be in the points once again.

Kompany Sees Red
The City skipper faces a three-match suspension after his dismissal at the Emirates yesterday afternoon. Kompany is now set to miss the next couple of league matches against Fulham and Reading in addition to the FA Cup Fourth Round clash with Crystal Palace – meaning he will be sidelined until the Gameweek 25 home clash with Liverpool. Post-match reports suggest Roberto Mancini is set to appeal the sending off, however, with the City boss critical of referee Mike Dean’s decision to dismiss the Belgian:

“It was not a sending off – I have seen the TV replays and he goes in with his left foot with his right foot trailing behind. It was absolutely not a red card.”

Judging by reports this morning, City’s appeal is likely to fall on deaf ears. Matija Nastasic’s prospects certainly look to be boosted if Kompany fails to have the ban overturned. The 5.6 defender had started 11 of the previous 12 prior to being rested for last week’s match with Stoke but looks nailed-on, with Joleon Lescott likely to partner him in the heart of defence. While many will feel Kompany’s absence will be significantly detrimental to City’s clean sheet potential over those two league games, it’s worth noting they’ve been pretty resilient in his absence this term, conceding just one goal in the three matches their captain has missed so far.

Arsenal Defensive Uncertainty
Arsene Wenger’s decision to pair Thomas Vermaelen with Laurent Koscielny added doubts over Per Mertesacker’s game time ahead of Arsenal’s double Gameweek. Koscielny had deputised for the German in the previous two after the latter was ruled out with illness but kept his place in spite of Mertesacker’s return – Koscielny lasted just nine minutes before being dismissed and will serve a one-match suspension in Wednesday’s FA Cup replay with Swansea but with question marks hanging over Wenger’s preferred central defensive pairing for the games against Chelsea and West Ham, Kieran Gibbs and Bacary Sagna look the safest options, with Wojciech Szczesny also nailed-on in goal.

Arteta Out for Gunners
Post-match, Arsene Wenger admitted Mikel Arteta is set to miss the next three weeks with a calf injury – a blow for the Spaniard’s owners ahead of the double Gameweek. Arteta’s absence also means that Arsenal will now go into their games against Chelsea and West Ham without their first-choice penalty taker; the former Everton man has notched three times from the spot in recent matches and despite missing a penalty in the Gameweek 11 draw with Fulham, remained Wenger’s preferred option. After the Cottagers’ draw, Olivier Giroud revealed the Arsenal manager “has a list” of alternatives, – Santi Cazorla, Theo Walcott, Lukas Podolski and Giroud look the likeliest to get their turn, though it’s unclear as to the pecking order.

Evra’s Attacking Returns
A pair of assists from Patrice Evra maintained his recent form as the United left-back rose to the top of the FPL defender standings with a crucial contribution in the win over Liverpool. The Frenchman supplied the pass for Robin Van Persie’s opener before his off-target header was deflected beyond Pepe Reina courtesy of Nemanja Vidic – up to four goals and five assists for the season, Evra currently sits on 103 points and looks well positioned to retain his title of top scoring FPL defender for the second season in succession. In spite of just four clean sheets, Evra’s consistency of selection means he has missed just a single game for United this term; he continues to look the only guaranteed starter in Sir Alex Ferguson’s defence and with attacking returns and bonus in four of his last five, the 7.0 priced defender is set to pick up further investment as winter wildcards continue to be wielded.

United Injury Worries
Earlier last week, Ferguson had revealed he intended to alternate Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand in the heart of the United back-four, with Jonny Evans looking like the first-choice pick but the latter’s withdrawal due to a hamstring problem allowed the Serbian to partner Ferdinand against Liverpool. Vidic duly delivered his best Fantasy haul of the season, with an 11 point return accrued thanks to a goal and maximum bonus but the club’s official website reported he was subbed off with a knee problem late on. With Phil Jones and Chris Smalling both coming on as subs, United have options at the back ahead of Wednesday’s FA Cup replay with West Ham – post-match, Ferguson spoke of Evans’ situation:

“Jonny Evans felt his hamstring yesterday afternoon. I was at Nottingham [watching Forest v Peterborough] and got a message at half-time. He trained in the morning so it was strange. But Vidic and Ferdinand are experienced and you can’t say any more than that. They were brilliant.”

According to reports in the Times, Ashley Young is another concern for United. The winger is believed to have left Old Trafford on crutches after being subbed off at the break following a collision with Daniel Agger. Having started seven of the last eight , Young seemed to have cemented a regular role in the United XI – any potential absence could see Antonio Valencia return to the first-team fold. Valencia was dropped for the previous match at Wigan after producing a single assist since Gameweek 9 and with Shinji Kagawa back, in addition to a potential return for Wayne Rooney in midweek, Ferguson certainly has alternatives if the former Villa man is indeed ruled out.

Van Persie Nets Yet Again
Another game, another goal for Robin Van Persie as the league leaders won at Old Trafford for the eighth game in succession. Ferguson chose to drop Javier Hernandez despite the Mexican producing three goals and a pair of assist in his last two matches and while Danny Welbeck again drew a blank, “Robin Reliant” delivered once more. The Dutchman is now 26 points ahead of his nearest challenger at the top of the FPL standings and with a run of consistency that has produced a goal or assist in 17 of his 19 starts, he continues to attract major investment despite a price tag of 14.1. United’s upcoming schedule pits them against seven of the current bottom 10 in the next 10 Gameweeks, affording Van Persie plenty opportunity to rack up more significant scores.

Although Welbeck’s blank continued a run that has seen him score just once this season, his manager was more than happy with the forward’s contribution and explained the tactical thinking behind his selection:

“Danny was fantastic. I thought he gave them a real hard day of it, the two centre-backs. He and Robin, particularly in the first half, gave them a very difficult time. The reason Danny played was because we wanted someone who would drop on top of their centre-midfield player. He did that well and put in a great shift. He ran his legs off today and deserved the Man of the Match award.”

Liverpool Attacking Options Increase
Daniel Sturridge climbed off the bench to notch a goal on his league debut for the Reds to hint at his mid-price potential yesterday. Brendan Rodgers has admitted the former Chelsea man is not yet 100% fit and is likely to continue with this tactic as he builds up Sturridge’s match-fitness but it’s clear he’ll offer a real alternative in the Reds’ first XI, with a 7.3 price tag likely to entice many. Sturridge was handed the advanced forward role as Luis Suarez dropped deep to accommodate the new boy – backing up Rodgers’ intentions to change the Uruguayan’s role. Not surprisingly, Brendan Rodgers was full of praise for his new striker as he clung to the major positive from Sunday’s defeat…

“You have seen from a half-appearance (at Old Trafford) and 55 last weekend (when he scored on his debut against Mansfield in the FA Cup) that this boy is a goalscorer and what he needed was an opportunity. He got one goal (against United) and was unlucky with a couple of opportunities. He is going to be a terrific signing for us…I have been assessing him in training and he is coming back. If I thought he could have lasted the game I would have put him in. Sometimes you can rush them back too quickly and break them and I didn’t want to do that. He is certainly getting there with his work-rate every day. It is just a case of building him into it.”

The 2-1 Old Trafford defeat saw Steven Gerrard maintain his superb recent consistency – an assist for Sturridge’s consolation means the Liverpool skipper has scored or assisted in seven of his last eight matches. Now up to third in the FPL midfielder standings, Gerrard is proving a real differential with an ownership of under 6% and could prosper once again next weekend as Norwich roll up to Anfield – while trips to Arsenal and City may deter many, Liverpool’s schedule looks particularly enticing from Gameweek 26; with the 9.4 priced Gerrard now just 10 points behind Suarez after yesterday’s result. With Fabio Borini now fit and available, Rodgers certainly has plenty options in his attacking front three – Raheem Sterling’s game time continues to look less appealing by the week; he has now managed 90 minutes just once in the last five, with Rodgers clearly feeling fatigue has played a part in a series of displays that have harvested just a goal and assist in the last 10 for the teenager.

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1,553 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Jafooli
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Evening all....

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    1. Ryan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Evening 🙂

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      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        😀

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  2. Jafooli
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Anyone like to predict who might lose out in the mid-week Chelsea line up?

    I think Ivanovic could be given a rest for Terry/Cahill and Oscar will come in for somebody.

    I also think Ba & Torres will both start..

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    1. The Gambler.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      be interesting if they both started up top. hope so since i chose Ba over Mata for the armband 🙁

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    2. Kostja
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I cant see both starting swansea and arsenal game coming up in close proximity so one will be rested.

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    3. J0E
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Terry and Cahill in central defence is very likely with Ivan rested.

      Can see Mata playing after being subbed early. I also personally think Ba did enough against Stoke to justify another start...not sure whether he'll go for both...I get the feeling that change in formation is still a work in training ground progress.

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      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Also worth remembering the team that beat them 5-1 last week Jonty. I know it doesn't always work like that, but he can't go changing it too much.......he'd get more pelters than normal. FSW that is.....

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    4. Ryan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Here's my prediction (impossible task really)

      Ivan -> Terry
      Cahill -> Lampard (Luiz going DM)
      Cole -> Oscar (Bertrand going LB)

      Could also see one of Mata/Hazard/Ba getting a start on the bench as well.

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      1. Kostja
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Lamps will play, watch and see. As he wont play vs the midfield of Arsenal. Haz or Mata are much more likely to be rested in this game.

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        1. Ryan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Hmm, you could be right.

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        2. ronty
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Hazard has had his rest.

          If he does not start,I will be very surprised but you really never know with Rafa.

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          1. Kostja
            • 12 Years
            11 years, 2 months ago

            played 2 games in less than a week though. vs SOT would be his third game in a week. Same goes for Mata. Could just get an early sub though. I am just thinking one could be rested as they have to be fit for Arsenal in 4 days after that.

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            1. Ryan
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 12 Years
              11 years, 2 months ago

              They could get 45mins each

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            2. ronty
              • 12 Years
              11 years, 2 months ago

              think Hazard getting rested also against Norwich earlier gives him the edge
              but I agree with your points.

              Arsenal is where Rafa is looking.

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              1. Kostja
                • 12 Years
                11 years, 2 months ago

                second leg of the Cup vs Swansea also coming up. So he could be looking at every chance for a rest.

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    5. lfcserg
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      IVANOVIC BETTER START

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      1. Fratboy
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        +1!!!

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    6. thegaffer82
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Think Hazard might be on the bench after seeing out the whole game versus Stoke......Was very happy to see Mata come off early. Should mean a start for him.

      I'm guessing Torres will start this one too and Ba will come on after 60mins or so

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      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah this looks fair for the front six....

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    7. HuttonDressedasLahm
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Ivanovic should be given a rest, hes played loads. But knowing my luck it will be Azpillicueta

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    8. SuperOsçarBaby
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Ivanovic never will RESTED

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  3. danishdynamite
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Anyone still going for 3 arsenal players, or are we getting cold feet?

    Was gonna do Hazard > Santi but wondering if Berba > Dzecko is a better bet

    I'm WC'ing afterwards so there are no long term issues

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    1. Gobigorgohome
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I have Santi, Theo, and Gibbs at the moment with Nolan and Damel too. 🙂

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      1. danishdynamite
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I have Gibbs, Theo, Jussi and Demel but increasingly see Arsenal getting bugger all against Chelsea, hence the apprehension

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  4. Van Dal
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Anyone know where I can get a pair of camouflage trousers from? I cant seem to find any!

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    1. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      The army......

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    2. Damo.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      The 90's...

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      1. Andrew
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        🙂

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      2. danishdynamite
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        lol

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    3. big oak
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      the FARC

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    4. Pilko's Pump Pants
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Just google it...

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    5. Van Dal
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      *whoosh*

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    6. HuttonDressedasLahm
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Nobody got the joke?

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      1. Van Dal
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        lol looks like it

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  5. AAAAA
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    What DGW players are you looking to bring in?
    All I have is Walcott and Demel.

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    1. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      got Walcott & O'Brien already. transferring in Gibbs later.

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    2. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      And a bit of Gibbs.....

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    3. Raise_the_Roof
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Have walcott and sagna, i have FT so i might get another. Any recomendations??

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    4. danishdynamite
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Have already 2 arse and 2 hammers but think I might call it a day at that

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  6. big oak
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    podo to cisse
    or
    carz to mata
    already have walcott gibbs demel jcole
    it will be for a 4pts hit

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    1. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      And wait for Remy and get him instead.

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      1. big oak
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        so A or B before remy?

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        1. Fratboy
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          A but I'm not sure I'd want rid of Podolski before the DGW, if I've understood you.

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  7. big oak
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    koscielny red card will keep him out for 1 game only
    right?

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    1. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      3

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      1. cassanata
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I think as it was a professional foul rather than serious foul play its only 1.

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      2. big oak
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        isn't it a red for a professional foul?

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        1. Fratboy
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          I thought you get 3 for a straight red and 1 for 2 yellows?

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          1. Sess!
            • 13 Years
            11 years, 2 months ago

            Nah 1 game for professional foul, 3 for serious foul play. Both straight red offences.

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    2. ronty
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      he won't miss any PL games.

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  8. NABIL - FPL otai
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    sorry if this is already being asked, but if you are to lose 1 of the so-called current Power-5 to play 3 upfront regularly, who will it be?

    Bale, Mata, Michu, Fellaini or Walcott?

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    1. big oak
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      fixtures
      im benhcing michu this week for example

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    2. Ryan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      In 2/3 weeks there will probably be a clear answer. For now though the power 5 is still 'in'

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    3. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      *has

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    4. Pilko's Pump Pants
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Whenever i hear anyone referring to their midfield as the 'power 5' i assume they must be under 15...

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      1. NABIL - FPL otai
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        not really. i'm almost double that age. only my first year here in FFS after a decade in FPL, and only using that phrase for a week because by observation i actually thought it would be much easier to understand. not my midfield anyway.

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      2. Sess!
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Wishful thinking on your part?

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    5. roscola
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I've opted to leave out Fellaini and I'm bricking it

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      1. NABIL - FPL otai
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        despite his favourable upcoming fixtures?

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        1. roscola
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Yep. Didn't want to go without Mata for DGW (right move, we now know), Walcott or Bale. Toss up between him and Michu.

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          1. NABIL - FPL otai
            • 11 Years
            11 years, 2 months ago

            that's my current midfield.. Mata Michu Bale Walcott & Punch. Very interested in Afro, but finding it hard to drop any of the big Mids.

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      2. A.T
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Me too but someone had to go

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    6. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Keep them for now I say! Only ones not to perform this week both have great fixtures next week.

      Michu at home to a de-motivated Stoke and Walcott with a DGW.

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      1. NABIL - FPL otai
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        i'm wCing in GW24. is it wise to drop any of the two for Afro?

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    7. JELLYFISH
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Walcott for me

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    8. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Walcott

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      1. NABIL - FPL otai
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        thanks Christina and all.

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  9. Shane Ferguson 4.0
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Question is:

    A – Luiz + Giroud

    B – Davies + Aguero and -4 pts

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    1. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I'm set on Ivanovic and Ba> Gibbs and Aguero if that helps.

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      1. Shane Ferguson 4.0
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I have a plenty of time to decide..... After a midweek games...

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  10. CFC1990
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    How can i improve my wildcard defence? 0.5m in the bank.

    Begovic, Federici
    Sagna, Demel, Cuellar, Davies, Wilson

    Cuellar may need to go.

    I am activating once GW23 commences.

    I am just outside the top 100k so want to improve on that really.

    Thanks a lot.

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    1. cassanata
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Norwich are pretty solid. Possibly R. Martin instead of Wilson for the time being.

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      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Liverpool away?

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        1. cassanata
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Your not going to plat all 5 every week. I'd imagine Sagna, Demel and Cuellar/Davies would play next week.

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          1. CFC1990
            • 12 Years
            11 years, 2 months ago

            I am thinking of Norwich too and Russell Martin. He has attacking potential too and a decent shot in his last match if i remember correctly. Thank you.

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            1. ronty
              • 12 Years
              11 years, 2 months ago

              Ruddy was unbelievable last time we faced Norwich at home.

              Bunn compensating that will be very nice.

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    2. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I like it as it is to be honest.

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      1. CFC1990
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Thanks. Maybe i am doing something right!

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  11. SPorting
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    my defence is looking a little dodgy this week:

    Gibbs (che, WHU)

    then

    Vertonghen (MUN)
    Hughes (mci)
    Nelsen (will he, won't he?)
    Cuellar (inj)

    any thoughts?

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    1. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      WC

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      1. SPorting
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        not sure it's that bad.

        i could live with Gibbs, Nelsen + ??

        or maybe Cuellar -> Demel for the DGW?

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        1. Fratboy
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          it's pretty bad mate considering you could have any defenders you want right now.

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      2. Christina.
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah, join me in the toilet*

        *Gorkks/Demel/garrido/cuellar/nelsen

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    2. Willis.
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      cuellar could be back. then play vert

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  12. õõzileyes
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    After making a few poor band wagon knee jerks, I seem to have finally found some momentum in my first season playing FPL.

    Still have 5 to play this GW, so expect to rise a little more in Week 22, but I can’t help but feel I’ve too much Chelsea coverage for GW 23. I plan to possibly ditch Ba for Pod, then rotate this (2nd forward) position to whoever looks promising (in a given game week) until the end of the season, making only minor adjustments to my remaining squad.

    Temporary Lineup for GW23:

    Jaas
    Luiz, Demel, Sagna, Davies
    Fella, Michu, Walcott, Mata
    Ba, RVP
    (Bego, Lambert, Punch, Harte)

    Who would you (C), and would you change Ba for Pod or another forward up value 0f 10.8M?

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    1. Pilko's Pump Pants
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I would captain Theo - and Podolski is a decent punt in the DGW

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      1. õõzileyes
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Was considering playing safe a giving RVP the armband, but if I give it to another current squad member it would be TheoI

        Guess switching to Pod depends on Ba’s game time and performance on Wednesday.

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  13. isacki: full casual
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Arsenal fan in peace, finally got a chance to get another look at the Kompany red card. (Video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRfo-tNaBkc&t=2m12s).

    The law concerned is Law 12 (Fouls & Misconduct) (http://www.fifa.com/mm/document/afdeveloping/refereeing/law_12_fouls_misconduct_en_47379.pdf) which states that players should be sent off for "serious foul play", which is defined as:
    "A player is guilty of serious foul play if he uses excessive force or brutality against an opponent when challenging for the ball when it is in play."

    The guidance adds that " 'using excessive force' means that the player has far exceeded the necessary use of force and is in danger of injuring his opponent." Note that it's the potential for injury that is considered, not actual injury.

    It also adds that "Any player who lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from the front, from the side or from behind using one or both legs, with excessive force and endangering the safety of an opponent is guilty of serious foul play".

    My take on it is that as far as the laws are concerned, this is a straightforwardly correct application of Rule 12 by the referee. Both of Kompany's legs leaving the ground leaves the referee with little choice but to deem it a lunge. Hence the FA is unlikely to undermine him, hence it is unlikely to be overturned.

    From a moral point of view, I think it's clear Kompany went only for the ball and there was no intent to injure. Credit also to Wilshere for asking the referee not to send Kompany off immediately after the tackle – having made a few tackles like that himself, I think he understood! 😆

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    1. Pilko's Pump Pants
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I'm an Arsenal fan too - and it might not get rescinded, but Kompany definitely didn't deserve to walk for that tackle...

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      1. isacki: full casual
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Times have changed such that tackles are marked only on potential for injury. A few decades ago, maybe even a decade ago, this kind of tackle would be seen as a hard but fair tackle.

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    2. SPorting
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      fact is, at the point of contact, Kompanys feet were back on the ground.

      he needed to raise them in the first place to get some movement towards the ball. he's hardly going to shuffle into the tackle, is he.

      wrong decision weighted by the draconian Rules which are killing off meaty yet honest tackles.

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      1. isacki: full casual
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I think the point is that his feet were off the ground in the first place and this greatly reduced his control in choosing where they landed. As it turned out, the outcome wasn't injury. They're marking it on potential for injury though.

        It seems harsh, but the rulebook has been applied correctly IMO.

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    3. Willis.
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      he only sent him off cos he wrongly sent off koscielny

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      1. isacki: full casual
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah that was my instant gut reaction when it happened! Covering his arse 😆

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      2. Pilko's Pump Pants
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        You could well be right on that...

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      3. Paolo Di Laernu - low rep r…
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Koscielny deserved to go...he had two arms around Dzeko.

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  14. cuterandy
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    so michu got his fifth yellow against everton, right? so is he gonna get suspended next game?

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    1. cassanata
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      needs to reach 10 yellows

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    2. Connor's Calling
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      needs 10 now

      (31st Dec was cut off for 5)

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    3. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Nope.

      That was last year.

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    4. Willis.
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      yes

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      1. Willis.
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        and by yes, i mean no

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        1. OPTA FPL
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          😆 /

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    5. Andrew
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      No its now 10

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    6. JUNITED
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      don't forget carling cup and FA bro.

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  15. thegreathoudini
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Current Squad.

    Jaaskelainen
    Cameron – Azpilicueta – Evra
    Maloney – Walcott – Routledge – Mata
    Suarez – Ba – Van Persie

    Subs: Begovic Nelsen Clyne Puncheon

    Did Hazard > Walcott last night before price rise for free.

    Currently have Winter Wildcard & 3.2m in the bank. Thinking of WCing.

    Jaaskelainen > Bunn
    Nelsen > Demel
    Azpilicueta > Gibbs
    Maloney > Fellaini
    Routledge > Michu
    Ba > Lukaku

    With 0.7 left.

    Any suggestions much appreciated.

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    1. Pilko's Pump Pants
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      As someone mentioned earlier Lukaku has been rotated a lot this season...

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  16. JUNITED
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    I have Fletcher Ba RVP in my team.

    Planning to sell Fletcher because he doesn't seem dangerous in goal scoring now.

    I saw Lukaku is really a dangerous man. He score a lot recently , He is strong, He doesn't waste his chance, He is big, he is fast. Just like Drogba.

    But Lukaku has harder fixtures than Fletcher after West brom vs Aston Villa.

    Is it a good idea if i make my transfer Fletcher --> Lukaku?
    or is it just a wasting transfer?

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    1. cuterandy
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      keep fletcher

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      1. Christina.
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        +1

        Look at the ticker

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        1. roscola
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Thanks for the rare bout of compassion earlier Christina - much appreciated 😉

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          1. Christina.
            • 14 Years
            11 years, 2 months ago

            No probs.

            Loser.

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            1. roscola
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 12 Years
              11 years, 2 months ago

              Normal service resumes. All is right with the world

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              1. Christina.
                • 14 Years
                11 years, 2 months ago

                😉

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        2. ronty
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          cracking fixtures coming up

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      2. JUNITED
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Okay. Thanks. Now i feel confidence to keep Fletcher.

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  17. Piggs Boson
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Arteta being ruled out of the DGW is terrible news for both Arsenal's offensive and defensive returns. Anus.

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    1. cassanata
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Diaby coming back may be very well timed

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      1. Fratboy
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        If he doesn't get injured before the weekend.

        Highly likely.

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    2. HuttonDressedasLahm
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      BUT Podolskis on pens now?

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  18. Connor's Calling
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    B*lls.

    0.1 off being able to do:

    Berba -> Podolski.

    Hate it when that happens....

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    1. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Dodged a bullet there 😉

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    2. Efan Ekoku Pops
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      It's a sign!...

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    3. danishdynamite
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      If it helps, I could do it, but won't be doing it

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  19. Scroobius Mac
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Potential WC team
    Szczesny / Mignolet
    Sagna / Davies / Wilson / Clyne / Demel
    Mata / Fellaini / Walcott / Puncheon / Bale
    Sturridge / Aguero / Van Persie

    Differences in starting XI this week would be Aguero, Sturridge, Chezney and Davies instead of Benteke, Berba, Luiz and Sterling.

    Worth playing it or should I hold tight? Got 2 frees so could get some of that lot in anyway.

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    1. Drip Doctor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Play it. City and Liverpool both have a great fixture.

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      1. Fratboy
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Love the name!ove Suits

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      2. Scroobius Mac
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I could get Aguero or Sturridge with my frees though and save my WC for another week.

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        1. Drip Doctor
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Do that then. Save the WC.

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    2. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I wanted Szczesny and Mignolet! Great keeper rotation.

      Very similar defence to mine and I think it'll prove fruitful.

      Really like the forwards too. A lot. Good team that Billy.

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      1. Scroobius Mac
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah I did steal your idea on that one. If Cuellar's fit then I may go with him and Sagna too, sneaky bit of doubling.

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        1. Fratboy
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Oooooph you bast*rd! 🙂

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  20. Give The Todd Some Love
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    A) Snod --> Cole/Jarvis
    B) Ba --> Pod
    C) Sterling+Ba --> Cole+Pod
    D) Something else

    By the way I'm only gonna get rid of Ba of he starts against Soton

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    1. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      D

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      1. Give The Todd Some Love
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        😀

        And what might that be?

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        1. Jafooli
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          😀 not sure 😀

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    2. Scroobius Mac
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I don't like Podolski gets withdrawn far too early in many of the matches.

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      1. Give The Todd Some Love
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I know. Don't see the appeal of any other Arsenal attackers really, as Santi is really inconsistent and I don't wanna take out Mata or Bale, and Guroud might not play. I'm sort of resigned to getting a WHM mid instead, but I can't even afford Nolan.

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        1. Scroobius Mac
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          How about Sturridge or Aguero? Both have decent fixtures this week.

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          1. Give The Todd Some Love
            • 12 Years
            11 years, 2 months ago

            Worried Sturridge won't start, and don't have the cash to bring in Aguero

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  21. thegaffer82
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Anyone experiencing problems accessing footballtube website?

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    1. HuttonDressedasLahm
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      No, but Por*tube.com is fine 🙂

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  22. IfYouTinkerYou'llHaveA…
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Will a double game week striker score more than Suarez (NOR) or Dzeko (FUL)?
    Plus the fact you might then have to transfer DGW striker out again for one of the aforementioned.

    That my dilemma for this week. Have Lambert - Ba - RVP plus 2.3 in bank. blaaarg

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    1. HuttonDressedasLahm
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      No DGW strikers id want anyway

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      1. IfYouTinkerYou'llHaveA…
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        maybe I could spend my money elsewhere. Ramirez > Fellani is another option.

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    2. Guybrush Threepwood
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Seriously struggling to see any DGW striker who is worth a spot over Suarez / Tevez / Dzeko. Giroud and Podolski aren't getting enough game time to warrant investment and I don't see Arsenal getting anything against Chelsea.

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      1. IfYouTinkerYou'llHaveA…
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah think I've now reached the same conclusion. Theres always a chance Pod will play 180 mins and score well but its not worth the risk.

        I'm still not sure about City strikers with Aguero on the mend though, and Suarez has strurridge now and a couple of tricky away games coming up.

        Think I'm going to opt for the power 5 (cringe) and play 2 up front.

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  23. Willis.
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    i would like the picture at the top of this page to be removed. dzeko's erected nipples are clearly visible.

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    1. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Those aren't nipples.

      It's his balls.

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    2. Efan Ekoku Pops
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I think the main issue is the fact he's wearing gloves with a short-sleeved shirt! What is that all about?

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  24. Andrew
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    How much snow has everyone got at the moment, apparently we are expecting another load this afternoon in the Home Counties.

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    1. HuttonDressedasLahm
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Oxford, about half an inch, snowing again now though.
      *Traffic chaos begins!!

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      1. Andrew
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Exactly! I think we are due the snow between 2pm and 5pm

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        1. rvp786
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          birmingham - fucck all really. not enough to affect anything

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    2. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Singapore - still none

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  25. Home Run Baker
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Ba. He's cup-tied for Europa, yes? But what about FA/League Cup?
    Thanks

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    1. isacki: full casual
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      He played in the FA Cup and scored twice already, didn't he? So not cup-tied for FA Cup. Not sure about league cup.

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      1. Home Run Baker
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I thought it was the other way around. If you play in a competition for your former club, then can't for th new club.

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        1. Sess!
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          He meant he scored two for cheslea (vs southampton).

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      2. Home Run Baker
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Doh! Yes, you're right.

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    2. Paolo Di Laernu - low rep r…
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Neither

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  26. Guybrush Threepwood
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Had planned to do Mata to Cazorla this week for free, now starting to question whether 3 Arsenal is worthwhile, even in a DGW. Already have Sagna and Walcott.

    Anyone else doing this move?

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    1. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      I have 2.2m to spend and was going to do Gorkks ->Gibbs to add to Walcott/Santi.

      Now wondering if I should not do Ba to Suarez or Berba to Tevez instead.

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      1. Guybrush Threepwood
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        I like the Tevez move, I'm not interested in further investment in the Arsenal defence

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        1. Christina.
          • 14 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Everyone is going on about Kun, but he isnt what he was last year.

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  27. isacki: full casual
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Remember the guy who posted on Friday night about how his weather maps were showing lots of snow over the London region on Tuesday and Wednesday and said there was a risk of Chelsea v Southampton being called off - his theory is definitely being tested now!

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    1. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      This is going to be cruel as a Mata(c) owner.

      Rival went Rvp(c)

      Damn.

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      1. Specialist
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Mata would still have got double RVP's points though..

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        1. Christina.
          • 14 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          I'm greedy.

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    2. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      That would be typical FPL.

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    3. Ryan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Meh, the damage has already been done.

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    4. Pasqualinho
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      It's unlikely. It's almost certain that it will snow in London but given fair warning the access to the stadium will be well prepared and the pitch will never be a problem. The only possibility is if it a lot of snow falls, thaws quickly and then freezes again.

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  28. Drip Doctor
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    9, 17, 7, 7, 10, 5

    Gerrard is becoming impossible to ignore. He is owned by just 5.9% of people and nobody else in my mini league has him.

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    1. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Oh yes.

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    2. isacki: full casual
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      He's just so involved. His corners and free kicks are worth a few assists by themselves. The only thing I would monitor is whether he has the same threat when Suarez is playing centrally behind Sturridge. That said, he still got an assist from a rebound against United when that was the case.

      Plus, he LOVES big games... using the same example.

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      1. Fratboy
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        He LOVES playing against us, he often scores or assists in our derbys.

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        1. isacki: full casual
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 2 months ago

          Scored against you, two assists against City

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    3. Fratboy
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      yep, ridiculously under the radar!

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    4. Bubbles
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Won't he drop a bit deeper now, with Sturridge and Suarez playing? He'll be alongside Lucas, whereas it was Lucas + Allen/Henderson deeper?

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      1. isacki: full casual
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        Yep 4-2-3-1 in second half against United with Gerrard and Allen in central midfield. Still got an assist from there, classic Gerrard, but might dampen his prospects long term.

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  29. matarbus
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 2 months ago

    Walcott or Cazorla?

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    1. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 2 months ago

      Both, here

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      1. DonTheSpecialOne
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 2 months ago

        both here as well

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