Scout Notes

Scout Scribbles – Liverpool Suffer Toure Blow

Liverpool edge past Notts County in extra-time but suffer a bitter blow as Kolo Toure tweaks a groin. Arsenal make progress in the Champions League but have injury concerns of their own as Lukas Podolski is ruled out with a hamstring. Elsewhere in the Capital One Cup, Ravel Morrison and Adel Taarabt boost their stock, whilst Ben Foster’s injury may just offer a cut-price route into the Baggies defence.

Liverpool Set to Lose Toure

Brendan Rodgers paid the price for fielding a strong lineup for the Capital One Cup tie with Notts County as he watched three players pick up injuries. The most serious of those looks to be Kolo Toure who was stretchered from the field with a groin problem. Rodgers’ early prognosis of the injury wasn’t optimistic….

“Kolo Toure, we need to assess it. His groin opened up a wee bit. He overstretched his groin and it doesn’t look so good, to be honest.”

Liverpool also suffered knocks to both Joe Allen and new left-back, Aly Cissokho, in the 4-2 extra time victory. Both players look early doubts for the weekend clash with Man United at Anfield.

“Cissokho was devastated. He shouldn’t be too long. He’s got a knock in his ankle. He was distraught to come off in his first start here…Joe Allen may well be a hamstring so we’ll have a look at that.”

The Scout Says: Toure’s injury may well be set to keep him out for a number of weeks and will come as a bitter blow to both his manager and Fantasy owners. The former City defender offered strong value throughout the Fantasy games and had started the season in good form, earning back-to-back clean sheets against Stoke and Villa. Toure, owned by over 10% of Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, seems very unlikely to figure against United this Sunday and his absence will put stress on many a squad with Chelsea and Villa’s assets already missing from Gameweek 3. Sales and a price drop look almost certain in the weeks to come, particularly with the international break beckoning. Martin Skrtel is expected to be fit to take his place alongside Dan Agger at the back when Robin van Persie and United pay visit on Sunday.

Ramsey’s Form Continues as Gunners Suffer Podolski Injury

Aaron Ramsey’s superb start to the season continued with two strikes as Arsenal progressed to the group stages of the Champions League courtesy of a 2-0 victory over Fenerbache at the Emirates. Having notched three goals this season, a delighted Arsene Wenger singled the Welshman out for praise in his post-match analysis:

“He gets to the end of things now. I liked especially his second goal. It’s a good finish and a year ago he would not have taken that chance the way he took it here. He’s improving from week to week. That’s very positive for us because a year ago, many people were questioning Aaron Ramsey.”

The Gunners victory came at a price, however, with Lukas Podolski suffering a hamstring injury that is set to rule him out for three weeks. Ramsey and Wilshere also sustained knocks ahead of Sunday’s derby clash with Spurs.

Wenger had this to say on Tuesday’s injury setbacks:

“That’s the negative of tonight. We paid a heavy price on the injury front because we lost Podolski. I don’t know how bad Ramsey is. I don’t know how Wilshere responds to an ankle problem. We have to check that [on Wednesday] morning… Podolski is definitely out for 21 days and Ramsey we have to check how severe his groin is tomorrow…Jack should be alright for Sunday and I’m hopeful on Aaron as well. I don’t know how bad it is. I took Ramsey off with three or four minutes to go but I don’t know how bad it is. I haven’t seen him yet.”

The Scout Says: Impressive at Fulham last weekend, Ramsey has now scored three goals in Europe and, in the Sun Dream Team, is the top rated midfielder on show on 41 points having earned three Star Man awards to date. A lesser asset in the FPL, Ramsey is nonetheless priced at just 5.5 and is beginning to blink on the radar as an option to consider for Arsenal coverage. The knock will be a minor concern, although with Arsenal set to recruit in the transfer window, many Fantasy managers will have doubts over Ramsey’s long-term prospects, even with his current level of performance.

The injury to Podolski rules him out just days after his brace at Fulham. Podolski attracted investment this week off the back of that points haul with over 15,000 FPL managers making the investment ahead of the encounter with Spurs. His absence looks set to cement starts for Ramsey and maybe Wilshere, if fit, for Sunday’s game. Tomas Rosicky could also be in line to start once again, with Mikel Arteta still a likely absentee.

Ravel Morrison Stakes a Claim

Starting as part of a second string West Ham lineup in their Capital One Cup tie with Cheltenham, Ravel Morrison scored and assisted as the Hammers ran out 2-1 winners. Outstanding in pre-season, Morrison will hope to force his way into Sam Allardyce’s lineup, having emerged from the bench in the recent 0-0 at Newcastle. Assistant manager Neil McDonald was full of praise for Morrison is his post-match comments:

“I think he has shone tonight and has tried to knock on the manager’s door with a good performance and another goal. He’s continued what he did in pre-season, scoring goals from midfield, which is great. He’s shown what he can do and now has to wait for his chance when the manager picks him in the Barclays Premier League.”

The Scout Says: So impressive in the summer friendlies, Fantasy managers were hoping that Morrison would stake a first-team claim only to see the former United starlet reduced to a bench role. Last night’s display offered a reminder of his qualities, however, and with the Hammers without a cutting edge as Andy Carroll continues to recover from injury, it could be that Morrison gets his chance to offer potential as a 4.5 FPL midfield option.

Snodgrass and Bassong Make Injury Returns

Norwich City put out a strong lineup in their 6-3 Capital One Cup tie win over Bury. Both Robert Snodgrass and Seb Bassong earned their first starts of the season following injury, while Anthony Pilkington also made a return and duly got his name on the scoresheet. Johan Elmander, making his full debut for the Canaries, earned a brace as the Premier League side ran out winners.

The Scout Says: Both Snodgrass and Bassong look set to start when Southampton pay visit at the weekend. The Scot offered Chris Hughton a reminder of his talents by earning two assists in last night’s victory, while Bassong’s presence in the defence following the defeat at Hull last weekend, looks vital. That could well see Steven Whittaker make way as Hughton opts to keep both Russell Martin and Michael Turner in his back four.

With Pilkington and Elmander pushing for starts, Hughton appears to have a wealth of options in attacking areas and Fantasy managers will be keen to see how the Canaries lineup settles in the coming weeks. Both Pilkington and Elmander are available as 5.5 midfielders and forwards respectively.

Taarabt Notches As Bent Gets 90 Minutes

Adel Taarabt opened his Fulham account with a superbly struck opening goal as Fulham squeezed past Burton Albion in extra-time. Outstanding in his 45 minute appearance, the Moroccan appears to be strengthening his case for regular starts in Martin Jol’s lineup. The Fulham boss also handed Darren Bent a full 90 minutes as the former Villa man builds his fitness following his move to Craven Cottage.

The Scout Says: Taarabt certainly looks to have settled and is beginning to make an impact at the Cottage. There’s no doubting his talent, however, with the likes of Dimitar Berbatov, Bryan Ruiz and Pajtim Kasami to accommodate, in addition to a string of options on the flank, there are lingering doubts as to Taarabt’s prospects as a regular starter. He is displaying strong form, however, and Jol has not shown hesitation when it comes to introducing Taarabt to his lineup. With Bent also edging towards a first league start, this pair could offer intriguing mid-price options for Fantasy managers ahead of Fulham’s favourable run of fixtures to come. Jol’s side face West Brom, Cardiff and Stoke at home from Gameweeks 4-7.

Villas Boas Praises New Recruit Capoue

Andre Villas Boas was full of praise for Etienne Capoue, after the defensive midfielder’s impressive home debut against Swansea at the weekend. Capoue screened the Spurs back four as part of a three-man midfield in Sunday’s 1-0 victory. Villas-Boas singled out the French international, post-match:

“That was a very good performance from Capoue, great to see him out there protecting the back four. That shows signs of a player who is mature, has great technical qualities and it able to recover so many balls that give the team possession and the chance to attack.”

The Scout Says:Brazilian defensive midfielder Sandro, who had a bench role on Sunday in his bid to return to full fitness, will be a constant threat to Capoue’s place in the first XI. However, Villas Boas’ comments are hugely encouraging for the Frenchman. From a Fantasy football perspective, Capoue is unlikely to attract many suitors in the FPL but could eventually turn heads in the Sky Sports game given his potential for passing and tackling bonus at a price of just 4.9 million. The key significance of both Capoue and Sandro as options is that the pair allow the continuation of the 4-3-3 which should give Paulinho greater licence to forage forward in search of goals. The Brazilian was one of the most forward thinking midfielders on display at the weekend and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet. Paulinho emergence as a box-to-box midfielder is likely to see Gylfi Sigurdsson’s stock fall further. Meanwhile, on the flanks either side of Roberto Soldado, Aaron Lennon, Nacer Chadli and Andros Townsend could well be competing for just two positions. Crucially, the 4-3-3 could be fundamental as to how we assess Tottenham’s defensive potential over the season ahead – Villas-Boas’ side have yet to concede this season and the midfield three offered extra protection to the back-four against Michu and co last Sunday, with the Spaniard failing to register a single effort at the Lane.

Gibson Nearing Toffees Return

Darron Gibson is edging closer to full fitness, according to Everton boss Roberto Martinez. The midfielder is to be assessed ahead of tonight’s Capital One Cup clash against Stevenage, though the tie is likely to come too soon for his first appearance of the season, as Martinez explained:

Darron Gibson is progressing really well and he won’t be too far away. We need to be careful that we don’t push him too early.

Elsewhere, Tony Hibbert is now back in full training and likely to be involved in the Stevenage tie, while winger Magaye Gueye made his comeback from injury this week in Monday’s under-21 defeat at Manchester City. Antolin Alcaraz is also expected to return to full training in the next seven days.

In addition, Roberto Martínez is set to hand teenager Gerard Deulofeu, who Everton signed on loan from Barcelona, his competitive debut in the Capital One Cup but suggests that it may be some months before he wins regular Premier League starts. Martinez said:

”For someone so young to feel they want to help the team is something you want to see as a manager. We need to be patient with Gerard. We will see the best of him in January or February. He’s an exciting winger. He takes people on and can play on both wings.”

The Scout Says: Gibson’s return to full fitness places a question mark over Ross Barkley’s long term prospects as a midfield option. Barkley, who this week earned an England call up, has already risen in price in the FPL game to 4.8 on the back of his goal and maximum bonus point haul in Gameweek 1, however, his inexperience may eventually see Martinez favour Gibson over the coming weeks. Gibson could featured on the bench against Cardiff this weekend, with Barkley looking secure in the short-term, at least.

Gueye’s return is a reminder that Everton have options out wide. Kevin Mirallas’ owners will be wary of the threat from Deulofeu’s emergence in the short term as the Belgian struggles to emulate his pre-season form. Mirallas has missed several opportunities to get his goal account ticking in his two starts thus far.

Alcaraz’s return could be more significant and allow Martinez to revert to the 3-4-3 wingback system he deployed while at Wigan. This would see Alcaraz slot in next to Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka and give Seamus Coleman and left-back Leighton Baines even greater freedom to bomb forward. Such a bold change of system could again cast doubts over Barkley’s long-term security in a more disciplined midfield role.

Myhill Set for Baggies Run

West Bromich Albion keeper Ben Foster has been sidelined for the next 12 weeks after suffering a stress fracture in his right foot. The England international was substituted during the Everton match on Saturday and will undergo surgery later this week. This latest setback coincides with a return to training of Wales international goalkeeper Boaz Myhill. While Myhill is the favourite to replace Foster, Steve Clarke also praised third choice keeper Luke Daniels who came on for Foster during the Everton clash:

There’s no hiding the fact this is disappointing news as Ben is a key player for us. He was excellent on Saturday before his injury forced him off. In the meantime, I’ve got two other very good goalkeepers to choose from. Boaz did well when he deputised for Ben last season and Luke showed on Saturday he is a more than capable goalkeeper.

The Scout says: Priced at 4.5 in the FPL, Myhill offers a cheaper route into West Brom’s defensive points and an easy transfer for those who had partnered the 5.0 priced Foster in a defensive pairing with Southampton stopper Artur Boruc. While Daniels proved effective during his short stint in goal against Everton he is likely to remain behind the more experienced Myhill in Clarke’s thinking.

Stoke swoop for Liverpool winger

Following a frustrating first year at Liverpool, Moroccan international winger Oussama Assaidi has joined Stoke City on a season long loan in search of first team starts. Stoke have also announced that their US international winger Brek Shea is winning his battle to be fit, after damaging knee ligaments during a pre-season friendly against Philadelphia Union on July 30. Shea came through a 45 minute stint for Stoke’s Under-21 side unscathed this week.

The Scout Says: Assaidi and Shea will certainly increase the competition for places on the Potters flanks. With both being predominantly left-footed, Matt Etherington’s role on the wing looks in question – the former West Ham man has started each of the Potters’ first two Gameweeks, with Jon Walters fielded on the opposite flank. Coming in at 4.9 and 5.0 in FPL, Assaidi and Shea are certainly budget-friendly, though with trips to West Ham and Arsenal and a home clash against City in the next three, Fantasy managers will be happy to steer clear until the schedule is a little kinder. A Moving Target article on Assaidi will be published later this week.

J0E Podcaster and writer. Tweets stats and stuff via @FFScout_Joe Follow them on Twitter

1,427 Comments Post a Comment
  1. andres
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Having dzeko and zab already, who should I replace hazard with?

    A silva - really like his fixture, but would it be city overkill?
    b michu - to spread the risk, could do well against a fosterless WBA
    c nolan - free cash for a possible RVP incorporation should I want him gw4 w/o WC
    d other???

    thx 🙂

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    1. Frazek
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Paulinho?

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      1. andres
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        already have soldado

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        1. Frazek
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          And? You're allowed to have more than one player per team, and arguably should at times when certain teams hit form.

          Wally, Santi other obvious ones, but I assume you have one of those. Nothing else is terribly compelling to me. Perhaps your Nolan punt?

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    2. Dogba
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      I like the Michu pick, but I'm not looking at squeezing RVP in.

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    3. El_Matador
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Not sure on Nolan although W Ham fixtures decent. Nice to get RVP in without WC though, so probs best move there.

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  2. AMygg
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    So it's confirmed that Bale can f*** off, then. I've got no problems with him wanting to move, but refusing to train and the likes? Disrespectful and I hope we fine him on his way out as a symbolic measure.

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    1. Frazek
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      A bit strong perhaps. 🙂

      Latest rumour is that RM bid fraction off world record, but 2 week fine pushes it over £80m... 🙂

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      1. AMygg
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        😀

        But yeah, I've got absolutely no love for players trying to force a move like that. Let's hope we get in Lamela ASAP. A nr. 10 would be welcome too.

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        1. Frazek
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Erikson looks very likely, price is right and he's got potential, even if still a long way from Bale class.

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          1. gentlemanlyconduct
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            He's more of a central playmaker in the modric mould, right?

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            1. Frazek
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              10 years, 7 months ago

              More attacking than Modders, would fit neatly in to top of Mid-3.

              A left footer (so to write) so could be used wide, although I suspect that would not be his best position (a little too Siggy-a-like out there), decent free kick taker, corners etc, but he'll take time to adjust.

              But as we''ve seen so far with Dembele, it's a difficult position to play and make work. Time will tell.

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    2. Crouch Potato!
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      I think that is appalling coming from a Spurs fan, after what he has given your club. The move had been sanctioned, not training is not a big deal. A fine as a symblic measure, what a fickle fan you are.

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      1. Dogba
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        I still think it's unprofessional to just ditch it if the club wants and expects him to be there.

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      2. AMygg
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        If the club expects him to be there, he should be there. End of story. I feel the same way about how both Modric and Berba behaved when they were trying to force moves. Both had given the clubs a great deal, and we'd given their career a boost, and this is how you choose to end things?

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      3. AMygg
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Oh, and by the way, I see we share the exact same rank on FPL: 155 385 🙂

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        1. Crouch Potato!
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Uncanny! 🙂

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          1. ASAP Rocky
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            You need to report to the office that pays you. After I turned in my termination notice to my employer, I wouldn't just not show up for work. I do not agree with this modern era football tactics to "force" moves or manipulate systems, its plain and simple to me.

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          2. AMygg
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            And I agree that I might've been a bit harsh on Bale. I just hate when footballers try to force a move by doing stuff like this, especially when it's a man on 100k a week! But you're right, he's given the club a lot (and we've given him a lot), so fair play there.

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  3. lfc123
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    RVP or no RVP..

    A. Whittaker - Nolan - RVP (-8pts over 2 weeks)

    or

    B. Ivan - Hazard - Benteke (-4pts over 2 weeks)

    Cheers!

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  4. mathmo
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Afternoon all. For those interested, here's a report on the Tottenham-bound Erik Lamela, who should turn out to be an excellent signing for the North London club.

    The 21 year old Argentinian began his career at River Plate. After a handful of senior appearances across the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons, he established himself as a regular starter in the club's turbulent and ultimately disastrous season. Notching four times in over thirty appearances, he departed to Roma after River Plate were relegated at the end of the 2011, snapped up then-manager Luis Enrique and his eagle-eyed director of football, Walter Sabatini.

    His first season at Roma continued in much the same fashion as his last in his homeland, with a modest four goals in just under thirty appearances. However, a change of manager brought in a a new style of play, and the gung-ho Roma under Zdenek Zeman (who in former managerial stints presided over the development of young forward players into attacking forces) allowed Lamela to flourish, including a streak of seven goals in six appearances.

    Zeman's kamikaze football eventually led to his sacking, and Lamela had to adapt under Roma's more conservative assistant manager Aurelio Andreazzoli. After a brief dry spell dogged by positional switches and tactical changes, Lamela rediscovered his scoring form, ending the season with 15 goals in 33 appearances, with 5 assists.

    Possessing a versatility that allows him to play in a multitude of attacking positions, the left-footer seems the closest Tottenham will get to a direct replacement for Gareth Bale. He is capable of playing as a forward in a front three in a 4-3-3 or any of the attacking four in a 4-2-3-1. The fact that he proved his playmaking abilities in a team that had the talismanic Totti rooted to the number 10 spot says a great deal about his talent. His preferred position, however, is as a right sided winger.

    He has an excellent eye for a pass and a great accuracy to match - well over 80%, combined with vision that set him up for around 35 key passes over his last season. He has excellent dribbling ability and close control, he is comfortable on his right foot, and possesses an excellent change of pace and acceleration, in a surprisingly tall 6ft frame.

    His shooting has improved drastically this season, and playing in a wide forward role, he has a tendency to cut inside and shoot, sometimes from great distances. His good reading of the game also allows him to drift inside unnoticed for less glamorous close range shots, as well setting up killer passes through impossibly tight gaps.

    Lamela lacks aerial ability, coupled with an at-times extreme reluctance to track back and defend, which may draw rather unfavourable comparisons to a certain ex-Tottenham 'fruitcake' and former pre-season darling. He also has a tendency to dwell on the ball - a trait that served him well last season, but way well risk the ire of fans, team-mates and his new manager at Spurs.

    Lamelas strengths are his technical ability, his vision, and his pace. He offers excellent goal threat and great assist potential; if Soldado was to settle in at Spurs and replicate his goal scoring form from Spain, he may find himself well supplied by the the Argentine. While it is hard to fill the void left by Gareth Bale, Spurs have done well to replace him with a quick, creative left footed player who is capable of both the spectacular and the consistent. As seen in his last season, he is not averse to change, but thrives in an attacking team where he is allowed to stay forward and attacking, and where little is expected from his less-than-formidable defensive attributes.

    In terms of pricing, with last season's goal ratio he is unlikely to come in under 8.5 - however at that price he would be an excellent buy. His versatility makes him nigh-on immune to the switches between 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-3, and may well nail himself on to the Tottenham teamsheet.

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    1. Sleep Talk
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Great post Mathmo!
      Seems like an exciting FPL-prospect, you reckon he might be classified as a midfielder?

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      1. mathmo
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        How FPL classify wing-forwards is anyone's guess with examples going either way. I get the feeling he will be classed as a midfielder, in which case he could prove excellent value in what is allegedly an underperforming midfield cohort this year. As a nailed on starter in the 8-9 million price range, if he hits form, I'd expect him to be drafted in droves.

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        1. Sleep Talk
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Cheers. Will keep an eye on him then.

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    2. andres
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      I am hoping he signs for the spurs. Will get him in as soon as he starts playing, maybe on the gw3 WC

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    3. Esalman
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      He sounds better than Bale already.

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    4. Demí
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Would be funny if, after you writing all that, they don't end up getting him 🙂

      Great post though. He sounds class, hopefully helps alot with supplying the creativity for Soldado. Though i think they're still abit light in that area, need a proper #No.10

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      1. mathmo
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        I know, I was half-wondering what would happen if Chelsea suddenly hijacked the bid, mid-post 😉

        He's an excellent proposition as a number 10 - depends on how they rig up their formation. Obviously with Totti at Roma, Lamela didnt really get much of a chance to play there - only a few times under Andreazzoli as I recall.

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      2. gentlemanlyconduct
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        nah done deal apparently.

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        1. AMygg
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          After Willian, I wouldn't count anything as a "done deal" before he's actually confirmed to have put pen to paper.

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    5. This!
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Mouthwatering read.... Sounds like a 9.0 FPL price.

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    6. Gimli son of Gloin
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      When you consider that Bale was getting 3-8 goals a year at this age, 15 is a phenomenal number.
      Hopefully he can kick on and be a big asset to the team and the league

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  5. Sleep Talk
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Has anyone heard about this Thug Notes? http://www.youtube.com/user/thugnotes?feature=watch

    It's brilliant! Why didn't we have this when we went to high school? 😛

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  6. 7dbeckham23
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    With toure injured

    my defender choices for this week are: mertesacker, collins, brayford

    Ivanovic isn't playing

    should I take a hit to get rid of toure? and for who?

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    1. 7dbeckham23
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      if Brayford isn't playing I only have 2 defenders, wut do 😛

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      1. Dogba
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Stick it out and hope Brayford starts. Cardiff play league cup this evening, see what happens there.

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        1. Frazek
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Good advice Dogbert, I mean Dogba. 🙂

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    2. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Depends if you think Brayford will play or not.
      If you do transfer do you have cash?

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      1. 7dbeckham23
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        if I transfer out toure, I'll have 5.4 in the bank

        What are some good options with that? Don't want to take another hit to free up cash

        since I;m planning on using my WC GW4

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  7. FPL Daniel
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Toure injured, Burner its now your time to step up. I know you have goals in you 😛

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  8. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Hello, all - on me iPhone, in Florence! 🙂

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    1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Enjoy your holiday Doos, beautiful place to be. Easy on the vino.

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    2. Sleep Talk
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Shouldn't you be drinking wine and chillin outside?! 😀

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    3. Crouch Potato!
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Enjoy oneself I'd bet. Oh the wine and the food!

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      1. Crouch Potato!
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        enjoying

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    4. Henry Hill
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Florence is jammed all summer long with art students from all over the world, you will probably end up finding them irritating and noisy 🙂

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    5. Dogba
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Sounds great. I like how you got the fact you have an iPhone in there. Enjoy your holiday! 🙂

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    6. SPorting
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Ciao Bello!

      Enjoy your time in my old stomping ground!

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    7. Canadian Football
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Nice Doos....enjoy. It is one of my favorite cities in the world.

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  9. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Ravel Morrison makes a claim. Yes!

    Though to be fair, Jonty, did he really 'assist? I thought WHU's first goal was a free kick, perhaps Ravel was fouled for it?

    In any case, I'm starting him this weekend (not by choice) and expecting big things!

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    1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Hic! Wassat? 😉

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    2. Assisting you all day
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      he was good in pre season think he will be left on bench again downing nolan noble diame jarvis keep him out of team

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  10. sk018
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    A) W-Prowse
    B) Silva and -4 blow next round

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  11. Henry Hill
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Cardiff have been given permission from Heerenveen to speak to Alfred Finnbogason. Dutch friend of mine says he is a goal machine, had similar record to Bony last season so might be one for the watchlist if it goes through.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziVtVHXKdME

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    1. pompeyfan
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      he was 3rd top scorer last season, he does seem to be in the right place at the right time quite a bit, but I worry he might do a Bas Dost, he was also a goal machine for Heerenveen just before Finnbogason but didn't score so much at Wolfsburg

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      1. Henry Hill
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Great post, will be observe after a couple of matches and see how he performs so. His arrival might derail the Frazier Campbell bandwagon too

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        1. pompeyfan
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          not sure how much truth there is to this rumour anyway, haven't seen it on any legitimate outlets. They already have a few strikers too.
          Maybe he's not too keen on the PL after this recent twitter post 😉
          Alfreð Finnbogason ‏@A_Finnbogason 26 Aug
          Is the 90 minutes over? I feel 9 years older... Jesus!! #UnitedChelsea

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  12. rab1982
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Foster injured, Toure injured, Amoribieta injured. Hazard and Benteke with no game this week.

    Leaves me only being able to field ten this game week without some serious adjustments or a wildcard being played.

    What do people think of Hazard to Nolan this week to free up some cash to upgrade Toure to Vidic and Foster to Mignolet next week?

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    1. dino412
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      You should have done that yesterday. You snooze, you lose Hazard points! 😉

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    2. Test Eagles
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Sounds like a solid plan

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  13. Assisting you all day
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Why did spurs sign the "german messi" holtby for? they should be playing him tbh

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  14. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Laterz!

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    1. Test Eagles
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Bye

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  15. KISSES
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Looking to play 3-5-2 and unsure which 3 defenders to go for out the following 4:

    A) Shaw (Norwich Away)
    B) Collins (Stoke Home)
    C) Ward (Sunderland Home)
    D) Turner (Southampton Home)

    Tempted by A, B & D as I think Norwich v Southampton will be 0-0.

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    1. Assisting you all day
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Dont trust Crystal palace defence dont see point of having him if you dont think hes ever going to keep a cs tbh

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      1. KISSES
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        He is in there just as a filler, I thought Palace looked quite stubborn against Spurs at home so wanted to see what others thought.

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        1. Assisting you all day
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          i think cardiff and hull are better options both look good at home

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  16. Jubilanus / BSC Small Boys …
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Brayford not playing. Is he likely to soon? I picked him thinking he was a 4m playing def. Big mistake or will he start at some point soon?

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  17. calver92
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Do you think Cech and/or Toure will drop before Saturday?

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    1. r0nh
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      no

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    2. Pasqualinho
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Cech might - which I find surprising as many would have bought him in the first place with a safe GW3 backup in mind. Bu if he drops it won't be until Friday night. Toure wll need a mad Friday to drop, which is unlikely for a mid-price defender.

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    1. r0nh
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      9m

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      1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        I'd say less than that, though it hardly matters in that megapacked midfield...

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    2. ASAP Rocky
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Have fun on the bench Willian.

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      1. r0nh
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        *Hazard

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        1. Heydudes13
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Fat chance Ron. Head and shoulders above Willian. Mou loves him too.

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      2. lfc123
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        He won't be on the bench

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    3. Caine & Co.
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      too much

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    4. Sleep Talk
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      *Will.i.am

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      1. Caine & Co.
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        *i.am.legend

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    5. roscola
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Stupid boy doesn't realise that Jose only bought him so that Spurs and Arsenal couldn't.

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    6. Henry Hill
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Mata could well be leaving before the end of the window so. Its hard to believe that Mourinho doesn't rate him.

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      1. Chris_Fàbregas #DOOS…
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Mata isn't going anywhere.

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    7. Van Dal
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      9

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  18. ASAP Rocky
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Stick or transfer for a hit?

    Boruc - Migs
    Zab - Dawson - Coleman - Ivanovic - Brayford
    Coutinho - Silva - Michu - Mirallas - Morrison
    Soldado - Altidore - Dzeko

    In no particular order, Morrison, Brayford, and likely Altidore need to go. Thoughts on this lot?

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    1. FISSH
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      I have just done hazard to JWP so I can get rooney for Altidore next week

      Unless I dont have the patience then I will be getting rid of Benteke for RVP this week for -4

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  19. 7dbeckham23
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    should I get Coleman for 5.3

    I will have 5.4 after transfering toure out

    But I will need to take a hit, but if I don't do this trade, I will most likely have 2 def playing since brayford isn't yet a confirmed starter

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    1. ASAP Rocky
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      I would take the hit of I didn't have any other points coming in. Its a risk though as you will need a clean sheet to justify the move.

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      1. 7dbeckham23
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        currently 2nd in my league, if I take a Hit i will be 2 points ahead of third and 8 behind first

        so hopefully this will bring me in some playing points or BP. Cause brayford is just annoying me atm

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        1. ASAP Rocky
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          I wouldn't be concerned with your point value against others in the league this early in the season. There is plenty of time to lose and gain points, the race has barely started.

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          1. 7dbeckham23
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            took the hit haha! Coleman better score this week 😛

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            1. ASAP Rocky
              • 12 Years
              10 years, 7 months ago

              Good luck. I would have done the same, in fact I have Brayford and might be in the same predicament soon if Dawson gets rotated out when Kaboul is back to 100%.

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  20. D_man795
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    after two games starting from the bench and now being doubtful for the game with wba who do you guys think is the best replacement for bony ?

    Afff and here i was thinking of keeping him as captain for the wba game dammit! >

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  21. roscola
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 7 months ago

    Trying to decide between Giroud and Soldado.

    Giroud is totally on fire, whereas Soldado hasn't scored in open play. Only the arrival of Pamela is staying my hand, on the promise of a better supply for Soldado. But it could be a few weeks before Pamela has any impact on Soldado's points. Presumably, even if announced today, he wouldn't play in the NLD? AVB likes to ease players in, as a rule.

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    1. Crouch Potato!
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Is Pamela his girlfriend?

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      1. roscola
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        It's a nickname I'm hoping will catch on 😉

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        1. Crouch Potato!
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          I bloody hope it doesn't! 😉

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          1. roscola
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            We'll see, we'll see ...

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        2. ASAP Rocky
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          You will know his name...they only whisper it now....Lamela...lamela...lamela...soon they will be screaming it aloud!

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          1. roscola
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            😆

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          2. JT's Dog
              10 years, 7 months ago

              can see a rhianna song edited for the terraces when he scores

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      2. 7dbeckham23
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        giroud because of his price

        soldado would be a good choice if you have enough cash, it's just a matter of time before he gets used to the epl and will start banging in goals

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        1. roscola
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Yeah, money isn't a factor right now. There are no other players I want who I can't afford if I choose Soldado.

          It's all about goals and Giroud is getting them now, not later. Hmmm.

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          1. 7dbeckham23
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            Agreed, Giroud has been in a good run of form. He would definitely be a good choice!

            Soldado I would wait a bit, until he has settled down a wee bit more

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      3. No Luck
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Giroud short term, Soldado long-term. But at this stage I'd wait for the transfer window to close to see if a striker comes in for Arsenal so I wouldn't touch Giroud with a barge pole if I didn't have him!

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      4. Pea Soup
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        I think you've answered your own question.

        I'm captaining Giroud and expecting another half decent haul at least.

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        1. roscola
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          I think you're right. It's just that I'd lose a bit of value on Soldado (he'll probably be £9.7m by the end of the week) and if he suddenly starts getting the service he needs and banging them in, I'd be really annoyed at having to pay more.

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      5. lfc123
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Soldado for me..

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      6. mathmo
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Giroud is at home, in the North London derby, and he has had a good start this season. He also seems to be the type of player that takes a while to settle in - if you look at his attributes and his past clubs you'll find he often had a middling first season followed by an excellent second. He'll be great this season.

        Soldado has a great record in Spain but he is adjusting to a new club in a new league, and has yet to score from open play in the Premiership. When he settles fully then he may be a contender, but considering he supposedly managed one shot on goal in the last game, it doesn't bode well.

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        1. roscola
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Thanks man, good input.

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        2. Funkyav
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Soldado has 4 goals in 3 games.

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    2. Chris_Fàbregas #DOOS…
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      willian is now officially a Chelsea player: http://che.lc/willian

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      1. guillermo
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        who's the chick in your grav?

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        1. Chris_Fàbregas #DOOS…
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Chloe Vevrier 😉

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    3. Brumfor1st
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Hi Guys,

      Couple of quick questions for West Hame/ West Brom fans....

      Any ideas why Joe Cole only played ~25mins of the match last weekend?

      West Brom... Keepers, I read Myhill got injured in training, surely this means Daniels will play? Anyone heard similar?

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      1. KISSES
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Hammer here - It looks like its between Cole, Downing & Jarvis for the 2 flanks either side of our main striker (which unfortunately at the moment is Maiga!) I think after signing for a few bob Big Sam wanted to give Downing a start at the expense of Cole. My gut feeling is it will be Downing and Jarvis on the flanks, as Cole can also play in the middle and fitness is always touch & go.

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    4. Azerbaijan Shopping Centre
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Team for GW3

      Mignolet,

      Coleman, Collins, Mertesacker (Turner) (IVAN)

      Silva, Walcott, Coutinho, Kagawa (Britton)

      Dzeko, Giroud, Lambert

      No transfer made yet - any thoughts

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      1. ASAP Rocky
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Backup keeper? Who is he?

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        1. Azerbaijan Shopping Centre
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Davis (non playing Southampton)

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          1. ASAP Rocky
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            Davis > Boruc

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      2. Azerbaijan Shopping Centre
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        I also have 0.9 in the bank

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        1. Assisting you all day
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          sell kagawa

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          1. Azerbaijan Shopping Centre
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 7 months ago

            thats the plan but I cant see anyone at the min so not going to get anyone in until i know.

            I like Zaba in for Merte

            then

            Sell Coutinho, and Kagawa for I dont know who yet

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    5. SPorting
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      My defence is offensive:

      Toure
      Figueroa
      Brayford
      Celustka
      Zab

      0.4m in the bank to tidy it up.....

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      1. LordCisse
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Who are your keepers? Don't wanna double up. Celutska or Fig to L. Shaw. Toure to Jagielka.

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      2. busteddocket
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Brayford to Ward.

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    6. Assisting you all day
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Is it or me or has anyone else noticed the lack of service soldado has recieved in open play? spurs really are missing some creative players?

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      1. LordCisse
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Yep and that's why i've not picked Soldado. Two conveted penalties doesn't convince me

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      2. AMygg
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        It's not you, people have been talking it to death on here 🙂 And yeah, it's a worry. We're lacking some creativity, but I hope that will be mostly solved by Lamela (hopfully) coming one of the next few days. But I also think it's a case of the team having to gel, many new players.

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    7. LordCisse
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Best short to mid term striker for 7.1m or less, anyone?

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    8. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      http://www.chelseafc.com/news-article/article/3440090/title/willian-transfer-completed

      WILLIAN TRANSFER COMPLETED

      Mata out Rooney in, Jose has all figured out

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      1. SPorting
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Great!

        Now Jose can play 3-7-0.

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      2. roscola
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Does this affect Oscar at all? Presumably not since Jose's been playing him in middle.

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        1. lfc123
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Shouldn't do, Oscar has looked like their best player this season imo.

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      3. AMygg
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Moses to Liverpool on loan confirmed with this?

        Gonna be a struggle for anyone to get to play on that midfield now.

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        1. FPL Daniel
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          I think we bought him in order Spurs not to get him. For my best attacking 3 are

          Hazard Mata (in the middle) WIllian. Oscar is sub and could share minutes with Mata and Willian he is still young

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        2. Billy Gilmore
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 7 months ago

          Please no. I don't want Moses. 🙁

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      4. NapalmDeath (Northern Chaos…
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        Neither Mata or Rooney will leave their respective clubs.

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      5. gentlemanlyconduct
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 7 months ago

        All I can say is, if you're a winger and like the idea of playing once a month then chelsea is perfect.

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    9. banskt
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 7 months ago

      Playing FPL first time, but have lost the plot in the very beginning. Then found this website which helped me to learn a lot. But is there any way out of the following mess?

      Boruc, Davis - both from So'ton!
      Zabaleta, Coleman, Mertesacker, Ivanovic, Whittaker
      Yaya Toure, Coutinho, Colback, Barkley, James Morrison
      RVP, Dzeko, Wolfswinkel

      Bank: 3.1m

      -- Presently ranked just below 1m.

      What do you think of the above team? How can I make it better? Shall I use the WC to reshuffle?

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