In the latest in our series of pre-season articles for members, analysing the 2014/15 season from each club’s perspective, we turn attentions to league champions Chelsea.
We assess the Blues squad, focusing on influence, creativity and goal threat to offer a view on how Jose Mourinho’s prime assets stacked up.
Definitely one to mo itir
Monitor even..
Haven't seen much myself. See Portsmouth's post last page.
Btw my username is champynwa on chess.com if you'd like to send me a turn by turn challenge
I've only ever seen him a couple of times I think..
Yeah same. Him, siggy and Montero behind Gomis could do some damage. I really hope swans get some decent fixtures so I can steal a march on Gomis
Gomis could be good...Where does Ayew prefer to play ?
Apparently cutting in from the left according to PB on the previous page and he knows this sort of stuff.
So basically doing the job that somebody like Mane/Hazard/Sanchez does..but for less pts (if listed as a fwd)
P-K4
lol nobody ues that old notation any more
e4
What do you mean? Is there a different type of notation?
Algebraic notation is standard now, and has superseded the old English Descriptive.
Is that your username?
I think it's a good transfer for swansea. Definitely one to watch. Will improve the swans attack, so gomis and siggy become better options
I know the window just opened, but can some club in the world pull the finger on that big transfer that gets everything moving along? I'll be away on holiday after the internationals are cleared up, that's no fun!
The window opens in three weeks 🙂
Which one will be the trigger though? Sterling? Higuain?
Higuain would be a good one, not sure who'll sign him tho
We're usually better off if transfers go through after the games have launched.
From a purely FF biased view of course and what else matters really?
Quick fun game - Copa America winner and top scorer predictions
Argentina
Messi
Yours?
*original post lost on last page
Brazil
neymar
Bloody wind is blowing my currants and raspberries to pieces. I'll be lucky to get anything from them this year.
Back to the FF I'm hoping for a favourable rotation between Leicester and Norwich for this coming season. 4th and 5th defenders hopefully or possibly keepers.
I feel your pain..I have a few lop sided Acer's now...
It's whipping in between my house and next door like a sodding wind tunnel. I could get aero engines tested in it. 🙁
I have an area between two gardens like that..it literally is a funnel...
Acers never do well here and not really space to try. Can you right them afterwards Wakey?
Only next year when they start again...Some types of Acer are notorious for not liking cold winds, due to their fragile leaves. They simply dry out and get shed...
That cold wind you've had for a couple of days has been with us in the North for about a month.
The weather's gone bonkers and if another person says to me "It'll be fine the scientists will sort it all out in the future" I'll punch them hard and then say It'll be fine the scientists will sort out your pain in the future.
That's where we folk in the North have a an advantage...It's always been bonkers (shite would be a better word)
You folk in the South have had it easy with your four season's...we up here have nine months of bad weather followed by Winter...
😆
Well Wakey is clearly a Stark . If he starts saying Winter is coming I will be convinced 😉
Scientists did there part long ago. They told us what's up. Not much more they can do except keep telling us
But what can they do about it ?....It's all well and good everybody knowing about it but solving it is another matter all together.
As in...how do they actually do it ?
That's my point. Scientists build our knowledge. It's up to the policy makers to put that knowledge to use and the science was in a long time ago.
That said we are making progress and it's encouraging that China is starting to take the reigns because they make sh1t happen. A worldwide response to this could not happen quickly for obvious reasons.
That's the key to it, "a world wide response" ...It isn't enough to slow down the rate of growth (as we are thinking now), that is simply tinkering around the edges. What we need to do is put the whole of our thinking into reverse....That's really gonna be hard.
I think we have the thinking right, that is to transition from coal and gas to clean energy. That's a slow process but it is the only way to do it globally with current technology. Where they have it wrong imo is they aren't pouring funding into scientific research of nuclear fusion and advanced clean energies.
The damage done isn't immediate enough to distract too much from issues like unemployment, cost of living and of course winning elections 😉 China's system for all its faults is much more effective at long term policy and thinking.
Hopefully get a pair for 8.5. Norwich decent at the back then?
Keeper and one or two I think. We won't really know how they are in the Prem until they play, it's as much about a cheap H/A rotation.
We're going to need something to balance the books.
Leicester should have some decent value at 4.5. I just know I'm gonna be so tempted to spend 10 on janmaat and pva which will lead to infuriating tinkering to make it work 🙂
Pre-season tinkering is the best part. All the great expectations without yet the crushing soul destroying misery of the actual GW scores. 😉
😀
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BabsgCQhpu4
Very fun sketch of Jon snow going to a dinner party
Ah sorry I get ya wakey. Want a correspondence game is it?
I'll set it up on my board at home tomorrow. For now... e5
Hey all! Brand new member - figured the excitement of all the new toys would tie me over till start of next season. Any tips on how best to use members area?
Traditionally never played past week 4/5, but a series of wagers and banter in my MLs this season ensured I was hooked.
To prove my sheer boredom, have posted a pointless and reckless indication of what my team will almost certainly not look like come GW1. Feel free to tear apart.
Krul (4.5) Schmeicel/Myhill (4.5) = 9
Ivan (7.5) Leicester (4.5) Bournemouth (4.5) W.Brom (4.5) Villa//Norwich/Snd'land/Watford/(4) = 25
Fabregas (9.5) Mane (8) Walcott (9) Chadli (7.5) Milner (7) = 41
Aguero (12.5) Gomis (8) Cheap (4.5) = 25
There are some fantastic tables in the tables section - I personally can't be bothered to make my own, but there usually are enough public tables made by others on an ongoing basis. And the full season ticker which includes previous meetings is very helpful. And the Rate My Team is quite a fun tool to play around with (I believe there will be an article posted when the RMT tool has been loaded with this seasons ratings.)
Haven't renewed my membership yet so don't remember much more 🙂
Cheers, will look out for the RMT article!
Not enough Chels, and too much Spurs.
1 Spurs is too many? Would love Haz/Costa but prices are going to be tight to squeeze in...
keepers and defence good to go. like the attack except think you will need to spend 5.5 to have a chance of any points out of 3rd striker. don't think I will start with any of that midfield too hit and miss
Yeah I was looking to play a 3-5-2 as don't know that Deeney etc. will be less than 6, and are unproven..
Would agree on Wally/Chadli/Milner being low-ish punts, but Fab/Mane should be FPL gold?
Cheers!
Members area: Firstly the season ticker is brilliant but obviously won't be out for a few more weeks yet. The next step would be to create stats tables and sort the order by Shots in the box or Created chances, touches inside the box is also an excellent stat particularly for midfielders and defenders. The team stats are also helpful when assessing defensive resolve so consider things like shots in the box conceded. There is a helpful video link on Jonty's weekly community article on how to create stats tables if you're struggling to get to grips with it.
Your team: Overall I think the prices are fairly reasonable with the midfield prices a little high and the defensive prices a little low. I also think it'd be helpful to spend a little more at the back for added security, spending a little less in midfield and hunting for some bargains in the 5.5-7m price category would help.
An extra 0.5 on a defender can go a long way.
cheers for the tips! hopefully the FPL pricing gives plenty of gifts in the bargain bin.
any defender other than Ivan that tickles you? especially re: that elusive 5-6m defender that's worth it.
Great Grav as well. I was at the SA semi final..
Absolute scenes
Cheers, was a great time to be a kiwi thats for sure.
The 5-6m category definitely needs to be exploited. Someone like Bellerin could be a bargain in that price category.
Any takers for fantasy Copa America?
http://www.ca.superdt.cl/ingresar
Should auto translate from Spanish to English
I guess this article was obviously going to steer us towards Costa, Hazard and Ivanovic. Its now a choice of whether I get Costa or Hazard to start alongside Ivanovic in GW1. I think both could improve and have an even bigger season.
Yeah, agreed.
Still has to be Hazard for me though, Ryan. Costa will score goals, no doubt, but is allergic to BAPS, YC magnet and surely will pick up a red. I think teams know how to aggravate him now. Hazard, though, BAP magnet and is always going to get you goals and assists.
BAPs are an interesting one. There is no way to know how they will work or change prior to GW1. Or is there?
Also prices will be a massive factor. Hazard will be more expensive, but how much more?
I'd say Costa 10.5 and Hazard 11.5-12. Well worth the extra imo
If the difference is 1.5m it'd swing me towards Costa for sure.
Hazard, as he proved this season, is a way better captaincy option which should also come into consideration.
Of course, as you mentioned above, things could change (e.g. BAPS etc.) but Hazard is, on the current system, well worth the extra.
I have a feeling Costa is set for an upturn in points next season in both goals and assists. In some ways I think he played within himself this past season whereas Hazard is close to peaking. Just a hunch though.
Hmm, I'm tending to think the opposite. He'll score goals but I think defenders have worked him out now, aggravate him and he'll play dirty not smart.
We'll see though.
No there isn't, I was just assuming the system will stay the same.
Besides, Hazard dribbles so much that he'll be a BAP magnet in any system that rewards take ons.
In theory you'd be correct. I remember the old system where goal scorers were more favoured. Costa would have done a lot better with baps had he arrived in the prior season.
You are probably correct but there is no way to tell at the moment.
Reading the new rules when FPL launches might help.
Also depending on when Aguero returns from Copa America it might be plausible to start with all three, then do Costa -> Aguero when he's back
Yeah this is true. Fixtures will need to look very nice for my to risk tripling up on a tight budget.
Yep.
Also I may consider Fabregas over Hazard if money doesn't allow, especially if Oscar leaves. But if it's Hazard v Costa, Hazard every day of the week for me
I definitely want costa. Not sure about haz and Ivan yet
Gibson at 4.5 in the euro u21 could be a bargain. Solid left sided centre half who I think Southgate will partner with Stones at the heart of our defence. Played both the playoffs partnering Moore and the friendly against Germany. Been excellent all season
Justified done. Next up house of cards season 3. Gotta love not working 🙂
When do you start at the frog* ( 😉 ) shop?
😆 Monday mate.
Where to? Where from?
CHAMP, if you're still around...got some new shows for you to feast on:
- sense8 (netflix)
- wayward pines (10-episode miniseries, directed by m. night)
- mr. robot (june 24, pilot already leaked online)
Cheers bro 😀 incoming.
Watched real humans and the honourable woman recently. Both top shelf.
It is bloody quiet in here.
Hi LR! Long time!
Took a break this season if I remember correctly? How was it without FPL this year?
Ak send me a rematch mate
It was rather good. Much needed i think. Raring to go.
It's because you reared your head again, everyone scattered for the hills. 😉
I'm harmless
It's only a flesh wound!
Wait for everyone to get to work LR it'll perk up then.
Ivanovic, Skrtel, Stones, 4.5 FB, 4.0? 🙂
No Arsenal?
Ivanovic, Bellerin, Rose, 4.5 CB, 4.0?
Bellerin/Debuchy, Rose/Davies
rotation risk 🙂
Not as such. Not if we have been paying attention.
I'd like to get Kosc next season
Not good value.
True if he will be 6.5m
Dawson Fuchs Pva janmaat Kolarov
Good luck affording an attack
Won't be a problem, Billy. Going with 352 for the first four game weeks.
Interesting tactic. Would seem sensible, given the current lack of seductive attacking options. We need a few interesting transfers - Austin and Benteke - to shake things up.
Yes, indeed. There are few forwards to get excited about anyway.
It's dead here
EPL clubs best free transfer in last 10 years
Arsenal - Mathieu Flamini (signed for free.. left for free.. re-signed for free)
Chelsea - Michael Ballack
Man Utd - Michael Owen (their only free signing 😯 )
Man City - Andy Cole
Liverpool - Kolo Toure/Maxi Rodriguez
Spurs - William Gallas/Edgar Davids
Everton- Phil Jagielka
add other clubs to the list, thanks
Sol Campbell for Arsenal
joins the worst free transfer list I think..
?
I meant after rejoining in 2010..
😳 . Demba Ba to Newcastle
Leicester - Cambiasso
Diaby is staying?
Journalist Bruno Constant (well placed when it comes to the French players at the club), Tweeted this:
#Diaby hasn't been released by #Arsenal. Out of contract. But verbal agreement with the club. Talks ongoing for a new contract. — Bruno Constant (@Bruno_Constant) June 10, 2015
Anyone interested in a good Copa America Fantasy Football, this one is identical to FPL:
http://www.ca.superdt.cl/
The site is in Spanish so just needs translating via Chrome or whatever browser you use. Should do it automatically, if not right click.
Still recruiting for the FFS mini league:
Fantasy Football Scout
ffs2015
CHADLI WANTS BENTEKE AT SPURS
Nacer Chadli is keen for Belgium team-mate Christian Benteke to join him at Tottenham Hotspur.
Speaking ahead of Belgium’s Euro 2016 Qualifier against Wales, he told Sky Sports News HQ he would “love” to play alongside Benteke at White Hart Lane.
“I hope it’s going to happen but first they have to attract him and there are a lot of clubs who want him - and Christian has to make his choice,” he said. “Hopefully he’s going to choose for us.”
Thibaut Courtois was Real Madrid's first choice to replace Iker Casillas, until Chelsea quoted a £73m price tag. (Telegraph)
😆
Reported Manchester United target Felipe Anderson says he has no plans to leave Lazio.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but told reporters in Brazil: “Next year? All I know is I’ll be playing for Lazio. I only recently renewed my contract for another five years. I’m thinking about that shirt, and nothing else.
“I don’t know of any offers, my future is at Lazio.”
Entre: triple wages. Anderson: "it has always been my dream to play for Manchester United".
Telegraph reckons Montoya to pool for 7 mil. Would explain why there hasn't been another clyne bid
predict one (only!) EPL transfer and let us see if it happens in this window 🙂
I will start.. Kevin De Bruyne to Man City
Kane to Man United
Cech to Arsenal.
Clyne to Liverpool
Austin->LUFC.
Tevez to Liverpool
Walcott to liverpool
So..is Michu back now?
New Community articles posted.
Are managers who are former defenders better at keeping clean sheets. The Sarjeant investigates.
http://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2015/06/11/managers-who-are-former-defenders/
RuthNZ turns his attention to the newly promoted sides in the latest of his team by team reviews
http://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2015/06/11/norwich-bournemouth-and-watford-reviewed/
Koeman and Monk say Hi. 🙂
4 players you will definitely start with next season. As things stand.
Terry Hazard Sanchez Aguero
How?
Only Aguero and Hazard at the min . Sanchez is depending on how far Chile get in the Copa America
I'm in this boat. Likely to recruit a WBA defender too - Pulis loves a CS.
Yeah I'm hoping the cheapest regular could be 5m, even if that is Myhill for the start.
Noted. On this boat myself.
Hazard, Ivan, Kasper and Silva.
Reckon Leicester have cracked this defensive thing then?
I both think and hope so Lucy. Took them a while to get used to the prem, but if their end of season form holds even at an extra .5 or 1.0 here or there it would make them good business.
Yeah I think you might be right. And Kasper loves a save.
Grew into the role through the year too. Morgan if he is fairly treated by the prices is another. Double up Kasper with Ruddy perhaps depending on the fixture lists next week.
I think so too. If it looks like they'll continue with 3 at the back, I'll definitely pick up someone at 4.5.
14 goals conceded in 12 matches, with 6 clean sheets.
Returns were also nice and predictable, conceding against Arsenal, Everton, City, Spurs, Chelsea and QPR on the last day; clean sheets against Hull, Swansea, Burnley, Newcastle, Southampton and Sunderland.
Last Season will not be this Season.
It never is. It doesn't stop the "Stat boys" using them all the time though.
True, but I think its a decent enough sample size to draw conclusions from. They're certainly much more solid in that shape than the 4-4-2 they started the season with.
Most of us could have told Pearson that their old shape was high risk. I'm glad he came to his senses.
It sure is not a decent enough sample to draw conclusions from, it only suggests towards this direction and gives probably better means for prediction than your hunch would.
I hadn't gone into the individual results much Ludo, makes very interesting reading.
let's hope there is a decent fixture rotation for them somewhere.
I think a home/away Leicester/Norwich rotation has potentially good value.
Certainly for the keepers Ludo.
Even these aren't really really guaranteed.
I want a well balanced side so 1 or 2 premium players might have to wait until the form side with cheap players shows itself for a bargain here and an upgrade there can take place.
Kun, Haz, Coutinho, Sanchez
Myhill, Chelsea defender (which will partly depend on pricing) Costa and Aguero.
Interesting, and could depend on fixtures, but:
Hazard
Silva (in the absence of Aguero)
Walcott (in the absence of Alexis)
JT
Aguero, Hazard, Cazorla and Ivanovic.
Caz is an interesting one.
Aguero, Hazard, Ivanovic are the only three for me. If Bolasie/Cresswell have good fixtures, they'll both be in too.
West Ham will need bloody good fixtures, and a really good rotation partner.
It would be good to see Cazorla back to his best Doosra.
He is not far off.
Had he just finished at an average rate this season...
For Cresswell?
If you got him surely you would want to play him most weeks, not rotate him?
His attacking points could be good. I guess it comes down to fixtures and pricing again.
He is unlikely to be that good.
Even if he is, you'd want a few GWs to assess him. But yes, I'm with Doos, I think it's seriously doubtful.
Why so? Didn't you say last night you were considering him?
Kun, Kane, Krul, and Kosta.
🙂
Hazard, Silva, Bellerin, Walcott
I like the Bellerin choice.
Hm, Bellerin could be a good shout, but at 5-5.5 wouldn't you want him to be 100% nailed?
Is Bellerin completely nailed? I'm unconvinced. Debuchy lurks.
He can't possibly be nailed. Debuchy will start some games if he's still there (which you'd imagine he will be)
Yup. With you on this. Debuchy never really got a decent crack at the whip because of injury so I don't believe Wenger's made any decisions. Then there's also Chambers doing his utility job. Gibbs/Monreal should show that rotating fullbacks doesn't bother Wenger in the slightest.
I think that you are wrong - I believe that he is nailed. Look at the timings. Everybody on here has a fixation on Debuchy.
Timings?
Wenger makes his decisions at training.
Time will tell.
Having doubts about Bellerin, probably still dreaming of the good price he had last season...
Volland Hoffman Kane... Oh wait 😉
Ivanovic, Hazard, Sanchez and Aguero
Milner.oscar,ramsey & Rooney
In view of the conspiracy theory that FPL gods read this site, I think we should just add spurious, ridiculous suggestions for our 15/16 teams. I really can't wait to get Valencia, preferably with a new RB at Old Trafford to make his minutes limited and with him listed as a mid. 😀
... Too far?
When employing a decoy tactic, I always find it's best not to document it in advance.
The issue is not having any other means of communication.
I'm telepathic with many users on here, which kind of helps overcome this hurdle. But I get your point.
Of all the people to be telepathic with...
I have labeled that "telepathetic".
That's harsh. But I suppose it's a little fair.
Saves a fortune on phone calls.
I see. 😀
8 years, 10 months agoIs that Ayew fella any good, or has he just had a few good moments ?