Team News

Line-Up Lessons – Gameweek 37 – Part One

Arsenal and Liverpool changes deliver goals, while Manchester United rotation in preparation for their Europa League final begins in earnest.

Here’s the first instalment of our Gameweek 37 teamsheet summary, outlining the trends and tactics on show and offering early insight into the final day line-ups.

Arsenal

Starting XI: Cech; Koscielny, Mustafi, Holding; Bellerin, Coquelin, Xhaka, Monreal; Sanchez (Ramsey 77), Ozil (Welbeck 83); Giroud (Walcott 84).

  • Arsene Wenger made four alterations from the side that beat Southampton 2-0 for the trip to Stoke City, with Laurent Koscielny, Hector Bellerin, Francis Coquelin and Olivier Giroud replacing Aaron Ramsey, Danny Welbeck and the injured duo Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Kieran Gibbs.
  • Koscielny returned in the three-man defence alongside Shkodran Mustafi and Rob Holding, while Bellerin slotted in at right wing-back. Coquelin joined Granit Xhaka in central midfield, and Giroud operated as the lone striker in the 3-4-2-1 formation.
  • After picking up a knock to his thigh, Alexis Sanchez made way for Ramsey with 13 minutes remaining. Welbeck and Theo Walcott then entered the fray for Mesut Ozil and Welbeck. Walcott played wide on the right, while Welbeck took over as the lone striker for the Gunners.
  • Arsenal entertain Sunderland on Tuesday night before ending their season with a home fixture against Everton. Wenger’s side need to win both matches to have any chance of finishing in the top four, so the Gunners boss should name his strongest possible side in both matches. Sanchez will undergo a fitness test today to decide whether he’s fit to face the Black Cats, with Wenger intimating the Chilean is as always “keen to play.” Koscielny is again a doubt due to a calf problem, while Gibbs is back in contention following his own injury in that area. So if Wenger doesn’t risk Koscielny, Gibbs may come in at left wing-back, with Nacho Monreal returning to the three-man defence. Oxlade-Chamberlain (hamstring) is expected to miss the rest of the league campaign, but is rated as “80/20” to be fit for the FA Cup final. While Giroud scored a brace against the Potters, he and Welbeck look set to share playing time over the final two fixtures. Ramsey will probably be on standby to replace Sanchez, but a return in central midfield in place of Coquelin seems more likely.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Left Wing-Back, Central Midfield, Attacking Midfield, Lone Striker

Bournemouth

Starting XI: Boruc; A Smith, Francis, S Cook, Daniels; Stanislas (Ibe 87), Arter (Gosling 81), L Cook, Pugh; King, Mousset (Fraser 66).

  • Eddie Howe named an unchanged side for the visit of Burnley to the Vitality Stadium.
  • Lys Mousset kept his place in the No 10 role in the 4-2-3-1 formation, with the Frenchman flanked by Junior Stanislas (right) and Marc Pugh (left) in the advanced midfield positions behind lone striker Joshua King.
  • Mousset was the first player replaced by Howe, making way for Ryan Fraser in a straight swap shortly after the hour mark. Dan Gosling and Jordon Ibe were handed run-outs late on in place of Harry Arter and Stanislas.
  • Fraser has been carrying a slight Achilles problem of late, so he may continue to be used from the bench, with the front four perhaps set to stay unchanged for the trip to Leicester City. Lewis Cook will miss the clash at the King Power Stadium due to international duty with the England U20s, so Gosling looks set to earn a recall in central midfield. Squad players such as Ibe, Max Gradel, Brad Smith and Tyrone Mings may see some playing time if Howe considers handing them one last chance to impress.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Flanks, Attacking Midfield

Burnley

Starting XI: Heaton; Lowton, Long, Tarkowski, Ward; Boyd (Brady 55), Westwood, Hendrick, Arfield (Gudmundsson 75); Vokes, Barnes (Gray 46).

  • Clarets boss Sean Dyche named an unchanged side for the trip to Bournemouth, with defenders Ben Mee and Michael Keane missing out once again due to injury.
  • Kevin Long and James Tarkowski formed the central defensive partnership, while Ashley Barnes and Sam Vokes were favoured in attack in the 4-4-2 formation, at the expense of Andre Gray.
  • But with his side trailing 1-0 at half-time, Dyche decided to bring on Gray for Barnes in a straight swap. Shortly after, Robbie Brady replaced George Boyd on the right side of midfield, while the final substitution saw Johann Berg Gudmundsson come on for Scott Arfield. The Iceland international operated on the right side of midfield, with Brady shifting over to the opposite flank.
  • Premier League safety is now assured for the Clarets, so Dyche may not feel the need to risk either Mee (ankle) or Keane (knock) for the final day home meeting with West Ham United. Brady and Gudmundsson could push for starts out wide, while Gray may well replace Barnes alongside the in-form Vokes in attack.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Flanks, Forwards

Crystal Palace

Starting XI: Hennessey; Ward, Kelly, Tomkins (Delaney 86), Schlupp; Milivojevic, Puncheon; Zaha, Cabaye (McArthur 62), Townsend (Van Aanholt 75); Benteke.

  • Eagles boss Sam Allardyce made two changes for the home encounter against Hull City, with the fit-again James Tomkins and Yohan Cabaye replacing Patrick van Aanholt and James McArthur.
  • After experimenting with a three-man defence in the 5-0 defeat to Manchester City, Big Sam reverted to a 4-3-3 formation against the Tigers, with Tomkins returning in central defence and Jeffrey Schlupp shifting over to left-back. Andros Townsend shook off an Achilles problem to start on the left of the front three.
  • Cabaye lasted 62 minutes before being replaced by McArthur in a straight swap. Van Aanholt took over from the injured Townsend on the left wing for the final 15 minutes, while Damien Delaney came on for Tomkins in a straight swap late on.
  • With Premier League safety now confirmed, Allardyce will probably rest any players who have been carrying injuries over the last few weeks for the trip to Manchester United. Tomkins, Cabaye and Townsend could all be omitted then, while Joel Ward played yesterday despite a broken nose. The likes of Delaney, McArthur and van Aanholt may all push for starts, with squad players such as Mathieu Flamini, Lee Chung-yong, Fraizer Campbell and Loic Remy other possibilities.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Right-Back, Central Defence, Central Midfield, Left Wing

Everton

Starting XI: Robles: Holgate (Valencia 46), Williams, Jagielka, Baines: Schneiderlin, Gueye: Mirallas (Kone 86), Barkley (Barry 80), Davies, Lukaku.

  • Toffees boss Ronald Koeman made three changes from the side that lost 1-0 to Swansea City for the home clash against Watford, with Joel Robles coming in for the injured Maarten Stekelenburg in goal, while Ross Barkley and the fit-again Morgan Schneiderlin replaced Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who was away on international duty with the England U20s, and Gareth Barry.
  • Barkley returned in the No 10 role in the 4-2-3-1 formation, with Tom Davies this time asked to play on the right of the attacking midfield trio. Schneiderlin partnered Idrissa Gueye at the base of midfield for the home side.
  • Following a poor first-half display, Koeman made a tactical change at the break, with Enner Valencia brought on for Mason Holgate. The Ecuadorian joined Romelu Lukaku in attack as Davies was asked to operate as an attack-minded right wing-back and Schneiderlin to drop back into more of a three-man defence. Barry and Arouna Kone were handed brief run-outs late on, replacing Barkley and Kevin Mirallas.
  • After returning to winning ways, Koeman isn’t expected to make many changes for the final day trip to Arsenal. It’s unlikely he’ll look to start with a three-man defence at the Emirates, so Holgate should keep his starting spot at right-back. Barry offers an alternative option in the middle of the park, as does Valencia both in the attacking midfield positions and as a partner for Lukaku in attack. Stekelenburg (groin) is a doubt, so Robles may retain his place in goal.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Goalkeeper, Right-back, Central Defence, Flanks, Attacking Midfield

Hull City

Starting XI: Jakupovic; Maguire (Davies 50), Dawson, Ranocchia (Bowen 46), Robertson (Maloney 46); Elmohamady, N’Diaye, Clucas, Grosicki; Evandro; Niasse.

  • Head coach Marco Silva was forced into making two changes from the side that lost 2-0 to Sunderland for the trip to Crystal Palace, with Michael Dawson and Evandro starting at the expense of the injured Lazar Markovic and Abel Hernandez.
  • Dawson started alongside Andrea Ranocchia in central defence for the Tigers as Harry Maguire shifted over to right-back. Ahmed Elmohamady started on the right side of a five-man midfield in a 4-5-1 formation, with Evandro slotting into central midfield alongside Alfred N’Diaye and Sam Clucas. Oumar Niasse operated as the lone striker.
  • With his side trailing 2-0, Silva decided to make a double substitution at half-time. Jarrod Bowen and Shaun Maloney were sent on in place of Ranocchia and Andrew Robertson. Then five minutes into the second-half, the Hull boss was forced to use his final substitution, with Curtis Davies replacing the injured Maguire. Those changes left Elmohamady and Clucas as attack-minded full-backs while Dawson and Davies combined in central defence. Evandro partnered N’Diaye in central midfield, with Bowen, Maloney and Kamil Grosicki stationed behind lone striker Niasse in a 4-2-3-1 system.
  • Silva could make a few changes for the home fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on the final day now that the Tigers’ relegation is confirmed. Maguire is a doubt due to an ankle injury, while Hernandez (knock) will need to be assessed. Elmohamady could return to right-back, with Davies and Omar Elabdellaoui the other alternatives to start in defence. Bowen may push for a role in the attacking midfield positions, particularly if Hernandez is ruled out, while Maloney and Tom Huddlestone provide other options.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Right-Back, Central Defence, Central Midfield, Attacking Midfield, Forwards

Leicester City

Starting XI: Schmeichel; Simpson, Benalouane, Fuchs, Chilwell; Mahrez, King (Amartey 68), Ndidi, Albrighton (Gray 80); Okazaki (Slimani 73); Vardy.

  • Craig Shakespeare was forced into making two changes from the side that saw off Watford 3-0 for the trip to the Etihad, with Ben Chilwell and Andy King starting in place of the injured Robert Huth and Danny Drinkwater.
  • Chilwell slotted in at left-back for the Foxes, and Christian Fuchs moved into central defence next to Yohan Benalouane. King operated alongside Wilfred Ndidi in central midfield in the 4-4-1-1 formation.
  • Shakespeare made his first substitution shortly after the hour mark when a hamstring injury forced King to make way for Daniel Amartey in a straight swap. During the final 20 minutes, Islam Slimani replaced Shinji Okazaki before Demarai Gray took over from Marc Albrighton on the flank.
  • If King is ruled out of Thursday night’s home clash against Tottenham Hotspur, Amartey is likely to start alongside Ndidi in central midfield. Huth (foot) and Wes Morgan (hamstring) remain doubtful, so the back four could remain unchanged. Gray and Slimani offer viable alternatives to Albrighton and Okazaki in attack for both the Spurs clash and the home fixture against Bournemouth on the final day.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Left-Back, Central Midfield, Flanks, Forwards

Liverpool

Starting XI: Mignolet; Clyne, Matip, Lovren, Milner; Emre Can, Wijnaldum, Coutinho (Woodburn 89), Lallana (Grujic 89); Origi, Sturridge (Lucas Leiva 87).

  • Jurgen Klopp made two changes for the trip to West Ham United, with Adam Lallana and Daniel Sturridge replacing Lucas Leiva and the injured Roberto Firmino.
  • Those alterations saw the Liverpool boss switch from his favored 4-3-3 system to a midfield diamond in a 4-1-2-1-2 formation. Emre Can was stationed at the base, with Georginio Wijnaldum and Philippe Coutinho on the sides, leaving Lallana at the tip of the diamond behind the front two of Sturridge and Origi.
  • With the match won, Klopp handed brief run-outs to Lucas, Marko Grujic and Ben Woodburn late on, Sturridge, Lallana and Coutinho making way.
  • Following the impressive 4-0 win at the London Stadium, Klopp may consider using the same formation for the home meeting with Middlesbrough – even if Firmino recovers from a muscle problem. But if he looks to find a starting spot for the Brazilian, he could omit one of Origi or Sturridge, switching back to the 4-3-3, with Firmino on the right and Coutinho on the left of the front three. The rest of the starting XI looks set to stay unchanged.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Right Wing, Forwards

Manchester City

Starting XI: Caballero; Fernandinho, Kompany, Otamendi, Clichy; Toure, Silva, De Bruyne (Zabaleta 82); Sterling (Aguero 78), Jesus (Navas 90), Sane.

  • Pep Guardiola named the same side that beat Crystal Palace for the home meeting with Leicester City – the first time he’s selected the same XI in successive matches. Sergio Aguero was fit to return to the bench.
  • The City boss kept faith in the 4-1-4-1 system, with Yaya Toure continuing in the defensive midfield role. Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne, David Silva and Leroy Sane completed the four-man midfield behind lone striker Gabriel Jesus.
  • The first substitution saw Aguero replace Sterling for the final 12 minutes, with Pablo Zabaleta then sent on for De Bruyne shortly after. Zabaleta played at right-back, and Fernandinho moved into central midfield alongside Toure. Aguero joined Jesus in attack, with Silva moving slightly out to the right. Jesus Navas appeared late on in place of Gabriel Jesus. The Spaniard was stationed out wide on the right, with Silva moving back in-field.
  • Guardiola may limit his rotation over the final two matches. City host West Bromwich Albion tomorrow night before travelling to Watford on the final day. With confirmation that he’s leaving the club, Zabaleta could get one last start at the Etihad tomorrow night in place of Fernandinho, although the Brazilian could then be an option to replace Toure in the defensive midfield role. Navas provides an option either at right-back or on the right side of midfield, while Aguero is the most likely to earn a recall, possibly alongside Jesus in attack. Sterling’s role is probably the most at risk among City’s attackers. Aleksandar Kolarov is likely to get at least one start in defence, offering cover at both left-back and centre-back

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Defence, Central Midfield, Flanks, Forwards

Manchester United

Starting XI: De Gea; Bailly, Smalling, Jones, Blind; Carrick, Tuanzebe (Herrera 60); Lingard (Mkhitaryan 60), Mata (Rashford 78), Rooney; Martial.

  • Jose Mourinho made three changes from the side that lost 2-0 to Arsenal in United’s last league match for the trip to Spurs, with Eric Bailly, Daley Blind and Jesse Lingard replacing Matteo Darmian, Ander Herrera and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
  • Those changes saw United line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Bailly started in an unfamiliar position at right-back, Blind was stationed at left-back, and Axel Tuanzebe was used out-of-position at the base of midfield alongside Michael Carrick. Lingard played on the right of the attacking midfield trio, with Juan Mata on the left, although they did rotate throughout the match in a fluid front four alongside Wayne Rooney and Anthony Martial.
  • With his side trailing 2-0, Mourinho decided to introduce Herrera and Mkhitaryan in place of Tuanzebe and Lingard. Herrera took over in central midfield, while Mkhitaryan operated more down the left and Mata moved to the right flank. The final change saw Marcus Rashford brought on for Mata, with the Englishman taking over as the lone striker. Martial moved to the left wing and Mkhitaryan to the right.
  •  United are no longer able to finish in the top four, leaving the UEFA Europa League final against Ajax on May 24 as their priority. As a result, Mourinho is expected to make wholesale changes for the remaining two league matches, against Southampton and Crystal Palace. With the Saints clash coming a week before the final, he may opt to field a fairly strong side at St Mary’s as preparation, so the likes of Rashford, Mkhitaryan and Herrera could all see some playing time. The Palace encounter appears almost certain to see a weakened United line-up, so the likes of Tuanzebe, Carrick, Rooney and Martial are probable starters. Joel Pereira could replace David De Gea in goal, even though Sergio Romero will start the Europa League final, while other youngsters such as Demetri Mitchell, Scott McTominay and Matthew Willock may also be considered. Paul Pogba’s father passed away at the weekend, so his status appears very uncertain, given that he is unlikely to be required until the final, while Ashley Young will probably feature if he recovers from a hamstring problem. Marouane Fellaini could see some minutes as he’s available again following suspension.

Current Status: Very Unsettled
Risk Areas: All Positions

Part Two of Line-up Lessons, covering the remaining teams, will be published tomorrow.

2,137 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Van der Faart
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    All I want is Azpi to play 60 minutes.

    1. TheTinman
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Did he get on the bus?

    2. Phil Dagger ⭐
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      After 60 minutes you will get the answer

    3. itwaswritten
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Um that ain't happening sorry

    4. b✪mber
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      If you want 60 you probably wouldn't mind with 59, right?

      1. Smoky Johnson
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        59 if walking out like a boss (read: bailly)

        1. b✪mber
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          🙂

  2. Trippier Hazard
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Just curious but should the concept of defensive and attacking midfielders be introduced in FF? The likes of Dier Matic Can Pogba etc don't normally get picked as they only get 1 clean sheet point and are less likely to score than attacking ones. Maybe they could be identified using heatmaps? One could give defensive midfielders more clean sheet points than attacking ones to make them a consideration perhaps more similar to defender scoring? Has anyone brought this up before?

    1. Limited & Mediocre Mana…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      I think that overcomplicates things... they are priced accordingly so I don't see the big deal.

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

      Yes. Just like in the old Guardian game. Was brilliant. Gareth Barry 214 points.

    3. Dthinger
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Bonus Points system is supposed to help account for this. But I think it could do more.

  3. FER FUSCH AKE
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    apparently rb Leipzig won't feature in next year's champions league

    https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/2928127/rb-leipzig-champions-league-ban-uefa-rules/

    1. Van der Faart
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Ridiculous rule. They're really exciting to watch. They'd be great in the CL

    2. Pep says
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      I'm sure the lawyers at red bull will find a solution to this

  4. goriuanx
    • 13 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Kolasinac is really good. Nice business from Arsenal.

    1. itwaswritten
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      They need a #great one

    2. Individual
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Let's hope. Seems like he's held in high regard by google results hehe

    3. Eddie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Does he fit well as a wing back in their new system?

  5. itwaswritten
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    I swear if Alonso isn't starting...

    1. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Have him too and Gary Neville has me doubting it

    2. DA Minnion (Former great)
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Don't.He's my only player.

  6. KUNingas
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Good enough front 8 to play AOA?

    Sanchez, Alli, Sane, Siggy, King
    Kane, Sturridge, Jesus

    1. Rasping Drive
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      No. It's rubbish.

    2. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Article suggests Firmino may take Studge's spot...

      1. KUNingas
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Oh then, Vardy better?

        1. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Yes- good choice

      2. liiusions
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        No he won't, Origi will make way

    3. Smoky Johnson
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      no de Roon ?!

      1. KUNingas
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        no 🙁

        1. Smoky Johnson
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Rather cout than studgy. swansea nothing to play for.

          1. Hotdogs for Tea
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            Rather Coutinho too but Swansea will be a goal fest this weekend - confirmed

            1. KUNingas
              • 8 Years
              6 years, 10 months ago

              Thanks all!

    1. Whazza
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      ?
      Pedro will start because on the cover of the match programme?

      1. Phil Dagger ⭐
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        I am on Chelsea social media Watch 😀
        Anything that resembles something would be posted automatically 😛

        1. Jafooli
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Good lad....

  7. Fuchs Mane Kante
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Comon Antonio don't be a Conte.

    1. Comment removed. Please refer to our terms and conditions on posting comments.

    2. Smoky Johnson
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Leave him alonso!

      1. Fuchs Mane Kante
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Hazards incoming.

        1. Smoky Johnson
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Its gonna costa!

    3. SBM
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      It will be terryble if he makes loads of changes

  8. Bruno Bruno!!
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    If alonso Is rested and Cahill starts that wouldnt be too bad would it

    1. Rasping Drive
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      As long as that very versatile, can play anywhere Azpi starts, I don't care !

  9. Gareth nose
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Courtois
    Azpi Terry Ake
    Moses Chalobah Fabregas Kennedy
    Willian Batshuayi Loftus-Cheek

    1. Phil Dagger ⭐
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      ??????

      Azpi and Fabregas owner spotted

  10. Phil Dagger ⭐
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Ferrrrrkkkkk it .

    Can't wait for that Chelsea lineup . So much depends on this

    1. Syd.
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      You knew the risks with their players

      1. Phil Dagger ⭐
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Risk = Rewards 🙂

  11. Syd.
    • 14 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    They ain't wasting much time in bulldozing White Hart Lane

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39920354

    1. Smoky Johnson
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      erasing those memories that never were

    2. Wild Rover
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Looks like the old Baseball Ground in Derby 😀

      1. Syd.
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        And thats on a good day

    3. Pep says
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      That's how construction goes mate.

      No time for standing in ceremonies in this business!

      1. Syd.
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Cheers Bob

        1. Pep says
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          I tell Bob what to do B-)

    4. HashAttack
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      just seen that ... big bunch of keys that Levy handed over
      The contactor's probably thinking f* that, I'll just blow the doors off

  12. C_G
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    I captained Alonso, I know this will backfire

  13. Arctic monkeys
    • 10 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Koscienly a doubt again ?

    1. Syd.
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Yip... Wenger said so in todays press conference

    2. NATSTER
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Club twitter seems to say all fit.

  14. itwaswritten
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Carla Del Conte better start Courtois, Alonso & Hazard or I'll have a meltdown.

    1. Pep says
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Better jump in the freezer quick.. Hazard is no 1 to be dropped and thats fact. Subbed 24 times this season and Willian rearing to go. He'll score 2 goals tonight

      1. itwaswritten
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Nooooo. I hope he plays at least the first half or second.

  15. b✪mber
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    how do I type the emoji with sunglasses?

    1. itwaswritten
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

    2. Arctic monkeys
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      : cool : no spaces

      1. b✪mber
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        😎

      2. b✪mber
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        tnx buddy

      3. Smoky Johnson
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Lets have the longest sunglasses thread ever.

        : cool : without space

        1. b✪mber
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          :sunglasses:

    3. itwaswritten
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      : cool : without the space in between

    4. Syd.
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      8 - )

      No spaces

      😎

      1. Rash
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        😎

      2. Firminooooo
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Testing 😎 testing

    5. b✪mber
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      (preparing for the Chelsea line-ups)

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

      8 : ) (no spaces)

      😎

    7. Harper (No more Penandes)
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎 😎

    8. Legomane
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎 Alonnnnnnsoooooo

    9. Sjaugen
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎 😎

  16. Smoky Johnson
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Lets have the longest sunglasses thread ever.

    : cool : without space

    1. Smoky Johnson
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

      1. b✪mber
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        😎

    2. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

    3. itwaswritten
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎 without space

    4. Pep says
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      :songlasses: 😉

    5. Piggs Boson
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      :shades:

    6. Firminooooo
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

    7. Revival
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

    8. Jacket Potato
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      : cool

      1. Jacket Potato
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Fail 🙁

    9. Gareth nose
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      : cool : without space

    10. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

    11. Urchin
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

    12. Syd.
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Ray Bans

    13. La Roja
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      :mrgreen:

    14. Phil Dagger ⭐
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎
      😎

    15. Limited & Mediocre Mana…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

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

      Hey - I'LL have a Babysham ... 😎

    17. NATSTER
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎 😎 😎 😎

    18. Harper (No more Penandes)
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

    19. Pinky Blinders
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      😎

  17. THFC4LIFE
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Chances of Alonso and Hazard both starting?

    1. Syd.
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      70/30

    2. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      better than 50/50 IMO, i'm expecting them to be rested in GW38 with FA Cup in mind.

      1. Pep says
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Nah. There's more chance they get injured tonight just 2 and a half days after the last game.

        No point giving players a 2 week break either, they lose focus, fitness and sharpness

        1. HashAttack
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Didn't exactly bust a gut vs West Brom ... Southampton had 2 weeks without matches prior to the cup final

          Straws and clutching

          1. Pep says
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            Not by choice

        2. Gudjohnsen
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          I tend to agree with Pep. Makes more sense resting them now and play them a week before FA cup final.

    3. THFC4LIFE
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Hazard is my captain....probably why I'm ranked 100k

  18. Piggs Boson
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    All I want is Hazard and Costa to start and score goals. Should be likely, right?
    https://media.giphy.com/media/3o6UBpHgaXFDNAuttm/giphy.gif

      1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        I'm.with ya

        Alonso and Costa please don't play

  19. SuperMane Returns
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 10 months ago

    Who didnt travel for Chelsea?

    1. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      It's Watford who are travelling, I haven't heard anything about their players.

      1. La Roja
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Sherlock alert

    2. Jay_
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Gomes got lost. True story

    3. Revival
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      DGW37 such a bloody rotation nightmare..might use benchboost in first half of season next time. Usually I wildcard early in the season around GW4 anyways so shouldn't be too hard to find 15 regular starters

      1. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        It is a bummer but managers like us will always go for it on a dgw dream

      2. I Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Yeah I think we might need to rethink Bench Boost. I've benched 14, 21 and 18 points in the three GWs prior to this one. Now I've used BB on Anichibe, Pickford, Holgate and Yoshida.

        1. HuttonDressedasLahm
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Looks about the same as me
          Annoying and predictable

    4. Syd.
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Costa / Hazard combined DGW score = 7 Points 😎

      1. Pep says
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Lol. Benteke got me 7 pts..

        1. Syd.
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          I took a hit to get rid of him 😎

          Got Jesus so it could pay off

          1. Pep says
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            Got Jesus for Gabbi

            1. Pep says
              • 8 Years
              6 years, 10 months ago

              :sunglasses:

              1. Syd.
                • 14 Years
                6 years, 10 months ago

                😎 😎 😎 😎

      2. itwaswritten
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Kane & KBD always win : cool : without spaces

    5. NestorC
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      So it looks like Kosc wont play against SUN?

      1. Pep says
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        You've made a statement but used a question mark. I'm confused.

        Are you telling or asking?

        1. Harper (No more Penandes)
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          ?

    6. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Very interesting tweet that, could decide many ML's.

      1. La Roja
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Oh here we go again

        1. Jafooli
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Don't shoot the messenger......

      2. Syd.
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Ndidi

        1. Jafooli
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Not sure, did he?

      3. Gareth nose
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        whats that then?

      4. Chris_White
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        You're on fire

        1. Jafooli
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          That's Stamford Bridge Chris.....

          1. Chris_White
            • 12 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            FFS is terrified

    7. Hybrid.power
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Would you drop any of these for Coutinho:

      Sanchez (At home against Everton)
      Hazard (At home against Sunderland)
      Eriksen (Away against Hull)
      King (Away against Leicester)
      Albrighton (At home against Bournemouth)

      They've all got too much form. Hazard seems the best option right?

      1. Forza Papac
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Albrighton

      2. Revival
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        If funds no problem just get rid of Albrighton assuming Conte hints Hazard is likely to start

        1. Hybrid.power
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Ok...I take it back...I can't afford Albrighton to Coutinho...

      3. Crystal Ball
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Difficult one, possibly Eriksen

      4. Piggs Boson
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Hazard will shirley start in the last home game of the season.

        Will Coutinho do as well when Firmino starts? (which I assume he will)

      5. Chris_White
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Eriksen

    8. Reward the CEntral Mids
      Crystal Ball
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Started this as a reply to Tupper Hazard's point about defensive mids and potentially having a different class of player for them.

      The issue for me is choice- central mids make up one of the largest groups of players, yet they are effectively excluded from the game because they don't score points. We need a larger choice of players to pick from.

      This could probably be solved by having a new way of​ scoring points that suits the central mids- maybe based on tackles, interceptions and passing- an extension of the bonus points system but with goals and assists excluded?

      Just an idea and would need to be fine tuned, but I really think we need to get more central mids scoring points so that they can become options. I think the game has lacked choice this season, particularly in midfield and up front.

      1. Limited & Mediocre Mana…
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        "I think the game has lacked choice this season, particularly in midfield and up front."

        Lol ok then

        1. Crystal Ball
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Everyone does have the same players, look at the posts

          1. Limited & Mediocre Mana…
            • 7 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            It's GW37 mate

            1. Crystal Ball
              • 7 Years
              6 years, 10 months ago

              Been the same all season

              1. Gilles
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 10 Years
                6 years, 10 months ago

                Not true.
                There have been a really large pool of valuable players this season.
                At all position in the game. I think it has been a really nice season.
                Even if I was ranked at more than a million in november 🙂

              2. The Hindu Monkey
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 9 Years
                6 years, 10 months ago

                there has never been such a large pool of players to choose from this season. it's why so many first timers are in the top 1k

                that said I do agree with the need to involve more players into the game

                I would also add in positional changes in Jan, so for example if it's obvious a midfielder is playing in defence all season, there is a chance to rectify that to make than a viable option

                having say Moses and Alonso classified different all season has been absurd

                it will be interesting what they do with the wing backs next season generally

      2. Urchin
        • 10 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        There are probably other games around which reward exact attributes u mentioned.
        I know (an regularly play) one such game on Fandromeda.com
        Usually the winners there are the ones who captain defenders.
        Forwards are of very little value in terms of point scoring in that game.

        1. Crystal Ball
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Yeah thank for that, didn't know about that site.

          I like playing this game, just think a little fine tuning could make it a bit better

          1. Urchin
            • 10 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            Well maybe you may not like this game after the fine tuning 🙂
            Cheers, mate!
            All the best for remaining GW

            1. Crystal Ball
              • 7 Years
              6 years, 10 months ago

              Yes that's true, still good to get people's views on it!

              You too

      3. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        There are plenty of games that offer that. Just go play one of those

        1. Urchin
          • 10 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Although none of them have a player base of 4 million.
          But yeah some of them are a good diversion to win some prizes once in a while

        2. RichRover
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Exactly, stop trying to change this game and go play a different one.

      4. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Maybe just give defensive mids a extra cs point might bring them into play

      5. the axolotl
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        i think they should just classify defensive midfielders as defenders. simple solution instead of complex rules changes

        1. The Mighty One
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          This!

      6. Pep says
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        The game is perfect the way it is. It's designed to be as simplistic as possible.

        If it ain't broke....

        1. Urchin
          • 10 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          This

        2. Ógie
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Ya agreed

          But it is nice to toy with these ideas

        3. Piggs Boson
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          It was perfect before chips... 😉

          1. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
            • 14 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            Innit... and Charlie Adam bonus points

        4. Gilles
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          This. Simple is good.

      7. Gareth nose
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        That would give you less choice though as it means everyone would have to pick Kante

      8. Piggs Boson
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        FPL is so popular because it rewards goals, which are exciting to cheer on. Most people aren't thrilled by the idea of counting interceptions and tackles. That kind of in-depth play is for the other games, like Sky.

        Without defensive mids, where would the cheap midfield options come from?!

        1. Pep says
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Didn't know King was a defensive midfielder. He should be getting 6 pts per goal so. I'm outraged!!

          1. HashAttack
            • 7 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            King would be a MID with a scoring base of FWD

      9. HashAttack
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Difficult to know what to do ... you're correct about the player pool and there are brilliant players who just don't have any value if FPL ... e.g. Kante

        If holding midfielders scored the same as defenders I think things would be okay ... but it would have to be a sub-type of midfielders - i.e. you still select 5 defenders and 5 midfielders

        They are presumably slow at reclassifying players because it would affect teams during the season
        At present they are stuck with the points basis having to be the same as the position classification ... it they could split out the two that could get interesting

        1. Gilles
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Players are re-classified whe it's necessary, I think. And there a way to manage preventing all FPL managers to get the same players : price 🙂
          If Sanchez was the same prise as Yaya or Rambo, everybody would get Sanchez. Which is not necessary the case. And I would say Rambo and Yaya can be considered as CM.

          1. RedLightning
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 13 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            Players are occasionally reclassified at the launch of a new season, but they are never reclassified in mid-season.

      10. Harper (No more Penandes)
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        No need to class them differently. Just give defensive mids more bonus for defensive work like defenders get bonus for CBI.

        1. HashAttack
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          How do you know who is a defensive midfielder is he is not classified

          With a sub-type / independence between type and position Milner would have easily been reclassified as Defensive early in the season, his position in team terms would still be MID

          1. Harper (No more Penandes)
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 10 months ago

            Sorry when I said defensive mids I meant all midfielders. So all midfielders have the same bonus points system which can be changed in order to provide more bonus for CBI like defenders, not by much but enough to make a small difference.

            1. Piggs Boson
              • 12 Years
              6 years, 10 months ago

              Yeah, I think this is the best option. In the current format, it's generally whoever scores the most points gets the bonus points, because goals & assists get so many BPI pts.

            2. tm370
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 9 Years
              6 years, 10 months ago

              It's not a bad idea - alot of players on the game are essentially worthless - Only those unfamiliar with the mechanics have the likes of Kante in their teams.

              I'm also not sure that the game is right atm - the price change system is flawed, and the chips are contentious.

              There is a recovery bonus on the UCL version isnt there? Personally I think a minor tackle bonus would bring some other players into view, although I can understand the reluctance. The difficulty would be setting something that would not guarantee points, which can be an issue with the Sky Bonus system.

              1. Urchin
                • 10 Years
                6 years, 10 months ago

                1 point per 3 balls recovered (and/or 3 CBIs) is what I remember from playing the UCL game two years back.

              2. Harper (No more Penandes)
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 10 months ago

                Yes there are alot of players that never come into the game. £5.5 and £5.0 mids especially, who are usually too expensive as fifth mids but don't do enough to be fourth mids. I feel there is a real lack of players at this price range at the start of this season.

            3. HashAttack
              • 7 Years
              6 years, 10 months ago

              I like the game the way it is ... goals mean points, strikers get the BAPS if they do their jobs

              I already dislike the way defender bps works ... players like Kosc getting 3 BAPS whenever they have a clean sheet against a really bad team

              Maybe all outfield players just get an extra point per X CBI/Tackles in a similar way to CK points per 3 saves
              No classifications, no shifting bonuses around

      11. Hairy Potter
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        I think you should have to pick players who actually play in the position you have in the formation.

        1. HashAttack
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          That would be hard ... I have an obsession of moving my players into their nearest matching position each game week

          but the shirt colours also have to have a certain feng shui about them

      12. Old Man
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Yes - changes in this area could improve the game. The trouble is that the simplicity of the current format is one of its main advantages - FPL Towers will be reluctant to change it.

      13. Ber2k
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        You have a point and the large majority are essentially redundant as far as the game goes but they are priced accordingly.

      14. Crystal Ball
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        The idea is effectively to find a way to bring this group of players into the game (they make up approx 20% of outfield players)

        How you do this is up for debate, but what I'd suggest is having 1-2 points up for grabs in a game for midfielders for doing the grunt work well (passing, tackling, interceptions etc)

      15. Lanzini girls just want to …
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        They're usually a lot cheaper that attacking mids that makes up for it. They can't really change the points scoring without messing up the core of the game. I think more people would be annoyed than satisfied by drastic changes that emancipated defending more into the game

      16. Gnu
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        I'm interested Crystal Ball in how many years you've played FPL & any other FF games you may have played?

        1. Crystal Ball
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          I've been playing for 3 years, not really interested in playing other FF games- this is the main game, mini leagues​ with people I know are the main appeal.

          Every year there are small developments to the game, bringing​ central mids into it as options would make things more interesting, how you do that is up for debate

      17. Eden ACCOUNT CLOSED
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        2 points for a mid CS?

      18. Captain Warlock
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Change classifications to DM & CM with DM points being 2pt for a cleanie n 2pt for a goal .. I think that's quite a realistic option

      19. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Next season one could split the midfield into attacking and defensive mids with an extra point [2] awarded for a clean sheet for defensive mids. If this still isn't enough to induce managers to buy then perhaps each team must have at least one def mid .... should bring a few more players into the game.

    9. itwaswritten
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Took an L in my ML.

      1. itwaswritten
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        If Courtois, Alonso & Hazard don't start I'll have a meltdown on my twitter TL.

        1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Hehe link.?

      2. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Lucky i am not on twitter then 😉

      3. Pep says
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Was there a need to leave twitter and tell us this?

    10. BombardingGunner
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 10 months ago

      Any latest news on the Chelsea's lineup for tonight?

      1. Ben the Mee
          6 years, 10 months ago

          ask again in 30 min

      2. Forza Papac
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        SkyBet offering odds of 40/1 for Willian to score from outside the penalty area and Holebas and Prodl to be carded.

        Worth a punt

        1. Pep says
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          I don't gamble but that's a winner in the making

        2. Whazza
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          No way. All of them might not even play

        3. Rash
          • 6 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          If they all start id have a punt myself

        4. Gareth nose
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Worth a cheeky £1

      3. Ambu
        • 10 Years
        6 years, 10 months ago

        Is it wrong that I'm more excited about the Chelsea lineup than the actual game itself?

        1. Evasivo
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 10 months ago

          Lol, at this stage in the season that's where we're all at!