Scout Reports

Moving Target – Harry Maguire

Leicester City completed their first move of the summer transfer window with Thursday’s signing of Hull City defender Harry Maguire for an undisclosed fee, reportedly worth £17 million.

The 24-year-old put pen to paper on a five-year contract with the Foxes and will link up with his new team-mates in early July ahead of their pre-season training camp in Austria.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Maguire revealed that the Foxes fought off interest from a number of clubs to secure his services, while the former Sheffield United player outlined what Leicester fans can expect from their new signing:

“There were a number of clubs interested, but when I met the manager here, he pretty much swayed it into the direction of this club. He showed me the way that the club is going… With my experience in the Premier League, overall I set my sights on defending, but I can play with the ball at my feet and I’m comfortable doing so, so hopefully, I can show the fans that.”

The History

Maguire came through the ranks of his hometown club Sheffield United to make his first-team debut at the age of 18 as a substitute against Cardiff City in April 2011.

He made four further appearances for the Blades during the 2010/11 campaign, but couldn’t prevent the club from being relegated to League One.

Maguire established himself as a regular starter the following season, making 44 league appearances, which yielded one goal and four assists.

He would make a further 85 league appearances over the following two seasons, registering eight goals and three assists, playing predominantly at centre-back.

His impressive performances prompted interest from both Hull City and Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the Tigers eventually snapping up the young defender in a deal worth £2.5 million in July 2014.

Maguire only made three Premier League appearances for Hull in 2014/15 though, with the defender sent out on loan to Championship outfit Wigan Athletic during the second half of the campaign, where he tallied one goal and an assist in 16 outings.

The Tigers were then relegated back to the Championship, but Maguire again struggled to nail down a regular starting spot in 2015/16, making just 24 league appearances.

It was only last season when Maguire established himself as a regular starter, playing 29 league matches, tallying two goals and two assists as the Tigers again suffered relegation.

Maguire made once appearance for England U21s against Northern Ireland in November 2012 but has yet to be capped at senior level.

The Prospects

Following a hugely impressive campaign – particularly once Marco Silva took charge at the KCOM Stadium – Maguire’s stock has soared rapidly.

He’ll arrive at Leicester to compete primarily with experienced duo Wes Morgan and Robert Huth – along with Yohan Benalouane – for a berth in central defence. However, he could also offer competition and cover for Danny Simpson at right-back.

After keeping 15 clean sheets in the 2015/16 title-winning campaign, the Foxes recorded just nine shut-outs last term.

Morgan struggled with back and hamstring injuries during the tail end of the season, and with the Jamaican and Huth aged 33 and 32 respectively, bolstering their centre-back options was a clear priority.

Maguire will be expected to command a regular starting role and with Morgan still the club captain at the King Power Stadium, it may be Huth who is most at risk.

Comparing the trio’s underlying statistics from last season, it was Maguire who clearly boasted a greater goal threat, averaging an attempt every 67.9 minutes, superior to both Huth (112.7) and Morgan (173.6).

Indeed, Maguire was second only to Chelsea’s Marcos Alonso for shots from inside the box among Fantasy Premier League (FPL) defenders, registering 24 over the course of the season, one less than the Blues wing-back.

His attacking strengths mark Maguire out as a rare talent at centre -back and perhaps a major target in FPL terms.

The former Sheffield United defender has produced goals and assists throughout his career; with a direct threat from dead-balls and also as a presence in the box at set-plays.

His defensive statistics are also strong in comparison with his new Leicester team-mates.

Despite making four Premier League starts at right-back, Maguire bettered Morgan for minutes per clearance, block and interception (CBI). He registered a CBI every 9.78 minutes, compared with 10.80 for Morgan, while Huth produced a CBI every 9.51 minutes.

The gap is even wider when it comes to tackles won.

Maguire’s spell at full-back gives him an advantage here but, even so, the comparison is stark. He produced a successful tackle every 59.2 minutes last season, with Morgan and Huth winning a challenge every 173.6 and 133.1 minutes respectively.

In both cases, this could and should give Maguire a clear advantage in the Bonus Points System (BPS). Morgan failed to produce a single bonus point last season, with Huth mustering just one, whereas Maguire totalled five.

As the player himself indicates, it’s fair to say that Maguire is far more comfortable on the ball than the current crop of Leicester centre-backs – he attempted 39 dribbles, completing 29; Morgan attempted eight, with Huth daring to dribble the ball just once all season.

Maguire has the confidence and ability to bring the ball out of defence to distribute passes.

He completed 76.2% of his passes last term, again stronger than both Huth (71.4) and Morgan (67.7). That created 11 chances for team-mates, with the Leicester pair generating six and four respectively.

Maguire’s presence could change the dynamic in central areas for Leicester and bring some extra quality in possession.

This may allow Craig Shakespeare to tweak his side’s tactics somewhat, relying less on the counter-attack and perhaps beginning to build from the back and through midfield with more regularity.

Coming off their title-winning season, both Morgan and Huth were priced at 5.0 in FPL last season, and that looks the likely price point for Maguire this time around.

That could well represent value during 2017/18, but Leicester’s tough opening schedule (ars, BRT, mun, CHE, hud, LIV) means that Maguire is unlikely to attract initial investment.

That testing start will allow Fantasy managers to sit back and analyse Shakespeare’s team selection and tactics to assess Maguire’s prospects when Leicester’s fixtures improve from Gameweek 7.

With just five clean sheets with Hull last season, Maguire should deliver stronger defensive returns this time around.

There is also clear evidence that he has the tools to dominate his centre-back team-mates to rival left-back Christian Fuchs in the shake-up for bonus points.

Add his considerable attacking threat, and it’s clear that Maguire could be one of the leading options available in the mid-price bracket should Leicester build on the momentum gained under Shakespeare.

Further Reference

Harry Maguire Wikipedia

Harry Maguire Transfer Markt Page

Harry Maguire You Tube

525 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Deeney-is-a-god
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    I think Deeney will be a good pick next season. Marco Silva is a good manager and very good at home, The price of Deeney will also most lekely be reduced

    1. Phil Dagger ⭐
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      perfect Username

      I see you are a Big D lover

      1. Alan_T
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Doesn't mean he's wrong though...

  2. andy85wsm
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 13 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Huth - Maguire - Morgan

    The birth of the Fuchs wing back option? 🙂

    1. Cpt Crunch Scott talent
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Hmm, that wouldn't hurt.

    2. Phil Dagger ⭐
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Not a f****** chance any leicester defender will be in my team

    3. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Fuchs is a legend. Nobody will go near him without worrying.

    4. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Yep, few people have mentioned that and it makes sense.

    5. Back on the horse
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Huth will be so slow another year on. Maybe be phased out?

    6. Hooky
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Maguire - Morgan - Fuchs possibly more likely? With Chilwell at LWB

      1. andy85wsm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Could be, if they decide to go that way.

        Chilwell should be priced favorably as well

      2. Alan_T
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        This more likely IMO

    7. QPR expects... glory!
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Only problem with that is RWB. Simpson can't pass. Would have been ideal had they not sold Schlupp to Palace. Who else do they have that can play the role?

      1. Marcin the Pole
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Albrighton has always looked pretty decent at RWB.

  3. Cpt Crunch Scott talent
    • 10 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Again, to those few of us playing fantasy confed cup.
    No Bravo in goal tonight, not fit from his calf complaint.
    Herrera to replace.

    1. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Thanks CC.

  4. Hooky
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Maguire bettered both Morgan and Huth for minutes per clearance, block and interception (CBI). He registered a CBI every 9.78 minutes, compared with 10.80 for Morgan and 9.51 for Huth.

    Is 9.51 not better than 9.78?!

    1. Mark
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 17 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      My bad with the edit. Corrected now.

      1. Hooky
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Wasn't sure if the figures were out or the sentence was incorrect. Maguire and Huth both have massive heads so I'm not surprised they get blocks in!

  5. Phil Dagger ⭐
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Agueroooooooooooooo going to score a opening day Hatty isn't he?

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Nah

    2. FPL Virgin
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I'm worried.

  6. Can Maguire be a viable 5.0 option?
    Mark
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 17 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Morning folks. Harry's a big favourite of mine and so it made sense to base today's FFS Hot Topic on the big man.

    I loved him at Hull City and, even with the likely rise to 5.0, I reckon he can pique my interest at Leicester.

    Fixtures look a major issue, though - I just can't see a favourable spell for the Foxes in the first part of the season - maybe GWs 7-11.

    Defensively, there was relatively little progress under Shakespeare from GW26 onwards last season, so do we think that Maguire can be a viable option for us?

    1. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      You forgot to hulk it mark.

    2. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I don't like Leicester defenders. Only take them after any signs of improvement.

      1. Mark
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 17 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Yes, I'm not proposing we will be on board from the off but Maguire has an extra dimension that can override defensive concerns. If Leicester can possibly show some resolve then I think he becomes an attraction.

        The fixtures are a pain, though - Leicester look to be one of those sides without a clean smooth pattern of fixtures over the first half of the campaign.

        1. Dreams
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          The advantage of those tough fixtures is that they will give us enough time to get a good idea of Leicester before deciding on the bandwagon.

          1. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            Each week the premier league throws up so many surprises. Fixtures aren't everything.

            1. Dreams
              • 7 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              I know that. There is a risk of missing a haul or two but waiting seems the logical option to me.

    3. makaveli123
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I like Maguire too, but I'll need to see Leicester keep some clean sheets before I potentially bring him in. I'll probably go with Dawson if he is 5.0m, as they have much kinder fixtures from the get-go.

      1. Mark
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 17 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Agreed - Dawson is another big target of mine - we have a Great Expectations brewing on him.

    4. Cpt Crunch Scott talent
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Got to confess I did not follow Hull.
      But I would like to see a comparison of Maguire before and after Ranocchia arrived before I considered him.
      I actually rate Ranocchia.

      1. Cpt Crunch Scott talent
        • 10 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        It's not just a Silva factor to consider.

    5. Judders
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Really dont think Leicester will be as good a force as under their title winning season with Ranieri. Other teams now know how to break them down. What I would be interested in is Fuchs. As Andy already mentioned above Maguire's arrival could mean a switch to the in vogue 3 5 2 option with Fuchs and Simpson aw Wing Backs. Either way I will wait to assess as their opening fixtures are not worthy of early investment.

    6. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Any view on the possibility of Lei playing 343 with Fuchs in an Alonso role ?

      1. Dreams
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Chillwell should be better than Fuchs in that role. Fuchs is getting old.

        1. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          A possible bandwagon if true

    7. FPL Virgin
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I think I might go there, especially if he turns up on the right. Maguire was the most attacking defender in the league last season.

    8. QPR expects... glory!
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Looks like one for the watch list in the early going. Hopefully dropping in price a few times before he becomes a viable transfer 😉

    9. bojack
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I think the article is spot on - let's wait and see how they start before investing. I'm sure I wasn't the only one using the phrase Fuchs sake last year 🙂

    10. Jafalad
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      You know full well the deal, Mark.

      One expensive luxury item, three items from the budget store usually priced at 4.5 and then I'll allow you one 4.0 item from the $2 shop.

      😉

    11. Lovren an elevator
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I see maguire only having appeal as a defensive rotation option, but if he comes in at 5m, that ruins that!
      Also Lei rotate best with New and Hud? Not exwctly desirable defensive options there either.
      Like others here have stated, chilwell only defensive option that has an appeal if nailed, and that's a big IF

  7. shearer9
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Do a report on Mathew Ryan.

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Relax, long way to go

      1. shearer9
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Oh I'm very relaxed Holmes, hard not to be in this weather

        1. bojack
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Are all the men topless in Newcastle today?

          1. FPL price manipulators are …
            • 10 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            It's not cold enough

    2. Pete Campbell
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Strengths: Distribution (very good), Shot stopping

      Weaknesses: His height

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

    Begovic-Fabianski
    Bailly-Yoshida-Schlupp-Matip-HUD/NEW

    This will hopefully do the job 😮

    1. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      The Matip love never goes away, eh?

      1. Holmes
        • 10 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Yeah, maybe if they can sign an exciting defender 😛

    2. Lovren an elevator
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I'm sorry but I just don't like it. Can I ask why Bailly and not Valencia? Literally just a price thing?

  9. Evil Greg
    • 14 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    After a shocking year, paid for membership, I think for the third time. I miss those Captain Sensible articles!

    1. Arn De Gothia
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      welcome aboard

  10. andy85wsm
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 13 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    BREAKING: @WestHamUtd are trying to sign @Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud - Sky sources. #SSNHQ

    1. Je suis le chat
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Hopefully. Be happy to get him for 8m, assume he'll be on penos.

      1. Hooky
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I'd guess Noble will still be on pens

        1. Alan_T
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          There's a chance he won't play regularly

    2. UnitedFan
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      One of those that could be a decent striker option when he gets regular starts, which he obviously hasn't been getting at Arsenal. Price will be relatively kind too.

      1. UnitedFan
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Apparently the highest conversion rate in the league last season too.

    3. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      This would be nice for FPL. Increases Lanzini's appeal too. Just hope Noble does one now so either Gru/Lanzini get pens.

    4. CloudSky
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Guess the club cant function without a donkey up front.

      1. Lovren an elevator
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Lol

    5. Cpt Crunch Scott talent
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Big Andy rumoured to leave?

    6. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      West Ham really do embarass themselves.

      1. Alan_T
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        ?

    7. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Mbappe must be coming to Arsenal if they are willing to let go of Giroud

      1. Saxe-Gotha
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        You think Arsenal would spend that many shekels? I could possibly see Lacazette coming over though.

    8. Lovren an elevator
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Imagine giroud nailed 3rd striker....worth having a cheap midfield for, especially if Sanchez leaves PL

    9. fedolefan
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      No way is Giroud signing for West Ham. Think there are bigger clubs in France, some who could play in the Champs League, who'll come running the moment they get a sniff.

  11. goriuanx
    • 13 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    A bit jealous that City are getting Dani Alves. Towards the end of his career now but still a phenomenal right back.

    1. jmcclory123
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      How much of a FPL option do you think he is, considering the heavy price tag likely to accompany him and Guardiola's rotation policy

      1. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        If I'm not mistaken, City have released Sagna and Zabaleta. Unless they sign 2 right backs, Alves would be pretty nailed?

        One to monitor for now but it wouldn't be a surprise if he gets off to a flyer.

        1. Wilshere Knowledge
          • 10 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Fernandinho was brilliant at right back. Wouldnt be surprised to see him reprise that role now and again when Gundogan is fit

          1. Somalion
            • 14 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            So we can expect him to reprise the role for a total of 2 matches a season, then 😉

          2. goriuanx
            • 13 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            Oh yeah. Maybe Fernandinho will play right back against the lesser teams like Huddersfield and Arsenal.

            1. Wilshere Knowledge
              • 10 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              Harsh on Huddersfield.

  12. Ógie
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Nice to see fpl god Harry Maguire back in the game

    I will be watching closely to see how he settles in and can he nail down a spot on the starting line up
    I can see him displacing Morgan who is 33 now

    1. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Be interesting to see if Alfie Mawson gets a similar move. They seem quite similar in style of play.

      1. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I was just reading about Spurs considering Mawson as a Dier replacement i guess

        I would like to reunite these two players in my fpl defense at some stage noting like a defender with a good eye for goal

      2. Lovren an elevator
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I was actually thinking (before this article suggested he's cost 5m) rotating maguire and mawson! Not sure what their fixtures are like but I know historically Swa/Lei have rotated well.
        Oh well, back to the drawing board maybe

    2. Speédy
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Was a great end of the season differential, looking forward to owning him this season

  13. Heels_Over_Head
    • 10 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    How long does FPL Virgin post here before the name needs to change to FPL Tease?

    1. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      FPL Slut

  14. the snazzy viking
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    I did a simulated Premier League tournament in FIFA 17, and in that, West Brom, Huddersfield and Brighton were relegated. Man Utd were champions

    1. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Thank you. I can now get on with my day without worrying.

    2. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Did Pulis get fired?

    3. Cpt Crunch Scott talent
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Did you give that magic eight ball a real good shake so it predicted all future transfers?

      Did CR7 sign for Utd?

    4. bojack
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I remember "replaying" Arsenal's Cup Winners Cup final defeat to Real Zaragoza on Sensible Soccer.

      It didn't tell me much.

  15. @fpl_phenom
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Just back into the FPL after a well deserved holiday.

    Triple united a must given fixtures?

    Morata
    Perisic
    Lindelof

    .........................................................................

    1. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      No Ronaldo 😯

      1. @fpl_phenom
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        overrated 😉

    2. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Triple defence maybe...wouldn't touch offensive players.

      1. @fpl_phenom
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        why? if they sign the players they are talking about Id definitely get offensive cover!

        Dont see Ronaldo signing unfortrunatel.

        1. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          United have good players, I just don't expect the manager to accommodate an attacking style ... reckon they'll be very tight at the back though

    3. UnitedFan
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Pogba > Perisic

    4. Speédy
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Double defense and Morata if you want to triple up.

    5. Pep
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Not for me, Andy. Defensive options, I'd prefer wingback options in teams that play with a back 3/5 in the premium bracket. Attacking wise, City/Spurs/Chelsea/City better options

      Fixtures on paper look good, but SWA/EVE/SOU all gave United problems last season

      1. UnitedFan
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        ''last season'' 🙂

        1. Pep
          • 6 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Do United score goals and set up in an attacking tactic? No.

          Do United play with 5 at the back, like Spurs (not definite) and Chelsea in particular do, offering more CS potential and more attacking potential from wingbacks? No.

          Are United any good for FPL? No.

          1. UnitedFan
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            I'm not saying that those teams definitely won't cause them problems, Everton and Soton are definitely capable of that. But the point I'm making is that you cannot tell what next season holds based on last season.

            As for Mourinho's tactics, you're right, they aren't attacking. But we are still creating plenty of chances. Ibra had a poor conversion rate. It's just a matter of putting those chances away. They're small margins, which if rectified, would mean we'd have a very different perception of United attackers, especially our striker.

            And you're right about us not playing with WBs, but that didn't stop Valencia from producing adequate attacking returns.

            And to say United aren't good for FPL is simply wrong. We got the joint highest amount of clean sheets last season. What do we buy defenders for again?

            1. Somalion
              • 14 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              Not necessarily saying it will happen, but people forget Mourinho is well capable of going attacking when he trusts his team.

              When Chelsea won the PL with him a few seasons back all of Costa, Hazard and Fabregas were great assets to have.

              1. UnitedFan
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                +1 The whole thing about Mourinho being defensive, while generally true, is exaggerated. People think he 'only' knows how to defend and that's it.

                1. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
                  • 7 Years
                  6 years, 9 months ago

                  The bottom line for Mourinho is the result. If he knows he can attack and win 100% he'll do it but generally he will play the percentages.

                  1. UnitedFan
                    • 8 Years
                    6 years, 9 months ago

                    Agree. But United attacking assets can be nothing to ignore. 🙂

    6. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      A defender for sure. Not so sure about any of their attackers. Abundance of attackers last season and very few goals. I don't see that changing dramatically (as of now).

    7. Lovren an elevator
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Agree with the general vibe on here, United is all about defensive options.
      I feel Valencia is still best and worth whatever extra outlay.
      I will probably go for Morata though, as he'll be nailed and probably the only United attacker who is nailed (unless you count Pogba as an attacker)
      Morata and Valencia is enough United for me

  16. Ógie
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Morata just got hitched in Venice

    http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/623199/Alvaro-Morata-wedding-WAG-Alice-Campello-Man-Utd-Venice-sportgalleries

    Lets hope the smell of sewage from that open sewer of a city does not ruin their day

    1. Somalion
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Aye, what a disgusting place. Blight on the face of the earth.

      https://twoupriders.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/2-The-lights-of-Venice-Canal-at-night.jpg

      1. Pep
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Wowzer

      2. Gnu
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Yuch, disgusting place.
        Give me a grey, litter strewn British city any day. 😉

        1. Somalion
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          I'm partial to a nice concrete jungle 😉

      3. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I was down there last year while on a road trip with some colleagues. It was pretty but the smell and that tourist trap feel ruined it for me

        One of my sisters went there on her honeymoon a few years ago and was not impressed with the place either.

        1. Somalion
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Shame really, when it kicks up the waterways can whiff a bit at times, but I've been twice in pretty scorching heat and luckily avoided any smells.

          The tourist trap feel is unfortunately something that has grown more and more prevalent in all these places I've found. A pain but such is the way.

          1. Gnu
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 14 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            Been twice myself, Once off season, once hi season and have to say I loved it.

        2. scootadee
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          was there as part of my honeymoon last month and loved it. Each to their own 🙂

    2. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Imagine his face when he sees what Manchester is like. Just ask DDG and his wife 😯

  17. Ronny Hotdog
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Anyone here read The Numbers Game? Not much to help with FPL per se but a lot of interesting stats if you're into that kind of thing. Which we all presumably are.

  18. ★Kuntheman★
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Firmino's likely to be listed as a striker, no? 8.5-9.0 sound fair? I'd be considering him.

    1. Jazz!
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Would prefer Sadio either way 🙂

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I've seen people speculating Mane will be 10.0-10.5...I personally don't believe that but I wouldn't go near him at that price

    2. Speédy
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I prefer Mane at 9.0-9.5

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        If Mane is in that price range, he's in my team

    3. bojack
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I'd sooner have Mané, but hopefully at 9.5.

    4. Pep
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Mane and Salah in my team

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Both?

        1. Pep
          • 6 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Probably, yeah

          1. ★Kuntheman★
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            😮

  19. ★Kuntheman★
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    I'm almost positive that I'll be playing a four at the back to start the season...not sure if 4-3-3, 4-4-2, or 4-5-1 though. Feel like 4-5-1 is the worst option, thoughts?

    1. bojack
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Who's your defence

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        See below. Aiming for Trippier, MUN(hopefully Valencia), Chelsea(hopefully Alonso), and any other 5.5 bargain (maybe Bertrand, Baines)

        1. scootadee
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          same with me, thinking maybe dawson in that 4th spot though.

    2. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Four at the back is an option I've considered on a rotation basis with lesser mids ... not too much to get excited about in the lower priced midfield.

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        This. And there's better value in expensive defenders than cheap midfielders at the same price range

    3. ★Kuntheman★
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      4-3-3

      4.5 4.5
      6.5 6.0 5.5 5.5 4.5
      10.5 8.5 8.5 4.5 4.5
      10.5 8.0 8.0

      4-4-2

      4.5 4.5
      7.0 6.0 5.5 5.5 4.5
      10.5 8.5 8.5 6.5 4.5
      10.5 9.0 4.5

      4-5-1

      4.5 4.5
      6.5 6.0 5.5 5.5 4.5
      10.5 9.5 8.5 8.5 6.5
      10.5 4.5 4.5

    4. UnitedFan
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Going with attacking wing-backs? Seems like there's a real divide this season when it comes to defence. People look like they're going either heavy in defence with attacking WBs or going really cheap, sometimes acquiring a 4.0 option, to fund a heavy midfield and attack. I think I'm in the latter group at the moment.

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I'm going to be in the former. 6.0 defenders beat any striker or midfielder for that price or lower.

        1. Pep
          • 6 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          6,0 defenders don't beat an 8.5 attacker eg Sane, Pedro, Salah

          1. ★Kuntheman★
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            I never said they did

            1. Pep
              • 6 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              Fairs, not sure so far but like your 442 template. Cheapies to fund heavy attack methinks tho

              1. ★Kuntheman★
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                Yeah 4-4-2 template seems the most balanced. Hopefully a good striker comes in at under 9.0

        2. UnitedFan
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Not completely sure what I'm going to do yet. Could go with either strategy.

          1. ★Kuntheman★
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            I've created some general templates (above) and it seems like a good way to spread funds with a good balance

            1. Tommytour
              • 13 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              Apart from you can't get Kane Aguero or Sanchez which is more important I feel

              1. UnitedFan
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                This.

              2. ★Kuntheman★
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                Of which Kane seems to be the only one with any form of assurances at the moment

              3. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
                • 14 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                I'd want to be starting the season with Kane and Jesus/Aguero...mjust feel they will be fire & forget options for at least a few weeks. You'd never have to worry about them as they can score in any game & crucially will always give a class-A captaincy option. After that i'm completely flexible though, aside from wanting a liverpool attacking mid the rest of the team is very open.

                The first half of season WC can be used to good effect here too, you could gamble on an unusual tem structure, e.g. Very heavy in defence but weighted towards attacking wingbacks in a 5-3-2 or 5-2-3

                4.5, 4.5
                6.5, 6.5, 6.0, 6.0, 5.5 (Valencia, Alonso, Trippier, Alves, Baines)
                10.0, 7.5, 5.5, 4.5, 4.5 (Mane, Siggy, Stanislas + benchers)
                12.5, 11.5, 4.5 (Kane, Kun/Jesus + bench fodder)

        3. RedLightning
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          You'll probably have to pay more than 6.0 to beat Stanislas.

          Zaha and Phillips are other options, but difficult to find any decent strikers at that price.

    5. SAKA AND EMILE SMITH ROWE
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      What are you gonna do when the fixtures turn for the worse? Feel it'll work for the first 6-8 GW's but then unless you're going to play you're wildcard you'll be stuffed. One Bench Fodder is fine but 3 is too many imo. As there not going to deliver many/if any points. Feel you're better spreading the value as a 10.5m & 4.5m combined will tend to get way less points than an 8.5m & 6.5m combined.

    6. scootadee
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      points per million would have these premium defenders way on top wouldn't it?

  20. Ziro
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    I really admire the passion of many on here who persist with making their squads at specific price points and post them.

    I can't be arsed until the prices come out. What will you do for the 1 month then if you are going to finish up now with the squad?

    1. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      tinkering is the best bit

    2. ★Kuntheman★
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I like to give myself general templates so it's easier to figure out how I will be spreading my funds. Also, generally we overestimate on players, meaning that I could usually have 1.0 or 1.5 more than my predictions for how much my squad would cost

      1. bojack
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I think people generally estimate the cost to fit what they want. I've seen people suggest Lukaku will be

        1. Lawrø
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          WHAT A CLIFFHANGER

          1. Lawrø
            • 12 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            What will he be?!? What will he be?!?

            1. scootadee
              • 8 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              🙂 🙂

          2. Ziro
            • 9 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            😆

            1. bojack
              • 7 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              Drum roll.........

              1. ★Kuntheman★
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                *dies*

    3. FPL price manipulators are …
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I've noticed that the coolest dudes don't do RMT

      1. BROOKLYN GOONER
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        But we do link to our teams in our profiles.

    4. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      A very good tactic i only learned last year how effective it was - leave your opening day squad with about 5.0-6.0 spare budget, more if you can. It's so hard to predict who will do well it leaves great flexibility for GW2 & GW3 without needing to do a WC

      1. @persecuted_by_mods
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Good shout, as someone who has used his wildcard early 3 years running that sounds like a solid plan. Then again 2/3 years I ended up with a good score so who knows

        • ★Kuntheman★
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Good luck making a team with a 94.0 budget, especially this season

          1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
            • 14 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            That's the beauty of the tactic, it also increases your odds of finding the cut price 4.5-5.5 attackers who goes large in the first few weeks & gets a massive price as the masses panic buy - because by default you have to pick more from that bracket. You can still afoord to start with Kane & a City striker & leave ~6.0m budget spare so you are never more than 1 transfer away from any player in the game.

            It's so much more flexible than being locked into a squad that's used your 100.0m & if 5 or 6 of your inital front 7 have a quiet 3 weeks (Very possible) you have limited options other than wildcarding or grinding it out over international breaks etc.

        • Speédy
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Very difficult to have a good squad with that budget,especially with so many players set to receive price hikes.

      2. George Sillett
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Spot on Ziro - complete waster of time.

        1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          All a matter of opinion though, right? 😉

    5. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Only 21 more sleeps till FPL opens! Then only 32 sleeps till opening day fixtures!
      That's a long time 🙁

        1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Bookmarked

        2. Lawrø
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Hey mate, I saw one of your conversations from yesterday... if you're still interested in that thing with the thing, drop me a line at:

          lawroffn@gmail.com

          1. FPL Kangaroo
            • 6 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            Oh what's going on here? Sounds dodgy 😉

    6. Pete Campbell
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      If Giroud goes to West Ham, he is the first name on my team sheet.

      1. BROOKLYN GOONER
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Would be curious to see how he does with a less-good side behind him, but he does have a knack for getting on the end of things that is not just all down to Arsenal.

        1. Pete Campbell
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          I think all he needs to be a perfect FPL player is assured minutes and his price won't be sky high.

      2. Hooky
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I'd consider him if he goes there but can't imagine a time he would ever be the first name on my teamsheet!

        1. Alan_T
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Pretty much this. He'll be a good option, but first name seems utter madness 😉

      3. Pep
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Lol no way - that club can't seem to function without a donkey up front

      4. Lovren an elevator
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Kane, Morata, Giroud.

        Do I dare to dream?

      5. scootadee
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        agreed

      6. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Looks promising but price may be an issue if trying to fit in Kane and Jesus too. A wait and see for me.

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

      Hope Liverpool sign Aubameyang great player.

      1. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Lol yeah he wants the move but I don't see this ever happening.

        1. Lawrø
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Wait, wait, wait... Aubameyang wants to come to Liverpool? Evidence?

            1. Lawrø
              • 12 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              😆

    8. @chapellefpl OR 577TH
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Minnows Pakistan absolutely destroying India!

      1. FPL price manipulators are …
        • 10 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        What if it starts raining? Will it end as a draw? And where is Dickwella?

        1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          The players will get wet .

    9. Alan_T
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Aside from obvious contenders Sanchez and Kane, who do you think will be the 5 top scoring FPL players next season?

      1. Dreams
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Ozil, Mane, Pedro, Lukaku and Kdb.

        1. Lovren an elevator
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          All really interesting!
          Brief summary of why each of these?

      2. Alan_T
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        My main 4 are...

        Alli
        Mane
        KDB
        Lukaku

      3. Ramboros
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Hazard, Eriksen, Özil, Agüero and Lukaku

      4. amcgilp
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Aguero, Hazard, Alli, KDB and C Ronaldo 😉

      5. Speédy
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Jesus, Morata, Eriksen, Lukaku, Mane

      6. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Ronaldo
        Mbappe
        Jesus

      7. SAKA AND EMILE SMITH ROWE
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Mane
        Ozil
        De Bruyne
        Aguero
        Lukaku

    10. Net Gains
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      For pure comedy value, who would you want Southampton to appoint as their new manager?

      1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Alan Partridge

        1. Net Gains
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          He'd probably do better than Alan Pardew

      2. FC Lackless [BALEGIUM]
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Matthew Newberry ?

    11. Emiliano Sala
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      When will great expectations articles come on ffs ? Can't wait for dawson's one

      1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        How would I know ? . The mods never announce when an article is going to be released

        1. Emiliano Sala
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          It has some date ranges maybe

          1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
            • 13 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            Nope . Mark said it was coming earlier but that's all I know

      2. Ziro
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        They misplaced the domain name and published it at a separate url. Find the link in the tweet below:

        https://twitter.com/OfficialFPL/status/876133612101480448

    12. Optimus.
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Just had a Fruit Pastilles Lolly for the first time.. It looked good but it tasted awful, very disappointed 🙂

      Tangled twister ftw

      1. Ziro
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Lollies are for kids no?

        1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Ice lollies or just regular lollies ?

        2. Optimus.
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          I am a kid

          1. Ziro
            • 9 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            In case you travel back in time a few decades you might well be.

            1. Optimus.
              • 13 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              😉

      2. Net Gains
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        What's going on with Salah. Do you guys want him or not?

        1. Optimus.
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Supposedly he has agreed personal terms so I'm just waiting for City the steal him any day now

      3. UnitedFan
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        +1 for Tangle Twisters

        1. Optimus.
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Do they still make Fat Frogs?

          1. UnitedFan
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            I've never heard of those, so probably not. What were they like?

              1. UnitedFan
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                Looks like I missed out on something special.

            1. Somalion
              • 14 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              F**king glorious.

              They make an alcoholic fat frog drink now, tastes just like the ice pop

              1. UnitedFan
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                It seems I haven't lived.

              2. Optimus.
                • 13 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                Time to but some popsicle sticks 🙂

                I know of the fat frog drinks alright, I remember been robbed buying them for the ladies 😀

          2. Ógie
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            I dont think so i used to love them when i was a kid

      4. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        I am a Brunch or Iceburger man myself

        1. Optimus.
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Brunch is a solid choice, probably 2nd for me

          1. Ógie
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            Ireland should leave the EU if we are going to lose Iceburgers imo

            http://www.independent.ie/business/brexit/hbs-iceberger-is-latest-casualty-of-brexit-35584273.html

            First Fatfrogs now this what is the world coming to?

    13. Gubbins94.
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      The Mexico team is crazily similar to the 2010 team.

      Ochoa, Moreno, Salcido, Guadrado, Dos Santos, Vela and Chicharito all big parts of both teams. Even Rafa Marquez is still on the bench

    14. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Portugal 2-1