Fixtures

Southampton handed further fixture boost

The Premier League have announced that Southampton’s proposed away trip to West Ham United – scheduled for Gameweek 2 – has now swapped venues.

The change was required due to the World Athletics Championship which is taking place at the London Stadium.

Southampton will now host the Hammers at St Mary’s on Saturday August 19. This, of course, means that the reverse fixture – scheduled for March 31 – has also flipped.

The alteration compounds an already hugely favourable opening three months to the season for Southampton.

They now enjoy a trio of home matches over the opening four Gameweeks with Swansea City, West Ham United and Watford the visitors, around a Gameweek 3 away trip to newly promoted Huddersfield Town.

That spell is just the beginning of an incredible run which has the Saints play just one of the top six – Manchester United at St Mary’s – over their first 12 Gameweeks.

Ironically, it follows their two Double Gameweeks at the end of last season which saw Southampton’s squad elevated as a key source of talent for Fantasy Premier League managers.

Managed at the time by Claude Puel, the Saints failed to convince over that season run-in, with striker Manolo Gabbiadini in particular, proving a major disappointment.

Fantasy managers now face the prospect of being forced to return to the Saints – who are still managerless following Puel’s recent departure – as a result of their overwhelmingly favourable schedule.

Depending on pre-season form, Gabbiadini may even be granted a reprieve as a third forward option. Meanwhile, at the back, Virgil van Dijk would be a likely target should he remain at the club, with Nathan Redmond and Dusan Tadic perhaps the current contenders in midfield.

As for West Ham, they are now forced to endure four away trips over their first five Gameweeks, travelling to Manchester United, Southampton, Newcastle United and West Brom, while hosting Huddersfield in Gameweek 4.

That will ensure that Slaven Bilic’s side will be seen as a no-go area, with their schedule improving from Gameweek 7 onwards.

Our season tickers have been updated to reflect this afternoon’s change.

792 Comments Post a Comment
    1. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      😆

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

      It's creepy how FIFA turns out to be so realistic some times.

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

    Unless STH buy some one remotely ff friendly, I won't be going near their squad bar the odd cheap defender.

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

      Redmond, Austin present good value IMO, considering the fixtures.

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

        A defender like Cedric is a shoo-in in my squad I think atm

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

      so you wont but will 😉

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

      Stephens is where I am looking at.

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

        https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/52/StephensCity_WelcomeSign.JPG

        Good City 😉

        but what about Soton players? 😛

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

          I don't like them. Stephens players are the best oop prospects.

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

            and they are cheap as chips too 😀

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

              The English lads didn't teach you anything after yesterday, did they?

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

                ? What

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

                  😉 #leavealfiemawson.

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

                    😀 #neverleavealfie

                    10 point Hero

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

                      Would have loved to see you say that when the score was 1-0. #englishdefencesucks.
                      Never buy a player only because he is cheap.

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

                        If you I let u in a little secret

                        I was on captain Alfie Mawson . That's how much I rate his Attacking threat .CS was just bonus 😉 and 3 cheap England payers got 18 points so all well 🙂

                        Fair point but I got them for their potenti not that they were cheap

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

                        pity didn't go with him in the end

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

                        Oh. Seems like you are having a great time playing that game. Fulfilling all your fantasy football fantasies I guess.

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

                        shambolically decent ..
                        Weird game

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

                        I've created a dead team and left it. Captain is Bellerin.

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

                        haha it so like you 😉 to make a team and leave it

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

                        *cough*

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

                        *facepalm*

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

      Triple defense and you'll be fine, no attacking player required 😉

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

        Austin 3rd striker (if first choice over Gabba, pre season should clear that up), Redmond (4th or 5th mid) not worth??
        Yoshida, Stephens, Cedric always options

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

          Austin can work if he is a sure starter.

          Not a fan of Redmond, inconsistent FPL player even if he is playing well

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

        Ballsy, but could be dreamland

    5. ⚽️ Dingo ⚽️
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      With their opening fixtures you'd be silly to go without one Saints punt.

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

      To paraphrase yesterday's enlightening hot topic:
      Points is as points does.

      No matter how you get there, always best to score more 😛

      In any case, I'm sure the new manager and some irrelevant pre-season results will have us all fawning over some Southampton attack option in no time.

    7. Ryan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      They need some new signings. Some of their lot just aren't good enough.

    8. asquishypotato
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Struggling to see how they would all fit in, with Austin Boufal Gabbi Redmond Tadic and to a lesser extent JWP.

      Could be risky

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

    Don't really want 5 million plus defenders from STH. Needs to be cheaper.

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

      Should surely get one if vvd leaves.

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

      Reported

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

      Cedric and Yoshida will be 5. Below 5 looks unlikely

    4. asquishypotato
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Can't see any being below 5, I'd take Cedric and maybe Stephens @5.

      Especially now the Martina has gone

    5. Individual
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Would suspect Stephens would be 4.5, and Yoshi finished at 4.5 as well, so it's not a foregone conclusion that he will be 5.0

      Either way, will have to see who the new man favours alongside VVD (if he stays) or who replaces him (if he goes)!

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

        Stephens to be 5 I think, remember how Stones played a few games and then started the season @5.5?

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

          Hmm yeah, it's obviously total conjecture. Not entirely sure what they take into account!

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

    This PES 17 for mobile is so bad, what a waste of 1GB 😳

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

      Football games for mobile are generally awful - except for portable football manager clones

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

      Try New Star Soccer if you want a timesink for mobile lol, play PES/FIFA on a console where it belongs imo 😀

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

        FUT 15 was decent, thats why installed FIFA17 and PES17, both are rubbish, they have probably tried to do something different and it went wrong... 😛

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

          Yeah haha they always try and overcomplicate it don't they

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

    Dead Zone at its best:Ghost Town......

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

      I watched the Father Ted episode last night (the one with the raffle) where the DJ only had Ghost Town on him... OK that barely qualifies as a coincidence

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

    I am singing in the rain Just singing in the rain what a glorious feeling I'm happy again. Let the stormy clouds chase everyone from the place.

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

      Usually, this would be the case in London, but not currently... sooo hot

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

        It's the case in India atm.

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

          Not everywhere yet, its been a weird start this year..Monsoon seems to have bypassed West/Central parts...Straight from South to East/North...

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

            Yes. Its raining well here.

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

          Ohh monsoooon 🙂

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

            Oh yeah!!! Its good... 😉

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

      Lucky you! Monsoon is yet to reach here, scorching hot as April/May still...

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

    Once again Tadic finds himself flirting his way into my life again.

    Still see myself tripling up but I'd like some signs of life after successfully avoiding the end of season misfits or Gabbi, Redmond and Tadic

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

      I love Tadic but doesn't Redmond seem like the more sensible choice? I will definitely have a defender and a midfielder in GW 1 though.

    2. Saïss Doesn't Mat…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Tadic is a no for me... kept him for the first 4 weeks last season gave me nothing.
      I'll stick to Yoshida and Redmond

    3. Individual
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I know the feeling. Personally thinking about Redmond in my starting XI on GW1 for the second year running.

      So much riding on the identity of the new manager and their satisfaction with the current squad.

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

    Mohamed Salah due in England today as Liverpool close on £35m deal, writes @_pauljoyce

    https://twitter.com/AnfieldHQ/status/877077750594580481

    😎

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

      As I think Mark said, struggling to fit it all together for your front line, Berbs.

      Who where?
      Henderson Wijnaldum
      Mane Coutinho Lallana Salah
      Firmino
      ?

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

        Can
        Wij Cout
        Salah Firm Mane

        Rest rotate.

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

          Cool, thanks Berbs. Feel that's a bit harsh on Lallana, he was looking good for swathes of last season, as well as for country. Guess with the UCL we'll see a lot of rotation this year in any case - we saw 2 years ago how Klopp can ruthlessly prioritise that competition.

          Who are your picks for essential in the league, whilst I've got you? I'd imagine still Coutinho or Firmino (if a mid)?

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

            He played well for 3 months of the season. Wijnaldum was far more consistent throughout the season and contributed more. I think those 2 will rotate.

            Coutinho my number 1 pick atm. Mane second. Salah could be the one if he's significantly cheaper. Firmino just needs more goals.

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

              Thanks for that Berbs, just looked back the data and you're right. Wijni is one of those who I always signed on FM and seems to be coming to the fore a bit more now.

              Think you're right. Start is a little mixed: wat CPL ARS mci BUR but if you guys love a bit of early season form so Cout is looking likely - doubt we'll see the massively generous 8.0 price tag again tho 😀

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

                I'd be surprised if Cout is less than 9.5m to be honest.

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

                  Finished in top 10 after an injury-hit season - not too shabby at all.

                  Factoring in he missed 7 GWs between 14-20, the 171 he got = 5.51 ppg. Extrapolated if he played every game = 209. Takes him up to 5th in mid rankings, ahead of KdB on 199 and behind Eriksen on 218.

                  Think you're dead on - 9.5-10.0 probably. 9.5m I expect is your boy

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

            Mane is the best option but will cost more than most
            if Cout is reasonably priced he deserves a place in our teams if not its got to be Salah

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

              As I just said to Berbs, doubt we'll see 8.0 again. Suspect they'll be similarly priced and we'll have to choose... there are numerous long essays elsewhere on this site and on mine about my thoughts on the matter lol

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

          Henderson will start if he is fit I think with Can/Wij rotating
          We could alos see a Lallana/Salah rotation

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

            Emre may miss start of the season due to summer competition but he's been 1st choice since Klopp came in. Henderson is crocked.

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

              When Hendo and Wij were fit at the start of the season Can was warming the bench. Then Wij got a little injury then Hendo ( oh gosh Heel) and Emre came into the starting lineup really at that point (not his fault though, he's been good)

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

                Can wasn't fit at the beginning of last season either. He's pretty much 1st mid on teamsheet but guess that's open to rotation with CL.

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

                  I am pretty excited about our season Berbs 😀 . What an exciting attack we have build up now. less said about the defence the better

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

                    It's very easy to get excited but there are glaring weaknesses. We're still trying for van Dijk though, despite messing up.

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

                      that's soooo us 😉

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

      Applause

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

      Waiting for your article Berbs.

  8. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Any mods about? All my previous comments in my profile have disappeared. Mark?

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

      Lots of mine have been excised too, Doos. They only go back to GW38 now... how will people be able to tell the regs on here anymore??

      But yours have completely gone... talk about showing you the door? 😉

      (ps you all good mate? Keeping well?)

      1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Not too bad. I still get very tired, very quickly. But I manage to go in every other week, and shopping and stuff.

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

          Know the feeling mate, I had some pretty complex medical stuff a couple of years ago that still impacts me nowadays 🙂

          Stay strong, Doos - as my (sadly now late) great uncle used to say, there's plenty in the churchyard who would love to be us 🙂

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

      You're beyond the matrix now!

      Will flag it up, presumably some IT quirk that the clever chaps can resolve.

      1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Cheers, GWM! 🙂

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

          No worries, just logged on 🙂

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

      Mine is the same - not just you. All the comments are there though so nothing to worry about, just a display issue I assume

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

        Have they all been excised from further back, Andy? My latest one (as I said above) is only from GW38... guess you have to get rid of / archive them for site capacity? I was hoping to look through them for an article but sadly all gone 🙁

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

          30 days of rolling comments are held in your public profile. Been that way for a long time.

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

            Ahh cheers GWM 🙂 just never had the occasion to look back before tbh!

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

              No worries - and yes, it's a data capacity thing as far as I know - some people talk waaaaay too much 😉

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

                Meeeee 😀

      2. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Ah, OK. Thanks - was an exchange between me and Bedknobs and Boomsticks that I was trying to find.

    4. GreenWindmill
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Interesting - if you go via the Account > My Profile links in the top right of the page you should see the comments, if you click the link in your username on a comment then you don't.

      1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        Nope.

        "This user didn't post any comments in the last 30 days."

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

          Weird, worked for me. Ah well - the powers that be are looking into it so no worries. What was the conversation you were trying to find?

          1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 14 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            Was yesterday, but I have so far searched without success. He responded to me on a different article, I think.

        2. Wild Rover
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          I've been getting that for a few days now, refresh and the comments appear 🙂

  9. Baines on Toast...
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    People are tripling up on southampton, a team with a new manager who ended last season without a shred of form? FFS will never change, but we're handicapping ourselves pretty early this year...

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

      Seen the odd suggestion of a double up, midfield and defence. Not seen many people suggesting a triple though?

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

      Think maybe 1-2 is an OK idea.

      I'm writing an article on WBA at the moment, and they didn't win their last 9 games after beating Arsenal, and failed to score in the 5 games after that victory. But I'd imagine we're still considering their players.

      End of season and beginning of season are two very different kettles of fish. Lots of factors involved surrounding motivation (big debate we were having end of last year!), new manager bounce and new signings can kick in for start of season.

      However, getting Gabbiadini in for GW1 might be a step too far for many a stomach...

    3. Prokoptas
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Interesting article on Southampton. Watching them last year, I felt that the team never found a formula that worked under Puel, at least going forward. Far too much was put upon the players to create chances individually in man-to-man situations, as opposed to tailoring a cohesive attacking scheme that was designed to pressure the defence itself. Obviously the rotation of strikers was a big issue there - it looked for a short while as if things were starting to come together around November, and then Austin went down and the side had to reshuffle again.

      However, I would also caution against expecting things to pick up immediately after (what seems to be the imminent) appointment of Pellegrino. Last year, Alaves mustered 41 goals across 38 games; whilst goal-shy Southampton scored....41 goals in 38 games. As a former centre-back himself, I could see Pellegrino focusing more on ensuring that Southampton's defence (which has been excellent over the last couple of seasons) remains that way, at least in year one.

      In terms of fantasy prospects, I'll almost certainly start with a Saint (as a fan, I feel virtually obliged to). The fixtures are also extremely kind, which is definitely a plus. But the idea of tripling up to start the season, as has been floated on here, would give me serious pause for thought.

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

        Hey man - remember to shoot me an email as discussed yesterday 🙂

        Great analysis of what was going on. I really think Austin might be one to watch - think 6.5 will be his price again.

        Did Redmond stay up top? I assume he reverted back to the wing and Puel gave up on his "Henry-lite" experiment?

        I think I'll also start with at least one saint, possibly 4th mid or 3rd striker. But I'm not sure at all!

        1. Prokoptas
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          The integration of Gabbiadini into a more traditional number 9 role definitely hampered Redmond's output. In the 8 games after Gabbiadini returned (starting with the City game), Redmond produced only 1 goal and 0 assists. However, I didn't find that his style of play was hugely different, so I'd be wary of drawing any meaningful conclusions from such a small dataset. It's also difficult to parse out the effects (if any) of a late-season slump in motivation.

          Honestly, I'm not a huge fan of Redmond. I can see some value as a fantasy asset, if priced favourably (last year's 6.0 was kind for a player in such an advanced position). But he's not high on my list of Saints players to watch for this year.

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

            OK cool. Yeah I had Redmond in because of Puel's comments vis a vis the aptitude he identified in Redmond to play up top rather than on the wing. Seems like he did row back on that eventually, though.

            Gabbiadini is one I am unsure on, as I feel there's a lot of negativity bias (as it sounds: the tendency to overemphasise events of a negative nature in how you make decisions/behave) around him, but with the fixtures he could well be a decent shout. Just so unfashionable. Depends if he or Austin is fancied by the new manager - or if indeed it's a 4-4-2.

            Just having a trawl through WhoScored on Alaves and it seems Pellegrino is a fan of 4-2-3-1 (https://www.whoscored.com/Teams/60/Fixtures/Spain-Alaves) so I guess it might be a strike shootout for who is the lone forward.

            1. Prokoptas
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 8 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              Yep, 4-2-3-1 would absolutely be my expectation should Pellegrino ultimately assume the role. Interestingly, that was always a formation in which Tadic seemed to perform better - as a true number 10 with width around him and a target man up front. Could be worth keeping an eye on in pre-season; though Tadic always seems to end up being priced 0.5 higher than I'd want to pay.

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

                Yes he needs to be freed from the defensive responsibilities - I'm guessing Puel tasked him with those on the wing?

        2. The Rumour Mill
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Yeah Redmond reverted back to the wing, still did well on occasion there though.

          I'm leaning towards a defender and Redmond at 4th midfielder. At their likely prices I think they are low risk, high reward options 🙂 Can all be sorted out on a wildcard too if need be. Tadic and Gabbiadini are too frustrating for me to consider at present though, been burned by these charlatans too often before!

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

            Spoiler for my next article, but I'm also thinking Chadli might be a good fit in the 4th mid spot if he gets a preseason under his belt and some consistent playing time!

            I totally forgot he scored 11 goals and provided 8 assists in 2014/15 for Spurs, getting a more than decent overall score of 160. That would’ve outscored Mane this term and just behind the likes of Vardy and Pedro.

            Gabbi I know my WGAT colleague was hugely burned by - I had him earmarked for obvious reasons but ended up with 3-5-2 instead and was so glad I did 😀

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

              *WGTA! D'oh. DK why my phone autocorrected to that... what would WGAT even mean?
              What goes after tea?

              1. The Rumour Mill
                • 7 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                Good point, he's the forgotten man of FF! I assume he's competing with Phillips and Brunt (Should brunt be moved up into midfield) for a starting spot?

                I have WBA on my radar due to those opening fixtures, so far though I've been focussing on the defence, Dawson I like, Brunt I like, Foster I am considering. Hadn't really thought about the attack much yet, Rondon has really gone off the boil hasn't he?

                You dodged a bullet with Gabbi! And as for WGTA... The female orientated Grand Theft Auto series of games??

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

                  Yeah, lots to still say on him.

                  Article on WBA will be out soon!

                  WGTA is correct actually - who got the assist - but yes we haven't really abbreviated it too much hehe

    4. Botman and Robben
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I plan on getting at least 1 defender. Then maybe consider a mid-fielder but its gonna be 2 max

  10. Bambi
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    price prediction for the following players?
    A) Alli
    B) Azpillicueta
    C) Jesus

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

      10
      6.5
      10.5

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

      10.0
      6.5
      10.5

    3. Individual
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Absolute minimums:
      Alli = 9.0
      Azpi = 6.5 (title winning def, finished 3rd in category)
      Jesus = 9.5

      More probable (all conjecture!):
      Alli = 9.5
      Azpi = 6.5
      Jesus = 10.0 - 10.5, can't quite decide!

    4. Prokoptas
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      I would guess:

      10.0
      6.5
      10.5

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

    Florentino had an interview yesterday.

    About Cristiano: hadnt talked with him, read everything from the media. He is a Madrid player. He knows that Cris is angry with the media. When he comes back they will sit down and talk. (Sounds more and more like a publicity stunt.)

    About De Gea: there was a time when we were close to him 2 years ago but a lot changed. I didnt know Keylor then. Hes our nr 1 now. Zidane and the players like him. So we arent going for De Gea.

    About Morata and James: I saw the media crunching the numbers and what not, but we havent gotten an offer yet for both this players. We are very content with them. At least let Alvaro enjoy honeymoon. So apparently Morata is a lot farther from United that media would have you believe. There are also people saying in Madrid, that Perez said James and Morata are deffo staying here because Zizou wants them.

    About transfer options: on $uma we are watching him. The same with Mbappe. We know he is a massive fan, we know that he wants to play for Real Madrid, he's got pictures with everyone and with our jerseys and the same happened with Asensio, who slept under a Real Madrid shirt. On both: dont know how it will pan out, need to talk to Zizou when he returns and see his thinking.

  12. Individual
    • 10 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Just thinking a bit about how FPL towers do pricing - what do you guys think the factors are?

    Pure conjecture, but thinking the following things may play a role:

    o Player's prior season performance
    o Team's prior season performance
    o Amount paid for player (if new)
    o Reputation of player (more intangible, but I'd assume it plays a part)
    o Player's price at the beginning of prior season
    o Player's price at the end of prior season
    o Global effects (e.g. "Leicester effect" which caused their players to be priced higher, meaning other teams were maybe adjusted - linked to team/player prior performance)
    o (Speculative) "price brands" being allocated
    o Whim?

    Anything else?

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

      Mark's opinions.
      No. of mentions in Ffscout.
      Hype surrounding the player.
      Fixtures.

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

        Herd mentality, you mean Dreams? 😀

        Do you think fixtures really count???

        1. AA33
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          He's joking. Fixtures don't count imo.

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

          Yes.
          I think fixtures do count. Yes.

          1. Prokoptas
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 9 months ago

            The pricing provides a framework for the entire season, though...and every player has the same 38 fixtures.

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

              Yeah, was assuming you were JK, dreams... I don't think fixtures do count as much as they have to look at it holistically.

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

      FFS pre-season hype

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

        Think we need to hype someone random.

        All aboard the Nyommobile?

        1. Prokoptas
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          Personally, I'm more partial to the Abdoulaye Doucouré bandwagon. Featured prominently in each of Watford's last 10 games, and his 82% dribble success rate leaves chumps like Hazard (75%) in the dust...

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

            Doucore is one of those I always signed on FM if I had £10m budget left and needed another 3.5-4* midfielder to fill out the squad, so I have fond memories of his virtual impact.

            Let's see, that's an interesting point of view. The new Capoue?

            1. Prokoptas
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 8 Years
              6 years, 9 months ago

              Well, in the real world I wouldn't touch the man with a bargepole in fantasy. There's a non-zero chance I could outscore him this year.

              But as a random subject of undeserved hype...sign me up! He at least seems like a pretty friendly guy.

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

                Haha for sure 🙂

                We all love a bit of undeserved hype.

                The problem is coming up with a snappy name for our newly formed Doucore wagon

                Doucorage?

                1. Prokoptas
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 8 Years
                  6 years, 9 months ago

                  I like it. I'm going to start randomly dropping his name onto the end of lists of players I'm watching out for this season.

                  He'll be in the Scout Picks before we know it.

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

                    Haha yes - fancy writing a prospecting the prospects article on him for us for lols? 😛

                    1. Prokoptas
                      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                      • 8 Years
                      6 years, 9 months ago

                      It would actually make for an interesting experiment as to the dangers of cherry-picking statistics to prove a point.

                      This is a midfielder who:

                      - Played more minutes over the last quarter of the season than Christian Eriksen.
                      - Had a better dribbling success percentage than Eden Hazard.
                      - Had a higher pass success rate in the final third than Alexis Sanchez.
                      - Had as many goals from set plays as Dele Alli.

                      Likely to be priced at 4.5, surely we're overlooking the prospects of this budding superstar as the ultimate enabler?

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

                        Yes. Stats in a vacuum is a big issue generally - problem is people want simplicity, so the kinds of stats you've just picked out seem highly convincing if you don't think about it.

                        I looked at the 4.5 bench fillers actually in the data from last season using FPL overlord ("All Filler, No Killer?" was the witty name of the article), thinking there was enough for an article there but couldn't find much. Think I lacked the ability to simulate the benefit of having Capoue (and later Allen) as your 4th mid and how much in total that enabled you elsewhere, plus project the extra points yield being able to afford Kaku / Costa / Kane as your frontline through owning that cheapo 4th gave you. If you're interested in having a little look, let me know 😀

  13. Team Cruel
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Perez puts DDG saga to bed. What will his price be this season? 6m? Could see him having 40 % ownership again if he costs 5.5m.

    1. Prokoptas
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      He'll be 5.5, I would imagine. And I'd love for him to end up at 40% ownership again, just to guarantee I have an extra 1million in the bank over almost half the competition...

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

        Casuals wont care about money .They will run away with his points . Those opening United Fixtures 😮

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

          Are casuals even real? Not seen any on FFS for the last month or so. Must be an in-season phenomenon

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

            They rise and shine on Saturdays when FPL is open 😉

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

              Or my favourite Saturday night posts:

              "[xx] in for a hit??? On a -8 already"

              1. Team Cruel
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 8 Years
                6 years, 9 months ago

                Night? You mean afternoon. Usually during the first half of the first game.

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

                  Indeed.

                  I remember last year when Mkhi scored in the game - lots of people on here were like "I've got him in already" at half time. Cue being carried off. Lots of "Mkhi out for ??" by the evening.

                  😀

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

                😀

                or Pogba to Zaha for a -12?

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

                  Hahaha oh my, those are the best.

                  That and

                  "what do I do with this mess?

                  [Template team]"

      2. Team Cruel
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        But 40 % ownership neutralises the advantage of having a United defender. Might have to double up on the defence because of favourable fixtures to make it worthwhile.

        DDG at 5.5m guarantees 130-140 points. Generally there will be a 4.5 GK that matches that tally but most will fall 20-30 points short. So you have to nail the correct 4.5 GK and/or maximise the advantage of the extra 1m to cover those points.

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

          Agreed TC to some extent. Maybe some merit in having "cover", much depends on the valuation of the backline at United, plus if any consensus emerges on who is at left back. Assuming it's Darmian now with Shaw ambiguous - could be a bit cheaper than the others (maybe 5.5?) and therefore worthy of consideration... barring any signings....

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

      If he's 5.5 and 40% owned, I'll be happy part of the 60% who have the extra 1.0 spent elsewhere in our squads

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

      5.5 imo

      If every players price will virtually be assumed that it will go up.0.5 or 1.0, we may not even be able to make a decent enough squad. That will result in disinterest from the casuals which FPL doesn't want.

      I think Prices are a little exaggerated here.

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

      I think only Courtois will be 6m. All other premium keepers would be 5.5

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

    Wish redmond be nailed under new manager
    Tadic plays deeper. Considering cedric and vvd for defencd and think they will have rotation in attack. For me benteke is better option

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

      Think we need to see.

      Tekkers' first few fixtures are great. Could see him in an array of teams. Depends on price ofc.

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

      Redmond was the ultimate example of a "goals imminent" player, who are never delivered. I had him for a large proportion of last season based on his stats. Finally got fed up and sold him just before his big haul. Puel seemed to like him too, not sure if he'll get as much game time under new management.

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

        Yes he did not deliever so much
        But it always seems he is going to do. He is a player like zaha for me 2 years ago. It was obvious he will bring points

  15. Jafooli
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Just been chatting with a coding mate of mine who works for the company that does FPL.

    He's been asked to right scripts for a pay-to-play format for 17/18.

    By all accounts this season will require a £1.00 entry fee per GW. If you play all 38 GW's that 38 squid.

    I suppose if you're not doing very well you can drop out and save a few pounds. I like the idea.

    1. Boris Bodega
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      No I will have to quit if that's the case. They would lose SO many players if the game goes that way.

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

        I think it will be an extra option, on top of the free format

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

      I lost you at coding mate 🙂

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

        Okay, let me try and explain.

        Firstly, give me your banking code?

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

          I would cooperate with you but the site is too slow for me

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

            Okay, let's try bank account number?

            We'll come back to bank code.

    3. Team Cruel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      The free version or UFPL?

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

        The free version is becoming pound-a-week version.

    4. Individual
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Would be surprised if it goes that way

    5. Essan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      That seems a bit silly to me, unless they are just going to play a weekly game with no leagues? You do really well for 28 weeks then miss a week due to illness, holiday or something and it's all been for nothing..... You wont get any casuals interested. Or me!

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

      They're not really taking advantage of fpl adiction ... I'd say a £5 a week for maximum profit and a five year contract...no option to drop out.

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

        Have suggested this to my mate.

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

          It was a Jafooli post after all ....

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

            😉

    7. Boris Bodega
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      The £5 per season for the Ultimate game was certainly doable, £38 for the regular version would be daylight robbery 🙁

    8. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Er, before this gets out of hand, I don't have any mates.

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

        you certainly don't now 😛

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

          This.

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

        Hook. Line. Sinker.

        Next you'll be telling me Josh King isn't English!!!

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

          😛

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

      Sheesh, the number of serious replies this has got! 😆

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

        😉

      2. Team Cruel
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 9 months ago

        The must be new to the site.

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

        not off me ...

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

      No you haven't.

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

      Hahaha Ppl thought you were serious.

      Now the know your work, how will you catch them next time?

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

      I seriously thought this was going to be a picture of him drinking a beer and smoking a cigarette.

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

        😆
        😆

        1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 9 months ago

          ^^^

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

        *banging a granny

  16. Team Cruel
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Why is Gabbi drooling in that picture? Did he spot Scarlett Johansson in the crowd?

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

      He's like, 'what folk got me for those two DGW's? Burn.'

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

      Players who had him in the Double Dbgw marching towards him 😡

    3. Individual
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 9 months ago

      Probably didn't select himself for the double game weeks and seen how well others have done

  17. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    6 years, 9 months ago

    Ok. When Jafooli's done trolling the site ... 😉

    If I could have your attention? Anybody seen Greendreams11 lately, please?