Scout Reports

Moving Target – Kyle Walker

Having already swooped for goalkeeper Ederson and midfielder Bernardo Silva this summer, Manchester City yesterday confirmed the signing of Tottenham Hotspur defender Kyle Walker for a reported fee worth an initial £45 million, plus an additional £5 million in add-ons.

After penning a five-year contract at the Etihad, the 27-year-old summed up what he’ll bring to the City starting lineup:

“Attacking is a big part of my game. I’m a defender first and foremost but if I can give something going forward it’s going to give a positive to the team, an extra edge and hopefully we can bring teams down. I watched Zabaleta countless times on YouTube because his timing of runs into the box was fantastic and it’s something to get to my game. With my pace, if I can time my runs as well I don’t think anyone can stop me. I’m all about assists, I’m not really greedy, I don’t want to score. As long as I set people up and they get the goals that’s all I care about.”

The History

Born in Sheffield, Walker joined Sheffield United’s youth set-up at the age of seven and by 2008 was a regular in the club’s reserve side.

Walker was sent out on loan to League One outfit Northampton Town in November 2008, where he made nine league appearances before returning to Bramall Lane.

He was handed his Blades debut in an FA Cup tie against Leyton Orient in January 2009, and would make a further six appearances in all competitions over the rest of the season.

In that short period, Walker had done enough to catch the eye of Tottenham Hotspur and they signed Walker and team-mate Kyle Naughton for a combined fee worth around £9 million in July 2009.

Walker was sent back to Sheffield United on loan for the 2009/10 season, while he took in further loan spells at Queens Park Rangers and Aston Villa before establishing himself as Spurs’ first choice right back during the 2011/12 campaign.

Indeed, Walker was named PFA Young Player of the Year in April 2012, registering two goals and one assist over 37 league matches.

Over recent seasons, Walker has been a key part of Spurs’ success, producing two goals and 20 assists over the last five campaigns, and ended his White Hart Lane career with 229 appearances in all competitions.

Last season, a total of six FPL assists was more than any defender in the top-flight.

After representing England at U19 and U21 levels, Walker made his senior debut as a substitute in a 1-0 friendly win over Spain in November 2011.

He has currently been awarded 27 caps for his country, registering five assists.

The Prospects

After releasing Gael Clichy, Bacary Sagna and Pablo Zabaleta this summer, strengthening the full-back areas was always going to be Pep Guardiola’s main priority this summer.

In Walker, City look to have signed a player who looks tailor-made to be a huge success at the Etihad, with the England international’s pace and athleticism expected to add another dimension to the City attack.

Guardiola generally favoured either a 4-2-3-1 or 4-1-4-1 formation last season, although he did occasionally experiment with a three-man defence.

Walker looks ideally suited to City’s fluid right-back role, while he is also equipped to shine at wing-back – a position where out-and-out wingers such as Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane lacked the defensive qualities to excel.

While Aleksandar Kolarov remains at the club, Monaco defender Benjamin Mendy appears likely to sign over the next few days, and is expected to be City’s first-choice left-back.

Unless City sign another player to provide competition for Walker at right-back, Fernandinho looks set to provide cover, with youngster Pablo Maffeo perhaps another alternative.

Looking at Walker’s underlying statistics from last season, he averaged a key pass every 76.62 minutes and a shot every 144.72 minutes.

During his time at Spurs, he consistently proved he can offer a significant threat down the right flank, and given the calibre of attacking player he’ll be playing alongside, his game should only develop further.

While Guardiola at times last season used his full-backs as extra midfield players, or “inverted full-backs,” to create more passing angles and to help prevent counter-attacks, Walker’s strengths are perhaps more suited to those of a conventional full-back.

Walker’s speed in transition will be very useful if Guardiola does choose to use the England international in that inverted position, although it could possibly hinder his chances of creating opportunities.

The key to City improving at the back will be the fitness of captain Vincent Kompany.

Upon the Belgian’s return towards the end of last season, City managed to register four clean sheets in the eight matches he started.

Indeed, the number of shots Guardiola’s men conceded dropped from 8.2 per match prior to Gameweek 33 to 7.1 following Kompany’s return to the starting XI.

The skipper’s leadership and organisational skills can’t be underestimated, particularly with Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones both struggling when the Belgian is absent.

Only Chelsea (178) conceded fewer shots inside the box than City (181) over the course of the season though, so if Ederson can offer an upgrade of Claudio Bravo and the departed Willy Caballero in goal, the outlook for the Citizens’ rearguard could look a whole lot brighter.

City’s start to the season (bha EVE bou LIV wat CPL) is kind enough, so Walker has the platform to deliver early, as he did last term.

The England international has been priced at 6.5 in Fantasy Premier League (9.5 in Sky Sports) – slightly more expensive than Kompany at 6.0.

Fantasy managers do have a wealth of premium options to choose from in defence, though, meaning that Walker could, at least initially, struggle to attract significant investment. In saying that, he’s already been acquired by 14.6% of FPL managers, making him the seventh most popular defender in the game

City’s pre-season matches will provide some clues as to how Guardiola is looking to use Walker, and if he is encouraged to bomb down the right flank and get to the byline, as he was at Spurs, he may well be worth that lofty price tag.

But with Mendy also likely to come under consideration given he produced five assists in 24 league starts last season, the uncertainty over who will be the better option could be another reason to avoid the City defence over the opening few weeks.

After missing out on Dani Alves, it was crucial that City managed to secure the services of Walker.

The 27-year-old has the potential to shore up what was a problem position last term and help add yet another facet to the City attack.

Whether that will place him among the leading premium assets remains to be seen, but if handed the licence to attack, Walker looks certain to be a key factor in our seasons.

But with a chunky price tag, Walker’s arrival at the Etihad is more likely to rouse interest in the situation back at White Hart Lane.

Kieran Trippier – priced at 5.5 and 8.1 in Sky Sports – could now be promoted to first choice right-back for Spurs, although Mauricio Pochettino is expected to battle for Porto defender Ricardo Pereira.

Ultimately then, Walker’s move may be significant purely due to what he leaves behind at White Hart Lane.

Further Reference

Kyle Walker Wikipedia

Kyle Walker Transfer Markt Page

Kyle Walker 2016/17 You Tube Highlights

3,656 Comments Post a Comment
  1. True Blue
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    what are everyone's thoughts on Fabregas? with Matic sure to leave and TB not fit in August, is Fabregas a decent option for first 3 GWs?

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      They'll buy some more players.

      1. True Blue
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        but not in central midfield I guess

    2. My Name Is Prince
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Willian 😀

    3. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Nah

    4. Pique boo
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Bakayoko is fit

  2. Waxys
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Ok I've decided on my team just waiting for confirmation on the Joe Hart loan move so I can have him on my team.

    Dick move by FPL not placing Joe Hart as City's third keeper despite being back from loan. They know he would have been he value pick once his move to West Ham was confirmed.

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

      He would have been 5m anyway, so not really a value pick 😮

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Nope if he was listed as City's third keeper he would have been 4.5 as Bravo is 5 as second choice keeper

        1. Cheeseoid
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          I think that is far from a certainty.

        2. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Chelsea have 3 at 5.0

          1. TorresMagic™
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 14 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            or above.

    2. Geoff
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Not sure about this.. why are you picking Hart??

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        He's a shot stopper so he will get lots of points for saves. Just like Heaton

        1. Geoff
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          unless he's 4.5m there's no reason to get him

          1. Waxys
            • 6 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            He may be but I doubt it

            1. Geoff
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 11 Years
              6 years, 8 months ago

              he won't be so don't get him

    3. GGMU11
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Not sure why you would want a 5m west ham keeper.

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Because he's Joe Hart. I don't see any better options at £5m

        1. Cheeseoid
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Forster would be a better option I would think certainly for the opening schedule

      2. Geoff
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        this

    4. the cromulent one
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Finding new and exciting approaches to mediocrity.

    5. noquarternt
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      haha...you're serious?

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

    Reposting.

    King or Benteke for the first few games?

    1. True Blue
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Benteke

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

      Benteke, 3 nice games

    3. Geoff
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Rooney 😀

    4. GGMU11
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      I'd take firmino over benteke.

    5. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      King... everyone has written King off... but he scores from mid or forward position...

    6. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Benteke

  4. supareds
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Guys, my 1st draft of my team, I normally play with a 3-4-3 but obviously changes due to gameweek options. Appreciate any thoughts/suggestions:

    Foster (Pickford)
    Cedric Milner Kolasinac (Mee Rangel)
    Alli Couthino Sane Loftus-Cheek (Allen)
    Jesus King Firmino

    1. woodca04
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      If anything I'd say a little too balanced. Perhaps light on captain options?

      Also makes it tough to get in a big hitter if they start to fire.

      Perhaps take a look at Milner for a better value cheaper defender, and maybe upgrade Sane - city's rotation scares the hell out of me. Only KDB seems reliable

      1. supareds
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Agree, very balanced. I like Milner because he still remains as the starting LB and penalty taker for LFC. Although clean sheets may be an issue...

        Not sure about Sane myself either...

        Thanks for the food for thought...

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

      Fraser or Walters over Allen?

      Sure about Pickford? Probably wont use him in 4 of the starting 5 games

      1. supareds
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks, Allen im hoping has a better 2nd season at stoke, but im definitely not set on him.

        Pickford seemed a reasonable backup option and will get games being Everton's 1st choice keeper. Plan is to rotate him and Forster based on fixtures.

        Cheers for the reply

    3. Page 302
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Rangel has insane levels of ownership for someone who probably won't play. You could lose money there.

      Pickford is interesting. He can hide behind Foster until the fixtures turn.

      1. supareds
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Point taken on Rangel. No idea who he is or if he will start. Will need to assess him as a viable cheap option before game week 1.

        Thanks for the reply

  5. True Blue
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    so how does this look? any thoughts are appreciated.

    Foster
    Trippier Lindelof Cedric
    Alli Coutinho Sane Willian/Fabregas
    Lukaku Jesus Gabby

    bench: 4.0 GKP 4.0, 4.0 DEF and RLC

    1. Geoff
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      template = good

      I'm on Laca over Jesus, Deeney over Gabby (depends on Gabb's preseason)

      Not sure about Sane I'd consider Ramsey instead

      1. True Blue
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        I did consider Ramsey but increasingly of the opinion that he won't be starting.
        Not interested in Laca but Deeney is an interesting recommendation. Thanks

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

      Good enough to survive first few weeks

      1. True Blue
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        that's the plan: to prepare a team for first 3-4 GWs only as I always end up hitting the WC button by then anyways

    3. woodca04
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Same as above really. Very solid. Although Sane and Jesus gives you a high chance of at least one of them being rotated at any point in time...

      1. True Blue
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        thanks. one alternative I'm considering is to swap (Sane + Gabby) to (Firmino and Redmond). depends a lot on Gabby's pre-season.

  6. Corona Macallan
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Kane Lacazette or Jesus?

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

      Laca or Kane

    2. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Kane is the best but for balance- sake, Laca

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

    No love for Firmino?

    Probably the best pick in that price range? (7-10m)

    1. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Who knows how nailed he'll be?

    2. woodca04
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Agreed. He's the only 3rd striker im considering. Will be playing 2 up front if I don't pick him

    3. GGMU11
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Agreed, getting a lot of hate because of the position change. Still think he's best in that bracket.

    4. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      He already didn't get many points in relation to Liverpool's other mids. Now as a forward expect those point Reuters to decrease even more

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

        Shouldnt we compare his quality with players around his price bracket rather than team mates?

        We have to compare Firmino with Defoe/Benteke/King and likes of Mane/Coutinho with Sane/Alli/Eriksen. Comparing Firmino with Mane/Coutinho probably wont make sense imo

  8. teddy.
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Any love for Telegraph Fantasy Footbalĺ?

    Quite happy with this team:

    Forster
    Bellerin Milner Lindelof Alonso
    Pogba Ramsey RLC
    Kane Lacazette Lukaku

    1. Corona Macallan
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Pogba playing too deep in today's match. Unless united sign another mid I see pogba playing in that position

    2. GGMU11
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Mour

    3. GGMU11
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Mourinho said this won't be the regular formation'

    4. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Free to play?

      1. Old Man
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Used to be a fiver, not sure now.

        1. teddy.
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Free this season

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

    RMT
    Foster Elliot
    Trippier Cedric Yedlin Holgate Rangel
    KDB Coutinho Ramsey Willian RLC
    Kane Lacazette Defoe

    1. woodca04
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Midfield identical to mine so excellent!

      My only concern is Lacazette - haven't seen enough to convince me. At his price I'd be looking possibly Jesus if he's going to be playing

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

      Nice, well done

    3. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Strong team, 8/10. I'd just change Holgate.

  10. cylus11 ( Manager) - Russia…
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Does Walker attacking threat decline the appeal of Same wing back or does it increase it

    1. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Same wing back?

    2. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      I don't understand the question? Do you mean does a attacking fullback like Walker increase his appeal?

    3. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Whatchu talkin' about?

    4. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Walker can effect Sterling's fantasy numbers as Walker goes forward and Sterling comes back the cover;

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        People care about Sterling?

        1. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Sterling on the right- like Walker... Sane on the left

          1. Waxys
            • 6 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            Bernardo silva on the right. Sterling got benched so Pep can fit Jesus and Kun in the same time. He's the weakest link it seems

    5. the cromulent one
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      That sentence is completely incomprehensible. Punctuation might help.

      City fullbacks did next to nothing last year. I think Walker will not live up to his price tag. I'm not worried about Sane.

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        They were past it. Kompany scored 3 goals last season

  11. Waxys
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Can someone recommend me a great 4.5 goalie that's a starter and will be great value? Someone like Begovic. I'm looking for one unless Joe Hart is 4.5

    This way I can squeeze in Jesus, Sanchez, Kane, Rooney Walker, Trippier, Lindelof, Kolasinac, Milner,Lindelof

    1. Corona Macallan
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Want 2 Lindelof?

    2. My Name Is Prince
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Foster?

    3. I Member
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Foster looks like the best 4.5 keeper to me.

    4. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      For 4.5 there's not much greatness. Foster, Hennesy, Flappyhandski.

      Or get Elliot and a 5m keeper like Pickford or Forster with a decent defence in front of them.

      Hart will have Fonte and very little else in front of him. Very u likely to be 4.5m and poor value at that price.

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

      I'm going with Fabianski

      You can try Hennessey or Foster or even Gomes

    6. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Forster has the most consistent easy fixtures path early on

    7. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Cheers lads went with Foster and Begovic at the end

      1. the cromulent one
        • 10 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        "In the end"? So no more tinkering until the gw1 deadline, then?

        1. Waxys
          • 6 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          I won't rule out anything yet but I don't see my team changing heavily anymore. United was the last question mark for me and it's just the same old same old with them

    8. Cheeseoid
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Why not Begovic?

      1. GreennRed
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Bournemouth not reknowned for defensive prowess.

        Hoping Everton can improve at the back and Pickfkrd might stop the odd penalty or three!

        1. Cheeseoid
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Last season when Ake was tehre they were defensively solid. Ake is now back plus Begovic is a better keeper than Boruc imo so I think he is a good option

      2. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        I did get Begovic

        1. Cheeseoid
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          You could consider the Brighton keeper as well. I think he will do well this season good keeper in weaker side can often be rewarding. The man city game first up puts me off him a little but if you are rotating it could work out

  12. Hurrikane
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts on this bunch?

    Foster (Begovic)
    Trippier, Cedric, Lindleof (Lowe, Long)
    Willian, Pogba, Coutinho, KDB (RLC)
    Kane, Defoe, Rooney

    Is Lindleof even nailed?

    1. Legohair
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      With that money what man u spend on him,i think he is nailed

  13. Legohair
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    I have tough one:
    A. Pedro&Sane
    B. KDB&Zaha

    1. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      B

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

      A

    3. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Even...gtmh...A.

      1. Legohair
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Im currently on A but still tempting to switch B because i really want KDB.

        1. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Sometimes KDB plays deep and loses fantasy value... like midyear last season

          1. Legohair
            • 7 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            Thats true.i just think Sane at 8,5 price is not cheap,i mean he only scored 5+7 last season i think.and now with bernard silva coming,there might be rotation risk.

  14. Corona Macallan
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts on this
    Foster Elliot
    Cedric Lindelof Trippier Francis Yedlin
    Coutinho Sane Willian Ramsey RLC
    Kane Lukaku Gayle

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Looks ok at a glance.

      1. Corona Macallan
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Where do I need to look upon

    2. Legohair
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      I like it,only one who is not nailed is Elliot

      1. Corona Macallan
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        He is just a bench fodder

        1. Legohair
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Ok then.i just like to pick two goalkeepers who actually both play.this year there are probably no cheap goalie who is nailed.so i have foster and fabianski in my team.

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

          Use Myhill instead then

      2. GreennRed
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        He played end of last season so he'll start unless Rafa signs another keeper. Won't bring many points though.

        1. Legohair
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          I didnt know that.ok then i may switch fabianski to elliot and get som extra funds.

          1. GreennRed
            • 12 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            Don't quote me now! Just keep an eye. We want him back as Ireland keeper.

    3. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      It looks safe, too safe perhaps.

  15. ddande
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    RMT please..

    Foster (Elliot)

    Cedric, Kolasinac, kompany, Trippier(Rangel)

    KDB, Coutinho, Alli, Zaha(RLC)

    Kane, Defoe (Fletcher)

    Any suggestions?

    1. Hurrikane
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      too much spent in defence

    2. supareds
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      I would think about upgrading your FWD's. Kane gets injured and then your stuffed...

    3. ddande
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Cheers! Appreciate the feedback!

  16. I Member
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    How does this look?

    Foster
    Lindelof - Cedric - Dawson (Yedlin, Rosenior)
    De Bruyne - Pogba - Willian - Loftus-Cheek (Carroll)
    Aguero - Lukaku - Lacazette

    RLC and Yedlin (or Mee, haven't decided) rotating depending on fixture. Placing a lot of faith in City attack and United. No Spurs is a worry but I have feeling they're going to get off to a slow start.

    1. My Name Is Prince
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      A decent top-heavy team! I just ain't convinced with top-heavy formation this season...

    2. Cheeseoid
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Quite like it. The points you raise yourself ref spurs are very valid

    3. NATSTER
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      United attack was disappointed last season. Not sure if it will suddenly change.

  17. unlethal
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Why is "penalties scored" not even an option to sort players in FPL. There are "penalties saved" and "penalties missed" options but none for "penalties scored," makes no sense to me.

    1. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Great point. Should also have a free kick filter

    2. My Name Is Prince
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Cause it's just a goal, they are based on assigning FPL points... pens saved and missed give you points, pens scored are just goals in FPL... But there should be one I agree...

      1. unlethal
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Ah yes, this makes sense. Would still be useful though

    3. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Same as goal

  18. Clumsy Sakho
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Is Mkhitaryan nailed?

    1. Corona Macallan
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      No

    2. Cheeseoid
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      No reason to suggest any more so than last season.

  19. Clumsy Sakho
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Don't get the love for Ramsey. Surely a 4th/5th defender like Bellerin or Kolasinac are a) better value and b) more likely to score big? Thoughts?

    1. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Yeah, this*

    2. My Name Is Prince
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Probably yes, hence I'm going for 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 this season

    3. True Blue
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      +1

    4. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      4 at the back for me

    5. noquarternt
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Couldn't agree more. Nothing but trash at 7 and below in the Forwards and Mids. Immediately opens up Alonso et al.

  20. True Blue
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    whah is arsenal's most likely midfield to start? more specifically about Iwobi - what are his chances of starting?

    (this is for a handicap league where team budget is restricted to 90m)

    1. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Iwobi a starter? No chance

    2. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Iwobi... nearly zero percent of PL games

    3. Jason Bourne
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      xhaka and ramsey

    4. noquarternt
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      He'll get games, but I wouldn't count on regular starts.

      If they play the 343, you're looking at Giroud Lacazette Ozil Sanchez Welbeck Walcott Iwobi fitting into those 3 attacking slots. Gotta assume Ozil will take one and Lacazette another for the most part. Not looking good.

      1. True Blue
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        thanks, this is helpful

      2. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Add Ramsey ahead of Iwobi

  21. Waxys
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Made a totally rad team and managed to squeeze in everyone I wanted with some compromise no Chelsea defence which is unfortunate.

    They're just priced too highly this year it's unreasonable

    1. Cheeseoid
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Well done. You always have to compromise and there is always an aspect of your team you don't like that is just the way of it

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Yep, well said

    2. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Did you join LMS?

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        no there's too many people in the league so I decided against it. I prefer smaller more personal leagues it's more competitive that way. But I'll see I'm not ruling out anything August is a long time away

        1. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          People get removed each week. No worries.

          1. Waxys
            • 6 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            Ok I'll join then. You seem keen so I'll relent best of luck to everyone.

          2. Waxys
            • 6 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            I'm in

  22. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Based on RMTs here, everybody loves a little TLC

    1. the cromulent one
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Nope. No defenders over 5.0 here.

      1. Cheeseoid
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        I thought he miss spelled RLC. No idea what you are on about now

        1. Eze Really?
          • 9 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Probably means RMT's don't like criticism.

        2. the cromulent one
          • 10 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          I think he's making a bad joke about Trippier-Lindelof-Cedric.

          1. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
            • 7 Years
            6 years, 8 months ago

            This^
            Suddenly it is template
            Until Periera comes in and takes his place...

            1. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
              • 7 Years
              6 years, 8 months ago

              Trippier's that is

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

      TLC?

  23. Eze Really?
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Foster Myhill
    Alonso Cedric Trippier 4.5 4.0
    Pedro Alli Mane RLC Carroll
    Kun Kaku Gayle

    OR

    Foster Myhill
    Alonso Cedric Kompany Valencia 4.0
    Erik Coutinho Tadic RLC Romeu
    Kun Kaku Rodders

    CHEERS IN ADVANCE

    1. Clumsy Sakho
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      B

    2. My Name Is Prince
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      B

    3. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      B. 4-4-2
      But Tadic and RLC are both of question.... maybe Valencia to cheaper Man U Defender and Tadic to Sane?

  24. True Blue
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    how do these compare? currently on option 1 (3-4-3) but questioning its strength compared to a 4-4-2 alternative.

    3-4-3
    Foster
    Trippier Lindelof Cedric
    Alli Coutinho Sane Willian/Fabregas
    Lukaku Jesus Gabby

    4-4-2
    Foster
    Trippier Lindelof Kosalinac Yedlin
    Alli KDB Willian/Fabregas
    Lukaku Laca Firmino

    1. True Blue
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      this 4-4-2 gives me attacking coverage from all top 6 teams... the only weakness looks like yedlin

      1. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        This is my thoughts on picking teams too.
        I have never started with 442 but this year I am.
        Wing backs could be gold. Chelsea the first side to play 3 at the back and it became infectious. I think W back stats can only get better.

    2. Clumsy Sakho
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      4-4-2

    3. Corona Macallan
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      The second is a 433

    4. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      I agree with Triggerlips, if you are going to go 4-4-2, the purpose is to have 4 quality defenders... not Yedlin; Firmino can go to bench fodder

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Well no, a perfectly acceptable tactic is to have 2 quality defenders play GW in GW out, and a 3-way rotation of 4.5, one of whom has an easy fixture that GW. Not my approach, but reasonable all the same.

      2. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        How can it be 4 4 2 with Firmino, Lacazette and Lukaku

  25. Alistershepps
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    RMT:

    De Gea
    Milner Cedric Lindolf
    RLC Tadic KDB Coutinho
    Gayle Lukaku Kane

    (Coleman, Rangel, Tom Carroll, Lascelles)

    1. True Blue
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      don't understand the coleman pick

      1. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        This also

      2. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Huddersfield reserve keeper

        If DDG goes and Schmeichel is United keeper I'd take him and lose Lindelof. Time will tell. Perfect scenario is Pereira at 4.0 steps up!

    2. Eze Really?
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Playing with the idea of De Gea and if he leaves his replacement. Less rotation risk.
      Milner a gametime doubt if Robertson arrives.
      Tadic could be an epic choice or fail.
      KDB would only be a choice when I know how Pep will play him.
      I would look at Kun rotating captain with kaku.
      Overall a good side.

      1. Alistershepps
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Would replace De-Gea with another 5.5 if he left (assuming he leaves before the first game. Is there a 4.0 keeper that would start? In hindsight I could put Man U's backup in.

        I think Milner will still start at the start of the season even if Robertson arrives, but pre-season should hopfull indicate.

        Choice is Tadic or Redmond for me with first 5 games - went with Tadic as a personal preference.

        I have gone with Lukaku because of first 5 games, but will be interesting to see how Pep plays him

        1. Eze Really?
          • 9 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          If DDG goes and Schmeichel arrives you save half mil.

    3. Je suis le chat
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Very good. I'd possibly switch DeGea to Forster and Cedric to Montreal/Holding.

  26. Clumsy Sakho
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Okay - I think, think I've settled on 5-3-2 to start the season! Pretty happy with the outcome, any thoughts/comments would be great!

    Foster | Elliot
    Alonso | Kolasinac | Trippier | Mee | Cedric
    Mané | De Bruyne | Alli | McArthur | RLC
    Lacazette | Jesus | Murphy

    1. Sonny “The Hitman&rdq…
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Just might work.. I have Kaku at the moment but if so down price to Jesus I just might use this... nice

      1. Clumsy Sakho
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers 😉

    2. ⚽️ Dingo ⚽️
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Interesting. I like the look with Alonso. 5 big hitters up top looks the ducks nuts too. All nailed and proven scorers.

    3. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Yeh, not bad, the Alonso pick aside.. You'd expect one of RLC or McArthur to play if you have to cover an injury. Might be stuck on captain choice some weeks.

  27. BON
    • 11 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    For the exact same cost...

    A. Coutinho & Gayle
    B. Ramsey & Firmino

    1. Clumsy Sakho
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      B, but see my post above about how Bellerin/Kolasinac in a back 5 is a far better option imo.

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        Who would you recommend Bellerin or Kolasinac?

        1. Clumsy Sakho
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          I'm going Kolasinac, unless pre season shows he'll be used centre back

        2. unlethal
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Bellerin and the Ox fighting for the RWB spot in a 3-back formation, not sure who of the two will start. So, Kolasinac

  28. Sahil Yadav
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Does Alonso in a 4-3-3 means a 3-4-3?

    Foster
    Alonso, Lindelof, Cedric, Mee
    Alli, Zaha, Willian
    Kane, Lukaku, Firmino

    Myhill, RLC, T.carroll, Francis

    I am not sure about Alonso+Willian tho.
    Also, any better option than Francis?

    1. Clumsy Sakho
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 8 months ago

      Alonso is the only Chelsea player that appeals to me. Not a fan of Willian though, around 20 odd goals in 100 odd games doesn't jump out at me. Try pogba maybe?

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 8 months ago

        At 7.0 you have to be sure Alonso is going to repeat his form, even amidst CL rotation. I'm not convinced.

        1. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          And i'd say Francis and Mee are the best 4.5 options.

        2. Eze Really?
          • 9 Years
          6 years, 8 months ago

          Wing backs work hard and in the CL they will be more likely subject to rotation than than C Backs.

  29. circusmonkey
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Will Jack Colback play and if so, how near the attacking areas?

  30. Je suis le chat
    • 10 Years
    6 years, 8 months ago

    Tony Martial did well last night vs LA Galaxy (and Gordon Ramsay, Beck's mate). Might be tempting now as an 8m midfielder.