Scout Squad

The Scout Squad – Gameweek 5

Our esteemed panel of Fantasy Football Scout regulars and Hall of Fame #1 Peter Kouwenberg have been taking a bit of a Scout Squad beating this season.

They’re now turning to some big-ticket players to reverse their fortunes, with star names from Spurs, both Manchester clubs and Liverpool among their budget-busting suggestions this week.

But they know the numbers, and that means there’s plenty of cheap options they’ll be hoping will make them cheerful as well, with a lot of love for Newcastle United keeper Rob Elliot in particular.

But Mark’s new-found taste for stirring the pot promises all manner of bickering, and Liverpool tyro Trent Alexander-Arnold is likely to be a major flash point, although he has an ally in Peter for that particular battle.

We’ll be back with the gory details of their deliberations before Gameweek 5’s Friday night kick-off, but here’s a look at their thoughts in the meantime.

PaulJontyMarkPeter
GoalkeepersBen FosterRob ElliotRob ElliotRob Elliot
Rob ElliotSimon MignoletSimon MignoletFraser Forster
Asmir BegovicKasper SchmeichelAsmir BegovicWayne Hennessey
DefendersBen DaviesBen DaviesBen DaviesBen Davies
Marcos AlonsoMarcos AlonsoCharlie DanielsJamaal Lascelles
Antonio ValenciaPhil JonesTrent Alexander-ArnoldTrent Alexander-Arnold
Charlie DanielsCharlie DanielsPhil JonesScott Dann
Scott DannJamaal LascellesCraig DawsonBenjamin Mendy
MidfieldersChristian EriksenChristian EriksenDele AlliChristian Eriksen
Mo SalahEden HazardMo SalahMo Salah
Kevin De BruyneMo SalahHenrikh MkhitaryanMichail Antonio
Tom InceMichail AntonioDavid SilvaMatt Ritchie
Eric Choupo-MotingMatt RitchieMichail AntonioPascal Gross
ForwardsHarry KaneHarry KaneHarry KaneHarry Kane
Romelu LukakuRoberto FirminoRomelu LukakuRoberto Firmino
Gabriel JesusRomelu LukakuGabriel JesusGabriel Jesus
Roberto FirminoGabriel JesusRoberto FirminoMarcus Rashford
JoseluAlvaro MorataJosh KingSteve Mounie

Paul says…

Manchester City and United, along with Spurs and Liverpool, play a big part in my thinking – the four teams supply a combined nine of the 15 players.

I’ve opted for a handful of differentials based on recent statistics.

Palace’s Scott Dann had four efforts in the box last weekend and hosts a Southampton side that have conceded more aerial attempts than any other. That could allow Dann (and team-mate Christian Benteke) the chance to profit as the Eagles look to regroup after the departure of Frank de Boer.

Huddersfield’s Tom Ince is ranked third top among FPL midfielders for attempts on goal over the first four Gameweeks. The winger fired six efforts in Monday’s loss at West Ham and now entertains a Leicester City outfit that has conceded a chance every 5.4 minutes – only two sides boast inferior records.

Joselu and Eric Choupo-Moting go head-to-head at St James’ Park, with both looking in fine form following summer moves to Newcastle and Stoke City respectively.

No player in the Premier League has registered more shots on target than Joselu’s nine this season. That’s all the more impressive when you consider he didn’t make his debut until Gameweek 2 as a second-half sub away to Huddersfield.

And Choupo-Moting’s statistics suggest that his double against United may be a sign of what’s to come. Since making his first start for the Potters in Gameweek 2, only Harry Kane and Romelu Lukaku have produced more shots inside the box than the Cameroon international’s nine.

Mark says…

I stirred the hornet’s nest in the ScoutCast and I’m doing it again with my squad. I’m just a rabble rouser these days.

For starters, I’m firmly backing Dele Alli over Christian Eriksen.

The Dane will surely be the more weary of the two heading into Saturday’s meeting, with Alli suspended from tonight’s game.

On top of that, Alli has offered the greater goal threat (7 shots v 4) and matched Eriksen for chances created with six apiece in home matches. I fail to see an advantage for the Dane going into the Swansea clash.

Elsewhere, I’ve also stuck to my guns with the selection of Rob Elliot in goal and Trent Alexander-Arnold in defence.

At just 4.0, I don’t see a case to overlook the Magpies stopper. The Newcastle defence can be backed against Stoke and Elliot has shown that he has an advantage when it comes to the Bonus Points System.

As for Alexander-Arnold, he sat out the European tie with Sevilla and I believe that’s with a start against Burnley in mind.

Jurgen Klopp likes his full-backs to attack, particularly down the right with Mohamed Salah tucked inside. Last season Nathaniel Clyne received more passes in the attacking third than any other full-back – although you’d hardly know it as Clyne only mustered two assists.

Alexander-Arnold has more about him in attacking areas.

I think he will be preferred over Joe Gomez in matches against teams that need breaking down and Burnley at Anfield fits that profile exactly.

With corners and direct free-kicks in his armoury and a price tag of 4.5, resistance is surely futile, although I’m bound to face another round of it come Friday’s Scout Picks.

Jonty says…

Our 83 million budget will be severely tested this week, with heavy hitters among the ranks of Spurs, Chelsea and both Manchester clubs all having strong fixtures.

As a result, I’ve opted for a sprinkling of budget options to help accommodate as many premium picks as we can.

Among the pricey options, Spurs’ talisman and current captain poll leader Harry Kane looks a shoo-in.

His brace last weekend at Goodison Park and a home tie against a Swansea side with a dire record this campaign in terms of conceding chances and shots in the box just cannot be ignored.

I’d also like to see his team-mate Christian Eriksen, who also scored against Everton and has only failed to deliver returns once this season, involved.

FPL’s top points scorer Ben Davies is another essential pick for me. He has two double-digit scores out of four and offers great value at 5.7.

Romelu Lukaku, with attacking returns in three out of four, is up against former club Everton at Old Trafford and is another I fancy to prosper, as is a City attacker, away to a Watford side they demolished 5-0 at Vicarage Road last season.

Gabriel Jesus is my favoured Sky Blues option – he’s scored three in his last two.

The Gunners have shipped 13 goals in their last four league trips to Stamford Bridge, which makes Chelsea representation key for me.

Of the three Blues candidates I’ve put forward, I’ll be particularly keen to see Eden Hazard included as he’s scored in three of his last four home matches against Arsene Wenger’s troops.

My cast of cheap enablers is dominated by Newcastle assets, including stopper Rob Elliot and set-piece specialist Matt Ritchie.

The Geordies host a Stoke side that has only mustered three shots on target in their two away run-outs.

At 4.9, Bournemouth’s attack-minded defender Charlie Daniels looks another excellent value selection. He’s at home to a Brighton side that have the joint-worst tally of close range shots conceded this season.

Peter says…

Having championed Sadio Mane and Paul Pogba in last week’s picks (both now dead wood in my post-Wildcard team), plus Tom Heaton, I’m wary of cursing any more of my own players this week, particularly writing this with European fixtures ongoing.

But Spurs and Liverpool are the obvious triple-ups, with both sides more than capable of serving up a goal fest and their respective opponents, Swansea and Burnley, vulnerable enough to play their part.

Harry Kane, Christian Eriksen and Ben Davies are no brainers, with Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and (subject to Champions League exertions) Trent Alexander-Arnold my Anfield aces.

Apparently, it is madness to do the same thing repeatedly and expect different results and my Hornet-happy mates have been quick to point out my unsuccessful backing of Watford’s opponents.

Nonetheless, I’m backing Manchester City to keep doing what they do at Vicarage Road and am turning to Gabriel Jesus and, after being impressed with his attacking intent, Benjamin Mendy for my final premium-rate players before the bargain hunt.

Newcastle, West Ham and Brighton all have inexpensive midfielders who have – albeit sporadically – impressed, so Matt Ritchie, Michail Antonio and Pascal Groß complete a modest midfield.

Newcastle also offer the potential of cheap clean sheet points through Rob Elliot and Jamaal Lascelles.

The Community Champion

Representing the Community against the Scouts in Gameweek will be Graeme Sumner, aka Gregor. He is expected to provide a stern test as he is in our Career Hall Top 5 and finished in 29th spot overall last season.

The community champion who has the best lead over the Scouts during 2017/18 will win a £100 Amazon voucher (currently we can only offer Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com vouchers).

Gameweek 4’s champion Darth_Krid defeated the Scouts by 36 to 33. But the manager to beat remains Malcolm Tucker for England Manager, who won by a 29-point margin in Gameweek 3.

5,344 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Colonel Klink
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Andy Carroll is better than, say J Rodriguez or Chris Wood....or not really?

    Obviously fitness issues, but when fit.

    1. Greenbackbøøg…
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      no

      1. Colonel Klink
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Fair. Cheers.

    2. TallestJohn
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      When fit, about the same, maybe slightly higher upside although the other two are fairly unknown quantities. But it's absolutely worth taking fitness into account because last time I had him I think he got injured after one week.

    3. fedolefan
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      When fit, he is better than the other two. Always involved and is a major goal threat. Never ever fit though.

  2. sunzip14
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Which group scores more over the next 3 gws?

    A) Lukaku, Jesus, Mkhi, Alli, Eriksen
    B) Kane Jesus, Mkhi, Alli, Silva
    C) Kane, Lukaku, Mkhi, Alli, Gross/Antonio (-4)

    1. Greenbackbøøg…
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Honestly A

      1. sunzip14
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        I am more inclined towards A as well. Don't want to take out Lukaku or Jesus atm. Just Pogba>Eriksen will give me this team. To accommodate Kane I need more transfers as Pogba is also out.

    2. I Member
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B

    3. That Was Easy!
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Scores more, A. Better to pick B, taking into consideration Kane (C) factor.

    4. banskt
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B just because Eriksen will be rested in one of the gameweeks.

      1. sunzip14
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        seems like a possibility after Son's performance and fixture pile up.

      2. fedolefan
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Wait, you know that for a fact? If not, stop talking about your hunches as though they are facts.

    5. InSaneMan-e
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Contrary to everyone else, I'm going for C

      1. sunzip14
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Yeah, Kane&Lukaku combo !

    6. NestorC
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      A

  3. That Was Easy!
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    If you are on WC, is it better to just pick a player with a bad fixture this GW, or take a punt on someone else, leaving enough $ ITB to go to your preferrred player (Kolasinac) next week?

    1. King Sheep
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Yes

    2. jia you
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I think Kola may prove a bit like Alonso and kindda fixture proof?

    3. Torreslove
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      kola mate. when I WC I always do my best to save the transfer the following week

    4. Bggz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      mane and pogba are case in point, you need long term planning with flexibility to ride out individual player issues. i put the ticker to 6 gws and plan for that

      1. That Was Easy!
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Cheers, as did I when picking Kola. Thanks all!

        My full team:

        Elliot
        Mendy, Kolasinac, Davies, Jones
        Salah, Eriksen, D.Silva
        Kane(C), Firmino, Vardy

        Krul; Chalobah, Carroll, Hunemeier

        1. jia you
          • 8 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          I see you are going down Mark's GK route in Elliot and a non-playing! But I like your team, the Vardy punt could prove a very shrewd one! GL!

          1. That Was Easy!
            • 10 Years
            7 years, 1 month ago

            Cheers, yes I have to believe there's some magic behind Mark's thinking, he's an incredible player.

    5. Ser Davos
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Get Kol now. Perhaps bench him, but buy now

      1. That Was Easy!
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        I could take a punt on a 4.5 mid, as Chalobah and Carroll (my 2 picks) have terrible games.

        1. Ser Davos
          • 9 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          Currently playing Gamez atm

          1. That Was Easy!
            • 10 Years
            7 years, 1 month ago

            I would have to do Alli instead of Eriksen to get Gamez in.

    6. banskt
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      pick Kolasinac... there will be other priorities come next week.

    7. sunzip14
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Prioritize saving immediately after a WC, personally.

  4. Colonel Klink
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Is Trent Alexander Arnold more or less a definite after not playing against Sevilla?

    1. That Was Easy!
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Yes.

      1. Rafiki
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        But not nailed afterwards due to Gomez red

    2. jia you
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Yep, haul incoming as Mark still has that black magic to use ,or luck, or whatever you call it.

    3. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I'm thinking of benching Kola and playing him and maybe even Newcastle def ahead

  5. NestorC
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Any help? Just can't decide

    A) Siggy
    B) Mkhi
    C) Mahrez

    Cheers

    1. Prison Mike
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B for me

    2. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      A or C probably C

    3. Ciro Di Marzio
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I just asked the same thing! I feel mkhi is a boring choice, I might punt in mharez or sig. can't decide though!

    4. TallestJohn
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B to be safe, C if you're punty and can't get Vardy.

      Still want to see more of Siggy at Everton before I consider him at that price.

  6. Prison Mike
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Bench one:

    A) Jones (EVE)

    B) Cedric (cry)

    1. NestorC
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      A

      1. Prison Mike
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Thanks

  7. Rafiki
    • 13 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Is Luiz worth owning or is the only Chelsea defender worthwhile being alonso

    1. TallestJohn
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Azpilicueta also worth owning.

      1. Rafiki
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        But he's so close in price to alonso

        1. TallestJohn
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          True, but more secure than Luiz, a decent attacking threat and bonus points darling. If you've not got cash for Alonso (or are stubbornly boycotting him like me) I'd go Azpi.

          Chelsea fans seem to love him, versatility means he can play all across the back.

      2. jia you
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        very much overlooked on here, super player!

    2. BROOKLYN GOONER
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Have Alonso, suspect I'll be adding iron man Azpi and Morata as their fixtures brighten.

    3. Demel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Not in my opinion. He is too close in price to Alonso who should outscore him easily through the season.

      1. jia you
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Agree, def wouldnt go Luiz but Azpi could be a good alternative!

  8. MOZIL
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Danilo to start this week?

    1. Greenbackbøøg…
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      4 at the back seemed to work really well, if City do that again Danilo has low chance of starting

      1. MOZIL
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Otamendi or Stones?

        1. Greenbackbøøg…
          • 10 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          If I had to get a city defender would be Mendy

          1. MOZIL
            • 8 Years
            7 years, 1 month ago

            no fund

    2. Demel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I definitely wouldn't get Danillo in.

  9. Bruno Bruno!!
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Need to bring in Kane this GW but already have 3 spurs players, which of these 3 would you rdop for Kane, and who would be the replacement

    A- Eriksen
    B- Trippier
    C- Alderweireld

    1. NestorC
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B

    2. Ciro Di Marzio
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B

  10. Ser Davos
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Elliot
    Davies | Mendy | Jones | Gamez
    Eriksen | Salah | CM
    (K)ane | Jesus | Firmino

    Krul • Kolasinac • Chalobah • Carroll •

    Mmm...

    1. Recoba
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Nice team

  11. Ciro Di Marzio
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Pogba to

    A mhki
    B silva
    C sig
    D mharez

    1. Twisted Saltergater
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I'm in the same situation. Am looking at A or B. Silva maybe just edges it as Mkhi seems even more shot shy.

    2. Mouldmaster
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Dullard says Mhki, but Mahrez would be interesting.

      1. Ciro Di Marzio
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Agree, I think mhki is a dull choice.

    3. Demel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I would be tempted by C if he was an option for me.

  12. Mouldmaster
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Time to WC?

    Foster/Elliot

    Jones/Monreal/Naughton/Cedric/Dawson

    Pogba/Eriksen/Willian/Tadic/TCarroll

    Kane/Lukaku/Gabi

    1. Mouldmaster
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Got 2FT and 0.0 ITB

    2. Twisted Saltergater
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      No way. Sort Pogba this week, Tadic next.

      1. Mouldmaster
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        What about Pogba + Gabi >> Salah and Joselu?

        1. Twisted Saltergater
          • 15 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          Not for me. Gabbi has Palace next, right? Surely wait until after that game?

          1. Mouldmaster
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            7 years, 1 month ago

            I'm just sick of him! I'll no doubt watch on now as he bags a brace.

            Depressingly I've got Saints 'cover' from Tadic.

        2. Demel
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          That doesn't look too shabby to me.

          1. Mouldmaster
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            7 years, 1 month ago

            Cheers mate - did the Joselu move incase Gabi falls. Will wait for any Pool rotation suggestion then move on Salah

    3. Greenbackbøøg…
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Yes I'd WC, Gabi Willian Tadic Pogba have all got to go

    4. Ciro Di Marzio
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I would try and hold off for a couple of weeks. Fixtures turn for a lot of teams after gw7.

      1. Mouldmaster
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Yea I want to, but then I look at the chance to get rid of Cedric/Pogba//Willian/Tadic/Gabi and it's pretty appealing

  13. Big Mac 24
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Mikhi rising tonight - hes at 101.5 now?

    1. Mouldmaster
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      looks like it

  14. Is Mkhi really that fine?
    Twisted Saltergater
    • 15 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Mkhitaryan only having 2 shots from in the box all season is putting me off. Might go with David Silva.

    1. Greenbackbøøg…
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Same, maybe Pogba going will increase Mkhi's license to shoot

      1. Twisted Saltergater
        • 15 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        I'm trying to work out if the Pogba injury will be a help or a hindrance. Part of me thinks United will drop 10% offensively with him missing, but maybe they'll look to Mkhi more?

        With Martial and Rashford cutting in from the flanks, I can't see Mkhi getting on the end of any crosses, any time soon.

        Perhaps I should play it safe, but there's just a niggling doubt.

    2. Twelve years a slave
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Even worse, do a comparison between his first 2 weeks and gw 3and 4

      gw 1 and 2 nine key passes 4 assists
      gw 3 and 4 one key pass 1 assist

      Basically he played 2 rubbish teams firt 2 weeks and did ok Then played 2 average teams (Leicester and stoke) and was rubbish. More like the player of last season who only had one assist.
      Also was terrble against Basel

      1. Twisted Saltergater
        • 15 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Ahh, that helps a lot, Triggerlips. I've just been comparing Mkhi and Silva but across all matches and didn't think there would be such a disparity in terms of the game weeks too.

        Will look at this some more. Glad my hunch on him was not unfounded.

        Thanks again.

      2. InSaneMan-e
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Lol, he could have had 2 goals vs Basel easily

      3. JÆKS ⭐
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Yea he overperformed a bit in the first 2, some assists from defensive errors as well, didn't feel the rush to bring him in, and I'm glad for that 😀 Was planning on buying Pogba next week though....

      4. Prison Mike
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        He hit the post and could of easily had 2 goals against Basel, he looked dangerous.

      5. Twelve years a slave
        • 14 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Mkhitaryan ExGl and EXP assist stats first four gws
        gw.... xgls.... xass
        Gw1... 0.15.... 1.13
        Gw2... 0.04.... 0.97
        Gw3.... 0.11... 0.14
        Gw4... 0.00... 0.37

        Last season his stats were
        0.18....... 0.24

        Last Two matches he has appeared to slip back to last seasons level

    3. fedolefan
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      "Mkhitaryan only having 2 shots from in the box all season is putting me off."
      Fair enough.

      "Might go with David Silva."
      Err...how many shots in the box does he really have?

      1. Twisted Saltergater
        • 15 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Also 2 🙂

        I know David Silva has always been one of those who is great in real life, poor in fantasy, but his price is quite low this year to compensate. He also has KdB alongside him and Fernandinho behind him.

        I'd like a punt on Sané or Sterling, but if Pep is going to vary the 433, 4222 and 532 formations then, I think Silva is key in all of those.

        1. fedolefan
          • 10 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          Hmm, good luck. Think Sane may be very exciting but yeah those minutes are annoying.

    4. Demel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      He was also criticized by Jose post match. I am not sure he will start on saturday.

    5. Page 302
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      The problem with Silva is that he seems to have traded places with De Bruyne. Compare Silva's GW1-3 heatmap with his heatmap vs Liverpool...

      1. Twisted Saltergater
        • 15 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        I think a lot of this was to do with Liverpool going down to 10 men so early. It allowed Silva to sit deep, and pick off Liverpool. It's a concern for sure, but in the other games his underlying stats look very promising.

    6. Twisted Saltergater
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Thanks all... didn't expect such a great response 🙂

      1. Twelve years a slave
        • 14 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Mind you im not sure Silva is much of a step up, must be due to be his turn to be rotated

        1. Twisted Saltergater
          • 15 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          He was taken off early tonight, so that's giving me confidence that Pep sees him as integral to whichever formation he plays.

          Interestingly, Silva destroys Mkhi when comparing just the away games. Silva plays deeper in the home games it seems.

    7. Karan14
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Would have been a different story if Lukaku finished that goal In the first attempt.

      With Pogba out Mkhi is likely to be the creative force. Fixtures are still good, 2 home games in the next 3 (EVE, sou, CRY).

    8. UCL Fantasy
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I keep thinking back to Ozil a few seasons ago who didn't score that much but kept assisting for around the same price - turned out to be great value.

      Sure Mkhitaryan isn't on Mane, Salah or Alli levels of goal scoring but he's also not the same price.

      Could have easily had an assist in the last game to bring the total to 6, just a shame Lukaku fluffed the first chance.

      Against Basel he looked poor at times but also got into some goalscoring positions and should have really scored. We've seen he can get goals so I'm hopeful they're coming at some point but I'm not expecting loads to start flying in and will probably have to be patient

  15. Scotty B
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Elliot
    Cedric Jones Alonso Bellerin
    Salah Pogba Eriksen
    Morata Lacazette Firmino

    Fabianski RLC Carroll Tuanzabe

    0 ITB & 1 FT
    Which option is better?

    A Lacazette > Jesus for free
    B Pogba > Silva for free
    C Pogba/Lacazette > Ritchie/Kane for -4
    D Save FT
    E Something else

    1. Twisted Saltergater
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B. With C, I can't help but feel Ritchie out will be another transfer soon rather than later.

    2. JÆKS ⭐
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B or C, def not A

  16. JÆKS ⭐
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Anything worth a hit?

    DDG
    Davies Jones Stephens
    Eriksen Salah Gross Brady
    Kane(C) Lukaku Vardy

    Subs: Elliot Rosenior Carroll Mee

    Think I might get a last game out of Stephens, played well and VVD played for the reserves on monday, so 2 games in a week might be a bit too soon for him.

    1. fedolefan
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Well, I'm transferring Stephens out myself this week. Not just VVD, Yoshida is also a problem, but you may be right.

      1. JÆKS ⭐
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Can't see Yoshida coming in that team. I mean there had to be a reason Stephens was preferred, and he played well. Don't see any reason why Pellegrino would break up that partnership to form a new one for just 1 week until VVD is 100% fit. Who are you buying if I may ask?

        1. fedolefan
          • 10 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          No, Yoshida had the international duty thing which is why he was rested, Well, that's one of the reasons put out anyway. I'm getting Davies for Stephens. It's between Stephens or Dann for me, and I'm going with Stephens since Dann seems very nailed.

          1. JÆKS ⭐
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 1 month ago

            Yea good move

    2. TallestJohn
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Nope, really like that team. Balanced funds well, got the same forward line.

      Wouldn't take a hit to get Stephens out in case he plays and gets a CS, just use FT next week.

      1. JÆKS ⭐
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Cheers,did Gabbi to Vardy with my FT. Gosh he was a waste of that space. Don't like the 2 cheap midfielders in my team though, DDG might be on his way out as well as he takes up too much cash, but wildcard gw7 is on the card anyway, cheers!

      2. Twelve years a slave
        • 14 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Stephens has been one of their better players. I think if he loses his place it would be to vvd

  17. 007 [RoboKlopp]
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Which is better options and why?
    A. Firmino + Alonso
    B. de Jesus /Morata+ max 5.0m def (please mention)

    Thanks.

    1. NestorC
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Jesus and eve def

  18. NestorC
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Suttner and Pogba to Mikh and Wimmer
    Yay or nay?

  19. InSaneMan-e
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Thoughts on potential WC team. Any suggestions?
    I know Carroll isnt popular, but at 5.9, feel he's a decent differential

    Elliot (Foster)
    TAA Mendy Davies (Gamez Naughton)
    Salah Mkhi Eriksen Chupo (Carroll)
    Lukaku Kane Carroll

  20. Jo72
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    My WC Team, guys please help!

    Elliot - Foster
    David Luiz - Kiko Femenia - Rangel - Davies - Clark
    Alli - Salah - Mkhitaryan - Gros - Choupo Moting
    Kane - Morata - Wood

  21. Costaplenty
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Looking likely that there'll be 5 million FPL teams vying for points this gw.

    imagine having a gw rank of 5,000,000

    😛

    1. rdpx
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      story of my life 😉

    2. JÆKS ⭐
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Wow are there 5 mil team? That's 1 mil more than last year!

  22. rdpx
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    wild card active!

    Naturally I've gone for all the cheap knee-jerk mids 🙂

    I'm not entirely sure about:

    Fabianksi as a 4.5GK
    Kiko (flagged, but I'm hoping he's over his bump)
    Ducouré

    Anyone got any better shouts for a MF for

    1. rdpx
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      ...less than £5.8?

      Half tempted to drop Lukakakaku for Rashford or even Welbeck, £4mil always useful....

      (not sure what happeend to end of my post! maybe rogue formatting)

      1. TallestJohn
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Fabianski good fixtures and save potential at 4.5m, I'm not playing him for Spurs (A) though.

        I'm not big on Watford anyway but it does look like they have several tricky fixtures up to the start of December.

        Rashford looks decent when he plays but unlikely to trouble bonus as much as he should due to minutes. Doubt Welbeck will continue to score as he has done, likely to be rotated (Sanchez, Giroud, maybe even Iwobi will get some time).

        Don't know who else you've got up front but if you're dropping Lukaku I'd look at Jesus, Vardy, Firmino.

        1. rdpx
          • 12 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          Firmino and Kane

          Fiddling now - Rashford opens up a whole bag of money....

          Thanks for the nice response TJ.

  23. That Was Easy!
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Hi DZ, lets talk about Dele vs. Eriksen...

    Eriksen has been godly and showing no signs of slowing down, however Alli with fresh legs is a scary though, surely he'll be itching to get in on goal and regardless of Eriksen's recent exploints, he still does have the better goal threat.

    1. Costaplenty
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Alli ( c ) this week

    2. Ciro Di Marzio
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      I went Mane to Alli. Think he'll come good very soon!

    3. sunzip14
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      If I convince mysef to not getting Kane, I am getting Eriksen to have both Alli&Erik combo and captain Alli.

      1. willl
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Kane > Eriksen > Alli

        Captain in that order.

  24. Emp
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    whats the chances the price rises are off tonight or is fplstatistics more accurate now? really need chupo not to rise tonight

  25. Twelve years a slave
    • 14 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Transfers done, and they will not be popular, but this season I am playing in a mini league with very good prize and will not win it being boring, so no guts no glory

    Gabbiadini to Vardy
    Pogba to Ayew

    The boring scared me would have done Stones to Davies and Pogba Mkhitaryan. But am enjoying the freedom of not having team scrutinised this year

    1. Twelve years a slave
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      both for free

      1. Rafiki
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Why ayew, he's still not a starter is he?

        1. Twelve years a slave
          • 14 Years
          7 years, 1 month ago

          Ayew started 13 in a row, he was only benched as fitness a concern after his Africa trip

          1. Rafiki
            • 13 Years
            7 years, 1 month ago

            Ahh fair enough he looks like a good option and I like vardy

    2. rdpx
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      yeah man go for brokw when it pays off you feel like a KING

      😉

    3. Costaplenty
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      A new revitalised Trigger.

      Yea !

    4. fedolefan
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Ayew is a decent differential. I'd rather have gone Arnautovic but still good.

    5. Emp
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      ayew not nailed

    6. KingNidge
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Fair play Trigs that Gabbi > Vardy move in particular is a cracker

    7. Mouldmaster
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Nice to do some different moves. Really like the Vardy move, if I didn't dislike having him in my team so much!

      I'm making the same out moves and going for:

      Gabbiadini to Joselu
      Pogba to Salah

      Have no Pool players and hoping he isn't rotated.

    8. That Was Easy!
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Like the moves, Trig. Help me out, I'm not 100% sold on Silva, who else might be a nice punt on the WC? Antonio, Ayew, etc?

      1. Mouldmaster
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        Mkhi, Mahrez, Choupo/Jesse, Siggy,

    9. BROOKLYN GOONER
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Like your choice purely on the merits, not just as a differential. I'm saving up to Vardy in next week, but might just take the hit this week.

  26. Total Foot 5
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Pogba: anyone taking the extra -4 for pogba or playing Carroll or other 5th mid or def?

    1. Demel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      That is my dilemma. I will probably take the hit.

    2. rdpx
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      it would have been -8 for me
      so i just dropped my WC

      if it was just -4 I wouldn't hesitate

    3. BROOKLYN GOONER
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Latest seems to be 4-6 weeks out. I would not think twice.

    4. TallestJohn
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      As I mentioned above, already taken a -4 this week. Increasingly looking like I might keep him and play 4-3-3 as long as I can still sell Pogba for 8.1m (owned since the start).

      Was planning on Daniels out ahead of GW6 but the only defender I really want is Mendy and even if I get Ramsey in I can't afford him.

    5. Total Foot 5
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      agreed. i already took the -4, unfort had no def and brot in davies. Carroll will hardpressed to do much agaisnt tot and have no bench.
      the -8 might eventuallube the route to go,

  27. One Man
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    A...Alonso, Azpilcu, Eriksen,

    Or

    B...Ben Davies, Bertrand, Kane ??

    1. jdogg
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      B.x

  28. foreverton
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Does Pereyra returning affect Richarlison?

  29. General_Zod
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    Gabba to Joselu.

    To wage war on ex-employers Stoke and leave me a little kitty to tart up a mid or a def in GW6.

    Anyone else? http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/stoke-city-must-sell-joselu-283155

    1. Mouldmaster
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Done

      Not sure if I've talked myself into it since Scoutcast, but it looks a no brainer now.

      1. General_Zod
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        I dont buy kopites or ex-kopites (my mini rules) and I have Ritchie, so thinking poss upgrade Ritichie to Ali and a Suttner to a Mee rotation with West Brom over 2 weeks.

        Might not need WC if things go to plan.

    2. waldo666
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Yeah I am looking at Gabbi to Joselu so as to fund Pogba to Mhki

      1. General_Zod
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 1 month ago

        I dont know where the kitty will land just yet but a lot of flexibilty next week beckons.

  30. Emp
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 1 month ago

    anyone fancy a short term punt on can need a 5.0 enabler to get kane for chicorito

    1. Ser Davos
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      Hey it could randomly pay off, but I'd prepare for worst case scenario. Winter's Coming, I'm battening down the hatches and preventing my team from punting on any of these cheap mids. In all likelihood we're going to get the wrong one.

    2. Demel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 1 month ago

      No. I would prefer to start Carroll at 4.5m to Can.