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Fantasy Premier League – Player List Analysis – Mid-Price Forwards

The ninth in our series of articles focusing on the Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Player Price List this morning. Having looked over the Goalkeepers, Budget Defenders, Mid-Price Defenders, Premium Defenders and Budget Midfielders,Mid-Price Midfielders, Premium Midfielders and Budget Forwards, we now analyse our mid-price options up front.

Lukas Podolski remains classified as a forward, despite earning the majority of his minutes on the Arsenal left flank. Frustratingly, the German international has delivered the Fantasy returns when on the pitch – 19 goals, 14 assists and 32 bonus points in 3,154 minutes over his two years at the Emirates underlines his ability. However, with just 14 starts to his name last term, in addition to the arrival of Alexis Sanchez, a 7.5 price tag is still a punt too far.

Currently sidelined with an Achilles injury, Christian Benteke is hoping for a quick return amid reports he could be out until the New Year. The big Belgian disappointed last season, scoring just 10 times compared to 19 strikes in his debut season for Villa – encouragingly, his shot accuracy improved last term, up from 38.5% to 40.3%, suggesting that, when he’s raring to go, the 8.0-priced Benteke could still remain a legitimate Fantasy force.

Samuel Eto’o and Demba Ba may have departed but Fernando Torres’ chances of starts remain slim at Chelsea. With Diego Costa set to take over as the Blues number one forward, Didier Drogba linked with a move back as player/coach and Romelu Lukaku still on board, the Spaniard’s 7.5 price tag and lack of impact will surely reduce him to no more than a handful of second-half substitute appearances.

A summer move to boyhood club Liverpool doesn’t fare well for Rickie Lambert’s prospects. Frustratingly from a Fantasy perspective, the 7.5-priced forward was one of the most consistent around over the past two years, producing 187 and 179 points with Southampton – the Anfield switch likely removes his spot-kick and dead-ball duties, whilst a consistency of pitch time looks far from guaranteed as Brendan Rodgers hits the transfer market to deal with the loss of Luis Suarez to Barcelona.

At 6.5, Fabio Borini could be a viable option if he returns to Sunderland – the Italian notched seven times for the Black Cats last term and was handed spot-kick duties by Gus Poyet. If he stays at Liverpool, though, it’s hard to see him break into Rodgers’ plans. Loic Remy’s mooted move to Anfield merely adds to the congestion. Like Lambert, he would come into consideration if he can nail down a regular role and his ability to play on the flank perhaps strengthens his claims for minutes. At 7.5, he could be a great value route if he brings last season’s form with Newcastle to the table but many may steer clear to begin with until Rodgers’ new-look side starts to take shape.

City’s Stevan Jovetic will be desperate to put a nightmare debut campaign behind him. In an injury-hit season for the champions, he managed just two starts and 11 sub appearances, scoring on just three occasions. With Alvaro Negredo sidelined with a fractured foot, though, the 8.0-priced Jovetic will be looking to challenge Edin Dzeko for a starting berth and rediscover the form that produced 27 goals and 11 assists in his final two years with Fiorentina.

Newcastle’s summer signing Emmanuel Riviere sets you back 7.0 ahead of a decent opening schedule. After an opening day clash with City, the Magpies have five kind fixtures (avl, CPL, HUL, swa, LEI) in the subsequent seven Gameweeks that bodes well for their potential in the final third. Riviere grabbed a goal on his debut in the pre-season friendlies but has hardly been prolific over his career so far, managing 10 + goals on just on occasions. With Siem de Jong similarly priced in midfield, the former Ajax skipper could flourish in the role in “the hole” behind the Frenchman.

While Jay Rodriguez continues his recovery from a knee ligament injury, Fantasy hopes are high for Southampton’s new forward Graziano Pelle. With Rickie Lambert also out of the picture, the Italian takes centre stage ahead of an excellent schedule which sees Ronald Koeman’s side face only two of last season’s top eight in the first 12 Gameweeks. With 55 goals and 15 assists in 66 appearances under Koeman for Feyenoord over the last two seasons, he could be an excellent value option at 7.5, though the Saints’ midfielder playmaker Dusan Tadic is similarly priced on the back of 16 goals and 14 assists for FC Twente. The Serbian is expected to be handed set-pieces and corners and may even challenge Pelle for spot-kick duties.

Stoke new striker Mame Biram Diouf returns to the Premier League after producing 35 goals and 15 assists in 71 appearances for German outfit Hannover. The former United man comes in at 6.5 and could come into consideration if he can oust Peter Crouch as the lone forward ahead of a run of fixtures which pits the Potters against only one of last term’s top five in the first 12 Gameweeks. With Villa, Leicester, Newcastle, Swansea, West Ham and Burnley all paying visit over that run, in addition to trips to Hull, QPR and Sunderland, early investment in Hughes’ attackers could pay off.

Fellow new boy Bojan Krkic (yet to be added to the FPL game) will also be on Fantasy radars after a stunning move from Barcelona. Versatile enough to be fielded on the flank, a role out wide could potentially allow Marko Arnautovic or Peter Odemwingie (both 6.5) a role behind Diouf, highlighting the numerous options on offer from the Staffordshire outfit. Pre-season should tell us more.

Setting you back 7.0, Bafetimbi Gomis’ prospects are likely to depend on the future of Wilfried Bony. The return of Gylfi Sigurdsson is likely to see the Icelandic international handed the support role behind the lone striker and if Bony remains at the Liberty this season, it’s difficult to see Gomis oust the Ivorian as Garry Monk’s main man up front. Plenty of clubs are believed to be interested in acquiring Bony, though, and a potential exit could bring Gomis into contention ahead of a schedule which hands the Welsh club four home games (BUR, WBA, SOU, NEW) and a trip to Sunderland in the first seven. At 6.0, though, Sigurdsson looks the better bet after completing his return last night.

Available for 8.0, Roberto Soldado will be hoping the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino can spark a turnaround in fortunes. The Tottenham frontman started just three of the final 14 league matches under Tim Sherwood and notched four of his six goals from the spot; an indication of his meager contribution. With Christian Eriksen coming in at the same price in midfield, the Spaniard looks set to remain on the periphery of our Fantasy thoughts unless he can nail down a starting berth.

West Brom’s Brown Ideye has yet to be added to the game but is expected to come in around 6.5. The Baggies record signing is nailed-on to lead the line – a 4-2-3-1 formation is looking likely under Alan Irvine – and arrives on the back of 45 goals and 13 assists in 107 appearances for Dynamo Kiev. Expectations are low for the midlands club’s prospects after a poor previous season but with an opening schedule handing them three decent home matches (SUN, EVE, BUR) and a trip to Swansea in the first six, the Nigerian could be quick off the mark.

After seeing his side score just 40 times last term, Sam Allardyce’s summer shopping spree has left us none-the-wiser over West Ham’s likely frontline for the season ahead. Mauro Zarate (6.5) arrives on the back of 18 goals for Velez Sarsfeld in his native Argentina, whilst Enner Valencia’s (yet to be priced) impressive three-goal showing for Ecuador in the recent World Cup underlined his capabilities. With Andy Carroll (7.0) also in the mix, we’re hoping the pre-season friendlies will reveal Big Sam’s intentions, though with just two goals in 15 appearances last season, the former Newcastle man (who has picked up a minor ankle problem in midweek) has a real challenge to continue as the Hammers’ number one forward.

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2,037 Comments Post a Comment
  1. YAYAinho
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Cahill or Terry??

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

      Terry

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    2. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Cahill terry faces rotation risk

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    3. Irish Madridista ⭐
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      I'd go with Terry but he might not play EVERY game, just most.

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    4. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      C midterm and long term, but for first fixtures better go with Terry IMO. I have a hunch he will score early. He is well rested too. Later on he could be rotated.

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      1. V04
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Best Chelsea def available(naile-on+potential)... ???

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    5. Beavis
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Terry

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  2. Nolberto Solano
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    A) Pelle Siggy N.Taylor

    Or

    B) Jelavic De Jong Ward

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    1. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      B

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    2. meerlight
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      A. Uncertain about Pelle, but I'm more sure about siggy (after gw1) and naylor

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  3. Yome
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Is Siem de Jong likely to play some part up front with Riviere? Besides Riviere, Newcastle doesn't have any other decent strikers (Cisse is injured).

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    1. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      He can play upfront or just behind.

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    2. BigManBakar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      He'll play as #10

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      1. Yome
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers so a really good punt at this price. I am keeping him for sure

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        1. Oz lotto
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          he's a better punt than Herrera IMO

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  4. Forget differentials - focus on the Top 4
    J0E
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Fantasy Football Scout daily hot topic

    Top 4 team

    The search for this year’s great differential is arguably like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are draft FPL teams with players like Austin, Pelle and others all full of hope that these Premier League new boys will succeed and their clubs will prevail.

    But history shows us that the real fantasy points are among only a handful of sides mainly from the best four each season from Man U, Man C, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool.

    With this in mind I thought I’d construct an outfield 10 only from the teams I think will finish in the top four. I’m discounting goalkeepers as previous season’s have shown that rotating cheaper players offer a better chance of points.

    Man U, Man C, Arsenal, Chelsea are my chosen 4 …obviously if this is something you wanted to do you may have different ideas regarding Liverpool or Spurs achieving top four status.

    Looking at it I’d be more than happy to go into the season with this £100m side.

    Mannone
    Terry Verm (if he goes to ManU) Debuchy
    Fab Silva Ramsey Herrera
    Giroud Rooney Dzeko

    Subs: Wisdom, Duff, Albrighton, Myhill.

    Of course a better side can be achieved with a couple of tweaks here and there to improve the bench. For example drafting in Sigurdsson over Herrera…gives the option to upgrade Fab to Haz and get a starting 4.5m goalkeeper.

    The point though is why focus so much on differentials from weak sides, wouldn’t it be better to focus on good players from good teams?

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    1. Irish Madridista ⭐
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Vermaelen doesn't look like he's going to United so drafts that are picking him are kind of cheating 😉

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      1. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Man you forgot Totenham

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      2. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        In that case the above could be tweaked to include downgrading Silva to Nasri and getting Rafael/Jones in from Man U....or Davies if you think Spurs will finish in the top 4.

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      3. Irish Madridista ⭐
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        and with regards to your last point:

        "The point though is why focus so much on differentials from weak sides, wouldn’t it be better to focus on good players from good teams?"

        There are always players from the lower sides that provide better value, more points, less rotation headaches, etc. Look at Bony last year or Benteke the year before.. Then it was Papiss Cisse and before that it was Ba and Carroll... and that's just the strikers!

        Need a mix of the best teams and the best players from outside those teams for cheap supplements.

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        1. getfunky
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          yeah but isnt it better to wait for them to emerge rather than taking a punt from the offset?

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          1. Irish Madridista ⭐
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            Yeah, that's why I wouldn't start off with Pelle.

            But I think its perfectly reasonable to start off with Bony instead of Rooney, for example, or Siggy instead of Herrera.

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            1. getfunky
              • 11 Years
              9 years, 8 months ago

              Agree, I suppose it depends on the player, guys like de jong & pelle are true differentials as you have no idea what to expect but guys like bony & siggy have shown in the past they score points so there's less risk.

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        2. J0E
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          Well yes, I did the above to make an exaggerated point that a team dominated by top 4 players can look pretty good. In reality the main point is the tweaks to be made section.

          For example my current side is similar to the above but with Sigurdsson and Davies in.

          the other benefit of the above strategy goes back to yesterday's hot topic - of preparing for a bad start. If a 7.5m striker from say Swansea or Newcastle emerges as essential then the downgrade is easily done. Upgrading to a top 4 player who runs riot is a more difficult tactic.

          This way you get a core of great players in good sides and can then add in differentials when they emerge - rather than before and risk them not actually being very good.

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          1. Irish Madridista ⭐
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            Yep I see that logic, and it's a marathon not a sprint, but I think you're thinking too sensibly 😉

            Running the risk of losing out on early points and early price rises by only picking the safe top 4 options that won't be too volatile in the way of price rises, opposed to Siggy who should shoot up the prices.

            I see what you mean, but it's not for me.

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          2. Arvin-ation
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            Great point. But it's so much more fun to take a punt 😀

            But yes, that's probably the sensible thing to do.

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          3. V04
            • 9 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            who are better options : Luis/azpi , shelvey/siggy , rosenior+cameron / davies + bruce ???

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        3. andyinasia
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          Yeh but what Jonty's saying is that they're the needle-in-a-haystack players. Players from the Big 4 are safer options.

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    2. Lucy.
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Thanks for this angle Jonty!

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    3. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      That does look like a solid team however surely the differentials make you overtake the rest?

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      1. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Having a team of 10 top 4 sides is a differential itself. how many teams will have that combo. If I was minded to go with this strategy I'd also pick differentials from good sides. I'd much prefer t take a punt on Schurlle coming on and scoring a brace than a new player among Newcastle or Southampton's ranks.

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        1. 50shades of o'shea
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          True, true, it does look really solid and I understand exactly where you are coming from. But just because a side is weak it does not mean they cannot have a standout player who can excel in fpl terms.

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    4. President John F. Keninnsie
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      The problem with having players just from the top 4 is that we won't have an excuse to watch games like Burnley v Hull...

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      1. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Another great argument for a top 4 side. 😉

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        1. President John F. Keninnsie
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          That's a good point actually 😆

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    5. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Best RMT till now

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

      I tend to agree, but there is always someone from one of the other teams who scores a lot of points , so it's always best to have a strong backbone of the team from the top 6 clubs but it is always useful to have a player or two you might think would surprise and fill the rest with cheap but playing players.

      Also some of the rotation in the top teams (most notably City ) causes a lot of grief at time.

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    7. Moin
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      You can't have that many premium players..so the premium player chosen will the from a top team...but then we have to get in affordable ones also..so that is where I target my differentials...Like I have 6m for a third striker..so right now I have chosen Berahino, a player which most haven't picked to act as my differential..

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    8. roscola
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Nice side but more importantly, a very excellent point.

      (Can you squeeze Coutinho in ahead of Herrera? Not convinced Herrera will be doing as much assisting against PL standard teams).

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    9. Reedy
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      The thing that sticks out for me is that all of these top team differentials play second fiddle to more established point-scorers in the same team (Haz/Fab, Kun/Dzeko, RvP/Roo, Yaya/Silva). Wheras the exciting new differentials from lesser teams could well be the main men for their respective sides (Tadic or Pele, Siggy, De Jong etc).

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      1. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Tweaks can be made by preference with just one or two cheaper players from other sides. See above Siggy in for Herrera frees up money to make Ramsey into Sanchez or Fab into Haz.

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        1. Reedy
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          It's an interesting strategy, and gives the foundations of a good side. Still might struggle in terms of captaincy options and accruing bonus points, is all I'm thinking.

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          1. J0E
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 14 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            Rooney (c) looks good and he is not shy about picking up bonus. Switch c to a Chelsea player as well during the first few weeks.

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    10. Snevitz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      This is pretty much the way that I've always set up my team, you pick the players from the big clubs who score more goals and keep more cleansheets. Top it up with an outstanding performer or two once they reveal themselves (Benteke/Michu/Dempsey in season's past) and you're easily in the top 100k. Having differentials normally means dropping points, when players have low ownership it is normally for a reason.

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      1. Oz lotto
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        I would listen to this man. unbelievable ranks!

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    11. Oz lotto
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      great stuff Jonty. I actually really like that team except Herrera as per my rant below.

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    12. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      I will just tweak it here and there and I have it. Thanks man. And loving you went for Duff, people here were saying I am wrong in picking him in.

      Johnty why Mannone? Isn't he rotation threat from Panti?

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      1. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        He was last year's best keeper that is still in the Premier League. Marshall made the most saves, followed by Mannone in second.

        He may well rotate that's why I prefer the tweak that involves getting a 4.5m keeper to rotate with like Krul who can also be a good back up.

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        1. J0E
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          BTW Marshall and Mannone were by far the standout goalkeepers in terms of saves...there's a massive drop to fourth placed Speroni. Plus third placed Ruddy is no longer in the Prem.

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        2. Snevitz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          I would have loved to just have Mannone as my only playing keeper, so annoying that I have to get cover in case he doesn't play.

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    13. 7shadesofsmoke
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      spoken like a true dullard 😉

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      1. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        I know. 🙂

        This for me is the most dullard post I have ever posted.

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        1. 7shadesofsmoke
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          and that is saying something 😆

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          1. 7shadesofsmoke
            • 11 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            (but you make a very good point though)

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        2. Oz lotto
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          Is this how you always start out Jonty? love your ranks!

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          1. J0E
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 14 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            No ...I usually have poor starts by getting the wrong differentials. this year I'm trying something different and want a team that's covered in Chelsea and ManC blue and Man U and Arsenal Red.

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            1. Arvin-ation
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 10 Years
              9 years, 8 months ago

              You're gonna try the tactic, mentioned above, out? Obviously with exceptions from sides outside the top 4.

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              1. J0E
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • Has Moderation Rights
                • 14 Years
                9 years, 8 months ago

                the pricing makes it possible this season...there's no 14m players and lots of quality in the 8.5 and 9m price range. If it doesn't work I can always downgrade to good cheap diffs over the first few weeks.

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      2. Reedy
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        🙂

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    14. EmreCan Hustle
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      But on weeks where all top 4 play each other? You could suffer imo.

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      1. Snevitz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        The only thing that matters is overall rank unless you care about the cup.

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    15. Oz lotto
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      This team is strong and a differential because it isn't template. The combination of players is the differential rather than having a gamble and getting one pick right out of a host of options. This affords you the ability to upgrade or downgrade to anyone on any line really! love it

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      1. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        With so many 9m players its possible to do this at the start...in previous years we've had 14m players and more 10m plus ones so its been more difficult.

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    16. Baines on Toast...
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Problem with this is that to afford it you're going for a different kind of differential - looking for the cheaper options in the big teams. So you have Fab over Hazard, Silva over Yaya, Herrera and Rooney over RVP. It could work, but I don't think it's altogether a more secure strategy.

      Agree that the likes of Pelle are a risk early on - what I try to do with budget options who go for the ones who will definitely be the main man in their team.

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      1. Baines on Toast...
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Like the different thinking though. Just realised my current front 10 is 7 from those big four teams, plus Davies, then two cheapies.

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        1. J0E
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          In that case I'm preaching to the converted - you are already focusing on good players from good sides. 🙂 We will succeed or fail together.

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      2. Oz lotto
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        but no team can have the best of each team...
        Fab plus Silva plus Rooney plus Ramsey will probably outscore the mix of big hitters and mid pricers you will get trying to get in Hazard, RVP, Sanchez and Yaya no?

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    17. Laser314
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Jonty makes a good point, but I can go one better than his team:

      Mannone

      Terry Debuchy P.Jones
      Fabregas Nasri Wilshere Mata
      Rooney Giroud Dzeko

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      1. Oz lotto
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        wilshere? you've gone backwards imo

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    18. CBChappers
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Thinking like that is how I ended up with this team:

      Mannone/Krul
      Rafael, Cameron, N. Taylor, Rosenior, Mariappa
      Sanchez, Hazard, Mata, Erikson, (Albrighton)
      Dzeko, Giroud, Bony

      Not solely top 4 and I've sacrificed the defence I grant you but I think I have 7 genuine starting and potentially high scoring players there

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      1. J0E
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        This is great - taking the idea and making it your own. I'm not sure what your team was like before...but by having six quality players from good sides in attack you should have a great start.

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    19. Poseidon. Not arrogant, jus…
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      You think Ars*nil are going to finish in the top 4? Lol

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    20. Just Fofana
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      "I’m discounting goalkeepers as previous season’s have shown that rotating cheaper players offer a better chance of points."

      Has this been proven? Can you post a link? thanks.

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      1. Dr Who
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        +1

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    21. Cesc's old mullet
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      If you want to sprinkle some punts on there, you could go with :

      Mannone
      Debuchy, Vermaelen, Filipe Luis
      Sanchez, Hazard, Nasri, Arnautovic
      Rooney, Giroud, Pelle

      Subs : Krul, Wisdom, Bruce, Albrighton

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    22. Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Hi Jonty,

      The problem I find with picking the bulk of my team from the top 4 clubs is that when there is champs league a lot of players get rested for the prem matches excluding Man U of course.

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    23. Craig16
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      This is pretty much my team!! 🙂

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  5. vhanoi
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    OK, second draft here, people.

    DeGea (Speroni)

    Azpi Debuchy Pieters (Chester O'Shea)

    Ramsey Tadic Eriksen Nasri Albrighton

    Rooney (C) Costa (Weimann)

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    1. Keith Kiely
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      good team!! I Like it a lot!!

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  6. Kerrazy
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    What do you think of this team ?

    Foster Krul

    Davies Terry Ward Vlaar Ferdinand

    Lamela Ramsey DeJong Mata Mccarthy(2 pts)

    Bony Rooney Dzeko

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    1. A.T
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Lamela is a massive risk at this stage.

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    2. EmreCan Hustle
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Surely you've money in the bank? No?
      You don't think a Chelsea attacker is essential?

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      1. Kerrazy
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        yeah figuring out how to get hazard in there.

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    3. Ben Mee Over A Table
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      You don't want Vlaar right now, just look at his fixtures
      I think Lamela could be our first pre-season troll (to back up his new signing troll from last season)
      Other than that, fairly good.

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  7. EmreCan Hustle
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Repost. Last post of previous article.

    How does this team look?

    Foster Krul
    Cahill Shaw Wisdom Mariappa Duff
    Hazard Mata De Jong Sigurdsson Albrighton
    Rooney Costa Giroud

    Start with Sigurdsson or Snodgrass?

    Thanks.

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  8. Indalo
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone here who has both Sanchez and Hazard in at the moment finding it difficult to achieve a balance team?

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    1. Indalo
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      *balanced

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    2. President John F. Keninnsie
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Nope

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    3. Irish Madridista ⭐
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      I had both of them and Yaya and had a balanced team, but then I downgraded all 3 and have a much more balanced team full of 9.0s 😉

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      1. davies
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        what's your team mate?

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        1. Irish Madridista ⭐
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          Changing all the time 😛

          At the moment:

          Krul - Foster
          Pieters - Chester - Mariappa - Shackell - Simpson
          Mata - Silva - Sanchez - Lamela/Eriksen - Siggy
          Dzeko - Giroud - Bony

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    4. Oz lotto
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      I've gone Hazardless.. I don't have Chelseas attacking cover at all

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    5. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Yeah me. Probably will leave out Sanchez for Mata or Fabs and will put Dzeko upfront...

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

      my team is:

      DDG / Myhill

      Davies / Mariappa / Cameron / Bruce (or wisdom) / Luis

      Albrighton / De Jong / Sanchez / Eriksen / Hazard

      Pelle / Dzeko / Rooney

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    7. Lucy.
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      I think mine's quite balanced.

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  9. Oz lotto
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    This is why I hate friendlies. By all reports United played well but they played Galaxy. I got abit excited about some things but then took a step back
    Especially with regards to.
    1) Shaw... I know the OOP prospect is a good one but how reliable is LVGs 3-5-2 statement?

    2) Herrera... Played deep in the first half and I'm assuming this is his likely position throughout the season - yes.. he got 3 assists but they scored 7 and 2 assists were in junk time against a team that were clearly defeated, when he was allowed to swing into the hole. My question is... where will he play? As someone said above... he will be the ass

    3) Rooney... he scored a penalty a goal from a defender c0ck up. Not saying he won't be good this season. I hope he plays next to RVP and is allowed to find the form of old (because I like Rooney as a player and he is 2.0 cheaper)

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    1. Oz lotto
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      in the assister of the assist problem*

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    2. A.T
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Friendlies mean very little. Saying that I think the new formation is here to stay. Looking at the current squad, without any more additions, you'd be mad not to play 3 at the back.

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    3. Reedy
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Certainly agree with point two. Don't expect Herrera to be a regular source of attacking points.

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      1. Oz lotto
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        me either. I want point 3 to be true most of all. Rooney at 10.5 yes please.

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  10. Ando
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    If anyone could answer these questions it would be much appreciated!

    1. Choose one: Austin, Jelavic or Long and why?

    2. a) Hazard & Sanchez or b) Yaya Toure & Ramsey

    3. Will Ben Davies start ahead of Danny Rose?

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    1. Indalo
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      1/ Long - I'm Irish 😉
      2/ Hazard and Sanchez
      3/ He certainly wasn't bought to play 2nd fiddle to Danny Rose, so yes

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      1. Ando
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        No bias at all 😉

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    2. A.T
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      3) more than likely.

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      1. Ando
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks

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    3. Arvin-ation
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Jelly. Played in PL before, Hull have good fixtures and I think he's on penos.

      A definitely.

      Yes, I believe so.

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      1. Ando
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks

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    4. Lucy.
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      1) Long because I think he's a proven PL player, unlike Austin, and more consistent than Jelavic.
      2) A because I like explosive combinations and I think Yaya is a tad over priced.
      3) Yes, I can't see why they'd have bought him for the bench. Plus Poch showed he had no problems playing a young left back last season.

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      1. Ando
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks

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  11. Keith Kiely
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Despite it only being a preseason game, what do people think of Wayne Rooney over Diego Costa in for the same price. He scored to goals, looked lively and confidant after a bad world cup stint. Costa on the other hand is yet to prove himself in the EPL but we all know he is a ball of talent that has the ability to make an instant impact and was just one goal away from Messis goal scoring last season which says a lot and if he can replicate that albeit in a better balanced league he is a steal at 10.5 considering RVP is 12.5.

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  12. SpaceCadet
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Please RMT

    Mannone Krul
    Terry Debuchy Wisdom Vlaar Mariappa
    Arnoutovic Snodgrasss Hazard Silva Ramsey
    RVP Dzeko

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  13. Mr Blue
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    1. Austin, because I have Sidwell to rotate with him. Also think he is the best option at 6.
    2. Flip a coin... still deciding on Haz+Sanchez or Cesc+Ramsey(later Walcott)
    3. IMO, yes.. nailed on.

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    1. Mr Blue
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Reply fail to Andrew above.. first reply fail ever 😀

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  14. marcus2704
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Appreciate some feedback on my team please 🙂

    Foster Myhill

    Verm Luis Debuchy Wisdom Bruce

    Silva Eriksen Hazard Siggy Albrighton

    RVP Giroud Dzeko

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    1. Mr Blue
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      I really like that, but maybe u should try to get Ramsey/Walcott/Sanchez in ?

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      1. marcus2704
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Only way I could get Sanchez in (who I would really like) would be to downgrade one of the strikers. I fancy RVP although he didn't play last night and I wonder if he is injured or just resting? Silva provides some City cover, although I was tempted by Mata.

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        1. davies
          • 9 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          rvp > rooney
          silva > sanchez

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  15. Abusement Park
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    a) silva and bony
    b) dzeko and eriksen

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  16. bennett661
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    RMT if you wouldn't mind folks, this is my first draft and i am quite happy with it, will no doubt change alot more before kick off!

    Foster/Krul
    Debuchy/Kompany/Flannagan (Rio/Bruce)
    Mata/Fabregas/Nasri (Siggy/Albrighton)
    RVP/Pelle/Giroud

    Feedback welcome!

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    1. JoshT
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Flannagan will be a rotation risk mate probably better value elsewhere for 5.0

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      1. King Henrik
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Flanagan to Davies

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  17. roscola
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    I expect it's been talked to death already but why is Mannone universally expected to be first choice?

    Why would Pantilimon move from City to Sunderland just to sit on a different bench? He must surely have demanded assurances of first team action. And, lest we forget, Mannone was second choice (even under Poyet) until Westwood had a season-ending injury.

    OK, Vito *might* somehow keep his spot but surely the risk is far too high to be starting with him?

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    1. Lucy.
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Too risky, you're right, IMO.

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    2. Oz lotto
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      very very very good points and what I've been thinking all along - always fear when another keeper fromt he same league moves in imo

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    3. Beavis
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      He was player of the year and there was some quotes somewhere that he knew "cover" was coming in but knew he was number 1. Let me see if I can find them.

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      1. roscola
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Ah, now that would be interesting

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      2. Beavis
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Here you go.

        “I welcome the arrival of another goalkeeper at the club,” said Mannone. “All big clubs need cover in all positions.

        “The manager told me some time ago that he would be bringing someone else in because two keepers were leaving, but he also told me I am his number one, and that’s good enough for me.”

        http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/sunderland/news_articles/11300268.Mannone_claims_to_have_been_promised_Sunderland_s_number_one_spot__while_interest_in_Snodgrass_wanes/?ref=rss

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        1. roscola
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          That is interesting. I'm still skeptical though (and see the Chronicle article below).

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    4. Arvin-ation
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Agree. But, could be worth the risk with all his save points, and potential baps. Also, if you have him and another 4.5 keeper, like Krul or Speroni, they're always there for you to fall back on if he doesn't play.

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    5. A.T
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Look at it this way. Say you're Poyet, you have a limited budget and need to bring players in after the perils of the previous season. What are the weak links in the first 11 that you should replace? Not last years player of the season that's for sure!

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      1. roscola
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        But look at it from Panti's point of view - why would he move without assurances?

        I suppose he might have taken a risk and decided he's got a better chance of winning a fight at Sunderland.

        But either way, it seems like a big Fantasy risk to me.

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        1. A.T
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          Who knows, maybe Pantis been told he's surplus to requirements. He went to City to sit on the bench, why not Sunderland? He's probably been told he can fight for his place but surely it's Vito's place to lose.

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          1. roscola
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 12 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            Perhaps. I guess he had nothing to lose, he simply wasn't going to get a look in at City.

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          2. A.T
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            I've just had a look at their Friendlies so far. Out of games they've both played 1.5 each. So maybe Gus is undecided after all! Now you've got me worried. 😀

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            1. A.T
              • 13 Years
              9 years, 8 months ago

              3 games*

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    6. getfunky
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      particularly when there are other decent options

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    7. roscola
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/vito-mannone-hoping-last-seasons-7483883

      The tone of this suggests to me that he's very worried. Seems to me that he's having to plead with Poyet to remember what he did for him last season. And to do the pleading in public because he's nervous.

      Probably reading too much into it as usual though 🙂

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    8. Rasping Drive
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Pick both, if you think Sunderland at that price offer the best chance of clean sheets/save points.

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  18. JoshT
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Speroni

    Cameron Terry Wisdom

    Ince Eriksen Hazard Ramsey Lallana

    Studge Dzeko

    Subs: Myhil, Ferdinand, Mariapa, Ings

    Thoughts?

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    1. Ben Mee Over A Table
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Bear in mind that I'm not only a Liverpool fan, but I was also a massive fan of Lallana's before he moved to Liverpool, when you read this.

      You have too much Liverpool.

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      1. JoshT
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks I shall have a re think

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      2. KujaliaFC
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Huh? He only have Lallana and Studge. I have 4 Arsenal.

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  19. ramzieibrahim
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    beat this team
    krul begovic
    shaw azpi vlaar oshea wisdom
    fabs sanchez mata siggy albrighton
    dzeko rooney pelle
    15 starters wat say 😀

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  20. Abusement Park
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    who will score more points in gw 1
    silva or eriksen?

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  21. Irish Madridista ⭐
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Is Mariappa still going to play?

    The difference between him and Ward is only 0.5, but that 0.5 means the difference between having Krul or Myhill as my second keeper

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    1. Arvin-ation
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      He will, if Palace don't sign anyone new at the back.

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    2. Reedy
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Should do, barring any new signings.

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    3. Irish Madridista ⭐
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Thanks guys!

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  22. Mr Blue
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Premium defenders or midfielders? It just looks so good to have a bit extra spent on defence, my heart says yes but my head says no 😀

    Debuchy+Filipe Luis + Cesc + Ramsey (maybe Walcott when back)
    OR
    Cameron+Taylor + Hazard + Sanchez?

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    1. Abusement Park
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      b

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    2. jopsahl
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Every season i regret not taking in atleast 2 premium (5-6,5) defenders at the beginning.
      They get so hard to put in team after price rise, and theres always the risk u pick a cheap def that wont play at all.

      My tactic is to bring 2 premium def, 2 premium mid and 1 super-premium(11-) forward, premium forward(8,5-) and the rest punts 🙂

      NEVER use all the budget in GW1, can force u to take early hits. Have atleast 0.5 in the bank 🙂

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  23. MB10
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    Hi Guys,

    What do you make of this

    De Gea
    Azpi Debuchy Kolarov
    Sanchez DeJong Yaya Siggy
    Rooney Dzeko Remy

    Gilks Albrighton Wisdom Dummett

    One problem though is its 0.5 over budget! Where could I scrape off the 0.5 and still have the defensive coverage in this team?

    Cheers

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    1. Mr Blue
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Remy is a wait and see anyway IMO, so downgrade him to fit the budget?

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      1. Ashjrobbo
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Kolarov isn't nailed on is he?

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        1. Mr Blue
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          No, I wouldnt pick him but I guess it could work out fine as long as he is happy to see him on the bench every other game 😉

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        2. toerag
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          no way

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    2. King Henrik
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Azpli rotation risk ..so Is kolorov .
      Put in jonew for Azpli and Davies for kolorov.

      Should leave you with enough

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  24. Ashjrobbo
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    RMT please guys. Really trying to nail this down now:

    Krul
    Cameron/Cahill/Debuchy
    Ramsey/Hazard/Eriksen/Siggy/Arny
    Dzeko/Rooney

    Mannone/Wickham/Mariappa/Wisdom

    1.5 in the bank for potential upgrades. Suggest away!

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    1. Abusement Park
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      ramsey to sanchez

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  25. Kerrazy
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    nailed on 4m def ?

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    1. Irish Madridista ⭐
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Wisdom

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    2. Abusement Park
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      no 4m def is 100%nailed

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  26. Abusement Park
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 8 months ago

    predict the result!
    west ham vs tottenham

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    1. Irish Madridista ⭐
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      0 - 3

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    2. Lucy.
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      0-2

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    3. Moin
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      1-2

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  27. @FPL_Chess
      9 years, 8 months ago

      I'm trying to get every penny onto the pitch, so wish to use a 4.5/4.0 same team goalkeeper combo. (if one doesn't play there other will! Auto-sub). Has anyone any views about them?

      Guzan/Given; Heaton/Gilks; Schmeichel/Hamer; Krul/Elliot; Green/Murphy; Foster/Myhill.

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      1. Mr Blue
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        I guess Krul/Elliot is best, ok fixtures from the start

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        1. @FPL_Chess
            9 years, 8 months ago

            Thanks, I see what you mean. Once the Man City match is out of the way, he's got an easy run for a while. Cheers. 🙂

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      2. Abusement Park
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        predict the result
        newcastle vs man city

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        1. Lucy.
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          1-3

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      3. Pepe the Frog
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 8 months ago

        Downgrading RvP -> Rooney will give me this team, and I really like it, especially the midfield.

        Krul / Foster
        Luis - Shaw - Mariappa - Simpson - Wisdom
        Hazard - de Jong - Sanchez - Silva - Wanyama
        Dzeko - Rooney - Jellie

        0 in bank left.

        Or is an RvP team still the better one?

        Krul / Foster
        Luis - Shaw - Mariappa - Simpson - Wisdom
        Hazard - Siggie - Sanchez - Eriksen - Wanyama
        Dzeko - RvP - Jellie

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        1. Lucy.
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          I'd go for the RVP team because I think Eriksen and Sigs have the potential to be bargains. Not wholly convinced on DJ yet.

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          1. Pepe the Frog
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 8 months ago

            Thanks. DJ is abit unproven, you're right. Eriksen and Siggie are proven.

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        2. Ben Mee Over A Table
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          If I had to choose between de Jong, Silva and Rooney or Siggie, Eriksen and RvP, I would go the RvP team allllllll day.

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        1. Ben Mee Over A Table
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 8 months ago

          Yes. But I think it more confirms that he will assist quite a lot of assists this season.

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