Technical Area

The Technical Area – Assessing Barkley’s Role on the Everton Left

There’s no doubt Roberto Martinez is a big fan of Ross Barkley. Deprived of the youngster’s services for the first seven Gameweeks of the season, the Toffees boss has thrust him straight back into league action, with three starts and a sub appearance in the subsequent four league fixtures.

Only last week, Martinez responded to Roy Hodgson’s recent comments, which likened the Toffees midfielder to Paul Gascoigne, and took the chance to wax lyrical over Barkley’s talents:

“Ross is going to draw those sorts of comparisons. The way he is as a footballer, he can bring about memories of many different players. I think it is a phenomenal compliment (for someone) to see aspects of Ross’s play comparable to Gascoigne, and I also mentioned before Michael Ballack’s attributes when he was a young player – there are many (similar) things I see in him too. But the reality is that the longer you see Ross having a big role at our club, you are starting to see a quite unique footballer. Ross Barkley is himself and someone I think is going to mark an era in English football.”

Barkley’s return to the fray has, however, handed Martinez a dilemma in recent weeks, with the Toffees boss searching for a way to squeeze the fit-again 20-year-old into the starting XI alongside Samuel Eto’o and Romelu Lukaku.

In Gameweek 8, Martinez started Barkley behind Lukaku in a 3-0 win over Villa, before shifting Eto’o into the role in “the hole” for the following week’s win over Burnley. Gameweek 10 saw Barkley tuck in behind lone striker Eto’o but the omission of Lukaku from the XI coincided with the first time the Merseysiders have failed to score this season, as they served up a goalless draw at home to Swansea.

Last weekend, Martinez changed tack and chose to accommodate all three in his starting line-up as Everton travelled to Sunderland. With Eto’o tucked in behind Lukaku, Barkley was shuffled out to the left flank in the 1-1 stalemate, and as the Toffees prepare for a kind run of fixtures, we cast an eye over his display at the Stadium of Light.

Everton Average Positions versus Sunderland
ta As the average position map highlights, Barkley (number 20) was more or less as advanced as lone striker Lukaku (number 10) when on the ball with, Eto’o (number 5) dropping deeper. The youngster’s tendency to drift centrally offered the Toffees less width when compared to Aiden McGeady (number 7) on the right, though, with Leighton Baines (number 3) far further up the field than Seamus Coleman (number 23) when in possession.

In terms of involvement, Barkley had more touches of the ball (42) in the final third of the pitch than any other Everton player, as his team-mates looked for him time and again. Eto’o and Lukaku (36 apiece) were also heavily involved, though Martinez’ side offered little balance on the right flank – McGeady managed just 20 touches in the final third by comparison.
Top 10 Players for Touches in the Final Third, GW11
ta

Encouragingly for Martinez, Barkley, Eto’o and Lukaku all featured in the top ten players for touches in the final third in Gameweek 11. With the trio so heavily involved in possession far up the field, Everton registered 237 touches in the final third – up from their previous season average of 199 – despite the fact that their 59.3% possession against Sunderland was marginally down on their 60.8% from Gameweek 1-10.

In terms of distribution, Barkley also received more passes (27) in the final third than any other Everton player and produced more successful passes (29) in this area than his team-mates. Indeed, only Wayne Rooney (30) bettered Barkley for this tally over the weekend’s fixtures – the latter’s hugely impressive 100% pass accuracy in the final third underlines his coolness under pressure. Southampton’s Dusan Tadic, for example, had more touches than any other player (49) in the final third over Gameweek 11 but was successful with just 63% of his passes in this area.

In spite of his accuracy, Barkley created just two goalscoring opportunities for Everton on Sunday – the same number as Eto’o and Lukaku. Intriguingly, the youngster led the way for attempts on goal (five), and with Lukaku (four) and Eto’o (three) all threatening, Martinez’ trio certainly offered plenty of threat in their first outing in the starting XI together. Furthermore, only two midfielders – Angel Di Maria and Yaya Toure, with six apiece – produced more attempts than Barkley last weekend, with his 17.2 minutes per shot far quicker than his previous average of 31.8.

The Baines Impact
Whilst Barkley turned in an impressive shift without picking up the Fantasy points, it’s also worth noting his impact on Leighton Baines’ stats. The Toffees left-back managed 65 touches on Sunday – bearing in mind his Gameweek 1-10 average was 96.8, it’s fair to say his overall involvement in Everton’s build-up play dropped significantly, slipping from one minute per touch to 1.5. With Everton looking for Barkley on the left more often, Baines also plummeted from 1.7 minutes per pass received down to 2.6 against the Black Cats – again underlining the knock-on effect of the youngster’s move out wide.

Further up the field, though, there’s less to worry about – Baines’ 28 touches in the final third was only slightly down from his previous average of 32.7, whilst he also produced more crosses (seven, compared to 5.6) than beforehand. Crucially for Fantasy managers, Baines’s creativity didn’t suffer – his previous average of 38.2 minutes per key pass quickened to 32 last weekend – but with Barkley becoming more prominent in the Toffees’ attacks, we’ll be keeping a keen eye on Martinez’ tactics in light of his weekend reshuffle.

*The Technical Area is put together using the statistics and maps available in our members area. For access to such data and tools on every player, team and match of the 2014/15 season, and for exclusive members articles like this, click here for details.

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1,363 Comments Post a Comment
  1. John t penguin
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Do people ever go back and add to old conversations when no fpl games pending?

    1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      All the time. I am about to do it now, with TFF.

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

        Thanks Doos 😀

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

            Thank you. I'll have a look and reply 😉

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

              Done 😀

    2. rickardinho
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I always scroll back to the top of the current page, and sometimes back 1 page. I find the pace of discussions is usually more tranquil one page behind the rushing posters.

      international break and DZ are the best times on here. people actually READ instead of just posting 8 questions

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

        Mind having a look at the bottom of the previous page,then? 😉

        1. rickardinho
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          haha just saw it. took time to scroll through the whole page 😉

          save FT

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

            Cheers. Doos has something else on his mind though. Has made me think twice 😉

      2. Zep
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        This is the first time I've been on here in a while, and I'm still posting on the last article and have been a page behind until now...

        The DZ's in my blood now, don't particularly enjoy the increased pace of the normal hours... not that I'm ever online anyway at that time (live in Aus)... and I absolutely detest it on here on Matchdays, too many idiots around... usually just end up watching the football and checking back later when it calms down...

        I much prefer the slower pace and extended conversations that abound in the DZ...

        Getting too old perhaps... 😉

      3. thetinkerman
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        This. Don't understand the obsession of reposting on new pages. If everyone just posted once and looked back a page then it would be a lot easier to follow discussions. I also don't get when people purposefully reply to a discussion in a new post. Just keep it in one place!

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

      I do it everytime, especially during the DZ

      1. John t penguin
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        You don't have much choice most times on DZ
        More than once I have checked my router was still working during DZ

    4. Zep
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Mostly just do it to Hot Topics now, cos I know that the links are easily found by people as long as they still remain in the tab...

      As my time on the site is now entirely intermittent, I often return to posts to see if anyone has replied to something I've said...

      1. A.T
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        How's the old dead team challenge coming on Zep? No pressure though. I know you're busy these days 😉

        1. tm245
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          My front line is Sturridge Lukaku RVP (c) -- perhaps the three most expensive busts at the fwd position!

          1. A.T
            • 14 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            I've got Anichebe! I didn't think that one through properly. 😀

            1. tm245
              • 13 Years
              9 years, 11 months ago

              Ashley Young and Jordi Gomez are in my midfield...

        2. Zep
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Apologies on that front mate, I haven't updated that for about 3-4 weeks, but I plan to do it soon and definitely before the next set of matches...

          Started a new job recently, and I'm still getting used to working 70 hours a week...

          1. A.T
            • 14 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Blimey, take your time then mate. No problemo 😀

        3. thetinkerman
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Don't rush, my team is doing terribly 😀

    5. tm245
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I am working on a further reply to your Bullard article, fwiw. I think if you could set the elevator to points rises (points/places in rank you climb above the overall/top 10k average) that would be an interesting assessment of what function your current squad is actually performing. Not sure if you could then set it to price rises but then you would be able to assess value in an almost three-dimensional way.

      1. Zep
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I just read that article 10 minutes ago...

        Still thinking avout it... I reckon you could potentially have intermediate sub sections whereby an "elevator" becomes a "star" in microcosm, (in that he gains value and points for your team in the short term)... but what of the macrocosm? does his sustained rise in value over that period of time not affect your whole team in a positive way, so much so that there is another level of benefit from it long after you have transferred him out for the next model...

        Essentially, we see this effect take shape when people who have sacrificaed a couple of pt hits early doors for quick boost in team value, only to find after January, they can afford ALL of the big hitters they want... and acheive the perfect front 7 for example... I struggled with this last year with my average TV...

        Does the Bullard Box have a solution (place?) for this phenomenon?

        1. John t penguin
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          I have been thinking some kind of levels within each box may help if that is same thing you mean.
          I was going to attempt and put meat to the bone by putting numbers and percentages in it, so it would have something like super stars, floating stars and falling stars.
          Trying to avoid doing it without dictating a sell point a buy point a too late to buy point etc. as that would depend upon the managers risk reward attitude.

      2. John t penguin
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I like the three dimensional aspect, it is probably a big part of how it could develop.

    6. HVT
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I do sometimes, I remember one time doing it for days with a poster called Eunuch Jelly,
      Top poster, don't see much of him these days.
      🙁

    7. John t penguin
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Went away and came back and it still this page
      Does this count?

      1. HVT
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        🙂

    8. WorldCupDanB
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I think all these comments show that there is a chronic flaw with the present system which stops a lot of people like myself being an active user. I am sure we could come with a lot of improvements that would drastically improve things but due to the flaws in the system its virtually impossible to generate any useful discussion. Oh what a paradox.

  2. rickardinho
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    If I'm looking to trade for Downing (in my draft league), what is a sensible package to give up out of Coutinho, Navas, Remy, J-Rod, and/or Moreno?

    Anyone who answers gets a cookie 🙂

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

      You know I don't know much about draft leagues but I'll pick Coutinho + Navas

      1. rickardinho
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Yeah thats what im thinking too. Feels wrong giving up Coutinho and Navas for Stewart Downing (!) though haha. He could easily return to the Downing we know and waste me two precious assets

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

          The upside is big though, think about it in a positive way! 😀

          1. rickardinho
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            yeah no doubt, but i'm always prudent with transfers. risk assessment involves upside and downside!

            1. rickardinho
              • 10 Years
              9 years, 11 months ago

              its more pressing to get trades right in a draft league as once you've sold a player thats it, and if the guy fails you're left with a dud and lost value that you'll struggle to get back

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

                Alright I guess I'll take part next season with you guys to have a taste of the experience 😀

                1. rickardinho
                  • 10 Years
                  9 years, 11 months ago

                  Ask HOH if there's any imminent manager-sackings. There's a chance a team might become available if they aren't active within a month.. HOH is really good at running the league... and its also two divisions with promotion/relegation and H2H leagues and cups too, really awesome!

    2. tm245
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Are you wheeling and dealing? I'm just waiting for Theo to return so my season can start.

      1. rickardinho
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        yeah, i've already pulled off two trades this week!

        what do you want for Lamela?

        1. rickardinho
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          btw, i like that you have Clichy and Kolarov... hows that working out for you? have you managed to choose right each week so far? 😛

          1. tm245
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Nice job! We need your energy to keep us going.

            Kolarov's injury made it easier for me, though I am unsure of what they'll do when he comes back.

            I will take a look at your squad sometime today to see what we can do.

            1. rickardinho
              • 10 Years
              9 years, 11 months ago

              Keep in mind that my roster will change once the trades go through this weekend.

              This is my current team (ie. once trades register)

              Forster Heaton
              Coleman Clyne Moreno
              Gerrard Coutinho Navas
              Balotelli Remy J-Rod

              I'm open to discussing Heaton, Moreno, Coutinho, Navas, Remy, and/or J-Rod.

  3. Fader
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    G2G?

    Krul [Elliot]
    Baines, Clyne, Janmaat [Wisdom/Yun]
    Fabregas, Sanchez, Di Maria, Downing [Boyd]
    Costa, Aguero, Sakho

    1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Without a doubt

  4. GoRedz
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    I havent watched the games, can we trust Villa to get CS anytime soon ?

    Mannone injured, and Krul/Guzan rotation looks tempting to me, until January 15 at least:
    QPR bur bur LEI wba SUN swa SUN BUR Lei

    1. GoRedz
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      not injured, doh, just not starting

    2. Hank Scorpio
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      They just got a CS away to West Ham in their last game, so the potential is there, but they can't be trusted......then again, can anyone?

      1. GoRedz
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Cheers, was thinking of doubling Newcastle (Krul+Colo) and Villa (Guzan+Hutton) and rotating them with Baines+Clyne/Naylor because of their fixtures.

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

      good fixtures..but don't know if defines wise they are strong

    4. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      They conceded a fair few goals to the tougher teams, which is to be expected. Then also lost Delph, Vlaar, Senderos and Hutton, so they didn't look as good. They will have a few of them back, so they should certainly improve.

  5. Captain Shirokov
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Made my transfer Sunday. All I can do now is sit and wait for next GW. Tbh, I actually enjoy the international football. Gives a bit of a break from FPL too.

  6. HVT
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Ok just a clarification on Tadic.
    Played 11
    Goals - 1
    Assists -6
    CS - 7
    Current score: 57pts.
    Highest score V Sunderland - 23 points.
    Next 2 highest scores - 6/5 points respectively
    So that's 34 points from 10 games ie a Ppg of 3.4 (outside of Sunderland)
    And bear in mind he got 6 clean sheets as well from those 10 games.

    So my question outside of the Sunderland game is Dusan Tadic a player you would consider fantasy wise at a price of 7.5m?

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

      nope..thats why I don't have him

    2. tm245
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      That is why I shipped him last week to get in Sanchez. Vardy levels of consistency.

    3. Guidinho
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I completely agree with this, minus the 23 and you have a string of 2's and 3's (averages 3.1ppg) Unlikely he will get a 20+ again this season so deceiving to look at his overall score to date as an indicator to future scores. He has the potential to get his average up to 4.5ppg or so which is what you would hope for a 7.5mil player, unfortunately for him there is Downing, Chadli and to an extent Siggy who provide cheaper options who are likely to outscore him.

      I see Southampton drying up in attacking terms, I think they will pick up points against the big teams but through defensive resolve.

      1. Guidinho
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Sorry 3.4ppg, forgot to divide by 10. But yeah still avoid!

        1. HVT
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          🙂
          Clearly you missed my Maths above , no need to recalculate I already divided 34/10=3.4!
          Spot on mate-agree with you I think he will still offer some returns and had PKs in his locker but it appears right now according to the numbers that there is better value out there.

          1. Guidinho
            • 14 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Yep, blind without my morning coffee!

            But I agree with the way you are looking at it. So early in the season anomalous scores skew stuff like PPG and overall so not a good basis to make a decision from. Another example (but less extreme) is Costa, I think he is really good and worth having there was a large element of his score from two games. The difference with he and Tadic though is you feel Costa could replicate 2/3 times again this season where as Tadic probably wont score that again until they play Sunderland again

              1. Guidinho
                • 14 Years
                9 years, 11 months ago

                Cheers, agree with a lot of it. Also some of the reasoning doesn't really hold such as if Pelle finished his chances. Well its unlikely that they will play anyone else up top this season (unless J-Rod comes back) so the quality of his team mates are completely intertwined with his suitability as a pick.

                Also am with you on Downing/Chadli being the two mid level options, quite want Downing but not sure how I can squeeze him in.

    4. Mahesh_Kumar
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Nope

    5. Woy of the Wovers
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      He is excellent value. 11 games is not that much on which to judge goals and assists. Look at chances created and shots on target for more reliable stats.

      1. HVT
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Yea I agree looks good on paper but taking out those Sunderland points he would have scored only 34 pts,
        Compare that to Cork @ 4.4m- 27pts, 440 mins. V Tadic(10games) @ 7.9m - 849 mins, 34pts.
        Do you see where I'm going?
        Not knocking just saying IMHO he's overrated ATM Fpl wise.

    6. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I went down the Pelle and double Saints defence route personally and I guess that paid off. Still would have been cool to catch his 23 point haul though

      1. HVT
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Yea the hop on hop off approach would have been nice there in GW8 TM
        but hopefully those who had him in the previous weeks caught those points and cashed him, they deserve it for their patience IMO.

        1. thetinkerman
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Indeed. He was good to those who had him early, cruel to the knee-jerkers.

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

    How many here think Silva will start against Swans?

    1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Magic 8 says Very doubtful

      1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        * ball

    2. Dr Dream
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Well you can be certain he won't be left out any longer than he absolutely needs to be.

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

        yeah thats for sure

  8. kirwy
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Thinking about ditching Baines.

    Without Baines I could manage to get this front 7 in the near future:

    Hazard, Di Maria, Sanchez, Siggy
    Aguero, Costa, Sakho

    What do you say, gents? 😀

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I might reconsider!

    1. Dr Dream
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Which one of those players has more pts than Baines ?

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Haha, fair point...

    2. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Magic 8 Ball says you are a jackass 😉

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        😀

    3. HVT
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I've all those(Haz>Fab) and trying to fit Baines in!
      Sell Kirwy please and make it cheaper for me!
      😉

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I'll sell him for you, mate! 😀

    4. Game of Stones
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I've got that front 7 with Fab over Haz, and I would really want to get Baines, not confident going without him...

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I can imagine.. Might keep him after all!

    5. Guidinho
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Im sure you can squeeze that front 8 in with Baines? Lot of cheapies at the back but pick ones that rotate well

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Yup, it might work in the long run... But I have to be smart due to all the fakkkin price rises, haha

    6. Hasselbaink Forever - Defoe…
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Nice fat mac grav

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks mate! 😀 Been waiting for some love for my gravatar!

    7. rickardinho
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      A message from Arnie:

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HrnWC8zBcE

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        If Arnie says so... 😀

    8. Zasa
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I think going out w/o Baines in the near future will harm you for sure.
      Like Wakey said, the man is no myth, four double digit hauls already & we're juts getting warmed up.
      He also takes permanent spot in your backline, just irremovable for all fixtures.
      One less headache in the back to worry about & you already know about all the ways he can rack up the points.

      1. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thx for the input mate! He's staying 🙂

    9. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Sounds like a case of "grass is greener". Baines is essentially the same as ADM - will pick up assists and the odd goal (pens in Baines' case).

      Difference is that Baines gets 1 more point for a goal and 3 more for a CS and costs almost 3m less

      1. thetinkerman
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        You could even apply that to Hazard too at the moment, at least unless he can start finishing chances

      2. kirwy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Good point! I think the only problem is that I want to keep Di Maria for his double home games after Arsenal away.

        But I probably have to do Di Maria > Sanchez before that...

        That's why I was looking at ditching Baines. But as you guys say, he's probably more "essential" than Di Maria.

        1. thetinkerman
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          I think it's wise to keep that premium defender slot, even if you end up bringing Ivan/Azpi/Coleman at a later point

          1. kirwy
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Sounds wise, indeed! Had a look at your team. Amazing rank! Congrats mate. And you did it without Di Maria. Now I'm definitely selling him 😀

            1. thetinkerman
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 13 Years
              9 years, 11 months ago

              There are many ways to skin a cat! Probably players ahead of me without Baines too

            2. thetinkerman
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 13 Years
              9 years, 11 months ago

              Cheers BTW!

  9. SAINTS
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    I'm loathe to use this word, but is Sanchez 'essential'?

    1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Magic 8 ball says most likely

    2. Guidinho
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      In relative terms currently more so than any player bar Aguero

      1. SAINTS
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        And I'm presuming it's very much form over fixtures with him. I really don't love Arsenal's fixtures but he is very difficult to ignore.

        The sad thing is, getting him in is going to take a -4 unless I transfer Fabs out over Sterling.

        1. Guidinho
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Well with possible hamstring, 4 yellow cards and the return of Sturridge sometimes these forced transfers can be a blessing in disguise.

      2. n-doggg
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        What do you think is more pressing. Sanchez or Baines?

        I have sterling and Tadic to get out for Sanchez or a straight Ivan to Barnes swap.

        1. SAINTS
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          For a definite long term transfer, Baines is pretty irresistible. More so than Sanchez.

    3. Zep
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I don't think he is essential personally... but then again, I don't think anyone is essential...

      Great to player to have had in the past 4 weeks, and hopefully for the next few months now that I have brought him into my team...

    4. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Di Maria was essential 2 weeks ago, now he is deemed crap.

      Essential is nonsense, always has been, always will be.

      1. SAINTS
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Absolutely, hence the " "!

    5. Zasa
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I think he takes a little weight off your shoulder when you have him.
      He's definitely not a burden though. In general, he's proved his worth over gold & his form at the WC translated in abundance to the league.

      Honestly, can many here list a cons list for the man?

  10. Jimbo123
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Chadli, Lamela and Coleman are like the only decent people available in my draft league....

    is it worth doing Rose & Nathan Dyer ---> Yun & Chadli before someone else snaps up Chadli?

    1. Guidinho
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Im a big fan of Chadli despite some of the comments on here, underlying stats are very good. Has a very strong presence in front of goal so even the games when he looks ineffective he can often nick a goal and generally that comes with some bonus points. Yun looks good enough, QPR have some very nice home fixtures over next 6

    2. rickardinho
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Is Chadli still a free agent? How small is your league?

      1. Jimbo123
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        6 man.....I'm contemplating -4 to secure him!?

        1. rickardinho
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          nice, that must be an insane free agent pool to pick from

  11. JK - Cønt ⭐
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    @Giggs Boson

    I have bought Geoff Cameron

    1. HVT
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Lol @ Cameron owners Jk ?

      1. JK - Cønt ⭐
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Probably now, yes 😛

    2. Piggs Boson
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I think you blew your load a bit early there JK. His short-term fixtures aren't great. But he if he can give decent rotation with your other defenders then fair enough 🙂

      1. JK - Cønt ⭐
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        It was for rotation reasons, I can cover his poor fixtures and I needed a defender for 4.4 or less to allow me to afford Baines

        I'm not sold on Yun, Dummet's rotation ends after about 3 GWs

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

          Makes sense,then.

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

      With those fixtures

      😯

      1. JK - Cønt ⭐
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        He's part of a rotation, I'll only be using him for

        home games and possibly Palace away

  12. Whazza
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    What do you think, anything worth a -4? 0 FT and 3M in the bank.

    Krul Foster
    Ivan Bertrand Chambers Naylor Moore
    Sanchez Tadic Siggy Downing Marney
    Aguero Costa Austin

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

      Nope looks great 😀

    2. Shifty
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Tadic > Hazard/Di Maria he only change I would make with a -4.

      1. Whazza
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I think I need Baines before one of them, seems essential

        1. kirwy
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Ivan > Baines then...

          1. Whazza
            • 12 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Perhaps next week for free, Ivan has WBA.

    3. kirwy
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Save and do Tadic > Di Maria next GW if u can afford it

  13. n-doggg
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Is Ivan to baines too much of a sideways move? Feel loathe to do it when I could potentially use transfer elsewhere

    1. Game of Stones
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I don't think so, would have Baines over Ivan any day

    2. SAINTS
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      See above. But I think Baines is a great pick. I've had him a few weeks and it's been great. I can see a healthy amount of points for a few gameweeks still.

    3. Zasa
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Not for me IMO, there's better value elsewhere in the Chelsea defenders.
      Baines has a nice home fixtures up ahead, if I were you I'd swap

    4. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Depends what those other transfers are

  14. NorwichCityLad
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Should I do eriksen for chamberlain yes or no???

    1. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      No.

      Walcott is a problem for Ox, as will be Ozil.

      You're just giving yourself a problem player who doesn't get many returns.

      1. NorwichCityLad
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Hazard it is then just trying to fit in aguero

    2. Piggs Boson
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Depends if Ox pays you.

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

      No, with Walcott returning Chamberlain isn't nailed on

      1. NorwichCityLad
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks all

    4. XhakaCan
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      No, Arsenal traditionally struggle against Man Utd and West Brom(away)

  15. HurriKane
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    As the festive period nears there are 9 pl matches between now and new years day.

    Add to that cl/el games and cup games think some of the big guns will be rested

    Having decent options in the bench will come handy i guess. Whats ur strategy?

    1. Piggs Boson
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Cross my fingers and put faith in Boyd. Removing funds from the XI is not worth it to upgrade him for 1 or 2 appearance when the replacement may not do anything.

      1. HurriKane
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Good point. but the dilemma for me is sakho siggy chadli costs about the same as sanchez boyd and zamora. Sanchez is explosive but over that run surely the former has better chance of racking more points right ??

    2. Shifty
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      this is the time to break away from the casuals, pretty damn excited. Saving the FT this week will go a long long way.

  16. Game of Stones
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    How would you rate this team, defence way too weak?

    Foster (McCarthy)
    Baines - Wisdom - Dummett - Hutton - Yun
    Di Maria - Siggy - Fabregas - Sanchez
    Aguero - Sakho - Costa

    Thanks 😀

    1. Piggs Boson
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      The weak defenders are still capable of CSs given the right fixtures and luck. It'll do. It's worth it for that front 8 🙂

      1. Game of Stones
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks 😀
        Only way I can get Baines in without selling any of my forwards, should be able to get that in a couple of weeks - not too keen on selling Clyne and Bertrand before the upcoming GW.

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

      It's a nice team. Downgrade ADM and upgrade one of the cheapies to Naylor whenever you get the opportunity 🙂

      1. Game of Stones
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks 🙂
        Have got this atm:
        Clyne - Bertrand - N Taylor - Hutton - Moore.

        Aiming to get that defence as it is the only way to get Baines without selling any of my forwards, not sure if I want to sell Di Maria :/

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

          Something has to give though. We can't have them all 😀

          Wait and assess this week. Then make a call on ADM or Fabregas

          1. Game of Stones
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Yeah I know 😉

            Will wait till after next GW, don't want to sell Clyne and Bertrand now, and especially not for -4p. Can't really see any good replacement for Fab or ADM either though.

  17. THAT'S LIFE
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Kyle Walker back eh? Can resume his battle with Glen Johnson as my most disappointing Fantasy defenders...

    1. Retrosynth
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Every time I see Glen Johnson play I wonder why he's still at the club. Has been off his best for 3 seasons now. I understand wanting to stick with injured players, but it's getting a bit ridiculous now.

  18. rickardinho
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Why has Lamela been subbed twice, and come of the bench at HT twice, in the last 4 games? Has he been poor or was that due to EL rotation?

    1. Bobby_Baggio
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      The whole spurs team have been woeful. Been watching them, they lose possession easy, they can't defend and have no one to command them on the pitch. Lamela is a talent but he's not ready for the prem yet, i said this at the start of the season!

      1. Zasa
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Last season too 😉

    2. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Him, Eriksen and Townsend seem to be taking turns to play 45 mins

  19. thetinkerman
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Hey TFF, looks like my decision to keep Costa and sell Hazard paid off no thanks to you! 😉

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

      Hey man. I was looking for you yesterday! Well done,it was your call in the end 😀

      http://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2014/11/11/the-digest-gameweek-11-3/?hc_page=5#hc_comment_8817418

      1. thetinkerman
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I've been really lucky with these calls recently. Everything I've done this season seems to have paid off. It will end sooner or later probably...

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

          There is always an element of luck involved somewhere in FPL but I thought those changes were very well thought out. No surprises really 🙂

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

      Great OR too. Congrats!!

      1. thetinkerman
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks!

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

          How's your team shaping up this week? Must look pretty good with Costa and Kun in it. Made some early trades?

          1. thetinkerman
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Na, taking it easy this week. Will save if the god of international breaks is good to me. No pressing issues as long as ADM and Hazard don't start consitently outscoring the other premium players and budget mids.

            A downgrade of Pelle and an upgrade of Downing is on the roadmap but I'm in no rush. Don't buy into the theory that Pelle's returns will suffer, as long as this poor finishing doesn't continue. Will consider swapping one of Forster/Bertrand though if I have a spare FT

    3. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      In the great scheme of things, that seems a tiny victory ... 😉

      1. thetinkerman
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        You're right... I can always bring Hazard in later and sell Costa, but I spent all week debating who to sell to make way for Sanchez 🙂

        Not too fussed about not owning Hazard as long as his returns are "just around the corner"

        1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Warning - I have bought him, this week. 😆

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

            😆

          2. thetinkerman
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            You should really give us warning before so we can avoid!

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

        I rate both of them very highly. It's a really tough decision to pick between one of them.

        By the way, here is my reply to your suggestion:

        http://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2014/11/12/scout-scribbles-van-persie-worry-for-holland/?hc_page=6#hc_comment_8821824

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

          Both of them*

          1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 14 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            My point would be that you can do that this week, and stay ahead of the curve.

            1. thetinkerman
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 13 Years
              9 years, 11 months ago

              Getting ahead of the curve for a hit has been what has got me off to a good start. Getting Aguero and Baines in for hits relatively early paid off big-time for more. I'm a big fan of this if the move is an obvious improvement long-term.

  20. Timtastic03
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    How long till Walcott gets his first start? First game after the break?

    1. HVT
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Not over confident Tim, still think he may be eased in over the next 3/4 mate.

    2. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Hard to say. I'll wait until he has 1 or 2 starts under his belt before assessing, unless of course he goes mental. Nice rank by the way!

  21. Retrosynth
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    So after watching MOTD, I'm so tempted to do Pelle + Welbeck > Austin + Costa.

    Costa, for obvious reasons, should be back in my team. Austin is looking really hungry, always looking for goals and he's getting decent service (just needs to learn how to stay onside). Pelle has been great for me, but with QPR's fixtures coming I can see him outscoring Pelle over the next 5 or so.

    My only hesitation is that once you get a striker in at under 6 million, it's tough to then upgrade him if his form falls off, get's injured etc.

    Worth it?

    1. Timtastic03
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Not considering him for precisely that reason - unless you think you can bank the money and keep yourself from using it elsewhere.

      1. Retrosynth
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        That's exactly my worry, I will use the cash elsewhere. Not sure if I can stick it out until the January wildcard, so it would be a big move.

        1. Epic Fail
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Cross that bridge if it comes to it. Go with what you want now.

      2. Timtastic03
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        My bad..didn't realise he was 5.8 - Could always switch to Sakho / Beharino. Though he was in the Kane range.

    2. GoRedz
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      But you can always pick a cheapie in form to replace him, there are plenty at the moment: Berahino, Sako, Ayoze..

    3. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Well there are 3 top strikers in that bracket - Berahino, Sakho and Austin. No reason that a cheap 3rd striker isn't a viable tactic. Just don't bench them!

      I may downgrade Pelle to one of those after Pelle's next game... but I'm really in no rush to sell him, especially if he gets returns again this week

      1. thetinkerman
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        It's worth noting that I have Aguero and Costa and would use the cash to upgrade downing to Wally/Sterling so it's not a pressing decision for me. In your case I'd be a bit more tempted

    4. NATSTER
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Considering that myself and the indecision already costed me 0.2mil. I'm still doubt if I will get Costa this week as I will have to take a hit to bring him in and lose Fabregas.

  22. Jimbo123
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    DRAFT LEAGUE DILEMMA:

    Do I continue to hold on to Falcao and hope he comes good?

    Or ditch him for Austin?

  23. Zep
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Seriously can't remember a time when using 2FTs has worked out so well straight away...

    ShawX (1, 2) & Sterling (2, 4) > Baines (7, 11) & Chadli (8, 10) two weeks ago has made me 27pts better off...

    It's the small victories... 😉

    1. Retrosynth
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Mine is quite a bit smaller than yours, but Cesc and Sterling out for Sanchez and Chadli worked well for me last week, 15 pts better off.

      Feels nice doesn't it!

    2. thetinkerman
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Solid moves... nice one. I love when moves are obvious and pay off well. You feel like such a BOSS!!!

  24. Cesc in the city
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Good to go for next week?
    Krul Bego
    Baines Coloccini Bertrand Lovren
    ADM Sanchez Chadli Wanyama Boyd
    Aguero Costa Sakho

  25. HurriKane
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Cazorla and ox has just 1 goal & 1 assist in combined 22 pl games(15 starts). Surely walcott will come in for one of them very soon right ??

    Im looking at walcott as an alternative to sanchez .

  26. lappingitup
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Krul
    Baines clyne Dummett
    ADM Fab Barkley Sanchez
    Aguero Pelle

    Start Siggy or Fletcher?

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Siggy

  27. Cluckfuster
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    I've got 2 FT and £0.0m in the bank, how am I looking?

    Foster - Myhill
    Vlaar - Baines - Clyne - Kaboul - Gibbs
    Siggy - Hazard - Di Maria - Moses - Tadic
    Aguero - Pelle - Vardy

    1. Timtastic03
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Downgrade Moses to a 4.4 and upgrade Vardy imo

    2. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Don't do anything until next week.

      1. Cluckfuster
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Next gameweek or next week week?

    3. Bobby_Baggio
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      hmmm kaboul, gibbs, moses, tadic and vardy will need to go:

      Kaboul and spurs are crap
      Gibbs is too expensive for an arsenal team not keeping clean sheets
      moses fixtures turn sour
      tadic i dont rate apart from one GW
      Vardy - for 4.8m i'd rather go for ayoze

      So kaboul and gibbs downgrade to wisdom/yun/dummet
      moses > 4.4m
      Tadic > OScar or gamble on walcott

      1. Bobby_Baggio
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Sorry i dont mean you need to do this in one go but over next few GWs

        1. Cluckfuster
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Yep 🙂

      2. Cluckfuster
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I said 2 FTs, not 4.

        1. Bobby_Baggio
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Lol i got carried away 🙂

  28. Tingate
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Good to go? ;

    ------------------- Begovic ----------------------
    Dummett - Chambers - Baines - Clyne
    ---Sigurdsson - Sanchez - Fabregas---
    -----------Costa - Pelle - Aguero-----------

    Subs: Myhill - Downing - Bruce - El Hamadi

    1. HurriKane
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Why are you benching downing. Start him ahead of chambers

  29. Jonny Sutt
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    What do we think guys?

    Krul Jakupovic
    Baines Bertrand naylor dummett yun
    Sanchez hazard ADM downing Gibson
    Costa aguero Perez

    1. Coaly
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      😀