[sbu_large_image] Fixtures

Frisking The Fixtures – Gameweek One

8 August 2011 2076 comments
Andy Andy
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After a long anxious summer away, our regular scan of the fixture list makes a return.

If you’re new to these parts or if perhaps all the sun and sangria have gone to your head, then, in a nutshell, this regular Monday article examines the fixtures and presents our view on those teams with favourable runs or absolute horror shows. We even tease you with a few player recommendations.

Introductions over then, let’s fill our boots with the opening gameweeks.

The Highs…

QPR

Very few are backing QPR to make an impact on their return to the top flight. Neil Warnock’s men however have one big factor in their favour – the opening set of fixtures could hardly have fallen better for them.

Our “Next Six Fixture Ticker” (in your sidebar) displays a sea of blue with no real intimidating opponent on the horizon; there’s room for a degree of confidence in Rangers, then.

While the purse strings have limited Warnock’s summer pickings to humble captures such as Jay Bothroyd, Danny Gabbidon and DJ Campbell, by sealing the future of the Adel Taarabt, Rangers have assured at least some interest from Fantasy managers this season. Taarabt, with set-piece dominance and goals and assists dripping from him, will surely tempt early investment for what is an undeniably favourable opening to the season.

Aston Villa

While both Ashley Young and Stewart Downing have departed, Villa have drafted in Fantasy favourite Charles N’Zogbia to fill the void and turn the heads of Fantasy managers. Darren Bent remains the key figure on the teamsheet, however, and it’s his prospects over the opening spell of the season that look the most intriguing.

Certainly the fixture list suggests that Bent and Villa could start strongly. Indeed, in the mid-term Villa have good fixtures for a considerable time and could prove strong value for several months.

While a trip to the Cottage is far from easy on opening day, Villa’s upcoming encounters with Blackburn, Wolves and Newcastle -all notoriously bad travellers- in the opening five gameweeks should give Alex McLeish every chance of winning over the Villa faithful. Bent, N’Zogbia and a supporting cast that could include a back four reinforced by the arrival of Shay Given and McLeish’s own stoic defensive outlook, all look tempting.

Fulham

Martin Jol is another manager faced with winning over a new set of fans – like McLeish, though, he has been given an relatively easy ride in the opening month.

The opener with Villa looks winnable, as does the second home clash with Blackburn in Gameweek 4. Sandwiched in between Fulham have trips to Wolves and Newcastle – stubborn opponents but fixtures that are amongst the best away games in the division.

While Brede Hangeland, John Arne Riise and Clint Dempsey (6.5, 6.0 and 8.5 in the FPL) have been given fairly hefty price tags, there is still value in Jols’s squad that could come to fruition early on.

Bobby Zamora and Aaron Hughes offer assured mid-price cover at both ends of the field with Damien Duff offering midfield promise for those who baulk at the prospect of shelling out for Dempsey’s goal threat.

Chelsea

Chelsea had the most astounding of opening fixtures last season and duly delivered major Fantasy hauls with Florent Malouda and Didider Drogba both ablaze. While things don’t fall quite so nicely for them this time around, they’re still presented with three very favourable Stamford Bridge encounters which appear to offer strong returns all round.

West Brom, Norwich and Swansea are the first three opponents facing Andre Villas-Boas in front of the Chelsea supporters. Those matches balance out a couple of testing away trips – the opener at Stoke and the Gameweek 5 visit to Old Trafford.

Frank Lampard has the pedigree to provide but Fantasy managers are still showing caution given his changing role in the Chelsea midfield. Malouda perhaps offers greater potential – particularly given that his start should be more assured with pre-season starlet Daniel Sturridge sidelined through suspension for the first three fixtures.

Also Consider…

Newcastle – there’s a whole lot going on at Newcastle that may cause you to err on the side of caution – but the fixtures fall nicely with a strong run to follow the opener against Arsenal.

Everton – the Premier League’s most famous false starters are handed a rather peachy spell between Gameweek’s 2-5 including some strong Goodison fixtures.

Wigan – Forget last year’s Mauro Boselli debacle and the day one spanking to Blackpool – take a look at the first three games and think again.

The Lows…

Man United

United’s impressive comeback in yesterday’s Community Shield will doubtless see their Fantasy assets earn renewed consideration – Nani in particular. The fixture list certainly offers food for thought however, with Alex Ferguson handed an evil opening to the season that will immediately test the credentials.

A trip to the Hawthorns to meet a Baggies side masterminded by the canny Roy Hodgson isn’t easy – home games against Spurs, Arsenal and Chelsea then follow, with a tricky encounter at the Reebok in between. Clean sheets look unlikely, perhaps, but such opponents may just draw the sting from United’s attacking players, providing every incentive for Wayne Rooney, Nani and company to produce the kind of goalscoring display shown at Wembley on Sunday.

Bolton

There is an early cloud of concern gathered over the Reebok stadium. The Trotters have lost two of last season’s most potent goal threats – Daniel Sturridge and Johan Elmander – whilst they’ve been cruelly robbed of Chung Yong-Lee’s trickery by a pre-season leg-break.

Owen Coyle could do with a friendly fixture list to start off with, then, but he’s unfortunately been handed an evil array of opponents. Fixtures against four of last year’s top five in their opening spell will surely postpone any initial Fantasy interest in the Trotters squad.

Stoke

Stoke City’s strength is at the Britannia – that’s where they often seal the precious points that push them up amongst the higher echelons of the table. Sadly for Tony Pulis’ side, their opening set of fixtures hands them three of the most difficult home games over the first five Gamweeks. Chelsea get matters rolling on Sunday, with Liverpool and United also due at the Britannia by the end of September. Trips to Norwich, West Brom and Sunderland could offer returns but Fantasy managers need to be wary of Stoke’s away form – they’ve previously struggled badly for returns on the road.

Be Wary of…

Swansea – three “mission impossible” away trips balance out a set of Liberty Stadium clashes to provide a topsy-turvy start to life in the Premier League.

Tottenham – United, City, Liverpool and Arsenal all lie in wait in the opening six Gameweeks. Spurs will likely need to capitalise on away trips to Wolves and Wigan if they are to keep in touch with the top six early on.

Andy Leicester won the Premier League. Leicester. Premier League. What is this life? Follow them on Twitter

2,076 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. Firetick
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Prospects on Aguero?

    Is he likely to start for Man City GW1?

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    1. cucumber
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      I would wait and see how he settles into life in the PL. If you do want man city cover get Silva

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  2. andy85wsm
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Shows what changes can be made in just a few weeks.

    Average age of Utd team in the Champions League final was 30

    Average age of the team in the community shield was 23

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    1. Soop
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      What's up with SWP. I'm not sure if I want him to move to Bolton, or just stay at City and get starts.

      why isn't he getting starts? His form seems good.

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      1. Soop
        • 16 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        reply fail...

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  3. runekver
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Given Ruddy
    Briggs Richards Kompany A.Cole Simpson
    Nzog Nani Malouda Sessegnon Moses
    Rooney DJ.Campbell Rodallega

    I have some serious doubts myself.
    If Briggs plays left wing he will be a steal but he is a major risk. Any suggestions for replacement?
    Moses Rodallega seems too much Wigan cover, but their fixtures looks too tempting.
    Thoughts anyone?

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    1. cucumber
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Briggs to Orr. Briggs is out of the team now that Dempsey has returned.

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      1. runekver
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Why does people seem to favor Orr for Gabbidon?
        Also, After gw 1 my Double City defence is useless. Who to transfer Richards for? I dont have any money left in the bank. And is Richards a sure starter? I reckon he is more likely to start than Clichy, but still...

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      2. Nenad85
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Maybe is better to use Gabbidon instead Orr.

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    2. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      senderos seems better than Briggs

      still a steal but much more likely to play. He'll probably partner hangland as centreback whilst Riise and Hughes are fullbacks

      I have both Moses and Rodallega. Their fixtures are so tempting. Just make sure you get them out after GWk3

      still, the curse of Boselli might happen again this year D:

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      1. hillbillypete
        • 16 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        really? i expect:

        Baird Hughes Hangleand Riise

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        1. Syntax
          • 14 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          I think Senderos will play now that he's back and that means hughes at right back

          Jol played this in their last friendly and they kept a clean sheet, so I can see him sticking to it :p

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

          I think its 50\50 between

          Hughes - Senderos - Hangaland - riise

          and

          Baird - Hughes - Hangeland - riise.

          I'm going for the Senderos punt...could backfire, but its an ok risk worth taking. I only plan to play a fulham defender once every three or four weeks anyway.

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          1. Syntax
            • 14 Years
            14 years, 9 months ago

            If enrique moves to liverpool I might be able to afford Hughes over senderos anyways

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  4. The Laughing Man
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    What do you guys think about having Gervinho if RVP stays injured??

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    1. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      his fixtures GWk 4-6 are perfect

      he'll be in my team at that time

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  5. The Bandit
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Dammit! Just thought I had it right and realised I had 8 fwds/mids that I need can't bench.
    Rookie.

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  6. treely123
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Sorry, post got caught at bottom of last page

    Thoughts on this team I just threw together?

    Given Ruddy
    Hughes Kompany Simpson Bardsley Huth
    Nani Taarabt Tiote Nzogbia Jarvis
    Rooney Bent Gyan

    I know that I need to strengthen midfield, but what do I do?

    Cheers

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    1. The Bandit
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Downgrade Gyan and upgrade Tiote.

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    2. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Huth?

      his fixtures aren't great and he could be rested and replaced by woodgate for the Europa league

      Brown is a cheaper Bardsley
      Not sure about tiote or Jarvis. I prefer Sinclair

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  7. THE ORACLE
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    is anyone willing to accept yet that Micah Richards is a much better purchase than Kompany, not only based on the community sield. He dominated ashley young and most other attacking left mids. No need to apologise guys

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    1. hillbillypete
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      yep, in my team

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    2. Somalion
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Didn't notice that myself to be honest.

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      1. THE ORACLE
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        you must be a man u fan then not to see ashley young was owned by richards. The only time ashley done well was when he drifted inside. his crossing was way below standard that game

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        1. 1966 was a great year for E…
          • 15 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          Young is right-footed, you'd expect him to do better when drifting inside (from the left).

          Richards probably would have seen red for his 1st half tackle on Young if it wasn't a friendly.

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    3. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      better than kompany?

      Richards will always have a rotation threat with zabaleta. Especially now they're in the champions league

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      1. THE ORACLE
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        also who decided that richards is a rotation risk. he plays full games when hes fit and zabaleta, if mancini wants to play him, will play in front of him. richards is attacking ( you all saw the runs he done), assists, physical and perfect

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    4. I've got worms
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      More than likely to get booked aswell. Abit of a short fuse on that one still.

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      1. THE ORACLE
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        that is true about yellow cards, or you can rely on Kompany to take a bribe and give nani the ball in the last second. Half the team say hes the most intelligent player at man city but that just shows man city have no collective i.q after what he done

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    5. Marknlard
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Why can't you just have your opinion on a player and leave it at that?

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      1. THE ORACLE
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        trying to show you the errors of your ways. a good samaritan. some people dont want help when its staring them in the face

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        1. dribbler
          • 16 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          you're speaking rubbish and you've been speaking rubbish for weeks

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    6. applebonkers
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      based on the community shield where he got zero points and kompany 1.

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    7. Bod
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      My opinion was initially that due to hot headedness Richards would be more likely to pick up cards than Kompany, indeed his tackle in the community shield was terrible, however I then delved a bit deeper.....

      Bookings for last season:
      Kompany; 12 yellows and 1 red
      Richards; 6 yellows and 0 reds

      O.o

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      1. 1966 was a great year for E…
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Delve deeper.

        Minutes last season:
        Kompany 3330
        Richards 1399

        Minutes per yellow:
        Kompany 277.5
        Richards 233

        😯

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        1. Bod
          • 14 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          Oh deary

          Glad I went for Lescott then 😉

          I won't delve any deeper into the stats, I'm already up to my neck!

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        2. Manamongst
          • 15 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          I'll still take Richards, that minutes per yellow is deceptive obviously because of the Richards injury issues last season.

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      2. applebonkers
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 16 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        great delving lying

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  8. cucumber
    • 16 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Bent and Carroll are better options imo but Gervinho isnt a bad shout

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    1. cucumber
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Reply fail, was in reply to the laughing man's post

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  9. Cash'nBurn
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    The opening fixtures don't seem to lend themselves to an even balance of home/away players. I've come to the conclusion that with Chelsea/ManU playing away, the opening fixture will be weighted towards players playing away from home.

    Doubts over Van Persie and Suarez, whether to select Drogba or Torres, and the limp efforts from Dzeko and Balotelli, is tending to restrict the forward options.

    Going with two 'big hitters' in defence/midfield/attack seems to me the safest policy, offering flexibility ongoing.

    With this in mind, I have selected a squad that ,barring injuries, could be adequate for the first three fixtures :-

    Given - Kenny

    Cole A - Lescott - Rangel - De Laet - Simpson

    Nani - Malouda - Taarabt - Moses - Sessegnon

    Carroll - Bent - Holt 0.0m left

    Suarez would replace Carroll asap, Van Persie replace Bent.
    This would be financed by a downgrade of Lescott/Cole A/Malouda /Nani - whoever is showing lack of early form/not starting games.If it was Malouda or Nani, the downgrade would be substantial enough to allow a switch from Holt to Odemwingie.
    Tchoyi /Sinclair are lined up to replace any of the three cheap midfielders when fixtures dictate.

    Pre-season plans never stay on track, and fixtures last season rarely ran true to form, but is there anybody out there who plays this game purely on gut instinct and not on over-analysis?

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    1. Valar(Keith)
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      you my friend have used the kinda analysis i use.. i always plan back up to non form no hitting players like you have.. and it works.. play the fixtures and form.. rmt well done

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      1. Manamongst
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        I wholeheartedly agree mate.

        But sometimes you should watchout as sometimes changes within the same team with two ample strikers (ex; Liverpool) don't work. Changing Carroll in for Suarez may not be the best even if both are in good individual form. Especially with a team like Liverpool, that would be like putting a Lexus alternator into a Diesel Mercedes.

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  10. treely123
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Wilshere at 6.5? Worth it?

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    1. TO
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      No

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  11. The Laughing Man
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Does anyone know who Fulhams starting 4 defenders are?

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    1. User
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      I'm predicting: Hughes Senderos Hangeland Riise

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    2. @theTinkermen
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      can only give you 3 certs. hughes hangelsnd and riise. the other right back position will be baird or hughes moves into it and senderos plays alongside hangeland. cant be certain on the fourth defender untill the first game of the season. an injury might clear up the doubt

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  12. ForTheWin
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Hey guys, any advise on my team much appreciated.

    Given, Al Habsi
    Kompany, Hughes, Jagielka, Bardsley, Simpson
    N’Zogbia, Sinclair, Taarabt, Malouda, Moses
    Rooney, Drogba, Holt

    1.5 in the bank.
    1)will bring in Van Persie for Drogba once we hear how his injury is.
    2)Should i swap Ruddy for Al Habsi, i hear they rotate well?
    3)And is Bramble a better option than Bardsley? What will the Sunderlands defense most likely be?
    4) not sure on jags or holt,are there better options?

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  13. Soop
    • 16 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Repost:

    What’s up with SWP. I’m not sure if I want him to move to Bolton, or just stay at City and get starts.

    why isn’t he getting starts? His form seems good.

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    1. 1966 was a great year for E…
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Silva, Balotelli, Milner and AJ are all ahead of him for a spot on the wing.

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  14. THE ORACLE
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Ramsey is a bargain buy people. you watch the amount of people that will put him in the next week. Nasri and fab out. The wales captain, with gervinho, will destroy teams

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    1. applebonkers
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      and both will cost you 4 points in a couple of weeks

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      1. THE ORACLE
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        ramseyscores against the big teams. try to remember. Wales Captain. Arsen wenger is obligated to play him

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        1. Marknlard
          • 16 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          You said this about Wenger being obligated to play him before. What do you mean? Contractually obliged?

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          1. Gargamel
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 16 Years
            14 years, 9 months ago

            Yeah he is the Wales Captain after all, geez. Try to keep up.

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          2. Agbonlahor’s brillian…
            • 14 Years
            14 years, 9 months ago

            Try to remember!

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    2. Agbonlahor’s brillian…
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Is 'national captains' one of the categories for this EA thing? If i select Ramsey, should I sub him out against the little teams? How many people will put him in next week do you think?

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  15. King_Cobra
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    A: Aguero and Suarez

    or

    B: Rooney and Dzeko

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    1. @theTinkermen
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      def B. for the start anyway!

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  16. George Agdgdgwngo
    • 16 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Thoughts on the best 4.0m defenders?

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    1. Firetick
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      There's only one, and that's Ferguson for Newcastle

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    2. User
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Simpson, Taylor (Swansea) and Gabbidon/Orr, I don't see value in Briggs or de Laet.

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

      Simpson - right back at Newcastle, should play most games, odd chance of some attacking return.

      Gabbidon/Orr - Seem to be nailed on to start at QPR, not sure if they will offer much more than 1 or 2 points a week unless QPR can keep some clean sheets.

      Taylor for Swansea is apparently a starter too.

      I'm sure there's more but they're the main ones being banded around. It seems a lot more difficult this season to pick up players for the minimum amount who actually play.

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

    Who are people thinking of captaining? I asked it before earlier but got lost in a zillion posts so couldn't find it again.

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    1. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      carroll captain

      tarrabt vice

      also considering malouda and bent

      zamora isn't a bad shout either

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    2. Demí
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Rooney at the moment

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      1. Leysh
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        This

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    3. ManTree(v2!) or just JAY!
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      how many 0's in a zillion?

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      1. streetkids.com.au
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Just 1

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        1. Eversio88
          • 14 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          actually no 0's only one o

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

        not sure...around a million I think.

        Carroll Rooney ... I'm tempted by Carroll because he's at home, but rooney is very tempting too.

        Be keen to see a scout poll on the captaincy issue soon.

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  18. MisterT
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Anyone beginning to think that Andy Johnson could be a great shout with form and fixtures?

    Fulham fans, will he start or is it better finding the cash for Bobby Z?

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    1. @theTinkermen
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      he started alongisde bobby so far in pre season.

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  19. Bad Seed
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    1) Lescott and NZog

    or

    2) Cole and Sessegnon

    (I already have Kompany, and would only be doubling up on City defense until Luiz is established alongside JT)

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    1. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      2

      Toure could be back in August and that should displace lescott

      also, I think Chelsea will keep many clean sheets (just look at thier pre-season) and Sess looks great Oop and in good form

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      1. THE ORACLE
        • 14 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        toure isnt allowed back until the first week of septembers, than he needs to be fitter than lescott. dont even worry about it

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      2. 1966 was a great year for E…
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Toure won't be back in August - his ban ends on 2 September, and he's played no football for 6 months (as far as I know he's not allowed to train officially either.)

        He could also be a bit Thomas Brolin without his diet pills.

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  20. Nibbsy
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Anyone else starting to feel resigned to the fact that things will be almost impossible to predict, and all these RMTs are a waste of time as most of us will WC after 3 weeks?

    There will be surprise cheapies in first 11s, unexpected players hitting form, and unexpected teams keeping cleanies. Happens most years and takes an iron will (or a lot of good luck) not to WC.

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  21. Zinedine
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    To Moses (c)
    Could you elaborate the essentialness of Moses? Confidence in wigan means I'm hearing echoes of Boselli from last year

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    1. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      great fixtures

      very nice pre-season form

      very cheap

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      1. Zinedine
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Ha it all adds up thanks, he's in leaving me with 1.5 left over and a team to be proud of

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    2. The Laughing Man
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Best pre-season out of any midfielder, hell maybe out of any position.

      5 goals and 3 of them were game winners. He is anxious to prove that he can take over for N'Zogs.

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    3. The Bandit
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      He is the new N'Zogbia, playing Norwich at home and banging them in for fun pre-season.
      But you are right, he will be the new Boselli, so don't pick and tell all your friends to avoid like the plague. 😉

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    4. Duckbill
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      so long as you don't captain him or join too many bandwagons you be ok. At that price you easily bench him if he fails.

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    5. Eversio88
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      He scored against Villareal as well, thats good enough for me

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  22. @FuzzyWarbles
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    is everyone on board that luiz wont start GW1 and that Bosingwa will.

    if thats the case, would it be worth bringing in boswinga, keep the million in the bank, and bring in luiz as soon as it looks he will start?

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    1. The Bandit
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Problem is there's no surity that Luiz will be picked ahead of Alex. I've begrugingly stumped up for Cole.

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      1. @FuzzyWarbles
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        i can only afford 6.5 and that meant downgrading elsewhere. i may need to just ignore chelsea defence.

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      2. Bad Seed
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Lescott, same price, until either Luiz or Alex are established. Think that's what I'll go for.

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        1. @FuzzyWarbles
          • 15 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          i would be breaking my stance on doubling up in defence, but lescott and kompany could be the way to go.

          cheers garth

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          1. Bad Seed
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 15 Years
            14 years, 9 months ago

            yeah, i don't like doubling up. but if there's ever a time to do it, it might be city at home to swansea. hopefully then all will be clear with Chels CBs.

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    2. Chrissy Waddle - 2025/26
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      exactly what I'm doing. With Ivan and Luiz both doubts I think Bossie will start, though I admit it's a risk.

      What the hell, he's 2 mill cheaper than A-Hole and if he finds the form of 2 seasons ago it will be a masterstroke.

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  23. mr messi
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    O'Hara or Taarabt?

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    1. DazzaMadden94
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      QPR have a nice start to the season and if Taarabt can keep any form from last season he should be good.He takes their set pieces aswell but Ithink O'hara takes some free kicks.But for the start of season I would choose Taarabt

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      1. mr messi
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Thanks, am still undecided. Would.have to find .5m from somewhere to get Taarabt

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  24. The Laughing Man
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Who is Man City's most offensive defender?

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    1. Gargamel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Kolarov

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    2. @FuzzyWarbles
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      he certainly was offensive in my team last year

      as in, i was deeply offended.

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    3. streetkids.com.au
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      If you're a member have a look at the stats

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      1. The Laughing Man
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Ya I'm a member but sometimes stats dont tell all. I just wanted a personal opinion since I dont know much about Man City's defense other than they dont let many goals get past them but I'm trying to get the most offensive options out of my defenders this year.

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

          The full back are usually quite attacking and get crosses in, especially Kolarov. Rotation is a huge risk though as Clichy/Kolarov/Zabaleta(and maybe even Lescott) are vying for the LB spot and Richards/Zabaleta(/Boyata) for the right back position. The two biggest lads go up for set pieces (Lescott if he's on the pitch, Richards, Kompany if one of the former aren't on the pitch).

          You won't get much better than Lescott if he can keep his place

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

      Kolarov... but that's a dirty word round here.

      Lescott is the safe bet.

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      1. The Laughing Man
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        Thanks, ya Lescott looked good in the Shield match. He has bagged quite a few in the past as well, looks worth the extra .5 over Kompany.

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  25. MeandYouSittingInATree
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    To all those that have Nani, you do realize Man U have tough fixtures right?

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    1. arcticjunkie1
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Nani can still deliver points, I originally had Lamps but then I downgraded to Malouda and now have Nani!

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    2. Zinedine
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      tell that to arsenal last year

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    3. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      You do realise he got 2 against the best defence in the league yesterday right?

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    4. AP
      • 16 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Fixtures wouldn't worry me about Nani at all. What would worry me is that Valencia is fit, and will play sooner rather than later. You'd have Nani guaranteed to start for about 2-3 weeks max.

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      1. Zinedine
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        He's at a good price to swap out for a good player as well. He's in my team

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      2. dribbler
        • 16 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        you still got Anderson AP?

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        1. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
          • 16 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          lol. Still a part of the worst fantasy football midfield ever assembled?

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          1. dribbler
            • 16 Years
            14 years, 9 months ago

            I watched that Holland England match

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          2. AP
            • 16 Years
            14 years, 9 months ago

            According to superfan™.

            Care to share yours SD and i'll rip the sh*t into it 🙂
            Dribbler.... no, not at the mo. Playing well but perhaps a tad deep. Assisting the assist Modric style.

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            1. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
              • 16 Years
              14 years, 9 months ago

              Well me and about 5 other people who laughed at it. Remind us again? Albrighton, Anderson, Malouda &??

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              1. AP
                • 16 Years
                14 years, 9 months ago

                You and 5 rmt mongs doesn't a good argument make. Go on, i'm waiting.

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                1. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
                  • 16 Years
                  14 years, 9 months ago

                  Why ask for a RMT if you're just gonna deride those who rate it?

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                  1. AP
                    • 16 Years
                    14 years, 9 months ago

                    I didn't ask for a RMT.

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                  2. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
                    • 16 Years
                    14 years, 9 months ago

                    hahaha ok then. You just listed your players and hoped no one would judge you? Good luck with that.

                    I really hope you've changed it by now

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                  3. AP
                    • 16 Years
                    14 years, 9 months ago

                    Yes HAHAHAHAA! I listed a group of players that i thought would do well (and backed it up with rationale) and you replied like a 5 year old with your worst midfield ever cack. There is no such thing as a bad midfield as yet, only a risky one, you complete crease.

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  26. DazzaMadden94
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Team as it stands

    GK-Given-Ruddy

    D-Vidic-Luiz-Cole-Kompany-(Simpson).I know Luiz is reported injured but waiting to see if he will play on Sat to take him out.

    M-Nani-N'Zogbia-Moses-Taabart-(Ferguson)

    F-Rooney-Rodagella-(Odem)
    I can take out Luiz if he is injured and put in Cahill soon but Bolton are hitting the rocks atm.I know the Mid looks a lil weak atm but I can change it.
    Any suggestions about the team.I feel my players are good for the first 3 weeks but still like to hear what you say.

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  27. arcticjunkie1
    • 14 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    What do you think guys, am I a little light up top?

    Given
    Kompany A.Cole Hughes
    N'Zogbia Nani Taarabt Silva
    Holt RVP Zamora

    Ruddy O'Hara W.Brown Simpson

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  28. jagz
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    is dj campbell instead of taarabt something that is likely to seem a stupid choice in a few weeks?

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  29. Pinnochio
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    I support man utd and currently have rooney in my team..however theres this little voice in my head telling me to get in carroll instead..have a funny feeling hell score big

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    1. RevsFC
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      They're fairly equal right now imo. Mediocre fixtures, good preseaons, a lot of support behind in the midfield.

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  30. RevsFC
    • 15 Years
    14 years, 9 months ago

    Dempsey or Adam?

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    1. @FuzzyWarbles
      • 15 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      neither are popular around here, but id go Dempsey

      major american bias at work here. dempsey still the man at the cottage. adam now a smaller fish in a bigger "pool"

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      1. RevsFC
        • 15 Years
        14 years, 9 months ago

        That's what I'm thinking. I'll admit I'm biased as well but he seemed to be the anchor: week in and out he got me points even when they lost. My worry is that zamora and duff will take away from him.

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        1. @FuzzyWarbles
          • 15 Years
          14 years, 9 months ago

          then scrap both or em

          silva is a million more, nzogs a million less, id rather have either of those if you dont already

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    2. I've got worms
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      Both I feel are sadly over priced compaired to previous years. Wouldn't go with any but if I did have the choice it would probably be Dempsey for the more favourable early fixtures.

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    3. Syntax
      • 14 Years
      14 years, 9 months ago

      neither

      both overpriced

      dempsey if i had to choose though

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