Season Review

The Promoted Clubs – End of Season Report – Reading

With the fixture list for 2012/13 released at 9am tomorrow, it’s time for us to roll out reports on the three promoted clubs. Up first in our analysis, then, is Championship winners Reading. Written off by many after losing their top scorer, Shane Long, and captain, Matt Mills, in the summer transfer window, Brian McDermott’s men pipped Southampton to the title by just a single point, with a rock-solid defence the foundation of their success:

Back in November, avoiding relegation seemed like the Royals’ most pressing concern. Sitting in sixteenth position in the league table, they failed to flatter in the first few months but an abrupt changes in fortunes saw them surge up the table after harvesting 23 wins from their next 29 league matches. Reading never looked back and clinched promotion to the top-flight back in mid-April, after a four-year absence from the Premier League:

The Statistics

PWDLFAGDPCS
Total46278116941+288920
Home2314543618+184712
Away2313373323+10428

CS = Cleansheets

Over the course of the previous campaign, Reading’s returns in front of their own fans were fairly similar to those produced on the road – but this doesn’t tell the full story. McDermott’s side were sluggish out of the blocks at home, conceding 13 goals in their first 10 games at the Madejski Stadium before shipping a mere five in their final 13 home fixtures. They conceded more than one goal in seven of their home fixtures, chalking up a total of 12 clean sheets and, from an attacking perspective, scored more than a single goal on 11 occasions and failed to find the net three times.

On the road, the Royals netted just three goals less than at home. McDermott’s men scored more than once on nine occasions and failed to notch in six of their 23 clashes. At the back, they racked up eight clean sheets and conceded more than a single goal six times.

The Manager

Brian McDermott arrived at the club as chief scout 12 years ago but was thrust into the spotlight in 2009, taking over the managerial reins following the dismissal of Brendan Rodgers. Working wonders on a shoestring budget, he’s reached the FA Cup Quarter Finals on a couple of occasions and has the highest post-war win percentage of any Reading manager.

His tactics are based around a 4-4-2 formation, with the central midfielders both sitting deep in front of the back-four and breaking up the opposition play. Reading rely on speed out wide to quickly break on counter-attacks, though a high work-rate is also demanded of all their players, with the wingers tracking back to defend whenever the opponents are in possession. Up front McDermott prefers a conventional front two, utilising a target man to take advantage of crosses from the flanks, while the second striker tends to play on the shoulder of the defence and looks for knock-ons. Similar to new Villa boss Paul Lambert, McDermott has also proven to be a canny manager when it comes to substitutions – many of his switches late on in games have been decisive in winning the three points.

The Promoted Squad

Here’s a rundown of the main men for the Championship winners last term, with a brief analysis of those players who managed 10 or more starts in their successful league campaign:

Adam Federici (46 starts) Been with the club since the 2006/07 season but only established himself as the Royals’ first-choice stopper over the past three campaigns. Started every one of their league matches last term and is nailed-on between the posts.

Alex Pearce (46 starts. 5 goals, 2 assists) Established himself as a first-choice central defender for the Royals last time round, playing every game of their outstanding season. While many Fantasy managers will target Ian Harte due to his set-piece ability, Pearce outscored the left-back in 2011/12, finding the net five times and also chipped in with a pair of assists. From a EA SPORTS Player Performance Index perspective, he’s the man most likely to put his body in the way of the ball and could be a magnet for blocked shots – a crucial part of the bonus point allocation.

Kaspars Gorkss (42 starts. 3 goals) Sold to the Royals by QPR last summer, the Latvian missed just four games in the heart of defence. His ball-winning ability was a crucial factor in his side’s defensive record and he also offered a reasonable threat in the opposition area, with three goals accrued.

Ian Harte (30 starts, 2 sub apps. 4 goals, 8 assists) Despite making 30 starts last term, the left-back produced four goals and eight assists from his left-back berth. With set-piece and spot-kick duties part of his repertoire, he’s likely to be pencilled in by many Fantasy managers when the player lists are revealed next month by Fantasy Premier League (FPL).

Shaun Cummings (32 starts, 2 sub apps) The first-choice right-back seems to offer the least threat going forward of the Royals back-four. Cummings failed to produce any attacking returns whatsoever last season, making his acquisition considerably less appealing than any of McDermott’s defence for Fantasy managers.

Joseph Mills (13 starts, 2 sub apps. 1 assist) Signed in August last year, he’ll mainly be used as back-up for Ian Harte in the left-back position. His adaptability means he could also feature on the left of midfield, though his starts are likely to be minimal unless injuries to others play a significant part.

Jem Karacan (36 starts, 1 sub app. 3 goals, 2 assists) A tough-tackling central midfielder, he tends to sit deep in front of the back-four. Missed a handful of games through injury but is vital to McDermott’s tactics and occasionally chips in with the odd goal.

Mikele Leigertwood (41 starts. 5 goals, 1 assist) Karacan’s partner in the central midfield, the Antiguan international is the more impressive all-round performer of the pair and offers a superior attacking threat going forward.

Jobi McAnuff (40 starts. 5 goals, 11 assists) The club captain was brought to Reading by new Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers back in 2009. McAnuff was the Royals’ chief creator last term, with his contribution from the flank providing 11 assists in addition to five goals, though his shooting can at times be a little wayward.

Jimmy Kebe (30 starts, 3 sub apps. 3 goals, 10 assists) His pace on the wing is vital to McDermott’s counter-attacking philosophy. Kebe’s attacking returns almost mirrored that of McAnuff’s but his place on the right looks to be under threat this coming season after the arrival of Garath McCleary.

Jay Tabb (10 starts, 9 sub apps. 1 assist) Signed for the Royals by Steve Coppell but no more than a squad player under McDermott, the former Brentford and Coventry midfielder is a versatile performer who is likely to struggle for game time unless injuries strike the first-team regulars.

Hal Robson Kanu (19 starts, 17 sub apps. 4 goals, 4 assists) Another adaptable squad player, he can play on the flank or up top for the Royals. Whether he can nail down a regular role in the Premier League is perhaps debatable, with new signings likely to push him further down the pecking order.

Simon Church (19 starts, 12 sub apps. 7 goals) Started the season as one of the first-choice forwards but the signing of Jason Roberts saw him drop down the pecking order, with his game time reduced as the campaign progressed.

Noel Hunt (33 starts, 8 sub apps. 8 goals, 9 assists) Although he’s never been a prolific goalscorer, his industry up front is a crucial aspect of his side’s tactics. Hunt’s high work-rate can go against him late on in games, though, with McDermott tending to sub him off when he needs to refresh his forward options.

Adam Le Fondre (17 starts, 15 sub apps. 12 goals, 3 assists) A series of significant performances from the bench have earned him the moniker “super sub”. Somewhat frustratingly for Le Fondre, he’s therefore likely to continue in that role, with McDermott handing him a chance to impress later on in games an opposition backlines tire.

Jason Roberts (17 starts. 6 goals, 5 assists) Purchased from Blackburn in the January 2012 transfer window, his arrival proved crucial in Reading’s push for promotion. Roberts perfectly fits the bill as target man within McDermott’s system; his aerial prowess and strength up top offers an out ball to the wingers and allows Noel Hunt to play on the shoulder of the last defender.

Potential Targets

Although the Royals have been recently acquired by Russian tycoon Anton Zingarevich, they are unlikely to change their transfer policy; there will be no “big name” players on the radar. McDermott tends to target players with a point to prove – his capture of Gorkss and Roberts typifies his thinking; both dropped down a division to sign up for the Royals and more than made up for the loss of Mills and Long, with the pair’s contribution vital in propelling the club out of the Championship.

So far, they’ve picked up highly-rated winger Garath McAuley from Nottingham Forest on a free transfer. The 25 year old was out of contract in the summer and will offer stiff competition for Kebe on the right flank. Again, he’s the typical McDermott signing; only four years ago, McAuley was playing non-league football.

Over the past few days, the transfer rumours are beginning to heat up. A bid for Watford’s Player of the Year Adrian Mariappa has reportedly been turned down; the centre-half has also been on the radar of Newcastle and Wigan in recent months.

Danny Guthrie and Pavel Pogrebnyak are also said to be of interest to McDermott as he looks to add top-flight experience to his squad – the pair are out-of-contract after their respective deals with Newcastle and Fulham ended recently. While both would fit into Reading’s system, reports of a move for former player Gylffi Sigurdsson look highly unlikely – the Icelandic star prospered under Rodgers’ passing game at the Madejski but looks ill-suited to McDermott’s more defensive style of play, with a move to Anfield to reunite with the new Liverpool boss surely more of a reality.

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1,028 Comments Post a Comment
  1. LewanGOALski
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    is it possible that prices of already eliminated players will drop? Should I transfer them out ASAP to avoid it or how does it look like..?

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

      No-one knows yet I'm afraid.

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

      With eliminated players being wisked off the tansfer list I doubt it

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  2. isacki: full casual
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    (REPOST - lost at the bottom of the last page.)

    Order of Extreme Valour – FFS Euro 2012 – Matchday 3 Day 1 Report

    With the FFS Friendly World Cup grabbing recent headlines for a spate of outrageous differentials, the Empire of FFS Euro 2012 has very much struck back. Counting up the differentials this Matchday, defined as a player owned by 3 or fewer managers, we have exactly the same number as those in the Friendly World Cup last Matchday – 58!

    In last night’s action Greece shocked Russia 1-0, seemingly disappointing pretty much every manager except Mark who bagged a totally improbable clean sheet and a save point from Sifakis (7 points). With the only goal coming from midfielder Karagounis, everyone who backed the Russian and Greek attacks, as well as those who picked Russian defenders, drew a blank. It appeared that Greek defenders were too horrific for anyone to contemplate. The Czech Republic also overcame Poland 1-0 and this produced slightly more joy. The Light Knight picked up a clean sheet from Cech (7 points), which was a brave gamble for anyone who had actually watched him play. The biggest winners of the round were ironically the already-eliminated duo of ENR and Mark who correctly predicted the goalscorer Jiracek (8 points). Quite a bullseye in that midfield, and you’d have to say Jiracek and Sifakis are pretty neck and neck for the lead. Good going ENR and Mark.

    Tonight in Day 2 the titans clash in the Group of Death. Germany v Denmark is first up, with a German whitewash predicted – perhaps even more expected than the Russian win, mind you. German differentials include non-starting Klose (ENR – presumably going absolutely mental with the differentials this round??), Hummels (Jafalad, Camzy), Muller (Count of Monte Hristo, The Light Knight) and my favourite midfield choice Schweinsteiger (Doosra, Super Dunny). Going forward or going back, that man is a machine, and with that ringing endorsement the worst match of his career is inevitable. Did anyone go for the Danes? We are in the presence of players of extreme valour. Of course they did! None other than Doosra went for the harebrained option of Jacobsen, while his comrade-in-craziness has gone for fantasy legend Krohn-Dehli.

    In the tricky Netherlands v Portugal game, a few have grimly stuck to their guns and embraced Dutch strikers, who now are in the surprise position of differentials. Van Persie has been backed by only two (Mark and Demented Flamingo), while Huntelaar was picked up by Tommy Tour and ENR. One-man am-dram Robben has been backed to fire his selfish way to glory by Demented Flamingo, In Like Flynn and Jonty. Portuguese defenders and midfielders have been punted upon by a select few. It’s slightly unnerving that goalkeeper Rui Patricio has been picked only by me and sacked French manager ENR. Joao Pereira has been endorsed by Chrissy Waddle, rampaging fullback Coentrao by The Light Knight and Roscola, and midfielder Joao Moutinho by that man Ginkapo. Finally, we have Luis Almeida da Cunha – also known as Nani – owned by our adventurous Chrissy Waddle.

    Stay tuned for our Day 2 Report and preview of Day 3!

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

      Sorry for giving you so much work this Matchday, Isacki 😆

      The Valour XV are on a roll!....

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

        The pattern for this week's awards:

        mark ENR mark ENR .... repeat 13 more times...

        anyone else playing? 😉

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        1. Ginkapo FPL
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          Me and Doos will fight you for it dont worry

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    2. Menly
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Love these well done

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    3. Abominable Snowy84
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      I think Huntelaar will win this week.

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    4. Chrissy Waddle - 2023/24
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Ooooo - my portugal picks get a mention... 🙂

      Got a feeling they will surprise the Dutch tonight and go through with Germany.

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    5. Ginkapo FPL
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      "It appeared that Greek defenders were too horrific for anyone to contemplate."

      Erm........ of course I have K Papa

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      1. Ginkapo FPL
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Also all credit for Joao Moutinho should go to Doos not me

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

          Who, me???

          *puts hand up, tentatively*

          😉

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          1. Ginkapo FPL
            • 12 Years
            11 years, 9 months ago

            Your not getting enough mentions in these Valour awards, even though you helped make my team which appears to be so very valourous

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

              I got trampled in the stampede ... 😀

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

        As do I.

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        1. Ginkapo FPL
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          Doesnt everyone have Manitias as well?

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

            I thought a few would. We all have Chalky Ass as well but that didn't go too well.

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            1. Ginkapo FPL
              • 12 Years
              11 years, 9 months ago

              My assistant manager agreed that I should play him though.

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

                He told me he wouldn't play before he was injured. Once he was injured my team was all set and ready to go.

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      3. Ginkapo FPL
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Simon Poulsen doesnt get a mention either, lol

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

          That is VERY strange. Casual by young Isacki ... 😀

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

        I had maniatis ... The man's a beast.

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

          No, that was The Minotaur ... 😉

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    6. The Light Knight
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      very good, Isacki, and thanks for the mentions 😉

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  3. Lovzat
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Why are you all talking about price change ? We are all on WC so they're wont be any no ?

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  4. Wtfosaurus
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Sad state of affairs when captaining Ronaldo is classified a bit of a punt

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  5. Menly
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Any news on Balotelli?

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    2. 4vets
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      He still makes me laugh every time I see him play... not really news that, is it?

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

        Still true 🙂

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

        Makes me grit my teeth ...

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      3. Crouch Potato!
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Have yet to see him play.

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    3. Kostja
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      he trained today, and should be fit to play

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    4. Abominable Snowy84
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      He is counting down the days to Bonfire night!

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

        😀

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  6. Abominable Snowy84
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    (Repost due to Snowy84 being a noob)

    Ok, so after the 1st day of the final group stage gameweek, many managers are still very hopeful of reaching the quarter finals in the Friendly World Cup. Here, I will take a look at the current scores and what the differentials will be in each tie. Only Brazil and Chile have guaranteed top spot and with South Korea and Ivory Coast eliminated there are 12 teams currently awaiting their fate. I think you will agree that things could not be tighter!

    Group A)
    With Switzerland on 6 pts and close to progression, Egypt are gone. So it is a fight between Uruguay and Slovenia to join probable group winners Switzerland in the quarters. Slovenia (Aatish and Kostja) have the harder task as they lost their head to head with Uruguay and they take on group leaders Switzerland. Switzerland (JK and James Fitz) have a narrow advantage 32-31 and have 4 players today with Robben and Gomez their differentials. Slovenia also have 4 players today with Willems and Rvp x2. Both teams have Andersen.
    Uruguay have a 12pt lead over whipping boys of the group Egypt (Huth the Daddy and ILA) 36-24. Uruguay (Empirikal and 4VETS) have 5 players playing today with a double Andersen differential. Egypt have 3 playing today with Neuer the only differential. Both teams have Ronaldo and Robben.

    Group B)
    With Brazil guaranteed top of the group status, there is a head to head clash between Ghana and Mexico to see who joins the South Americans in the quarter finals. South Korea are eliminated. Ghana (Eoin and Porkie) had a slight advantage on goal difference and can boast a 27-25 lead heading in to these matches. Ghana have 5 players today, Gomez, Sneijder and Muller. Mexico (Sleep Talk, Snowy84 and their mascots Boom Shakalaka and MsRed19) have Ozil and Khedira as their differentials. Both teams have Andersen.
    South Korea will look to claim the scalp of Brazil (Forca and Epic Fail). The South Korean combination of Evs and Bonz are up a point 28-27. Both teams have 4 players each today. South Korean differentials Sneijder, Badstuber and RVP. Brazil will look to Gomez and Perieira to keep their unbeaten status intact. Both teams have Andersen.

    Group C)
    Any 2 from 3 in group C. That is the equation as Argentina, Serbia and Japan stake claims to be in the quarter finals. Argentina have the easier task as they are on 6pts. Avoid defeat against Serbia and they wont have to worry about the other result in the group. They are doing their job as they have a 13pt lead over Serbia (Teddy and Messimerized) 36-23. Argentina (Canadian Football and Archie) have 3 players today. Sneijder their differential. Serbia have 4 players. They will look to Gomez and Hummels to bring in heavy scores. Both teams have Andersen and Ronaldo.
    Japan (Wazza goal and Djerbil) are doing what they have to do leading already eliminated Ivory Coast (The Giggs Boson and Mull) 38-26. Both teams have 5 playing today. Ronaldo Hummels and Gomez the Japanese differentials. Ivory Coast opted for Zimling, RVP and ozil. Both teams have Andersen.

    Group D)
    Chile partnership of (Menly and Catmac) have already topped the group leaving the other 3 teams of USA, Australia and Turkey fighting it out for the runner up spot. USA need only a draw against Australia to secure a quarter final spot. Australia and Turkey need results to go their way. USA (Gargarmeland Goldstonemr) lead Australia (Shipstontrev and Bal4tom) 26-19. USA have doubled up on Andersen and Robben. Australia have Khedira, Gomez, Ozil and Andersen.
    Turkey duo ( FC Borcelona and Optimus) are 40-39 against group toppers Chile. Both teams have 4 each today. Turkey have Robben and Huntelaar while Chile have Ronaldo and Ozil. Both have doubled on Andersen.

    Hope you enjoy my post. Thanks again to FFS UEFA http://uefaffs.weebly.com/index.html
    and Pratik http://precisely.me/blog/friendlywc

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

      Woop we are top of da group 🙂

      Great stuff Snoweh

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      1. Abominable Snowy84
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Top of the group having a laugh!

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    2. Messimerized- Join My FPL L…
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Good Work Snowy!

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      1. Abominable Snowy84
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        😀 🙂

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    3. 4vets
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      I enjoyed it the first time. Us n00bs have to stick together 😉

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      1. Abominable Snowy84
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        We do surely! Noobish behaviour blamed on switching from internet explorer to mozilla!!

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    4. The Light Knight
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Nice Snowy, but I would have liked to have been thanked too

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      1. Abominable Snowy84
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Oh sorry 🙁 The Light Knight is commended!! I am such a noob!! Sorry dude!

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        1. The Light Knight
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          Thanks (I didn't actually do anything but I do like being thanked 😀 )

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          1. Abominable Snowy84
            • 12 Years
            11 years, 9 months ago

            You do the valour posts!!!

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            1. The Light Knight
              • 12 Years
              11 years, 9 months ago

              😉 Should be doing. Better get it done before Isacki is after me lol

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    5. Canadian Football
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Thanks Snowy......

      Argentina are unstoppable. Archie and I have a few tricks up our sleeve for the QF. We pitty the team that have to face us.

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

        Beat them badly.. 😉

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  7. Messimerized- Join My FPL L…
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    For all those who are unable to login in Mcd's Euro-

    -Go to- http://en.user.uefa.com/Account/LogOn
    -Put the necessary details(Email-id & Password).
    -Check Keep me signed in & Click Login.
    -It will start loading (it will take ages to load)
    -Open a new tab & go to- http://en.euro2012fantasy.uefa.com/
    -If you’re lucky you might have logged in.
    -If not continue trying.

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  8. Frazek
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    I don't have any GrpB players in my current squad so nothing riding on games tonight barring hoping mini league rivals don't score too highly. But really looking forward to that HOL - POR match up. Taping MotD too so I can watch GER - DEN too, assuming I can resist temptation to flick during the games.

    Goal galore tonight I suspect. 🙂

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

      I have some players today, but really looking forward to watching HOL-POR. Will be great, this helps to get prepared- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wALiyDM_Nk

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      1. Silly Sausage
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Haha this is amazing, have they played since this?

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

          Im not sure actually.

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

            I dont think so, unless it was a friendly which I doubt 😀

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  9. Scroobius Mac
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Ireland for tonight:
    Given, O'Shea, Dunne, St.Ledger, Ward, Duff (c), Andrews, Whelan, McGeady, Keane, Doyle

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

      hmm, little surprised that there is not even 1 new face given a chance.

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      1. Scroobius Mac
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Yeah perfect game to give McClean a try out.

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

          yeah he was in my mind for sure, maybe Gibson too.

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    2. Menly
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      A bit dubious considering they aren't playing tonight

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      1. Scroobius Mac
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Oh yeah haha.

        Well Sky Sports and Team Talk have just reported that that is what Trap has said.

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    3. Dante
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Tomorrow night*

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    4. Crouch Potato!
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Creative tactics, play tonight and the Italians won't be there, could we pull off a major shock?

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  10. Messimerized- Join My FPL L…
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Shevchenko misses Ukraine training with knee problem.

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

      The lord be praised!

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  11. Wild Rover
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    This is an important public announcement!!!

    Have you recently been assaulted and injured by a filthy rich tennis player? You may be entilted to shitloads of compensation. Don't delay, contact today! @manwithnonamemoneygrabber.com

    We guarantee you keep 40% of your compensation..

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    1. Ginkapo FPL
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      What if I am not sure if I have been assaulted or not? Can I still pay the up front sum on the off chance?

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      1. Wild Rover
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        No problem..

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    2. The Light Knight
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      How bad was the injury? I heard he got cut by a splinter

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      1. Wild Rover
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        About £50k I would say...

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        1. The Light Knight
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          Wimbledon will now be full of court invaders throwing themselves to the ground in front of players, looking for compensation. You could have a busy end to the month

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          1. Wild Rover
            • 13 Years
            11 years, 9 months ago

            I'll give you some business cards...

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      2. Spike ⚽️
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Just a graze by all accounts but enough to send him to casualty

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        1. Wild Rover
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          He had a nasty hole in his shin that was bleeding quite a bit

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          1. 4vets
            • 13 Years
            11 years, 9 months ago

            You represented Nani, didn't you?

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            1. Wild Rover
              • 13 Years
              11 years, 9 months ago

              Easy money, now working on the Karagounis 'acid on the head' attack, nasty business..

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          2. Spike ⚽️
            • 12 Years
            11 years, 9 months ago

            They didn't mention that on Talk Sports but not surprised they only get half the story

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        2. 4vets
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          Right, I might counter sue for his blatant waste of public resources... unless he went private, of course.

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    3. ★FC Borecelona★
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Don't see the problem with
      Nalbandian kicking the advertising
      boarding in anger. It was Nike. Their
      moto is 'Just do it' after all.

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

      You know, when you are a little older, you will never make jokes about shin injuries ever again.

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      1. Wild Rover
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Lighten up Doos, it wasn't a joke about shin injuries, it was a dig at compensation lawyers...

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  12. Hazard267
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    whos gonna go up next torres or silva again

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  13. Hazard267
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    whos gonna go up next torres or silva again...

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    1. In Like Flynn.
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Nobody went up last night. Seems a bit hit and miss on prices.

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    2. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Both could as collecting quite a few buyers now

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  14. Jonah Takalua
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Price rises in a euro 2012 fantasy game= stoooopid

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    1. 4vets
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Why?

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      1. In Like Flynn.
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        They don't work on any set numbers.

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        1. 4vets
          • 13 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          ... that you have worked out yet ILF 😉

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          1. In Like Flynn.
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 13 Years
            11 years, 9 months ago

            I have the post grad maths dept at Cambridge working on it and they haven't found one either. 🙂

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

              Crap University. So is the one down the road.

              Get Gerald Gazdar from your local on it - he's a bright chap! 😀

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              1. In Like Flynn.
                • Has Moderation Rights
                • 13 Years
                11 years, 9 months ago

                I bet he can't find one either Doosra. How are you?

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

                  Not too good either. Leg is the size of an elephant's. Head is spinning.

                  Can't drink until 7.00. Overdosed on fine tea. Pissing on the hour, every hour.

                  Still. Mustn't grumble. 😀

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    2. In Like Flynn.
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Correct.

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  15. Hazard267
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Whats your values mines 105.7

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    1. In Like Flynn.
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      105.4

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    2. 4vets
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Same.

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      1. Silly Sausage
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        +1

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

      105.8

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    4. MICHELIN
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      105.9

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

        Showoff!!! 😀

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        1. GREENDREAMS11
          • 14 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          101.1m + 5.0m

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

            Liar! 😀

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

              He just hasn't transferred out Dzagoev and likes yet. Going down from 106.1 for sure 😉

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              1. GREENDREAMS11
                • 14 Years
                11 years, 9 months ago

                lol. your spot on Michelin. At least you come up with a guess at the scenario rather than a blatant personal outburst. ;P No wonder I refuse to check his Forum.

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      2. 4vets
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Bloody Gomez! 😉

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

          No Gomez in my team 🙂

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

            He is in my transfer team, however ... 😉

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    5. Matthew
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      102.8 with 3.1 cash

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  16. In Like Flynn.
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    I can't get in to the Sky transfers section, it keeps taking me back to my overview page. It has done this before too. The Euro game sites seem to be a bit shaky on the proper working front.

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    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      I gave up on my Sky team when it crashed on the opening day and I couldn't finalise my team selection

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      1. In Like Flynn.
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Tbh Spike, I'm sort of wishing I hadn't been able to register a Euro team anywhere. 🙂

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        1. Spike ⚽️
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          Is it that bad ? FPL will soon be here 😉

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        2. Jonah Takalua
          • 14 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          same happened to me, you have to click onto your team, then go on the make changes link next to the team

          I bet you're hovering over the tabs at the top and clicking transfers from there arent you!

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  17. goriuanx
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Been moving beds and bunkbeds all day. Assembling things without instructions isn't my thing.

    In other new, Cmon GOMEZ ! 😀

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    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Good old Ikea 😉

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  18. Call Me Old Fashioned
    • 13 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    What game are you guys watching later?

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    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Portugal v Netherlands and the occasional switch over to the Germany game

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    2. Kostja
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Must be POR NED-
      sorry to repost this link, but it really got me hyped for that matchup: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wALiyDM_Nk

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

      both....streaming one online

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  19. FPL Daniel
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Raise hands if u have Ronaldo captain today and please share your expectations

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    1. 4vets
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Me - 2pts.

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    2. Wild Rover
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      o/

      None

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    3. sachmo
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Me. 6 points...

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    4. COMH
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Raises hand. Big expectations for the greasy haired onanist.

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

        26 points 😉

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

          Goal assist combo and 5 RB. U'll see

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    5. LOCO ABREU
      • 11 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      I have Ronaldo. But going Sneijder for Captain.

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      1. La Roja
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        same here, Sneijder all the way!

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  20. Kostja
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    More news on Balotelli:
    #Balotelli wasn't limping when boarded his flight today, suggesting he will be ok for #ITAIRL. Will have better idea after training tonight

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

    Who's price is more likely to rise between Maniatis and K.Papa?

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

      Think this way. Which of those players u'll want in the end. What if both of them rise 0.1 and u pick the wrong player. In all scenarios is better to pick the one which will u keep after. I will go Maniaitis.

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

        Done

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  22. Parm
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Nice article, i'll be looking out for Federici myself.

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  23. Infinite Sheldon
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Starting to think prices are frozen

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    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      If they are going to rise BB it will be overnight same as FPL

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

        Last night there weren't any changes or?

        They might be as we know it

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

          No price rise this round still

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      2. Infinite Sheldon
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        None last night : (

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  24. Hazard267
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Great so maggio is set not to start and my cover is martin olsson oh dear

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

      Where did you see that?

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    2. Kostja
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Cant be sure what the lineup will be, reporters have been wrong about everything so far, at least until a hour or 2 before kickoff.

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

          This could be true, im just saying it is impossible to know. Abate was not relied upon in qualifyers. If they do go back to that system I dont see why he would be used. And if they start both DiNatale and Cassano, how on earth they will be able to keep the ball up. I guess well see.

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    3. LewanGOALski
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      who told you that Maggio won't start 2morrow..? 😐

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  25. Silly Sausage
    • 11 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Anyone got a league I can join still haven't joined any?

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    1. 4vets
      • 13 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Keep playing with yourself Silly Sausage! 😉

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      1. Spike ⚽️
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Cheeky 😉

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      2. Silly Sausage
        • 11 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Haha!

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    2. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      You might still be able to join one of McD's Public Leagues/Hd to Hd

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

    Spike (Yids et al), so AVB in with Timmy S DoF. Vertonghen deal all but sealed too. Happy?

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    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Hey Frazek how are you. Saw that and tbh no mate after the Chelsea mess 🙁

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

        Most exciting young coach in Europe just a year ago, will cost us no transfer fee thanks to Roman. He got zero support from above at The Bridge. He gets my support over Moyes/Martinez etc. Fingers firmly crossed.

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

          I think this may be disastrous for you guys. Can't understand why you don't like Moyes. I would give my right arm for him at The Hammers.

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

            And you righty should, but you are The Hammers! 🙂

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  27. Piggs Boson
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Was anyone else looking forward to including Walcott in their FPL team, but now can't due to the rotation risk the Podolski and Giroud signings have caused? 🙁

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

      No, but i was looking forward to introducing Gylfi Sigurdsson into my FPL team as a Swansea player 😡

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      1. Spike ⚽️
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        Was ?

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

          Going to Liverpool now, Spike.

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

            I was hoping to be introduced as Swan player and to transfer to Liv then, in order to have his Swan bargain price. No we can see another Adam 🙁

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          2. Spike ⚽️
            • 12 Years
            11 years, 9 months ago

            Ah. So much for Rodgers comments then stating he would not interfere with the transfer to Swansea but I guess G S wanted to be with Rodgers

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

              BR saying anything publicly put the ki-bosh on Gylfi's Swans switch. Very clever, but how on earth will he use him with Suarze, Stevie G, Adam

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

        I agree. Hopefully he gets regular starts and plays as an AMC. Only then will he be an attractive prospect again.

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

        +1 Doubtful I'll pick him at Anfield, at least not until I see how they shape up.

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      4. Parm
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        ^^This^^

        Looking forward to inviting Kagawa into my team next season, and Vidic at a cut price.

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

          I worry about Vidic picking up cards though.

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

      If he stays! Don't think Theo place is threatened by these two (if Giroud arrives, of course). Probably be Wenger's first choice front three.

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

        Wenger said he plans to play Podolski Giroud RVP as a front 3, making Walcott redundant.

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

          Do you have a quote for this? Sounds very very strange to me.

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

          RvP is gone.

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        3. Piggs Boson
          • 12 Years
          11 years, 9 months ago

          http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/18425253

          No quote though, so probably rubbish.

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

            Thank you.

            I think that's probably bad journalism, making an assumption and placing it on Wenger. I think it would be a very strange composition for a front three. Sounds way more likely to me that Giroud will either be replacing RVP or giving him some backup, or play another central role with someone else than Walcott making way.

            Just sounds too narrow otherwise.

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      2. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        His form is questionable. AOC got the nod before him in the England team.

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    3. Infinite Sheldon
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Probably old news, but giroud went to arsenal?

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

        Not yet, but looks imminent.

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  28. Infinite Sheldon
    • 12 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    Should I have huntelaar as captain if he starts rather than postiga who is my captain currently?

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    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      I would. Could work out well for you

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    2. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Hell yeah

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    3. The Light Knight
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      I probably would switch but then again, Huntelaar hasn't really been involved in the last 2 games 😕

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    4. Pinoche
      • 12 Years
      11 years, 9 months ago

      Go for it.

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  29. FPL Daniel
    • 14 Years
    11 years, 9 months ago

    New official ball lads

    https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/600714_10150959859634614_933968084_n.jpg

    Hope u can read it. Feel great, reminds me of fantasy PL

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

      Fixtures out tomorrow!!!!

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      1. The Light Knight
        • 12 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        48 days to go 😀 !!!!

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      2. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        11 years, 9 months ago

        The big MONDAY 😉

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

        The trouble is, that's four hours of work on a spreadsheet ... 😀

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

          Just 4?

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

      Old news I sold Bonnuci

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