Feature

The Burning Question – Would Bale’s Departure Make Van Persie Essential?

Over the last few months of 2012/13, Gareth Bale’s series of explosive displays had finally afforded Fantasy managers a reliable captaincy alternative to the relentless Robin Van Persie. With a goal or assist in 11 of his final 14 league appearances, the Welshman thrived in a central role behind the lone forward in Andre Villas-Boas’ 4-2-3-1 formation and ended the campaign with 14 sets of double figure hauls, averaging 7.2 points per game in Fantasy Premier League (FPL).

Despite a hefty hike in price across the Fantasy games, Bale was a hugely popular pick when the Player Price Lists were released earlier this summer but with Real Madrid determined to prise him away from the Lane, his ownership has dropped dramatically with only a few days left until the season kicks off. Not only would his departure be a bitter blow to Villas-Boas’ plans for the season ahead, it would also hit Fantasy managers equally hard and leave Van Persie as the standout option in terms of reliability once more.

In our next Burning Question article, we ask a handful of contributors if the Dutchman will be impossible to ignore if Bale legs it to La Liga.

Applebonkers says….
I’m personally without Van Persie as it stands, due to fixture and form concerns more than an issue of price. So on that basis, no. Of course, the great appeal of Van Persie is his ability to score against anyone, but my argument is that a goal in each of the first three matches wouldn’t really hurt a non-owner as it costs 14.0 in Fantasy Premier League (FPL) to acquire the United man.

Braces and hat-tricks are the ones which really punish non-owners, though I’m not sure he has the post-Real Madrid form to trump the opening schedule, with trips to Swansea and Liverpool and a home game versus Chelsea in the first three Gameweeks.

Here’s a stat: since RVP notched three times against Chelsea in 2011, 24 hat-tricks have been scored in the Premier League and only two have come against top half sides (Steven Gerrard v Everton and Romelu Lukaku v United). It’s playing the odds in my opinion, no one is fixture proof, simply various levels of fixture resilience. I have to admit, by Gameweek 4 I’d like him, though.

Andy says….
Coming from the Fantasy manager who went 31 of 38 gameweeks last season without Manchester United and Fantasy Football’s top scorer, and won the Scout Contributor’s league (I will brag while I still can!) in doing so, my answer to this question is probably pretty obvious. To me, the notion of the essential and must-have player is nothing but a fallacy. And that even includes Robin Van Persie.

The Dutch forward is arguably the best player currently plying his trade in the Premier League and will surely earn his crust for whichever Fantasy managers decide to hand over the mammoth price tag he has been handed across the Fantasy games. He’s safe, he’s secure, he’s prolific. He’s not essential though.

I’ve written many words in the past to support this claim but it boils down to the fact that I believe you can find alternative ways to spend your Fantasy budget to equal or greater effect. There’s more inherent “danger” involved in veering away from such Fantasy staples but it doesn’t mean you can’t succeed – a theory my 2012/13 season somehow managed to support.

Essentially, he’s not essential. But if there’s ever a good run of games where I think he’ll be the ideal captain choice, I’ll be the first to invest. Getting that armband choice right – or, more importantly, not getting it wrong when those around you get it right – is one aspect I do place a high priority on.

Tinkerman says…
Bale’s departure would certainly deprive us of an immense Fantasy talent and cause a huge rethink of strategy – especially for those whose draft squads currently rely on the Welshman’s explosive yet consistent returns for their weekly captaincy choice.

That said, I still don’t think Bale leaving necessarily makes Van Persie the only safe captaincy option from the start. Granted, we all know his capabilities but, with a wealth of premium midfielders offering high potential, there are plenty of ways to spend the extra budget you’d save by choosing to overlook the most expensive player in the game.

Managers avoiding Van Persie from the start would, however, leave themselves with a quandary should he prove to be the only reliable and consistent captaincy option after a few weeks. It would mean being forced into either spending points on transfer hits or activating the transfer wildcard early on. The option of initially avoiding Van Persie and bringing him in on a Gameweek 4 wildcard is one that has been discussed much on the boards – at this point, cheaper players who offer strong points potential will no doubt have emerged and will allow us to save money elsewhere in order to free up funds for the Dutchman. Since an early wildcard has proven to be a successful strategy for many managers in recent seasons, I think Bale leaving these shores wouldn’t make owning Van Persie from the start a must.

Ryan says….
The main argument for Van Persie’s essential status is that he would be a nailed-on captaincy option. As this is a new season, however, I am of the opinion that other strong armband candidates will appear as the campaign unfolds. The fact that RVP is so expensive almost compels you to captain him most weeks in order to justify his place in your side. This can act as a mental bias in one’s thought process and brings about a barrier which stops you captaining other potentially stronger options. I think it is best not to be shackled to the Dutchman and be more flexible in your armband picks.

Van Persie may not be ‘essential’ but for the conservative manager, his incredible consistency makes him a reliable captain that will still bring home regular points. It might take some time to identify exactly who the best alternative captains are – until that time, Van Persie is a safe option to get you started.

Mark says…
Essential is a big word. I wouldn’t quite go that far but, for my money, Bale’s seemingly imminent departure has undoubtedly raised Van Persie’s stock.

I was all set to overlook him and opt for the Spurs man but now the landscape has changed and suddenly I’m setting up with the Dutchman as the foundation for my team, with the rest of my selections dropping in around him.

The armband is a major concern. Yes, there will be weekly candidates who emerge but few, if any, can get close to the consistency we saw from Van Persie for long spells last season.

I’m well aware that I’ve clung to him like a security blanket and that my faith in Van Persie has cost me dear in the past but I much prefer the idea of starting the season with him and assessing what value is available elsewhere, rather than be forced to carry out major surgery ahead of Gameweek 4.

Of course the early wildcard is the solution but I want to have the choice, not be forced to play it because Van Persie has delivered a goal a game and is about to embark on a run of favourable fixtures.

The fact is, without Van Persie, I’m going into the season without any cover of the Champions’ attack. While Wayne Rooney flirted with the concept of offering an alternative last season, this time around that option looks unlikely. Unless Wilfred Zaha takes his opportunity or Shinji Kagawa cements the support role over Danny Welback, then it really is Van Persie or nothing.

While there are real concerns that David Moyes will struggle to inspire his team to the heights of previous campaigns, I see too much quality in the United lineup to risk overlooking them as an attacking force.

Essential? Not quite. Highly desirable and worth building your squad around? Right now, I really think so.

Paul Is certain he won't make the same mistakes next season. Follow them on Twitter

4,426 Comments Post a Comment
  1. best11s
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    happy with my GW1 lineup but not sure on my chelsea exit strategy, check it-
    boruc/mannone
    mert/ivano/toure/garrido
    hazard/silva/coutinho/walcott
    Soldado/lukaku/JROD

    Thoughts?

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    1. best11s
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      forgot RMorrison/Brayford in there..

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  2. Twelve years a slave
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Torn between Rat/Reid or Coleman

    Starting to think Coleman , he has the most upside although a west ham defender fits my rotatuion a bit better

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    1. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Rat/Reid if you're getting Mirallas. Spread the love/risk. If not, toss a coin.

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      1. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        yea forgot about that , thats why i went for rat yesterday , there not much attacking potential in those west ham defenders though

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    2. Jebus Saves
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Coleman looked great at the end of last season.

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  3. A Defender's Nightmare
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Can anyone please give me "International Friendly round up" in brief? Related to Premier League players ofcourse

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    1. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Lambert - bagged one first touch.

      Walcott - bagged one.

      Jose Altidore - hattrick.

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    2. Horizontal
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      No injuries apart from possibly Sagna taking a knock.
      I'm sure that there'll be a full Scout write up in about six hours time.

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      1. bmb100
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Hey Horizontal how is the team for the new season shaping up? (Just putting it here too incase the other one halfway up the page passed you by 🙂 )

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  4. FPL Daniel
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Dead zoneeeee. The best time for quality discussions.. So...

    Collins or Murner...? I have to pick one. I prefer Collins fixtures but probably injured (looks like nothing) and I am not so sure that he is first choice. Also have Nollan don't want that much to have 2 WHam plater. I like Murner goal threat but I expect them to concede GW 1. When answering have in mind only first 3 fixtures.

    Also. 4.0 defender. Not Chester. (already have him). Really struggling. Questions around starting roles for Brayford and Burner (or there is something I don't know please enlighten me, although I read Evs opinion on this). Ward plays for the awful CPL defense and Paar not nailed on too.

    Thanks a lot lav ya'll DeadZoners 😉

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    1. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Juhuuuuu top of page, looks like I am lucky 🙂

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    2. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Are you starting Collins/Murner GW1? Got to be Murner then.

      I think Brayford is fairly assured of his place. Have you considered Ramage of Crystal Palace?

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      1. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Collins or Murner GW 1 - 3. Probably will be benched in GW 2 but you never know he could be forced to play

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      2. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        If I go CPL will go Ward def. Brayford not so nailed on after all, why do u think that is the case..?

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        1. Touré De Force
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          Coz some Cardiff fan was all over me earlier tonight when I touted Declan John as a prospect. He reckoned Brayford was one of the best FBs in the championship last season and will always start, all things being equal.

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      3. Horizontal
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Where has this rumour come from that Collins isn't first choice?
        Is it one of these speculative posts that becomes so often repeated that it becomes fact?
        Apart from his injury then is there any reliable source to say that he's at risk of losing his place?

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        1. Touré De Force
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          He's carryoing a knock and has been awful in his last couple of pre season friendlies, including an OG for good measure.

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          1. Horizontal
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 10 months ago

            I know about the knock, but how awful has he been and according to who?
            Not watched any of West Hams preseason matches so are there any reports write-ups available?
            Not criticising anyone but after being here for three seasons now then I know how easy it is for unsubstantiated rumours to spread based on one person's throwaway remark or speculation.
            No great attachment to Collins apart from the fact that he's cheap, but if he's shit as well then I'd like to know. 🙂

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            1. bmb100
              • 13 Years
              10 years, 10 months ago

              Horizontal, I tried to say hi on the last page, but seems you've moved onto this one! How are you doing, how's the team shaping up?

              I too would like to know about Collins as he's been in my team since pretty much first draft!

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              1. Horizontal
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 13 Years
                10 years, 10 months ago

                Hi BMB!

                Sorry about that, but even in the DZ the pages turn much more quickly these days.
                My team looked in good shape until Collins got a knock and these rumours suddenly started about him being dropped. Plus Shaw and Clyne are doubtful so my cheapo defence is looking shaky.

                How's your team?

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                1. bmb100
                  • 13 Years
                  10 years, 10 months ago

                  Haha no worries, I was a bit behind the flow of conversation.

                  Ye Shaw and Collins are a worry for me. Apart from that pretty happy.

                  Which DGW players you going for? I think I'm gonna go for Benteke, Lukaku, Hazard and Ivanovic. As well as getting RVP that means I have to go with 2 cheap midfielders, but that's the sacrifice I'm taking.

                  Also a bit annoyed about the Bale situation because if he stays and starts GW2 gonna be scraping around to get him in.

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                  1. Horizontal
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 13 Years
                    10 years, 10 months ago

                    Exactly the same DGW players as me.
                    So your doomed.
                    No RVP plans for me but have a plan to get him in by GW4 if needs be.
                    Reckon Bale will go or not be chuffed if he stays so am happy with a Bale-less team at the moment.
                    Can get him for GW3 if he starts and fires on all cylinders since I'll need to shift two of the four DGWers anyway.
                    What I DO need is a solid team for GW3 so the Collind/Shaw/Clyne doubts are particularly irksome.

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                    1. bmb100
                      • 13 Years
                      10 years, 10 months ago

                      We can fail together then! Can't decide who to captain between the two Chelsea forwards, but will probably go Hazard.

                      I can certainly understand the RVPless strategy but is far too good an option for me even with the price.

                      Ye, if Bale scores GW2 most of the DGWs will be shifted out to accommodate him, it frustrates me he can't be part of initial plans though.

                      I imagine Shaw and Clyne are pretty safe bets by the time GW3 arrives, it seems they both have knocks which may or may not rule them out of this weekend. Can't offer any advice on Collins though, I'm just as in the dark. Tempted to swap him for Murner.

                      One last question I have for you before bed, what do you reckon to a 5mil midfiled punt on Redmond or Gunnarsson?

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                      1. Horizontal
                        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                        • 13 Years
                        10 years, 10 months ago

                        I already have Murner so you can join me in my usual pit of despair after GW1. 🙂

                        Don't think that Redmond will start regularly from GW1 but will be eased into the team. Downing, Jarvis and Nolan are the nailed on mids so he's competing with Noble, Diame and Cole as far as I can see.

                        Haven't considered Gunnarsson because Kim seems like the best choice for a 5.0 mid.

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                      2. bmb100
                        • 13 Years
                        10 years, 10 months ago

                        Redmond is at Norwich and he's started most of pre season, think you got confused with Morrison!

                        Ye Kim looks a good bet but I'm a sucker for an outrageous punt or two at the start of the season!

                        Anyway I should have been asleep a while ago, night!

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                      3. Horizontal
                        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                        • 13 Years
                        10 years, 10 months ago

                        I was thinking of Morrison.
                        Looks like it's time for bed for me too. 😀

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        2. FPL Daniel
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          According to me he isn't that good to be permanent CB. What FPL knows what we don't know. Why others are 5.0m. Tomkins is a young lad and better potential surely. Faster too, Its a risk all I am saying. With Murner there isn't a one

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    3. Twelve years a slave
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Evs reckoned Brayford would only play the easy games at home.
      Im getting him as they the only games i want him for anyway.

      Collins injured and there talk that Tompkins could replace him anyway , and Collins is often injured

      I have settled for Brayford Chester Toure Turner and i think Coleman (or rat)

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      1. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Well if the replacement for Brayford has great away game will he be benched next home game..? Me don't think so. There isn't such think as a different full back rotation, home/ away too. No chance. I understand 4 4 2 home 4 4 1 1 away but full backsss... Noooooo, never heard of such thing, tell me other example. He said he is going with Burner (apparently better partner for Caulker)

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        1. Twelve years a slave
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          Brayford is the right back , whats Caulker got to do with it?

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          1. FPL Daniel
            • 14 Years
            10 years, 10 months ago

            Because I am thinking Burner is more assured starter left leg right leg, Evs said that. Burner more suitable partner for Caulker and will play CB, different from Brayford who is a rotation threat. More assured starter

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    4. Jebus Saves
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I'd have Collins.

      Got Brayford as my sole defence cheapo. He seems to have been very popular in Derby.

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    5. Saniul
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Isn't Collins unlikely to start?
      He's flagged, and there was anyway talk about Tomkins taking his place.

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      1. Touré De Force
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Ya Collins is really risky imo. I don't know about you guys, but I need all the players I can WITHOUT question marks hanging over them.

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      2. Horizontal
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        See my question above re Collins.
        "There's talk" and "Evs reckons" don't really cut it for me in terms of choosing my team. 🙂

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        1. Touré De Force
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          I think it's like 75% he DOESN'T start GW1. We'll know Friday after press conference.

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    6. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I'm starting Murner and benching Collins. However, if i pick Lescott for that Collins' spot, then it'll be Murner sitting on my bench. Not sure which way to go atm. Good for you that you're set on Nolan. With that kind of fixtures, there's no harm to begin with 2 WHU.

      i'm picking Burner ahead of Chester. Not sure if that's the right move.

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      1. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Burner camp I see. CHeers mate. I thought I am the only one in the Burner camp. not in the Brayford 😉

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    7. Canadian Football
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Daniel.....lost me

      Who is Murner/Burner?

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      1. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Michael Turner
        Ben Turner.

        People here are calling them Burner and Murner in order not to have questions all the time which Turner 😉 Got it..?

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    8. Canadian Football
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Didnt Cardiff spend all kinds of money on Brayford? Doubt he wont be regular!

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      1. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        I got him in regardless , he will play , just ignore the rumours

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        1. FPL Daniel
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          Loving the confidence, hope you are right

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          1. Horizontal
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 10 months ago

            I remember a few weeks ago that everyone was saying that Burner had lost his place because of some new signing.
            Has something changed?

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            1. bmb100
              • 13 Years
              10 years, 10 months ago

              I think Burner is unlikely to play since they signed Caulker, with captain Hudson getting the nod, but I'd expect Brayford to start at right back

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    9. Bolivian Seaman
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I think west ham will keep more cleansheets

      The only reason why is I think norwich were quite lucky last season with cleansheets.

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  5. Les Bleus
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Who has RVP? Who doesn't have RVP?

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    1. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      No RVP for me from the start.

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    2. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      RVPless and confident.

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      1. Chef Ramsey
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        no RVP but I have a plan to get him in time for GW3

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      2. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Never started with him last year (and was in top k after first gw) not starting with him this year either , more expensive and more uncertainty over the team.

        Many have him as a kind of security blanket , i will probably get him in with an internationl break wildcard for GW4 or i might not bother

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    3. Jebus Saves
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Not at the moment....perhaps later if my forwards flop.

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    4. Saniul
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Surely have RVP. He defines FPL since the past two seasons, and there aren't ANY other premium captaincy choice.

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  6. Saniul
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    I've tried to process as much information as possible, and resisted from posting random RMTs, but here's a team which is very close to my Saturday team :

    Mignolet, Alnwick,
    Ivanovic, Koscielny, Yoshida, Turner, Brayford,
    Hazard (c), Walcott, Coutinho, Kim, Morrison,
    RVP, Lukaku, Rodriguez.

    Any analyses on the team?

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    1. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      It's as good as it can be for an RVP team.

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      1. Saniul
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        I am for RVP, he has shown what he can do, and 14.0m isn't even that much for a week-in week-out captaincy choice.

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        1. Touré De Force
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          I can't fault your logic, good team.

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    2. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Good RVP team. I totally understand the Kos love, but consider changing the keeper combo to Boruc & Foster (best keepr combo imo) and get Toure for Liv def cover.

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  7. eplitman
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Best crystal palace defender?

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  8. Grounderz
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Food for thought: In the last three seasons, Arsenal have drawn opponents in the opening GW1 game.

    2010/11 - Liverpool 1-1 Arsenal
    2011/12 - Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
    2012/13 - Arsenal 0-0 Sunderland

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    1. Saniul
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      They lost RVP last season, and Nasri/Fabregas in the season before.
      Things have been stable this season, and we have had a craxking pre-season.

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    2. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Statistics can be used to prove anything. 14% of people know that.

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    3. BeachBadger
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      If Arsenal draw half their matches this season and Wally scores in the other half, I'll be quite happy.
      ; )

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      1. BeachBadger
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        I meant draw 0-0 as inclean sheet bonus

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  9. Kerrazy
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    at the age of 21, should i be worried that im too attached to the FPL and less time for life? 🙁

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    1. El Berbossa - \\\"El b…
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Who cares really. Do what makes you happy.

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    2. Grounderz
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I like the option that enables me to manage both equally - as long as I have FPL and FFS sites on 24/7 on my phone. 😉

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    3. A Defender's Nightmare
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I'm 19 😐

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      1. The Team Principal
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        15 and still up at 04:43

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  10. UnitednationsXI
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Can I get a Rms (rate my strategy)

    Boruc foster
    Coke ward Chester murner mbiwa
    Miralas Wally hazard coutinho koren
    Lukaku soldado dzeko

    Gw2: cole + hazard >> Dawson + lallana (-4)
    Gw3: Lukaku >> rvp

    My only concern here is that my front 3 in gw2 might backfire if both Lukaku or dzeko don't start

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    1. El Berbossa - \\\"El b…
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      What if RVPs value sky rockets?

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      1. michudagawd
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Unlikely with his ownership percentage.

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      2. Lord Flashheart
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Impossible

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  11. F19
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Current Defense
    Foster - Boruc
    Koscielny - Toure - M.Turner - Bradford - Chester

    Should I change Foster to Mannone and use that .5 to upgrade Chester to Collins/or any other 4.5(if so who). Can even use that .5 to upgrade my 5th midfielder to Kim as well. What do you guys think?

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  12. @Team Shark FC
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Which keeper rotates well with Mig? Given 4.0m to spend

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    1. El Berbossa - \\\"El b…
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      None. Since none are nailed at that price

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      1. @Team Shark FC
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        sad

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        1. El Berbossa - \\\"El b…
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          Tis. Two seasons back all promoted teams had 4.0 Gks

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    2. Camzy
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Just get a bum at 4.0 don't matter if you have Mignolet.

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  13. A Defender's Nightmare
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    RMT Draft #1 today 😉

    Boruc, 4m
    TERRY, Toure, Rat, Turner, Brayford
    HAZARD, Walcott, OSCAR, Mirallas, Kim
    Soldado, BENTEKE, Giroud

    I need sure starter come GW 3 so has gone Rat over Collins
    Terry & Oscars are my DGW differentials

    Any suggestions guys?

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    1. El Berbossa - \\\"El b…
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Id got Lampard of Oscar as a diff

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      1. El Berbossa - \\\"El b…
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Wow ipad sucks. Id go Lampard over oscar as a differential.

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        1. A Defender's Nightmare
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          Surely Oscar in "the hole">Lampard in Central Midfield

          Besides Lampard surely won't get 2 starts but Oscar has a "slight" chance as he can operate in Wings too in 4-3-3?

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  14. @FuzzyWarbles
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Guess who's back?
    Fuzzy's back.

    Currently have RVP. i think I can build a strong enough team, despite his price tag, to stay competitive and its much easier to drop him for "name your striker" after a week or two, then it is to bring him in.

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    1. ManofKent
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Morning Fuzzy.

      Is there a danger you won't feel able to drop him even if his performances are only average?

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      1. @FuzzyWarbles
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Good morning!

        If anything I may cut bait too soon if there's a GW1 dud. I suppose with the DGW players I plan to have and an eye toward a minimum amount of hits before the GW3 blank, I imagine I am somewhat bound to RVP for 3 gws.

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    2. tw
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      hey Fuzzy!

      I'm expecting some legendary pressers from our favorite spurs manager 😀

      here's my problem with RVP - you're not gunna captain him in gw 1-3 and he's really only worth his price tag if you're captaining him regularly. and I think you can do better without him with the quality 9m strikers out there. plus at least one or two of suarez/aguero/rooney should turn out good options and I think it'll be hard to dump RVP if you already have him and he's bringing in average hauls (5-6pts per gw) but not blanking... not to mention you'll need to afford bale if he stays

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      1. @FuzzyWarbles
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Hey TW,

        Sound logic, I cant argue it. If bale stays, I will be too happy to care!

        But yeah, definitely worth considering. I guess I'm scurrrred because I went periods without RVP last year and it really ruined my season.

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        1. tw
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          at 3.5 less I can see rooney being a great differential to rvp provided he nails down a spot up front or right behind rvp

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  15. yanky
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Migs ___
    Terry Zaba Chester Ward ___
    Walcott Coutinho Mirallas Hazard Kim
    Lukaku Dzeko Soldado

    a) Boruc + 4.5def - clyne? turner? newcastle?
    b) 4.0 bencher + Coleman

    also, terry + zaba vs. ivan + lescott.

    Cheers!!!

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  16. Joggers Nipple
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Toure at 5.0. Am i the only one not sold on this?

    Hes not a very good player (real life). Cant think of any top 4 team signing him even for a free or even Spurs, Everton or many top half teams.

    He has given a cheap route into Liverpools defense, i get that. But i feel with him in place they may be weaker.

    Maybe just me, probably wrong but think we are being blinded by his cheap price.

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    1. Twelve years a slave
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      its just you

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    2. Lord Flashheart
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      He was very good 3 -4 seasons ago. Very good. Lack of game time at city made him rusty.

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    3. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Seems a good way to start the season anyway. Will most likely earn you some $$$$ once the casuals realise he is now at Liverpool, and is also starting.Don't own him myself I might add. Yet.

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    4. The Team Principal
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Surely he is too much of a rotation risk at 5.0. I honestly believe that at an extra 0.5 you are just as well getting Mignolet who is guaranteed to start every game.

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    5. GuyIncognito
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I think Liverpool will sign a new CB soon.

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    6. Birdman Transfer
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Yes, you are buying into the defense more than you are buying him specifically. I don't buy the argument that Toure & Mignolet are even a downgrade compared to Skrtel/Carragher & Reina, let alone so much worse that they'll render Glen Johnson, Daniel Agger and Lucas Leiva (plus whoever shows up to play LB) less effective than they were last year.

      If a new CB is signed, however, all bets are off, though I'll note that if Gerrard needs rest/gets hurt/moves further up the pitch I can see Kolo assuming a DM/pivot role alongside Lucas.

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  17. Mojo Rojo
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Mignolet
    Coleman - O'Shea - Martin Olsson
    Mirallas - Walcott - Silva - Hazard
    Soldado - Sturridge - Lukaku

    Boruc - Ravel Morrison - Debuchy - Brayford
    Bank = 0

    Any proposed changes would be greatly appriciated.
    Cheers 🙂

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    1. @FuzzyWarbles
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      is ravel still in the picture with Downing coming in? there are such better prospects for .5 more. For a non rvp team, you should upgrade that spot.

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      1. Mojo Rojo
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        That's my only concern. Could downgrade Debuchy to a 4.5 defender, Collins perhaps, and upgrade Ravel to Kim or Wanyama. Or Boruc to a 4.0 keeper?

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        1. @FuzzyWarbles
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          be wary of collins. Doos is put off, thats enough for me to steer clear. But I would prefer finding a 4.5 defender. Im currently on Boruc, 4.0, but i really have to stretch the funds with RVP in my side. you have the luxury of having two viable options at keeper, Id stick with it.

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    2. Joggers Nipple
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Freddy nice team.

      -Ravel to Barkley? some looking at him as getting in the EV team
      -Olsson, is he nailed on? if so excellent pick, safer Turner.

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      1. Mojo Rojo
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Cheers mate! Olsson is a punt to be honest. Thought I'd go him instead of Turner for his OOP potential. Norwich will have a greater attacking return compared to defensive points. Suggest anywhere I can downgrade to do Ravel to a 5.0 midfielder?

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        1. Joggers Nipple
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          Either Boroc to a 4.0 keeper and play Mig all the time which is actually ok.
          or Debuchy to 4.5. Could take a risk on the NEWC def Yanga who some think will nail down a spot.
          Oh Kim over Wanyama imo

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  18. Lord Flashheart
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Here is a difficult one:
    A Oscar and anelka
    B Morrison (WBA) and lukaku

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    1. @FuzzyWarbles
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      A for me

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      1. Canadian Football
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        ^This....i always agree with Fuzzy

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      2. Lord Flashheart
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        You think Oscar is better prospect than lukaku or anelka better than Morrison?

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        1. @FuzzyWarbles
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          I think the Oscar's prospects compared to morrison is greater than lukaku's compared to Anelka, does that make sense, or do i need more caffeine? I think I need more caffeine either way.

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          1. Lord Flashheart
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 10 months ago

            Makes sense 🙂

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    2. The Team Principal
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I think for week 1 I would go A.

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  19. Canadian Football
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Knowing that it is unlikely that a 4.0 GK will earn a regular starting role. Which one priced at 4.0 do you reckon has be best chance?

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    1. Sigga -Cardiff City-
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Joe Lewis? (Of Cardiff City)

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    2. Nasshole85
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I've been wondering the same thing. Given maybe?

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    3. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I think Steve Harper will get the nod at Hull sooner rather than later.

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    4. Thick Of It
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Just steer clear for now, but the inevitable injury/ban will mean that one comes to the fore. I see no benefit in choosing a team with 1 nailed on 'keeper.

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  20. Twelve years a slave
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Ok , im finally giving in and getting Coleman in

    Is he nailed on?

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    1. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I actually don't think he is. But he should be.

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    2. Lord Flashheart
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Shouldn't you ask it before you give in?

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    3. King Nemanja
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Yes he is

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    4. Canadian Football
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      if they play 352 apparently he is.

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      1. Touré De Force
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        *if

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    5. A Defender's Nightmare
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Trigger, Rat's 1st 6 fixtures are too good to ignore
      Everton defense under Martinez is still unknown
      At the moment I've gone Rat

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      1. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Colemans fiest three fixtures good too though

        Norwich WBA Cardiff

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        1. A Defender's Nightmare
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          I can see just 1 CS against WBA in that 1st 3 fixtures
          Besides Martinez has been playing with 4-3-3 recently
          He may not be an OOP prospect afterall

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    6. demonbecks
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      played 3 and came on as sub for 3, i guess he's fairly nailed on?

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    7. BeachBadger
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      If Coleman isn't nailed on it's another travesty caused by versatility. Coleman is a quality right wing back so should be a safe bet in the 3-5-2 or 3-4-3 formations if they play that way. I would still have him in a 4-4-2.

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  21. F19
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Lambert or Dzeko?

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    1. Lord Flashheart
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      If you have no burning issues, ideally dzeko gw1 and then switch to lambert, thou I suspect your hands will be full with Dgw residue ...

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      1. F19
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Yep, Mata Hazard Lukaku Benteke. Going all in the first gamesweek. So I guess I should stick with lambert for asured game time

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    2. The Team Principal
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      What do you want. A risk (Dzeko) or a safety (Lambert?

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  22. @Team Shark FC
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Toure or Coleman?

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    1. Mojo Rojo
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Who's your keeper?
      Coleman for OOP and greater attacking potential.
      Toure has better fixtures and Liverpool will be better defensively.

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      1. @Team Shark FC
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Mig and Lewis

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        1. Mojo Rojo
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          In that case, go for Coleman. Bit risky doubling up on Liverpool defence. I'm not the great fantasy player but that's my opinion mate. Good luck!

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          1. @Team Shark FC
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 10 months ago

            thanks mate!

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  23. Thick Of It
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Evening DZ, just finished a night shift. Any injury worries from the international fixtures tonight?

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    1. King Nemanja
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Sagna a doubt for gw1 I believe

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    2. Thick Of It
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Cheers, seems like most got off lightly then. I await the Scout report on who played and for how long.

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  24. NoddyCasper
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Ok Guys, New member, loving the complexed community here! Love to hear what you guys think of my team so far.

    Cech
    Williams Coleman Toure
    Hazard Wilshe Walcott Countiho
    RVP Lukaku Anelka

    All the best.

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  25. Les Bleus
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Just a question: Why does anyone figure that Mourinho will start Lukaku both opening games? Surely he isn't nailed on with Torres and Ba in that lineup. Or am I missing something?

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    1. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      We're gambling. Any Chelsea midfielder (including Hazard) or forward you pick is a gamble. Bar Ramires.

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      1. Les Bleus
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Well, IMO, I think the midfield trio of Haz, Mata and Oscar are also nailed on. Wouldn't you think so?

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        1. Touré De Force
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 10 months ago

          Mata isn't at all nailed on coming back from injury. Hazard is widely expected to feature in both games, though probably not for 180 and there seems to be varying opinion on how much game time Oscar will get.

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      2. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        Most people dont think he will start two
        We are getting him because he will start one and sub the other

        That should be enough for points

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    2. @FuzzyWarbles
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I didnt think that was the popular belief. I think Mourinho will start Lukaku for the first fixture, giving him confidence in feeling he is the preferred striker. Then he will hand a start to either Torres or Ba for the 2nd. He can excuse benching Lukaku for rest and give another guy a chance to build some confidence. Whoever doesnt start either will make 80th minute sub appearances in both.

      Ok I better put my crystal ball away.

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  26. Les Bleus
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    Who are the 4.0 starting goalkeepers please? I'm seeing a slight difference between the one's who are the most picked and the team news from FFS. Thanks

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    1. ManofKent
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      There aren't any at the moment

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      1. Les Bleus
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        I see. Thank you

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  27. Tabone
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    join my leagues.. just created them.
    head to head : 788568-384077
    Classic : 788568-384325

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  28. NovaHammer
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    any new bloods nailed on in MF ....Spurs, City, NC?

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    1. NovaHammer
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Sorry I menat NU vice NC....mais oui?

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  29. Touré De Force
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    So Yaya Touré has gotten ZERO love on the forum this pre-season. He hasn't slipped by my radar though. Come GW2 we're all going to want at least 2 City players. What are you guys planning?

    I'm thinking Touré, Negredo and possibly Kompany. I've get Touré in for GW1. He scored in his last two games against Newcastle, including a brace in one of them.

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    1. Tabone
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      id much rather zabaleta, silva and go with a punt with dzeko.. he wont need a full 90 mins to get points

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    2. Thick Of It
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Always have time for Yaya, a solid 140 points in a season. Most go for more "explosive" midfielders at that price. But pretty reliable in the Citeh line up, if fit he plays. At least he did under Mancini...

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      1. Touré De Force
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 10 months ago

        He'll play without a doubt. He is the engine of that team. In fact he may even play a little bit more advanced under Pellegrini, which would augment his returns potential more I think.

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    3. Grounderz
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Actually, I have seen two or three Yayas in RMTs in the last two months of tinkering. There is still some love but only at a very low percentage.

      Possibly, Negredo or Dzeko and also Silva to monitor.

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    4. The Team Principal
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Personally, he is too expensive for a CDM and I believe he is less likely to get further forward because City will have more attacking options. City will be able to replace a CAM with another CAM without having to move Toure.

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  30. Bolivian Seaman
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 10 months ago

    What does anyone think of gaston ramirez (6.0m)?

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    1. Mojo Rojo
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Great potential. Had a better points/minutes ratio than Snodgrass last season.

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    2. ManofKent
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Could be a decent differential at that price. Not consistent, but good...

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    3. Touré De Force
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Great punt. Could be a real proposition now with a full EPL season under his belt. Scouts have a good article done on him, you can dig it out.

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    4. Bolivian Seaman
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      Thanks for the replies. All sound positive too. I wish he'd get more fitness though 🙂

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    5. Pepereina Pizza
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 10 months ago

      I've got him, and with Southampton's fixture list, he's very good value. I like this pick.

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