Podcast

The ScoutCast – Episode 110 – Cosmo

22 August 2013 3644 comments
Mark Mark
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He’s well travelled. He’s multi-lingual. He’s just 19 points behind me. Despite my best start to a Fantasy Football season in living memory, Granville is right on my tail. In this latest episode of the ScoutCast, Granville takes delight in taunting me by wrapping his tongue around every “Pochettino” with ease, leaving me to struggle like Paul Merson with a mouth ulcer.

In between the mispronunciations, myself and the “cosmopolitan Manc” get heated about Robin Van Persie, rinse through the Gameweek 1 bandwagons, preview the weekend’s action and welcome the flying start made by this season’s ScoutCast team. It’s breathless stuff, squeezed into a low fat 40 minutes.

Broaden your horizons via this link or spread your wings via the handy player below.

Mark Mark created the beast. He's now looking to tame it.

3,644 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. Acquafresca
    • 14 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    I really don't know why some of you treat a hit for a defender like the plague...

    For instance if you're getting in Zaba or Coleman, who I see as more or less season keepers, there's nothing wrong taking a hit early on to catch their price rise, because as the season progresses I expect them to keep rising.

    To think to yourselves, is a hit GW1 the end of the world, if you plan to keep the player for the majority of the season?

    I think not.

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    1. Namtab Nomolos
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Also if you're expecting attacking returns for them they're not really defenders, more like midfielders that get full clean sheets

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      1. Acquafresca
        • 14 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I wouldn't go that far. But you get my point.

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        1. Namtab Nomolos
          • 14 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Bonus midfielders I mean, some of them are worthy of a hit, like you say.

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    2. RoysCallerAnne
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Elite. Advice. Right there.
      Get it while it's still fresh.

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    3. The Bandit
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      There are many who think (and often tell others) that any hit is wrong.. 🙄

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      1. Acquafresca
        • 14 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I get it taking crazy amounts of points hits will eventually fail, but seriously? It's GW1 FFS, surely you can spare 4pts early on to have the players you'll be keeping for 10-15 GWs.

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    4. Colonel Klink
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Of all times to take a hit or hits, it's now. The team value thing, the knowing who's in favor at clubs with new managers, etc. Then a WC for when you can really capitalize or when you realize you've really f'd up.

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    5. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      It's just a generalisation... and in general it is a bad idea to take a hit for a defender.

      Of course there are scenarios where it can pay off but it's hardly a good strategy

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      1. Acquafresca
        • 14 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I agree. But in your situation you'd want the player the following week, and he will be 0.1 too expensive for your liking. That's how I see it.

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    6. The Shadow
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      A hit is rarely the end of the world but I generally would not trade points for value unless waiting would put the target out of my price range the following week.

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      1. Twelve years a slave
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        i see Zabaletta as being free , over the next two gameweeks he will recover the four points spent, plus you will have bought in a useful defender that is rising in price .
        Many of us have a very threadbare team week three , i would rather have Zabaletta than end up having to play Chester away to city

        Also the new bonus system means playing a good defender over a bad can be worth an extra five or six points

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        1. Twelve years a slave
          • 15 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Havind said that i have decided against a hit 😀

          Would rather save any possible hit till next week when more information is available.
          Plus the last time city lostt Kompany their defence was shocking

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        2. The Shadow
          • 14 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Having 4 DGWers makes it a completely different analysis as you're probably taking a hit no matter what. That's not the typical situation. Nor is having to play Chester likely when you have Toure/Turner/Ward.

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

      Even me, who is normally very conservative, would recommend a hit for Ivan > Zab for the reasons you mentioned

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  2. Is Toure the man to tame benteke?
    Axle11
    • 12 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    i have both Mignolet and Benteke, and i can't decide because hardly to predict what Aston Villa vs Liverpool will be this week.

    so i did a research and finally found this: http://www.bettingexpert.com/blog/aston-villa-man-city-4th-march-2013

    Aston Villa vs Man City (Mar 4th, 2013) 0-1

    "Benteke and Toure

    And when he did get it, he was up against a pretty good Kolo Toure. The other Toure brother has done well in the absence of Kompany and he was enjoying a physical battle with Benteke all night – the latter’s struggles in getting the ball into the right areas can be put down to good marshalling by the Ivorian.

    He was regularly right behind Benteke, using his own strength to neutralise that possessed by the Belgian, cutting out through passes and refusing to get beaten. It was a strong performance, and that of Nastasic too, which was vital in such a low scoring game."

    Notice that Kompany wasn't play at that match (which oftenly used as City DF parameter - "if he plays, City possibly will get CS").

    Also, Toure got 3 baps from that match.

    So it's better to go with Mignolet rather than Benteke this GW?

    Cheers 🙂

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    1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Just play both.

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        currently i played both. increased chances to get which the right choice, but in other hand, it'll sacrifice 1 of my 11 players i played. would be very great if i can find the right one. currently hard to choose. if i can't leaning towards any, i'll play both. 🙂

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    2. J0E
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Great post. I hope benteke has met his match as a Toure owner.

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      1. Tommytour
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Same

        I'm playing Migs and Toure 😯

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        1. J0E
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          I'm playing my best defenders irrespective of opposition.. That's why I'm playing Ivan and benching Chester. Ivanovic is more fun.

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          1. Tommytour
            • 15 Years
            12 years, 4 months ago

            I hate playing Chester but Kos went and got red

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            1. J0E
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 16 Years
              12 years, 4 months ago

              Ivan, mert and Toure for me this week and most weeks hopefully.

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              1. Axle11
                • 12 Years
                12 years, 4 months ago

                and Coleman perhaps? 😉

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      2. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        thanks Jonty 🙂

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    3. Tommytour
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Just play both

      Mignolet pen save Tekkers rebound win win

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        haha. do you mean like Benteke vs Szczesny last week? i can't see same scene will repeated consecutively.

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    4. Jafalad
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Hard to see a Liverpud cleenie.

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        initially i was going to replace Benteke after DGW. but then he scores when he wants. still 50/50 for me.

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    5. super zlatan
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Play both. I'm playing benteke and Toure

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        currently i played both, mate. already replied to Doosra. see above 🙂

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    6. Billy Gilmore
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Play both you mad man.

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        already replied to Doosra regarding the same, mate. see above. 🙂

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    7. Axle11
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      hulked 😯

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    8. RocketMan
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      what happens when you have mignolet, toure and benteke

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    9. Demí
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Not sure. I would just play both like others have said above. If we went on last year, and ignored Benteke for the DGW because of his record against top 5 teams, we'd have been severely punished. This Aston Villa attack look like they've got the bit between their teeth, and they are dangerous, especially on the counter. If Benteke is quiet, Agbonlahor will be a threat, or even Weimann. I would play both as Benteke is in really hot form right now, Liverpool didn't look convincing defending against Stoke's set pieces last week, they had a good few opportunities to score.

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        that's good point. CS is not all about Benteke. currently i'm playing both. but just curious if i can find the right one between them. 🙂

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        1. FISSH
          • 12 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          right one between them is benteke. Hate to say it as I am a Liverpool fan

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    10. Test Eagles
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Great article, I just think Benteke has grown up and matured even more and will be such a handful for any defense! Being on the buff I say

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    11. This!
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Wow, great find! I have Benteke as my captain due to him scoring 3 goals+1 assist vs Liverpool in the last 2 games. BUT that was without Kolo Toure. Needs to rethink.

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    12. Old Glory
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I am benching Toure in favour of Ward (crazy I know, to start a Palace FB ahead of Toure)...

      But Stoke sucks and Palace get forward, and I have the faith to give Benteke the armband over Soldado, so I'm going to go big and not hedge against a Tekkers blank by playing Toure, but to start Ward over Toure and put all my eggs in one basket....

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    13. Poli_Talk
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 3 months ago

      Benteke will score a goal, or at least assist one.. Benteke will have a score above 4, excluding BONUS POINTS.....

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    14. holypegasus
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 3 months ago

      Great research. Who's your backup keeper?

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 3 months ago

        Artur Boruc 😎

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    15. Kalix
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 3 months ago

      Well spotted Axle, wish I'd read this before benching both Mignolet & Toure!

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      1. Axle11
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 3 months ago

        cheers Kalix. i think it's just a matter of luck 🙂 even i who already read this still couldn't decide to play Mignolet or my 2nd GK in last 2 minutes (!).

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  3. The Bandit
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    So much scorn for people wildcarding....

    Who is to say you are right and we are wrong? Apart from the fact you probably got a high score and we didn't... Most people are or will be taking hits and we can do the same when you play your wc but we will probably be a lot happier with out team than we are now, after all.. It's much easier to get it wrong in gw1.. We are not pathetic, stupid or lolworthy, we are making a call which may or not be the right one..

    Oh, and the guy who won it last year wildcarded in gw2 😉

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    1. The Machine
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      You wildcarded?

      Lol

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      1. Sánchez
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Haha.

        Lolworthy. 😆

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    2. PINKFISH (SANCTIONED AND GA…
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      We are singing from the same hymn sheet WR. GL!

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      1. The Bandit
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        And you 🙂

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    3. Exilizer
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Nothing wrong with WC'ing early when you feel good about it. My personal view is simply that you should wait a little longer than GW1. After GW3 actually looks best. You have 3 weeks of stats to go on, can wait until after some of the internationals are over to finalise your transfers and just overall pick a team that is much more sound.

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    4. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Agree. Better to fix the ship early if you have many issues. Wish I used mine earlier last season.

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    5. 4vets
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I've taken an -8 WR. Certainly wouldn't laugh at anyone for tactics they choose as they'll probably beat me if I get cocky 🙂

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    6. pundit of punts
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I always believe you need to wc when you think your team is a terrible state.

      If you thought so, then you right in wcing. Don't give a damn what others say.

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    7. Sánchez
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      My rival was right to.

      He has 3 chelsea, anelka, FABIO?, fulham keeper, Charlie Adam?

      His own fault for pucking that though, but at least he is acting quick.

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      1. 4vets
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        That is the key early on. Act quick and rectify. Some WC, some take hits... the important thing is that something is done.

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        1. The Bandit
          • 15 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Indeed +1

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    8. Cymro
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      hahaha, you wildcarded....Good luck pal. Lets hope your second week pick isnt as bad as your first week pick eh

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    9. PMC3
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      To be honest I think it is a decent time to wild card. The most uncertain time is GW1, you learn a lot and can really improve your team. Not that I am doing it.

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      1. The Bandit
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Exactly.. we know so much more than before ko.. I have the advantage of no hits this weeks and will get to lol at all the 'When should i wc' posts later.. 😉

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        1. Cymro
          • 16 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          If that makes you feel better for your crap first week pick then wahay!

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          1. The Bandit
            • 15 Years
            12 years, 4 months ago

            Nice score yourself.... Oh wait...

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            1. Cymro
              • 16 Years
              12 years, 4 months ago

              i had a great score...what are you on about Wild rover???

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    10. Dr Dream
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      It's a smart move WR....If somebody got 75 pts + in GW1 then a WC to try and best ensure a good GW2 (home/easy fixtures) and an overall rank of perhaps around 100k for the two GW's combined is in a strong position to maintain and build on that high rank....I only play with novelty teams so i'm not that bothered but for anybody wanting a good overall end of season score an early high rank is a great plus..Anytime between GW1-3 is fine if that is the strategy...

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  4. JJC
    • 14 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    For people looking at replacing there attacking options I definitely suggest taking a look at this article about the 'creative efficiency' of teams in the prem last year: http://www.eplindex.com/37500/rate-of-attack-creative-efficiency-race-goals-model.html

    Interesting to see Aston Villa were up there with the top 4 when it came to finishing clear cut chances, and an impressive conversion on 'non clear cut chances' Plenty of justification there for regular captaincy of Benteke there.

    Furthermore, Liverpool were shown to be poor at converting 'non clear cut chances', showing the poor conversion rate against Stoke wasn't just a one off.

    Also, why Norwich had some of the fewest shots on goal, a high percentage of those were clear cut chances. Despite this, they were poor at putting these clear chances away. With RVW set to increase Norwich's sharpness, Snodgrass could be set for a further upturn of points when he gets into the squad.

    Do people agree with me here? If you read the article, what else have you drawn from it?

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  5. fc kronstadt
    • 13 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Just keeps getting worse and worse news

    Have Kolscielny, Kompany, and Anelka
    Also have Ivan, Hazard, and Benteke

    Planning on keeping Benteke and Ivan and working around them in GW3, but that still leaves 4 players that have to go. Take a hit this week and next (4 points each week) or go ahead and WC?

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    1. 4vets
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Or just take 8 this week.

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      1. Acquafresca
        • 14 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Oy! Stop telling everyone to follow in your footsteps 😆

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        1. 4vets
          • 15 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          It's all true. It just makes sense to me 🙂

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    2. RoysCallerAnne
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Take a couple of hits. It's just bad luck. Ouch.

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    3. Johnny Unitas
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      If I had had that kind of bad luck I would most definitely WC.

      The purpose of WC's are often overlooked on here I find-the way I look at it? If you have AT LEAST 3 transfers that are being forced upon you (particularly through injury) and there are also AT LEAST 2 other transfers you want to make for budgetary,form or other valid reasons-do it.

      WC are not simply a tool to build a fashionable side;they are also there in times of emergency or fantasy catastrophe-if your team needs 4/5 transfers to remain competitive,catch some risers/avoid some falls,now is as good a time as any imo.

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      1. 4vets
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        100% agree. Great post!

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  6. The Bandit
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Instead of RMT.. If people asked a question, ie A or B, or whether X is more likely to start than Y for example, then it would be so much more beneficial to all and more likely to get a reply too... page after page of RMT's just get ignored as it get's busier

    I just wasted my time writing this didn't I? Most people posting a RMT are really just after a hug and a public praising aren't they? 😉

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    1. Left Peg
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      All I ever wanted was recognition 🙁

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      1. Malcolm Tucker for England …
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        All i ever wanted was to be a gangster

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      2. The Bandit
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        ((()))

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    2. the axolotl
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      agreed. player at a time easier to talk about

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    3. Vote Joke
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I always do that but mostly getting blanked or get bullied by you. Ho hum.

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    4. Exilizer
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Basically the problem is that everything can be discussed so often that in fact there is hardly any discussion ever. Someone posts something, and someone else posts the same question two pages later. Both get 1-2 answers instead of a thread with 5-10.

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  7. PINKFISH (SANCTIONED AND GA…
    • 13 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    I had 3 Chelsea players for the D/GW. none were Lukaku.
    I have used my W/C and bought Luk in to play in G/W2 and bench in G/W3.

    That's how much I think of the lemmings on this site.

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    1. RoysCallerAnne
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Bizarre. But that's what you are.

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    2. Woy of the Wovers
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Lemmings are just misunderstood.

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      1. RoysCallerAnne
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Nice quote. Ernest Lemmingway if I'm not mistaken.

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    3. The Bandit
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      This is the stuff that stops the site stagnating.. Good luck 😀

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    4. keotes
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Brave.

      FYI if you are on a wildcard, only bring Lukaku in closer to dateline. It looks lik he will drop in price again.

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    5. 4vets
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Nice one Pinky! Enjoy the -0.1 and then probable +0.1`. It's a roller coaster ride 🙂

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    6. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Score so far?

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      1. PINKFISH (SANCTIONED AND GA…
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Average.

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        1. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          63?

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          1. PINKFISH (SANCTIONED AND GA…
            • 13 Years
            12 years, 4 months ago

            I missed out the ..ish 55

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  8. DietCoke
    • 12 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    24 people transferred in Pepe Reina this week.

    *facepalm*

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    1. Optimus.
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      dont hate me

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    2. Acquafresca
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      could be a decent shout

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    3. The Mandalorian
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      They should have gone to specsavers

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  9. Jafalad
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Everyone's asking the same q. Read the other pages. 😡

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  10. Gaz Downright
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    would someone be so kind and link me up with a rotation spread?

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    1. RoysCallerAnne
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AiIgkb7euD-9dHZqZWVBM01iWjhveGRpSHgya0VFTUE#gid=0

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    2. 4vets
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AiIgkb7euD-9dHZqZWVBM01iWjhveGRpSHgya0VFTUE#gid=5

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  11. boc610
    • 13 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    according to his agent adaybayor has decide to stay at spurs 'and fight for his wages............sorry, 'place'. I mean 'place'. he just loves playing football"

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  12. Chu Young Ping Pong
    • 13 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    BREAKING: Willian spotted at Stamford Bridge with Brendan Rodgers having a medical for Spurs wearing an Arsenal kit for his move to United.

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    1. onionbarje
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      it will be so funny if he ends up in another league

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    2. tw
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      😀

      while his agent is on the phone with City? 😉

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    3. Carrick Doesn't Deserv…
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      copied off BBC Sporf

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  13. RVP v Benteke armband analysis
    Arsenal Deli
    • 12 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    With decisions to be made this GW on who is the best option to captain, and Man U with a tough game against Chelsea, I did some research on RVP's performance last season against the Top 5 teams last season and also Liverpool (No disrespect to Everton, I see Liverpool as a derby and therefore a more difficult game).

    Overall performance over the 10 games:

    7 Goals and 2 Assists

    Looking at those stats and considering they were gained against the toughest opposition (Based on last seasons league table) you would think that it would be the safest option to make him captain, especially as 2 of these games were played after they had already won the title.

    However, on further analysis, by splitting the games into Home and Away, the captain decision may not be as safe as you thought.

    Home performance over 5 games:

    2 Goals and 1 Assist

    Away Performance over 5 games:

    5 Goals and 1 Assist

    RVP, based on these stats, looks a lot stronger away from home, and those of you who remember will recollect that in his last season for Arsenal he scored a Hat-Trick away to Chelsea. But, with his previous performance outstanding against Swansea, many will be unable to overlook him.

    In my opinion, though, I think Benteke is a better option as captain as he has already proven that he can score against the best of teams in the league, where as RVP wasn't fully tested against Swansea. Benteke also made a habit of destroying Liverpool last season, with 3 goals and 1 assist in 2 games. Liverpool's defence has also not been fully tested and may be in for a surprise when Benteke will destroy Liverpool.

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    1. HST
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Good post, enjoyed the read.

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    2. Adro3
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Nice findings. As a Liverpool fan, I agree with you in saying that we have not played an attackingly dangerous team. I can see Benteke putting one or two past us. May end up captaining him too.

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    3. mutatedllama
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Benteke terrifies me this season.

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    4. Arsenal Deli
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I just noticed I said Benteke WILL destroy Liverpool. Didn't mean to put that just meant I think it is probable

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    5. The Mandalorian
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Tekkers will go thru liverpools defense like a bowling ball thru skittles...

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    6. the axolotl
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      nice post, though i'd prefer a silva as captain this week despite having those 2. benteke certainly looking like he can do business vs anybody though.

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    7. aehii
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Well Benteke destroyed Liverpool in a one-off game when Liverpool had some kind of meltdown, the score for this fixture last season was 1-3. Villa have had less rest than Liverpool. I see it more likely Sturridge will destroy Aston Villa than Benteke will destroy Liverpool. I'm biased because I simply can't fit Benteke in my team, but he was gifted two penalties in one game vs Arsenal, one he missed, the other that wasn't even a penalty. Good strike against Chelsea though. I think he's being slightly overrated at the moment. Villa have a 3 pronged attack on the counter, Agbonlahor and Wieman are quite likely to score too, not as likely as Benteke, he's the strongest but not necessarily the sole focus of their attack. At Liverpool everything is fed through Sturridge and without Suarez he's the main forward.

      re rvp, from what I recall, Rooney has been more effective against Chelsea, i like the insight that rvp's more effective away from home...I'll remember that and hope it doesn't affect my decisions and back fire on me as fantasy football inevitably does..

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    8. Brutus619
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 3 months ago

      I really didn't understand why everyone went Benteke crazy for captaincy. For me Soldado, Aguero, Sturridge & RVP always looked better captain options as Liverpool have such a solid defence and RVP scores consistently and is much more explosive overall due to his class.

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  14. Unconstitutional
    • 12 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Best 5.0 defender not named Toure or Coleman?

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    1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Reid.

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    2. Tommytour
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Dawson

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    3. Demel
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Dawson

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    4. KujaliaFC
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Shaw + £400k

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    5. Jafalad
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Clyne.

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    6. Crouch Potato!
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Coleman ain't 5.0 anymore.

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

      Shaw + 400k or Dawson.

      Reid could also be good

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    8. Axle11
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Dawson. Spurs captain.

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    9. Old Glory
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Reid, Reither, Williams, Dawson

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    10. holypegasus
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 3 months ago

      Kaboul.

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  15. WALOR
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 16 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Don't care for the new format of the Captain poll results.

    Order them by number of votes please.

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  16. Bubbles
    • 16 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Anelka owners, oh oh:
    (from @smadeley_star a West Brom journo)

    "Clarke confirms Anelka discussed retirement. Says club have given him time to go and think about it. #wba"

    "Clarke says he "hopes" Anelka comes back. Nothing more definitive. #wba"

    "The conversation we had the other day was really negative, but he's taking a few days. Hopefully he will play for Albion again." #wba"

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    1. Tommytour
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      That's my mini leaguers screwed 🙂

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    2. Corkyote FFS CWC Champion 2…
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Shame. Not the easiest player to shift at that price either, going to take a couple of transfers to bring in a decent 3rd striker.

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    3. Jafalad
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Jeez...everyone's getting hulked. Pity Willis isn't about.

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      1. Bubbles
        • 16 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        It's a disgrace, that's what it is.

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    4. Bubbles
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Stop fecking hulking me! 😡

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  17. Esalman
    • 16 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    I don't have RvP, don't plan to get him either. Naturally having some trouble choosing captain 🙂
    1. Walcott FUL (A)
    2. Hazard MUN (A)
    3. Silva CAR (A)
    4. Sturridge AVL (A)
    5. Welbeck CHE (H)
    6. Soldado SWA (H)
    I'm leaning towards Walcott, who would you captain?

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    1. Rasping Drive
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I wouldn't go for Walcott. He is not playing well. Of those I would probably go Silva or Soldado. Probably Silva.

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      1. Arsenal Deli
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I'm not having a go at you but did you not see the Fenerbahce game last night? Walcott was quality, but I do agree he may not be a great C choice as he may be fatigued

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        1. Esalman
          • 16 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          In his defense, Walcott can be inconsistent.

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          1. Arsenal Deli
            • 12 Years
            12 years, 4 months ago

            As an Arsenal fan I know that all to well haha! May be my biased opinion but for the 2 games he is good to have in, but to many better options as captain to be considered

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    2. Emilhoff
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Soldado. Walcott or Silva are ok differentials though.

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    3. Bests Conquests
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Soldado or Silva. Flip a coin!

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    4. EAGLES (0 Chelsea players)
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      right now I'm on Walcott(c) Soldado(vc)

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    5. aehii
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Sturridge.

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    6. gford33
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      soldado or silva imo

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    7. A.
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Got to be Sturridge or Soldado for me

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      1. Esalman
        • 16 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Just had a look at your team 🙂 Shaw on the bench, that's gotta hurt..

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  18. Jimmers
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Players likely to drop tonight!

    Cesar Azpilicueta Barry Bannan
    Andre Schürrle Juan Mata
    Brett Holman Laurent Koscielny
    Aleksandar Tonev Nicklas Helenius
    Shinji Kagawa Peter Odemwingie
    Arouna Kone Bryan Ruiz
    Jonathan de Guzman Robert Snodgrass
    Mikel Arteta Fernando Torres
    Michael Essien Guillermo Varela
    Gerard Deulofeu Jonny Evans
    Wilfried Zaha Victor Moses
    Jermain Defoe Gareth Bale
    Leandro Bacuna Craig Noone
    Álvaro Negredo Emmanual Adebayor

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    1. Dynamic
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Snodgrass will NOT drop

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      1. Freshy
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Where are you getting your info?

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        1. Dynamic
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Totalfpl. His yellow flag was removed today so that will set his NTI back to 0.

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    2. Exilizer
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      WRONG: FISO IS BROKEN:

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  19. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    coleman a good shout for this week?

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    1. Acquafresca
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Shirley

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    2. Rafabio
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Hey Bemba, good to see you back!

      I'm not sure about him but I think EVE should keep a cleanie against WBA.

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      1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        thanks, good see you as well 🙂

        I wonder if he will be as attacking as he was v norwich. His goal scoring record isn't the greatest which makes me think it was a one off?

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        1. TheSteel
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Nah, he'll be in there with Baines scoring goals all season.

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    3. Pinatta
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      no, yorkeman is the one you need

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  20. Big Dunc
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 16 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Went with Lukaku and Hazard to RVP and Barkley.... good swap on paper but am regretting it a bit now. I think the best tactic is a big 3 up front that utilises strikers that are indisputably the attacking focal point of the team, and to get this (Benteke, Giroud, RVP) I've had to savage my midfield. Knowing what you know now, What's everyone's ideal big 3?

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    1. CluckinGreat
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      RVP, Soldado Lambert

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    2. A Defender's Nightmare
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Aguero/RVP, Benteke, Soldado

      I've Aguero-Soldado-Giroud atm.

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      1. Big Dunc
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 16 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Aguero is perfect example of the type of striker I'll be avoiding this year....

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        1. A Defender's Nightmare
          • 13 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          It seems you've been burnt by him just like me last season 😉

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    3. Billy Gilmore
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Ideal is probably RVP, Aguero and Benteke, but that is just stupidly expensive. I'm quite content with my current Aguero, Benteke and Soldado though.

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      1. A Defender's Nightmare
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        ^What I said

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      2. Tommytour
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I really like that

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    4. RamaJama
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Got Aguero, benteke and Soldado.

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      1. A Defender's Nightmare
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        +1

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      2. Chrissy Waddle - 2025/26
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        ++1

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    5. Tommytour
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      RVP Aguero Sturridge 🙂

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      1. Tommytour
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Soldado over Kun long term

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    6. SC not pearls before swine
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I have Sturridge/Soldado/Giroud at the moment. I'm pretty happy with it and I think it follows your guideline. A Man City for the next two looks nice but hopefully I'll be okay in the long run. Bony/Benteke are the two names I'm most interested in as potential replacements if one of my current strikers doesn't do it for me.

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      1. Big Dunc
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 16 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Yeah that's probably the three I'd have if I wildcarded now. Steering well clear of Chelsea and City attackers this year

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  21. Carrick Doesn't Deserv…
    • 12 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    benteke up against kolo toure... I bet kolo is popping those diet pills like crazy!

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    1. Sánchez
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Agger

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  22. nibby
    • 13 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Which 3 teams is gonna keep max cleen sheet in nxt 2 GW???

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    1. Reckoner.
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Man City, Southampton & Everton imo.

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      1. boc610
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        everton? with that formation?

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        1. Reckoner.
          • 14 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Just can't see WBA or Cardiff scoring that many this season.

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    2. r0nh
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      What?

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      1. Corkyote FFS CWC Champion 2…
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Who are the maxcleansheetkeepers over the next two weeks? 😉

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    3. _nod
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      WHU MCI then STK or SOU

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  23. 1-1 at Newcastle
    • 12 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    People considering Zaba for a hit, never take a hit for a defender. Even if they do grab a clean sheet your'e only getting 2 points, not to mention yellow cards etc. Assist and Goal potential does influence many decisions but remember the likelihood is they won't. (Unless it's Ivanovic :D)

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    1. Bielsa's Bucket
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Even when he is nailed on due to injuries and plays Cardiff, Hull and Stoke? The potential for 18 + baps isn't worth it then

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      1. 1-1 at Newcastle
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I'm not saying don't bring him in... I'm saying don't take a hit for a defender. Just friendly advice.

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    2. Buck The Trent
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      You can't do the maths based on only 1 game

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      1. Jönny
        • 16 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Well said. "Never take a hit for a defender" is my least favourite FFS truism.

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        1. Scoredelario
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Especially when combined with logic about needing to recoup the 4 pts in 1 game!

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  24. The Bandit
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Damn FPL and their inspired RVP price tag.... Can't do with him, can't do without him 😐

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    1. HST
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      It is almost impossible to build a strong squad around him and god knows I've tried.

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      1. The Bandit
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Try wanting Aguero and Soldado too 🙂

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        1. Call Me Old Fashioned
          • 14 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          what is the WC mid looking like?

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          1. HST
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 16 Years
            12 years, 4 months ago

            Theo, silva, coutino, cole, Barkley

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          2. The Bandit
            • 15 Years
            12 years, 4 months ago

            I've given up on that forward line, not worth it 🙁

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            1. Call Me Old Fashioned
              • 14 Years
              12 years, 4 months ago

              Current going for RVP, Aguero and Lambert myself. With view of getting Soldado or Bony in 3/4 weeks.

              Currently have Silva, Jedinak, HBA, Nolan and Snod but not happy about it

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              1. The Bandit
                • 15 Years
                12 years, 4 months ago

                Somewhere there is mid that will score huge and allow for that fwd line but the chances of picking it in advance are slim

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                1. Call Me Old Fashioned
                  • 14 Years
                  12 years, 4 months ago

                  For now I think it is worth it, it is just as you say picking the mid price mids. HBA + Aguero can become a Sturridge + Michu later for example so it does give flexibility later down line if I get annoyed with the cheaper mids.

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            2. Optimus.
              • 14 Years
              12 years, 4 months ago

              soldado/studge/aguero for me

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              1. The Bandit
                • 15 Years
                12 years, 4 months ago

                Same 🙂

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      2. the axolotl
        • 14 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        if he was 12mil, everyone would have him. so take the team you'd have if he was 12 mil, and then take a measly 0.5mil off just 4 players.
        i have but not really convinced. time will tell i suppose

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  25. Optimus.
    • 14 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    got a lift home with Forca tonight..

    https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/7732973312/h55752D04/

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  26. gravless
    • 14 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Thanks for replies.

    Edin is a gonna.

    😎

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    1. gravless
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      *Eden

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  27. Jam on a toasted bread
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Thoughts on Fulham line up this season

    Last season, the Berbatov - Ruiz setup prove themselves to be extremely effective especially since Ruiz assisted most of Berbatov goals. If Berbatov is asked to tucked inside to accomodate Bent, expect his goal to decrease as he will be the one doing all the linking up.

    Do remember that Bent just came off a season barely playing and spent the pre-season training alone. So it will definitely take him some time to adjust to the new team.

    The signing of Parker would allow Jol to form a double pivot with both Parker & Sidwell anchoring the midfield. This would free up some of the defensive shackle on the front 4 players which would be Duff/Kasami/Taarabt/Kacaniklic on the flanks and up top with Fulham's strikers.

    A tactical switch to a 4-3-3 formation would definitely be possible as well with the double pivot of Parker & Sidwell. This would allow both Fulham fullbacks; Riether & Riise/Richardson license to bomb forward though my bet would be on Riise being allowed to move up with Riether tucking in.

    It would than be left to Ruiz/Kasami/Taarabt to take over the advanced midfielder position. Tasked with the responsibility of linking up both midfield to the final third of the pitch.

    Up front than, it would be Bent/Berbatov leading the line with Duff/Kacaniklic/Dejagah/Taarabt on the sides.

    Duff is currently their second best player after Berbatov in terms of producing the goals and assists so I coudln't see Duff being dropped for the erractic Taarabt or for Ruiz whom often neglect his defensive chorse.

    The standout fantasy choice for me atm would definitely be Berbatov/Duff and Bent once he get match fit and a cheeky punt on Risse if he's given the freedom to bomb forward with double pivot of sidwell & parker covering for him.

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    1. JJC
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Agree with a lot of this. Only problem is once Bent settles in the squad, Berbatov will be utilized deeper in the field, where he was proven to be ineffective from a fantasy perspective. Bent pushes Berbatov out of fantasy contention for me.

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      1. Jam on a toasted bread
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I doubt it will affect Berbatov much. Berbatov was the top goal scorer for Spurs in both the 06-07 & 07-08 seasons partnering upfront with both Robbie Keane and Defoe. While Robbie Keane is a different type of player as Bent, Defoe certainly is!

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    2. Costa in Wengerland
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I guess parker wud be good once hes nailed on!

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  28. Baron Saturday
    • 15 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Hazard > Silva...too early?

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    1. Tommytour
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Depends what country your in, it's quite early here

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    2. aussiegooner
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      I did it.

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    3. Twelve years a slave
      • 15 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Debatable , but its not impossible that Hazard will outscore him this week , would have to spend -4 and then get less points as well

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      1. Baron Saturday
        • 15 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Yep, fair point actually.

        Cheers all - except for Tommy 🙂

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    4. Demel
      • 14 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Its not too early if it isn't for a hit.

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  29. nevins84
    • 13 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    Is Zab rising tonight?

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    1. diz
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Yes

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      1. nevins84
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        ok now its clyne or shaw??? shaw more nailed on?

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        1. diz
          • 16 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          Shaw cause he shoudl price rise quicker, and I like him more. Both nailed on.

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      2. Oflow
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Off topic. Good music taste.

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  30. tw
    • 14 Years
    12 years, 4 months ago

    soldado vs walcott vs benteke vs sturridge for the armband is really doing my head in... 😕

    i'm guessing most of you are going soldado?

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    1. Evans
      • 13 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Dzeko for me

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    2. @FPLStrategist
      • 16 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Yep Soldado here

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      1. tw
        • 14 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        what's your reasoning?

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    3. Exilizer
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Not going with the majority may pay off. Look at Hazard this week.

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    4. The Suspended One
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      12 years, 4 months ago

      Nobody is worried about travel/rest with Sldado after today?

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      1. ACCOUNTING ON CHRIS
        • 12 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        Tottenham fielded a 1st team. Soldado came off at 70 for rest.

        Swansea also played Europa today but have a smaller squad so totts I reckon 2-0 Soldado with at least 1...

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        1. Exilizer
          • 12 Years
          12 years, 4 months ago

          He scored two tonight as well in 70 minutes. Granted the opposition was poor but he's in form and will be rested as you rightly point out.

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      2. Starvaiger
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        12 years, 4 months ago

        I've gone for Aguero

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