Great Expectations

Great Expectations – Erik Lamela

Our pre-season series returns to gather up a collection of players who carry the weight of expectancy going into the new campaign. These are targets who are expected to kick-on and grow in stature over the course of the coming season and it begins with a suitable prospect down at the Lane: Tottenham playmaker, Erik Lamela.

Snapped up by Andre Villas-Boas last summer after the departure of Gareth Bale, the Argentine arrived amidst much fanfare after finishing the 2012/13 campaign as fifth top scorer in Serie A, with 15 goals and five assists in 33 appearances for AS Roma.

It’s fair to say that Lamela failed to live up to the hype in a hugely underwhelming debut year. Over the course of an injury-hit campaign, he managed a total of three starts and six sub appearances under both Villas-Boas and his replacement Tim Sherwood. In those 361 minutes, the South American mustered a mere eight attempts on goal and created just six chances for others.

After a similarly difficult start, fellow new boy Christian Eriksen found his feet as a result of Sherwood’s attack-minded approach. The Dane served up seven goals, eight assists and 20 bonus points in his subsequent 18 appearances (an average of 6.4 points per game) over the final five months of 2013/14 to underline his capabilities as a prime Fantasy midfield asset.

So far, Eriksen’s exploits have persuaded over 14% of Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers to snap him up – the ninth most popular pick so far. Despite being identically priced at 8.0, Lamela’s debut year has clearly proven a major deterrent; just 2% of managers have been willing to bring the South American into their five-man midfields. Despite that, there is growing evidence to suggest that Lamela could potentially emerge to challenge Eriksen’s output and finally live up to his billing as a goal-getting midfielder of some stature.

Key Factors

    • The arrival of Mauricio Pochettino seems to have quickly transformed Lamela’s summer form. With his compatriot at the helm, the Argentine looks a different player and, with three goals to his name, he’s Tottenham’s top scorer in pre-season so far; Eriksen, on the other hand, has relied on set-piece duties to bag his first of the summer in a 6-1 trashing of Celtic. Fundamental to Lamela’s form has been a shift in position – previously utilised out wide, he’s been afforded the role in “the hole” in recent matches and has been far more involved in his side’s attacking forays.



    • Furthermore, Lamela has backed up the idea he’s a confidence player. Despite his lofty price tag, the playmaker (when fit) was never afforded the chance to shine under either of Tottenham’s managers last term and cut a dejected figure on the rare occasion he entered the fray. After a recent friendly match, the South American confirmed he’s finally over his injury problems and is mentally refreshed for the campaign ahead:

      “I had an unfortunate injury last season that kept me out of play for quite some time. In the same way, it’s helped me emotionally and morally to get better and work harder towards this season.”


    • Pochettino’s impact on Southampton’s attackers highlights how his high pressing game is suited to the English top-flight. Adam Lallana was transformed into one of the most sought-after Fantasy midfielders in the game last term, earning 179 points in his one full season under Pochettino compared to 93 points in the previous campaign, while Jay Rodriguez scored 152 points before succumbing to knee ligament damage in April. Providing he keeps clear of the treatment room, then, Lamela could be poised to benefit from Pochettino’s tactics and finally become a legitimate Fantasy contender at the second time of asking.


    • Pochettino’s arrival will ensure Spurs move away from the two-man frontline employed by Sherwood from December onwards last season. With a 4-2-3-1 on the cards, then, there’s too much uncertainty surrounding the new manager’s preferred option for the lone forward role to gamble on their frontmen right now. There’s no doubt Emmanuel Adebayor impressed under Sherwood last time, though it remains to be seen whether he possesses the work-rate to lead the line in a high-pressing side, making investment in the midfield a safer route for now. With form on his side, Lamela is staking a real claim for consideration over Eriksen and with West Ham, QPR, Sunderland and West Brom in the first five, has the potential to be a deadly differential over the first few Gameweeks.


    • After last year’s disappointment, it’s easy to forget Lamela’s capabilities. Further assessment of his 2013/13 season in Serie A shows he fired 86 shots – an average of 2.6 attempts per game was bettered by only two midfielders in the Premier League last season, Yohan Cabaye and Philippe Coutinho. Despite being fielded out wide by the Italian outfit, Lamela also chipped in creatively – a total of 56 chances created equates to 1.7 per appearance; on a par with Cabaye and team-mate Emmanuel Adebayor in the previous campaign.

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2,822 Comments Post a Comment
  1. ameenkw
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    How does this team look like?

    Krul - Foster
    Debuchy - Ward - Cameron - Chester - Taylor (swa)
    Sanchez - Ramsey - Eriksen - Odemwengie - 4.5
    Rooney - Costa - Jelavic

    my concerns:
    no Hazard
    Odem or Arnauto (he's in penos)
    Eriksen or Lamela

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    1. Gaffers
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      http://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2014/08/05/daily-rmt-discussion/

      RMT's are all here now, just follow the link and post away

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    2. Poseidon. Not arrogant, jus…
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Like it's in the wrong place.

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    3. Respect My Authoritah
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      2 too many Arsenal there imo. Siggy over both

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      1. Respect My Authoritah
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Over both the stoke lads. And Lamela

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  2. A.T
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Talking of polls, how's the RMT thread going down?

    a) good
    b) bad
    c) not arsed either way

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

      I really like it. Pop in there to get/give some advice and then come here for some "higher quality" conversation.

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    2. Gaffers
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Do you mean 'Rate My Rate My Team...thread'?

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      1. A.T
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        that's the one

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    3. Evans
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      A) excellent idea

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    4. Podge
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      A

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    5. Ben Mee Over A Table
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      a) simply for the fact that it has made the pace of the comments on this article much slower, allowing more depth to each post people make.

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    6. Leelas legs 11
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Much better 🙂

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  3. Make United Great Again
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    A. Luis and Bojan (who isn't rated on this site)
    B. Debuchy & Austin

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    1. The Rock
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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    2. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      A

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      1. Make United Great Again
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Not any clearer 😀

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    1. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      yes please

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  4. SG8
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    anyone going for 5 rotating cheapies at the back? If so who have you gone for?

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    1. Respect My Authoritah
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Clyne Mariappa PVA Coloccini Wisdom/Gamboa

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

      Currently,

      Clyne - Ward - Cameron - Van Aanholt - Wisdom

      It's not ideal though. Hoping Wilson signs for Palace.

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    3. Evans
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Define cheapie ?

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      1. Make United Great Again
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Someone who is cheap in price

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        1. Make United Great Again
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          😀

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

          Define 'cheap in price'

          Average of 4.5m imo.

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    4. Ricky - it doesn\'t ta…
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      yes

      pieters - ward - naylor - chester - mee/shackell

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  5. Rödallegabomb ᴿᴮ
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Anyone else with Begovic or a Stoke 5.0 defender having second thoughts, due to their 0% win rate pre season?

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    1. Respect My Authoritah
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I don't own one, never been interested. The Pulls effect has now fully worn off and their style of play makes them far more vulnerable than before

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

        Blackburn under Mark Hughes were pretty tight though. Stoke still have a quality defensive unit as well.

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        1. Respect My Authoritah
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          They were not! I had Samba and he didn't get many cleaniea at all

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          1. Respect My Authoritah
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            I may be confused as to when Hughes managed them, but in general none of his sides have been that solid iirc

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

              Na they were tough to break down when they had Friedel, Nelson and Neill in their pomp.

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

        I've got Cameron and am having 2nd thoughts there

        Need to find a 4th person to go with Caulker, Ward and Clyne

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        1. Rödallegabomb ᴿᴮ
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Cameron is wonderful value. Keep him. I will be having him. Its just I wouldn't spend 5.0 on a Stoke defender.

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    2. kalmoffit
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      A pre season 0% win rate eh? I must have missed the moment, when this became important.

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      1. Rödallegabomb ᴿᴮ
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Of course, pre season doesn't mean much, if anything. But I wouldn't be too optimistic that they can keep a clean sheet against bettee teams if they aren't in that form already, against weaker ones.

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  6. Honeybadger
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Rivere 4th goal preseason now... Keeping an eye on him..

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

      He's never had a particularly good scoring record.

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      1. Honeybadger
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I know, but new league, new team. It can change, why I am keeping my eye on him. Probably won't happen, but there is always "the new guy that explodes". Could be him, could be Bojan...

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    2. GREENDREAMS11
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      His goal on Sunday against Schalke was impressive.

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  7. Bubz
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Is anyone concerned that in 240 minutes of preseason, Ramsey is yet to score a goal?

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

      No.

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

      pre-season is all that matters. Just ask Mauro Boselli and Danny Graham

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      1. SG8
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        and Iago Aspas

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    3. Podge
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Savin' em up innee

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    4. Pasqualinho
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I'm just happy he's not been injured.

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    5. Rödallegabomb ᴿᴮ
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      He has looked energetic though. Got 2 assists in one game (either his last game, or the one before) and been bombing into the box, which is where he gets his goals from.

      Of course, he will have scoring droughts. I think if he goes a few games without scoring, you wouldn't care much if he got a couple of assists.

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      1. Bubz
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Yeah from what I've seen he has looked very lively indeed.

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    6. A.T
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      not at all, pre season is for getting fit, I take most of it with a pinch of salt

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      1. Bubz
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Yeah, you're right

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    7. Honeybadger
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      No, cause I don't have him 😀

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    8. Fiorentina Turner
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I'm never concerned with Lord Ramsey, he'll fire my Fantasy team to glory

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  8. cjhewitt92
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Thoughts on best midfield option for 5 mil or under.

    Also Hutton likely get game time this season, is he worth considering for 4th or 5th defence spot.

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  9. sagheerpak
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Cameroon possibility to start?

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

      I think Cameron might have a chance starting for stoke ...not sure about the country 😉

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    2. Podge
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      "The territory of present day Cameroon was first settled during the Neolithic Era." wiki
      Started ages ago mate.

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      1. Al Bundy
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Should probably be nailed on for the season too, unless Africa bring in a new player in their position

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

      Cameron is 10 times better than Bardsley imo. I don't really see why people think he's not a starter.

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    4. Fiorentina Turner
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Cameroon should start, I don't believe Senegal or Ivory Coast will really take their spot

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    5. Piggs Boson
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Cameron should be in the XI imo.

      He was their best player last season and is heavily sought after by 9 clubs. Bardsley was signed for free, and likely to be back up. Cameron even captained them the other day.

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  10. Wings Fan
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Will FPL legend Joel Ward get called up to the England squad this season?

    A) Yes
    B) No - He's not good enough
    C) No - Roy would rather select Glen Johnson

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

      C

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    2. Respect My Authoritah
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B and C

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    3. Reeker
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Think Clyne would be a better pick

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      1. Wings Fan
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I'd sooner have either of them than Johnson, and Walker has to step up a level too

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    4. Al Bundy
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      C

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    5. Fiorentina Turner
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B and C

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  11. MJ6987
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Damn, Hutton, if only I had a spare Villa slot!

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

      😆

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    2. Podge
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      😆

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    3. Mull
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      😀

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

      If only I had a spare crap player in a crap team spot

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

    A) Hazard / Austin (3-5-2)
    B) Hoilett / Costa +0.5 (3-4-3)

    A means no Chelsea cover in midfield, while B leaves me with two premium strikers, so it's easier to reorganize the squad if (when) someone fails. Can't decide.

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

      Prefer Hazard to Costa but don't like 3-5-2 particularly so B I guess....

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

        That's what makes it difficult. I prefer Hazard as well, but two premium forwards are just more flexible. Oh well, my squad keeps changing every day 🙂

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    2. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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  13. Bubz
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    On an absolute question binge tonight. How do we feel about Adebayor's nailedonness? Does Poch usually like to play with a lone striker? In which case Soldado and Ade are competing for one spot? @Doos, could you shed any light on your Ade pick? He has had the same amount of pre season as Hazard?

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

      Think they will play 4-2-3-1. No idea who will be first choice but Adebayor is the more 'complete' player and they do have Europa League to rotate. Wouldn't pick him from the off, at least not til we heard some more by next week, but could be an excellent pick and looks potentially better than Giroud, Dzeko, etc if he is a starter.

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      1. Bubz
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Yeah thought that was his preferred formation. Hmmm, on the watchlist he goes then.

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    2. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Does Soldado have to play the furthest forward? Remember him making a peach of a pass from way out on the wing last season; maybe Poch can find other ways to utilize him?

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      1. Bubz
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Not sure, Soldado doesn't strike me as the most creative of players though tbh, more of a poacher/finisher, which he has been fairly terrible at doing since moving to Spurs.

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    3. SC not pearls before swine
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Enough doubt in my heart to wait and see. Could be my week 2 transfer though.

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    4. A.T
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      He's in my team. I'm hoping Poch agrees he's the best fwd and he'll want a good start in his new job.

      Not very convicing that was it! 😀

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      1. Bubz
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        😀 . Trying to decide between Lukaku and Ade + 0.5M basically. That .5 could work wonders elsewhere. Both are inherent FPL trolls though so I'm doomed either way.

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  14. Hazard for Ballon D'or
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Nasri/silva and costa

    Or

    Dzeko and fabregas

    Which one and if a then nasri or silva.

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    1. Hazard for Ballon D'or
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I already have hazard as well.

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    2. LOCO ABREU
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      first

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  15. Doctor X
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Probably a meaningless question as I wont play either much; but for a 4.0 defender, would you pick

    A) Wisdom
    B) Moore

    And if somehow there's a conceivable explanation for your answer, can you mention that too?

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

      Hutton dressed as Lahm.

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    2. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B for a more nailed on defender. However I would go with a because if he does play they have great fixtures.

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    3. Podge
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Moore's opening fixtures are awful an a 0.1 drop could be killer so A

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    4. Hazard for Ballon D'or
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Duff if you don't have him already. Played LSD for burnley and they haven't bought a new cb yet although they are after the west brom fella

      If you have him then probably wisdom. He will play the first game or two which gives you a chance to see what ones will be playing and then you can swap.

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    5. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Wisdom is my thinking currently because he has better odds to be the highest scoring 4.0 defender come the first international break's wild card festival based on fixtures... and by then everyone wildcarding will be desperate for a 4.0 defender to jam in all the hot big hitters they can into their team.

      Also, think Wisdom will start based on current injury situation, even if he doesn't hold down a spot long term.

      And, Derby fans said he was integral to their good season last year.

      That's about all I got (and I'm hoping I remember right that he played for Derby last year good doctor)

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      1. Doctor X
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I've already got Duff pencilled in. This was to be my last 4.0 defender.

        It looks like Wisdom is the better pick in terms of fixtures and immediate nailed on-ness, Gamboa looks like he might take some time to be brought into the fold as he hasnt trained or played a single game since the World Cup ended if I'm not wrong.

        Thanks everyone, and you too fellow Sheikh 😉

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  16. Parm
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    OOP defender alert.

    Alan Hutton operating as a right wing-back for Villa, must have at £4.0m, going like hot cakes!

    *Disclaimer: Unlikely to start unless Bacuna is paralysed from the waist down.

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

      He's actually being favoured to Bacuna at the moment I believe; that's what Littlewizard said anyway.

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

        Lambert needs sacking then. 😆

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    2. Al Bundy
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      And unlikely to perform given that
      A) He is absolute rubbish
      B) Aston Villa are close to being absolute rubbish
      C) He will probably be suspended within gw3 (given Bacuna has lost a leg)

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    3. Parm
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Honestly though, i'm a bit pissed Bacuna is classed as a midfielder, obviously that's his primary position, but he played right-back all last season.

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    4. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      that disclaimer is a bit rough

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  17. La Roja
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    A) Sanchez Yaya Austin

    B) Ramsey Costa Eriksen

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    1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      A for me deffo

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    2. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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

      B

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    4. Doctor X
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B seems safer overall; but as I type that, I realize that I have both Sanchez and Austin in my team 😯

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    5. Sadio
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B by the length of the Indian Ocean

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    6. Blue Lion
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      A

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

      Ayyyy

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    8. XhakaCan
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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    9. Jimjam
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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  18. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Best defender for 5 million?
    Clyne
    Hangeland
    Ward
    Caulker

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

      Ward or Clyne imo. Palace can be covered by Mariappa at the moment though.

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    2. Polaris - The Mortal Coil
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Ward
      Clyne
      Caulker
      Pieters
      C.Davies

      In that order.

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

        I'd put Caulker last personally but there's really not much in it. Ward, Clyne, Pieters, Cavies, Caulker.

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        1. Polaris - The Mortal Coil
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Expect them to be more solid than most people think.

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

            Yeah might be with the 3-4-1-2 system, may warrant investment.

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    3. LOCO ABREU
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      clyne better fixtures

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    4. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Clyne

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    5. Fiorentina Turner
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I think Ward. Will play alot of mins and his team will keep over 10 CS at least. Caulker is a bigger goal threat but I don't know how well QPR will be defensively

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    6. Gaffers
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I like Trippier as a punt, but nobody agrees with me.

      14 assists and 2 goals last season;
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxwZOT3hRpA

      Hardly great defending in most, but they're all from open play, he just loves putting the ball into the danger areas.

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      1. Towsor44
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        He's in my team at moment, but I do keep looking and think, whoa, 5mil for a Burnley def

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        1. Gaffers
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Ya never know, might be like the last time Burnley entered the EPL - beat Man U (I think) and sat at the top for a short period, before collapse and relegation. Just remember to sell before that happens...

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      2. Yagermeister
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I've had him in and out of my team, but 5.0 for Burnley probably keeps him out.

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    7. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Clyne for weeks 2 to 12 stand alone

      Ward and Caulker for a rotation for the first 1/3 of the season

      Ward for the season to stand alone

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

    best 4,5 defender to go with

    Clyne, Ward and Caulker

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    1. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Clyne

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

        Clyne? you mean the 5.0 defender I already have?

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        1. 50shades of o'shea
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Soz I didn't read correctly 😉 chester

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

        lol

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      3. Polaris - The Mortal Coil
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        You misunderstood the question.

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

      Cameroon

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

        Cameroon? Why did Ivory Coast have to be 5.0 😡

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

        This.

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    3. LOCO ABREU
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      naylor?

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

        I think it's between him and Cameron

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    4. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Colo or Chester

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    5. Blue Lion
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Sunderland defender or Swnasea defer.
      PvA perhaps...or Naylor.

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    6. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Chester and I'd chuck in NTaylor because weeks 2 & 3 look good before the int'l break wildcard festival

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  20. JPeg
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    1. If the premier league was starting tomorrow who would start up front for QPR?
    2. When the premier league starts in ~2 weeks, who will start up front for QPR?

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

      Austin

      Austin

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

      1. Austin, Zamora
      2. Austin, Remy

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  21. LOCO ABREU
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Ulloa goal

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    1. Towsor44
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Uh-oh-a. Had him in and out as my cheap 3rd striker

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  22. Respect My Authoritah
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    If u remove Caulker, u can fill in the last 3 spots with Sunderland, Newcastle, West Brom for a peach of a 5 way. Requires a transfer gw12 to sell Clyne to QPR/Spurs/Swansea

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    1. Respect My Authoritah
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      @ JK

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

        I have Vert taking up one spot

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    2. LOCO ABREU
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      maybe a good idea

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    3. Blue Lion
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Puffin not working?

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      1. Respect My Authoritah
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Haven't got round to it yet. I shall before the season begins!

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

      Sunderland, Newcastle, West Brom, not the most reliable of defences though

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  23. Twelve years a slave
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Last season went into the season with

    Cortinho"......disaster
    Miralas".........disaster
    Soldado well not quite disaster

    And a few other lame ducks

    But after two weeks was in the top 2k despite having half my team not contributing.
    You cant expect them all to perform , despite spending weeks agonising over every spot.
    Its more important to have those one or two players that really explode.
    Think last two seasons it been ivanovich for me

    Problem is none of us can really predict who they are going to be.

    What im trying to say is dont be afraid to try differentials because most of the
    Popular picks are likely to fail early on

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    1. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      How many would you suggest trigger

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      1. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Just pick who you fancy and dont worry about what others are doing, just make sure your selections are actualy playing

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    2. Parm
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      So just because a player is popular he's likely to fail. Ok then.

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      1. jimski
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I don't think that's what he's saying. He's saying nobody is really sure who will do well, so popularity doesn't indicate that they are must haves, or that they'll do any better than similar unpopular players.

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

      It's a bit different when there's a DGW though.

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

        Yeah then you should avoid all affected players like the fecking plague, if my experience last season is anything to go by!

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    4. Bubz
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      What big guns are you building your team around then Trigger?

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    5. Heels_Over_Head
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      yeah... whatever... who were the other players you started with? list them all or its nonsense and out of context

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    6. Sigga -Cardiff City-
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I agree and disagree

      for the month part they are popular picks because they're the least likely to fail haha

      but I also think just picking who you think will score well is good too.

      All aboard Tadic bandwagon after he scores & assists vs L'Pool

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      1. Sigga -Cardiff City-
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        *most part

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    7. Fabreghastly
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      ...and then plummet in price forcing you to rush transfers you don't want to make

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    8. kalmoffit
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Harsh about Mirallas.

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      1. Twelve years a slave
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I have a theory the more skilful players take longer to get going than the hoof it up the field types as match sharpness takes a lot longer to arrive than physical fitness
        But what do i know , my stalkers would say very little

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  24. Doctor X
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Another defensive conundrum. Sorry for the 2 quick posts in succession.

    What's the status on Mariappa, is he safe to get at the moment? I'm down to 2 options.

    A) Krul/Elliot + Ward
    B) Begovic/Gilks + Mariappa

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    1. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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    2. Blue Lion
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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

      B

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      1. Doctor X
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        So the consensus is that Mariappa will start?

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    4. Beavis
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B at the moment

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

      b for now

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  25. Smarty Pants
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Anyone going for Agbonlahor for the first 3 games?

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

      Not me but I think he will do well. Not a big fan of cheap strikers.

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

        You going to be running the site this season?

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        1. Smarty Pants
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Haven't decided yet, I think I'll definitely do something from time to time, although I'm afraid I won't be able to run it on a regular basis. We'll see.

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

            Ah that's a real shame, always looked forward to see the stats for the week when the GW started/ended.

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      2. Smarty Pants
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        What's your forward line Beavis? I'm struggling to get three expensive strikers that I'd be confident in and keep the team balance.
        I think it's not a big deal, a cheap striker and an expensive midfielder can be easily transformed into an expensive striker and a cheap midfielder once the season starts and we get a better idea who is who. Just need to make sure that Agbonlahor is a viable pick 🙂

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

          Currently on Rooney, Dzeko and deciding between Giroud, Remy and Pelle (currently Remy).

          Template on here seems to be Rooney, Costa and Dzeko though and Siggy in midfield to allow for some cash..

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

    A) Lukaku & Hazard
    B) Costa & Sterling

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    1. 50shades of o'shea
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      B

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  27. SilkySkills
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Rodwell for 5m?

    will he be a starter?

    where will he play?

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    1. LOCO ABREU
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      deep mid avoid

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      1. SilkySkills
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Thanks

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

      You missed off the fourth question

      "Will he be injured ? "

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    3. Doctor X
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Wait and watch to all those questions. He's a 100% unknown quantity. We know nothing about him since he left Everton.

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    4. Polaris - The Mortal Coil
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Box to box mid. Always has been.

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

      A) Sanchez + Fabregas
      B) Hazard + Ramsey

      Seems to be that B is safer while A has more upside.

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  28. Jönny
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    New team name sorted.

    Albrighton the night.

    (Although with them both back in the Prem I suppose I could legitimately resurrect Cesc,Drogs&RocknRoll)

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    1. Limbo
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Albrighton Zat Knight?

      doesn't work, carry on.

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

        Almost...

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    2. Ron_Swanson
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Any more good ones? I am looking for a fresh name after Djenko Unchained

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      1. Ron_Swanson
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        The D is silent by the way

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

        I used Hung like a Bony last year, you're welcome to it if you like 😉

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  29. Make United Great Again
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Fek it. I'm going with Ben Davies and hoping he starts 🙂

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

      Rule 1: Pick secure players.

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

        great bit of advice...........but, i just love a risky potential. 🙂

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      2. GREENDREAMS11
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I've got 4 players who are borderline/slight rotation risks. I think the potential upside outweighs the downside, Verm is one though and my hand might be forced on that one before the season kicks off

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