Technical Area

The Technical Area – Assessing United’s Midfield Versus QPR

A 4-0 thrashing of QPR helped Man United to their first win of the season under Louis van Gaal last weekend. After failing to find a way past Burnley in their previous league fixture, the Red Devils ran riot against the hapless R’s, with a trio of midfielders, Angel di Maria, Juan Mata and Ander Herrera, all finding the net on Sunday afternoon.

In this week’s Technical Area article, we cast an eye over United’s chief midfield protagonists, as Fantasy faith begins to pick up in pace ahead of the weekend trip to Leicester.

involvement

The average position map highlights Van Gaal’s midfield diamond – Daley Blind (number 17) sat in front of the back-four, while Herrera (number 21) and Di Maria (number 7) were stationed right and left respectively behind Mata (number 8).

As the stats suggest, Blind is the man who will keep United ticking over and allow their attackers the platform to flourish – on his debut, he had 130 touches, produced 112 passes and received 101 passes, second only to Jordan Henderson amongst midfielders on all three counts in Gameweek 4. With Blind protecting the defence, Di Maria and Herrera produced 105 and 101 touches respectively – significantly superior to Mata’s 51 over 67 minutes on the pitch – with the Argentine edging Herrera for touches in the final third by 36 to 30.

As the average position map shows, though, Herrera dropped deep more often and subsequently received 86 passes – more than double Mata’s 40 and up on Di Maria’s 70, before the latter made way on 82 minutes. Indeed, in terms of passes received in the final third, Herrera’s 25 was second only to Wayne Rooney (27), with Robin van Persie sitting third on 20.

Post-match, Di Maria’s distribution was criticised by his manager after the new boy gave the ball away on numerous occasions. A quick look at the numbers shows why – the South American’s pass accuracy of just 80.3% was far and away the lowest of any United outfield player, with Blind’s metronomic display registering a 95.5% pass completion, whilst Mata and Herrera also stood out with 97.7% and 90.6% accuracy.

Given their similar starting roles, Herrera’s stats suggest he could be a genuine alternative to Di Maria if Van Gaal maintains the diamond. The former Athletic Bilbao man had previously failed to create a single chance for team-mates this term in his deep-lying role, but on Sunday, not only did he mirror Di Maria’s four key passes, Herrera also produced an excellent defensive shift, winning four of eight attempted tackles – at least double the number of any team-mate.

Mata, in spite of his advanced position in “the hole”, failed to register a single key pass on Sunday. Indeed, the former Chelsea man has created just four chances for United this term – averaging 86.3 minutes per key pass under Van Gaal compared to 38.6 for the Old Trafford outfit last year. Up front, despite earning an assist in the rout, Rooney created just one chance over his 94 minutes – the same number as Radamel Falcao managed in 27 minutes and two fewer than Van Persie (three).

In terms of goal threat, Mata’s five touches in the box was just behind Rooney and Van Persie (seven and six). Although the Spaniard equaled the strike duo’s two attempts inside the box, it’s noticeable that his minutes-per-attempt average is also down from last year (44 to 69) – in spite of scoring twice in four Gameweeks, his goal threat, in addition to his creativity, has so far taken a turn for the worse under the new man in charge.

Di Maria’s growing band of owners may be a little worried by his lack of impact in the box. The Argentine failed to produce a single touch in the QPR penalty area and managed two long-range attempts in the 4-0 win, with his converted free-kick from distance a little fortunate to sneak past Rob Green. Indeed, over his two appearances for the Red Devils, Di Maria has managed just two touches inside the area, averaging an effort every 50.7 minutes and a key pass every 30.4 minutes.

Once again, Herrera’s stats are superior to the Argentine’s. The former managed two touches in the penalty area and fired a trio of attempts on goal, with one inside the box – prior to Sunday, he had failed to register a single attempt or touch the ball inside the penalty box. It remains to be seen whether Van Gaal will continue with the diamond formation, but while Di Maria and Mata owners will be relatively content with their day’s Fantasy output, Herrera definitely looks one to monitor if he can continue in the same vein.

*The Technical Area is put together using the statistics and maps available in our members area. For access to such data and tools on every player, team and match of the 2014/15 season, and for exclusive members articles like this, click here for details.

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1,104 Comments Post a Comment
  1. ViperStripes
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 9 months ago

    Quite a few regulars on, so thought I would repost my dilemma:
    Don't think I have any pressing transfers

    Krul/Foster
    (Duff), Ivanovic, Chester, VanAanholt, (Hutton)
    Ramsey, Sterling, Siggy, Fab, (Marney)
    Naismith, Rooney, Costa
    3.9m in the bank

    so options are:
    A: Save FT
    B: Foster > Forster (bench Krul)
    C: Swap out Chester to ?
    D: Naismith > Pelle

    I'm leaning to B because it's a rare week when you get chance to tinker with Goalkeeping position....and NewC getting worse by the week.

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

      Chester to Clyne, imo.

    2. Kerz
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I'd do C (and switch to Naylor). Chester has lost his place for good unless Hull revert back to their previous formation.

    3. Dr_Deej
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      A for me. Nothing pressing IMO.

    4. JT's Dog
        9 years, 9 months ago

        How much more points do you think Forster could make you over current rotation up till xmas WC?
        If it looks a decent amount I would do it.

      • Saint Steve-O (@EliteFPL)
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I'd say D if had to do one... Although yes, Chester looks to have lost hos place, but Duff is adequate cover

      • Christina.
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Play Duff(SUN) this week.

        Get Bertrand/Clyne in for Chester next week

        So, save FT

      • ViperStripes
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        So all bases covered by those replies A, B, C & D. Will go with GK switch if no new injuries later in week.

      • mod33
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Save FT Naismith has a better looking fixture than Pelle this week
        1 injury or change of formation and Chester is straight back in. I made the mistake of taking Chambers out before last GW

    5. Dr_Deej
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Anyone holding on to Balotelli? Got 1.1m in the bank and I'm thinking swap to Falcao. Maybe even (c) too...

      1. Carrick Doesn't Deserv…
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        falcao might not start, Rooney best bet still

        1. mod33
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Falcao looked sluggish when he came on. Rooney is a decent move

      2. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Man don't you wanna see him start once? Balotelli has the fix's.

        Capt DiMaria first.

      3. Dr_Deej
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I might hold on. The 2 FT's would be nice next GW... cheers.

      4. Ser Football 42
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I have Rooney and costa up top but Balo might not be a bad choice this GW with liverpools fixtures. But he hasn't done anything to impress me yet

      5. Super PVA - Small Spuds
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        So jerky

    6. mrmrscott
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      mata > di maria worth a hit?

      1. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        kinda same boat pu'd DiM and kept Mata, but when Falcoa starts, where does Mata go?

        see what happens this Sun. huh? GL

      2. Saint Steve-O (@EliteFPL)
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        No, I'd hold

      3. mod33
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Not worth a hit wait for next gw Mata will start v Leicester

      4. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        No

      5. mrmrscott
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        thanks for responses guys! really hoping Mata starts

    7. Whazza
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      What am I seeing? Moreno and Manquillo both got 2 points, didn't one get an assist and the other was fouled for the pen?

      1. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I didn't see it was, Moreno that on form? CL site had him as MoM.

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

          Only watched the highlights myself

      2. Saint Steve-O (@EliteFPL)
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Granville put up a post last night regarding UCFL not working properly or something, I don't play it, so should be rectified soon, but I'm sure someone with more knowledge can give you a more definitive answer

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

          Thanks

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

      Feels like my team is almost there. 1 FT, dont know if I should use it

      Forster-McCarthey
      Moreno-Pieters-Moore-Duff-PVA
      Sterling-Fab-Siggy-Tadic-Boyd
      Costa-Falcao-Balotelli

      0.2 ITB.
      Could do Balotelli->Pelle and Tadic-> ADM for a hit?

      1. Game of Stones
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Double up on United doesn't seem like a good idea to me

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

          So just play this team in the weekend and see what happens?

          1. Game of Stones
            • 9 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            Yeah, I would

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

        Save transfer

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

        Falcao > Rooney, then that team is just about the best available

    9. pundit of punts
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Krul - Hamer
      Terry - Clyne - Naylor- Wilson - Moore
      Fabregas - Sterling - Puncheon - Sigurdsson - Marney
      Rooney - Costa - Naismth

      1 ft and 6.7m in the bank.

      Any ideas? Puncheon on the chopping block.

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

        Wait a minute Doc...where is Ramsey?

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

          Punch->ADM

          lol

        2. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Survived without Ramsey so far. lol

          Thinking of getting him in this week.

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

            Why? Ars looks dismal. One shot on target last night. Ramsey off on 60min.

            1. pundit of punts
              • 11 Years
              9 years, 9 months ago

              Yeah. Saw the game last night. Not as confident now as I was yesterday.

              This is a real tough one.

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

                Livp/Sterling not any better at the moment...

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

        Naismith-> Kun?

        1. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Naismith has palace at home this week. So giving him 1 more chance.

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

        Mirallas or Chadli.

        1. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Over RAmbo/ADM you think?

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

            No, Ramsey über alles. 😉

            1. pundit of punts
              • 11 Years
              9 years, 9 months ago

              🙂

      4. Arvin-ation
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Mirallas,Chaldi,ADM, or Sanchez.

        1. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Pick one

          lol

          1. Arvin-ation
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            Sanchez 🙂

            1. pundit of punts
              • 11 Years
              9 years, 9 months ago

              Cheers. 🙂

      5. Carrick Doesn't Deserv…
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Ramsey

        1. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Cheers. 🙂

    10. RyanC
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Okay, so I'm puzzled as to what to do this week. Seems I change my mind every day, and still I end on 'just stick with this team for now'.

      Begovic (McCarthy)
      Clyne Lovren Evans Duff Moore
      Hazard Di Maria Sterling Sigurdsson Boyd
      Costa Pellè Balotelli

      I kind of want to ship Balo out, but I have a feeling he'll punish me. I'm also half tempted to cash in on ADM's .1 rise in my team and do ADM > Chadli and Balo > Aguero.

      So basically, much simpler:

      A.) Stick for now
      B.) Balotelli > Rooney
      C.) ADM and Balo > Chadli and Aguero

      I like a gamble in this game, as you can tell.

      1. mod33
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        B

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

        A

      3. RyanC
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Forgot to add - C will leave 1.9 in the bank to upgrade in future weeks.

      4. Ser Football 42
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I would maybe stick for at least another week. If anything maybe Balotelli to Rooney

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

          Thanks. Seems the most popular option.

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

        I really like that team, think you should stick. ADM will probably keep rising if he does well on sunday. Balotelli only one i would consider changing.

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

          Cheers. Plenty to think about.

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

      Costa's ridiculous number of chances, big chances and - most importantly - goals hints at over-reliance from Chelsea in him

      Plus - coming up against Kompany, the best CB in the PL (or world?) instead of Leicester, Burnley, Swansea and mis-shapen Everton will be a different prospect altogether

      Im not doing anything silly with him, will be playing him - but deffo wont be getting the armband

      1. mod33
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Agree I think Kompany will keep him quiet. Where as Aguero's pace in behind Terry and Cahill will be a problem

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

        Kompany the best CB in the league? 😆

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

          100000000000000%

      3. S.Kuqi
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        ManC defence didn't convice me at all against Arsenal and they conceded 2. Chelsea much better team and Costa on fire atm. Diego is best captain option if you don't have Roonpig.

      4. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        keep on smoking it.

        Wait til Haz gets some finishes and Pens. Shurrle can't score? Fab could cause YOU to score.

        Gotta say I love Kompany. God that guy just glides, but not to the top of CB stats + inj prone. You can't start 4 Kompanys. Kolarov is a sive, and if not Clichy has his hands full. That game is really far from a done deal.

        Nonetheless we can be buds, cuz Kompany is pure class.

        I''m not capt'ing him either. Should I go Adebayor or take a punt on Baines? cb

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

          im punting baines at the moment
          although Ramsey will pick Villa apart if they play the same way as they did at Anfield........

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

          + I do like Hazard... will be working him back in after chelsea's tough run of matches

    12. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Looking forward to Mark & Granville's views on Di Maria on the Scout Cast.

      1. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Indeed, I might get slated for this but I think there's better prospects un that price bracket

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

          No, I agree with you.

          1. Epic Fail
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            This

        2. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          I agree as well.

          QPR were terrible.

          1. Pap Le Cissier
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 12 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            Indeed, and I've still got Mutch...

    13. Hammers Select
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Money no object best 3 strikers to have in the game?

      1. Pork Pie Sausage Roll
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Right now: Costa Kun Rooney

        In a few weeks time I'd say Falcao instead of Rooney though

        1. Epic Fail
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          This

        2. Birds of Prey
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          That's easy

      2. Ser Football 42
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Costa. Aguero. Rooney

      3. Obi Wan Elokobi
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        At the moment Aguero Costa Rooney but I've got Falcao instead of Rooney

      4. Carrick Doesn't Deserv…
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        CAR

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

        Costa, Agüero and Welbeck/Pellè

        1. Pap Le Cissier
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Pellé over welbeck imo would be better

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

            Early doors. Happy with Welbeck for now.

        2. t4thomas
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          This with Pelle.

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

          Ulloa is also a shout for 3rd striker
          Not 100% convinced by Falcao

      6. Dr Dream
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Hard to say until we see Falcao..but maybe...Costa Falcao fixtures/form... Really don't need to tie down three striker spots.

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

      On a WC this week. Which front 7 do you prefer guys...

      A. Di Maria Sterling Ramsey Siggy Fabregas

      1. Dr Dream
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        A

      2. Arvin-ation
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I think B has more goal threat overall, so B.

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

        A

        By a mile

      4. Pork Pie Sausage Roll
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        A

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

        Haha... Look Down big gets better! 🙂

      6. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        kinda gotta go A

        what's Z like?

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

      On a WC this week. Which front 7 do you prefer guys...

      A. Di Maria Sterling Ramsey Siggy Fabregas < real cheap defence
      Aguero Costa Cheapie

      B. Sterling Di Maria Siggy Fabregas Boyd.

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

      WTF is happening.... 🙄 try last time....

      On a WC this week. Which front 7 do you prefer guys...

      A. Di Maria Sterling Ramsey Siggy Fabregas - real cheap defence
      Aguero Costa Cheapie

      B. Sterling Di Maria Siggy Fabregas Boyd. - better defence
      Aguero Costa Pelle

      1. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        B

      2. S.Kuqi
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        B

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

        B

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

        B - with Rooney over Kun for now. Baines in defence.

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

          Interesting. Hold the cash back to swap later? Already own Rooney btw.

          Baines... Hmmmm luxury pick. Not sure. Such good value around in the 5m mark.

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

            What about Falcau over Rooney then swap for Aguero...?

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

            No cash ITB.

            I am selling one of Cesc/ADM eventually to fund Rooney->Kun.

            Baines is my "fling". He ain't going nowhere.

      5. Carrick Doesn't Deserv…
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        A

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

        Yeah, B makes more sense. Cheers chaps.

        1. Birds of Prey
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          way to rally

          I will go B, and tell Carrick he's a knob.

    17. Whazza
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Any UEL teams floating around? Naismith costs 9.5 lol

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

        You playing UEL too? Wanna share your team?

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

          Just started picking, is yours ready?

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

            Got this atm:

            Neto
            Baines - Franco - Kjaer - Motta
            Mertens - Kovasic - Deulofeu
            Soriano (c) - Reyes/Roux - Michu

            Cassio - Richards - Lopes - Gullon

            Gonna WC after first games

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

              How do you know which are starters? Soriano was my first pick. Getting Kovasic or Icardi as well.

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

                It is really hard to pick a team in this game. I have been looking recent lineups and trying to predict who will start...

                and we can only see lineups from 1 game before deadline 😥

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

                  Challenging indeed.

      2. Epic Fail
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I will be playing. Haven't signed up yet.

    18. McSauce
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      What do people prefer! More players on a saturday then sunday? Or more on sunday.

      This Week:

      4 on saturday
      7 on sunday

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

        I prefer more on Sunday, but it doesn't matter lol

      2. Saint Steve-O (@EliteFPL)
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I genuinely still think of Wild Rovers tip 'always cap a player from final game'

        So for me, yes, I prefer more players on Sunday

      3. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Makes no difference, scores are still shocking for me! 😀

      4. Epic Fail
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Not particularly bothered.

      5. AriseSirGiggsy
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        i like more on saturday, always an anti-climax to wait all week and only have 2-3 players making an outing

      6. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I had never considered, but loved a comment to get a Sun/Mon if it's a wash.

        Therefore if it sucks Sat you have that C to look fwd to. Cheers

    19. Feanor
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      My planned WC team right now is.

      Krul, Given
      Shawcross, Clyne, Williams, Wisdom, Duff
      Di Maria, Fabregas, Ramsey, Siggy, Cork
      Falcao, Costa, Pelle

      I'm hoping Marney drops to 4.4m so he can be my 5th midfielder

      1. S.Kuqi
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I would get Rooney over Falcao until he is nailed to start and shows some form.

        1. Feanor
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          I have Rooney, but I feel like Falcao will be better long term so I thought I would bite the bullet now.

      2. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        You are cracked in the head with that keeper combo. Hope Cork stays nailed.

        Have you not heard of Manquillo Betrand Bardsley Wilson Davies

        sry if that was snotty. GL

    20. The Gambler.
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      does anyone post on fiso forums? just wondering if the boffins think they are any closer to solving the million dollar price rise conundrum!

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

        I was there now looking at prices...no idea...

        Siggy/hutton/ivan/naylor all 100%+....

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

        its going to be irrelevant for a long time yet

    21. S.Kuqi
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Wasted my wc 🙁 got 70 points but took much punts in my team such as Zaha,Mirallas,Balotelli,Falcao. Feck sake!

      1. Obi Wan Elokobi
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        What's wrong with them 4?

        1. S.Kuqi
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Only one of them scored last week and it was totally fluke. Much better option available.

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

        Mirallas is fine.

        1. S.Kuqi
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          You are my mentor. What to do with Balotelli? Keep one week more or get Pelle/Welbeck?

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

            Personally, I would swap. Then it depends on how you feel about Welbeck. Pelle has terrific form, and good fixtures.

            1. S.Kuqi
              • 11 Years
              9 years, 9 months ago

              Thanks.

          2. Dr Dream
            • 11 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            One more week and then Pelle sounds perfect.. Pelle is leaving him standing in the stats.

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

              Errr - Welbeck needs more matches to compare. 🙂

              1. Dr Dream
                • 11 Years
                9 years, 9 months ago

                Aye..he does..

          3. Birds of Prey
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            not wel-fix's

            IMO stick.

            If I was truly your mentor I'd tell you hump ugly chicks more often.

        2. Birds of Prey
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          week 8 on Mirallas

          you are spazzing

          Falcoa too pricey not to start--if you have Mata as I do worry there.

      3. Dr Dream
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Zaha will do very well for his budget price (a bit slow last week) Mirallas is always a good pick, Balotelli will score and Falcao could(?) be dynamite..Don't see the problem. Every one of those could(?) be amongst the top picks in the next few weeks...

        1. S.Kuqi
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Thanks Akbar. Feel much better 😀

          Keep up the good work with those stats tables.

          1. Dr Dream
            • 11 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            I like the news of Gayle being talked up by Palace..Somehow that Puncheon, Gayle, Zaha lark sounds hard work to play against...All three could do ok given the right fixtures.

      4. Big Bad Barry
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Silly punt

      5. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        It's not so bad, think it's 2-3 games early for Falcao myself, but don't be too harsh on yourself! 😀

    22. Gooner97
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      What's happening to Yaya Toure?

      1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Dropped

        Forgot to wish pellegrini happy birthday

        1. Pap Le Cissier
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          😀

        2. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          😀

      2. Big Bad Barry
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Still alive?

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

        bloated from too much birthday cake and ice cream

      4. Gooner97
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        wow

      5. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        vanishing/dematerializing like that movie where the chick has a tougher seen/fade bit.

    23. pundit of punts
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      WTF

      Where's my Moreno assist? 😡

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

        😥

      2. Saint Steve-O (@EliteFPL)
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Appears to have Bern some glitch within game, should be added

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

        This. And Manquillo winning penalty point.

    24. mod33
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      After making the mistake of taking Chambers out before last GW (waste of a FT) I'm going to keep Chester for this GW.

      1 injury or change of formation and Chester is straight back in. Also he would be on my bench anyway

      1. Kings of Lyon ★
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        If no pressing issues no harm in keeping

      2. Birds of Prey
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        not a waste Debuchy got inj--part of it.

    25. Pap Le Cissier
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Team and rank are a shambles. Right in thinking Mutch for Boyd or should I take a hit?

      Krul Mannone
      Terry Naylor Duff Ferd Wisdom
      Fabregas Eriksen Ramsey Mutch Albrighton
      Costa rooney balotelli

      Seriously thinking hits are needed to stop the rot

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

        not a lot wrong with your picks, just a bit unlucky i guess, defence looks a bit leaky tho

        1. Pap Le Cissier
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          Leaky? More tsunami! 😉

        2. Pap Le Cissier
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          How's this -4

          Mutch to Boyd
          Eriksen to Chadli

          I xan bench Ferd this week then take him out for Davies/Clyne next week

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

            arent both those transfers downgrades? got another 1 lined up afterwards?

            1. Pap Le Cissier
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 12 Years
              9 years, 9 months ago

              In price only I'd say, mutch is a disappointment, eriksen hasn't done the business but Chadli is.

              It would free up the cash for Albrighton to maybe soggy or tadic

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

            No. Terrible move, imo. 🙂

            Try this:

            Terry to Clyne
            Mutch to Mirallas

            1. Pap Le Cissier
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 12 Years
              9 years, 9 months ago

              Ooh, I likey!

              1. Pap Le Cissier
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 12 Years
                9 years, 9 months ago

                Just eriksen has also failed to deliver so far for me compared to the preseason expectations

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

                  But ... his stats have improved slightly.

                  You just have to accept that, and change it when defence is sorted.

                  1. Pap Le Cissier
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 12 Years
                    9 years, 9 months ago

                    Okay, I'll concede to the voice of reason 😉

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

                  take a look at Gibbs - back to fitness and has had a great start to the season IMO

                  1. Pap Le Cissier
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 12 Years
                    9 years, 9 months ago

                    Cheers, noted

    26. I Kante get enough of you
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Guys.. which transfer this week?
      A) Hazard to Siggy
      B) Kelly to Bertrand (worried I won't have 3 playing DEF this week)

      Begovic
      Moreno / Ferdinand / Wisdom
      Ramsey / Hazard / Sterling / Fabregas
      Rooney / Naismith / Costa
      (Hamer / Marney / Kelly / Chester)

      1 FT

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

        Save.

    27. Dogba
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Sup boys! I'm thinking save FT this GW and Costa (c). Does this make sense, or am I missing something? Who are you backing for captaincy?

      Begovic
      vanAanholt Duff Caulker
      Hazard Sterling Sigurdsson Ramsey
      Welbeck Rooney (vc) Costa (c)

      Subs: Hamer Marney Clyne Chester

      1FT 1.7M in the bank.

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

        Save yeah. Costa (c) could be up for discussion, but he's bang on form and City's defense isn't the best. Gtg

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

          Yeah. Rooney's an option, stats are terrible and might be playing deeper... Ramsey is always decent shout away, but Villa are not conceding... Sterling? No thanks. No standout options I guess.

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

            Rooney or Costa.

      2. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Not sold on bego as a cs option this season, but then again, I suppose the options are limited

      3. Kerz
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        I'm captaining Rooney myself. Costa's a great option too.
        Save FT, team's beyond solid.

    28. t4thomas
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Which plays are looking good for a few clean sheets in the short-medium term?

      Southampton?
      Stoke?

      1. t4thomas
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        *teams

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

        Saints

    29. JayBomb
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Pick one to captain need to get right after last week C-Hazard VC Costa 🙁

      A Sterling
      B Costa
      C Di Maria

      Cheers

      1. t4thomas
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        C.

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

          Thx !

    30. harrysponge
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      Ramsey to ADM for a -8?

      got 0.7 ITB

      1. t4thomas
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        NO.

      2. RyanC
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Definitely not.

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

          In fact, I wouldn't even do it for free.

          And I own ADM.

          1. harrysponge
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 9 months ago

            wouldn't his form be crucial for the upcoming fixtures?

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

              I'm just not sure about him as an FPL prospect, mate. Sure, he racked up the points against QPR, but I can't see him replicating that again too much. Just take a look at his stats on one of the tables or in the comparison tools. His average position, touches in the box, etc.

              I just think Ramsey is a better option for the price, but it's your call. 🙂

              1. harrysponge
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 10 Years
                9 years, 9 months ago

                being a gooner, dropping Ramsey is not easy haha... but having Sterling, Hazard, Ramsey, Siggy and Schneiderlin - no idea who to drop lol

                1. t4thomas
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 11 Years
                  9 years, 9 months ago

                  HOLD!

                  1. harrysponge
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 10 Years
                    9 years, 9 months ago

                    Cheers, will do!

                2. RyanC
                  • 9 Years
                  9 years, 9 months ago

                  I know the feeling! Some tough decisions this week.

                  1. harrysponge
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 10 Years
                    9 years, 9 months ago

                    a tougher decision is who to (C)... LOL Rooney or Diego Costa?

      3. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Definitely - go for it. You won't be disappointed.

      4. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        No!

      5. AriseSirGiggsy
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        again... no
        actually, you seem convinced so just do it

        1. harrysponge
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 9 months ago

          haha just tinkering... probably not worth a -8, but maybe on a free if he hasnt risen after the deadline

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

      In order to free up funds for Aguero I plan to lose Terry and Hazard for Shackell and Chadli

      which one would you do this week?

      a) Terry to Shackell
      b) Hazard to Chadli

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

        TErry

      2. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        A

      3. Arvin-ation
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        B

        Get Chadli before it's too late. Terry can wait, potential cleanie.(low but still)

    32. Backonthecoupon
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      This article reinforces my uncertainty about the value of ADM.

      He has always been a shuttler. His job at Madrid and Argentina was simply to take the ball off the defensive players, move it upfield and pass it in to the forwards to create/score. Basic but effective. In the United diamond this link job is the same - take it off Blind, carrry it upfield and get it in to someone else to create/score a goal, but with rarely progressing into the penalty area itself. Can you have that assist potential for less in Fabregas (albeit fixtures currently favour ADM)?

    33. Dr Dream
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 9 months ago

      I really like some of these bumping along the bottom punts that are emerging (budget wise)..Chadli, Zaha, Downing, Scneirderlin and co...I hope every single one pays off for those who punt on them...

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

        Especially Zaha.

        😉

      2. Pap Le Cissier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 9 months ago

        Missing HBA...