Team News
15 August 2016 1514 comments
James H James H
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Our post-week analysis of the Gameweek team sheets gets underway this afternoon as we assess the lessons learned from Saturday and Sunday’s Gameweek 1 line-ups. We roll out the first of a two-part series today, with a further ten teams to follow tomorrow.

Arsenal

Starting XI: Cech; Bellerin, Holding, Chambers, Monreal; Elneny (Xhaka 67), Coquelin; Walcott, Ramsey (Cazorla 60), Iwobi (Oxlade-Chamberlain 58); Sanchez.

  • With centre-backs Per Mertesacker and Gabriel both out injured, Arsene Wenger handed a first start to summer signing Rob Holding against Liverpool, with Laurent Koscielny, Mesut Ozil and Olivier Giroud all left out following their Euro 2016 exertions.
  • Wenger kept faith in his usual 4-2-3-1 formation, with Aaron Ramsey in the number ten role behind lone striker Alexis Sanchez. Theo Walcott (right) and Alex Iwobi (left) started out wide, while youngsters Calum Chambers and Holding formed the central defensive partnership. Francis Coquelin partnered Mohamed Elneny at the base of midfield for the Gunners.
  • After picking up a thigh problem, Iwobi was replaced by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain just before the hour mark in a straight swap, while just moments later, Ramsey had to be substituted after suffering a hamstring injury. The Welshman was replaced by Santi Cazorla, who slotted into the central attacking midfield position. Wenger’s final change saw Granit Xhaka handed his Premier League debut in place of Elneny in central midfield.
  • The extent of Iwobi and Ramsey’s injuries are yet to be discovered ahead of the trip to Leicester. Wenger revealed that Koscielny, Ozil and Giroud may feature at the King Power Stadium, although there appear no guarantees given the Frenchman is wary of the trio picking up an injury, as Ramsey did, due to less than ideal preparation. He could move Nacho Monreal into central defence should Koscielny not be risked, with Kieran Gibbs an option at left-back. Cazorla, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Xhaka will also push for starting berths.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Central Midfield, Attacking Midfield, Flanks, Lone Striker

Bournemouth

Starting XI: Boruc; Francis, A. Smith, S. Cook, Daniels; Surman, Arter, L. Cook (Gradel 82); Ibe (Afobe 68), Wilson (Grabban 68), King.

  • Eddie Howe handed a Premier League debut to Lewis Cook, while club-record signing Jordon Ibe also made his first start for the Cherries as they hosted Man United.
  • Howe opted for a 4-3-3 formation, with Lewis Cook and Harry Arter playing slightly in advance of Andrew Surman in central midfield. In attack, Ibe (right) and Josh King (left) flanked central striker Callum Wilson.
  • With his side trailing 3-0, How made a double substitution, with Benik Afobe and Lewis Grabban introduced in place of Ibe and Wilson. Grabban played down the right flank, while Afobe took over from Wilson as the central striker. Max Gradel played the final eight minutes, coming on in place of Lewis Cook, with the Ivorian playing on the left side of a four-man midfield, allowing King to partner Afobe up front.
  • After a disappointing performance, Howe could look to make a few changes for their trip to West Ham. Afobe and, in particular, Grabban made an impact off the bench, so they could push for starting roles, with Wilson perhaps looking slightly vulnerable. However, given that he scored a hat-trick against the Hammers last season, we’d expect him to retain his start. Nathan Ake may also come into contention should the Bournemouth boss look to shore up the midfield, with Cook possibly being at risk. Gradel is another who could earn a recall afer a lively cameo.

Current Status: Slight Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Flanks.

Burnley

Starting XI: Heaton; Lowton, Keane, Mee, Ward; Boyd, Jones (Jutkiewicz 87), Marney, Arfield (Gudmundsson 76); Vokes, Gray.

  • Sean Dyche chose to leave summer signing Johann Berg Gudmundsson on the bench for the visit of Swansea to Turf Moor, with George Boyd and Scott Arfield preferred in the wide positions.
  • Dyche rolled out his favoured 4-4-2 formation, with Andre Gray and Sam Vokes starting in attack.
  • Gudmundsson was the first player called upon off the bench, replacing Arfield with 15 minutes to go. The Iceland international played on the right wing, with Boyd switching over to the left. Striker Lukas Jutkiewicz was thrown on for David Jones in the final stages as the Clarets pushed for a late equaliser.
  • Dyche could look to hand Gudmundsson his first start when Liverpool are the visitors to Turf Moor on Saturday, with Arfield or Boyd dropping to the bench. Burnley look poised to complete the signing of midfielder Steven Defour over the next 24 hours, so providing he’s fully fit, the Belgian could replace either Jones or Dean Marney in the middle of the park.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Flanks

Crystal Palace

Starting XI: Hennessey; Ward, Dann, Delaney, Souare (Kelly 90); Jedinak, Puncheon (Cabaye 77); Townsend, Lee Chung-yong (Bolasie 65), Zaha; Wickham.

  • Alan Pardew decided to leave Everton target Yannick Bolasie on the bench for the home clash against West Brom, instead handing a surprise start to Lee Chung-yong.
  • Lee operated in a central attacking midfield role in Pardew’s preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, flanked by Andros Townsend and Wilfried Zaha. Connor Wickham started as the lone striker, while Jason Puncheon was stationed next to Mile Jedinak in the double-pivot.
  • With the match goalless, Pardew turned to Bolasie with his first substitution, with the DR Congo international replacing Lee in a straight swap with 25 minutes remaining. Then, after falling a goal behind, Yohan Cabaye came on in place of Puncheon.
  • While Cabaye wasn’t fit enough to start on Saturday following his Euro 2016 exploits, the Frenchman should return to the starting XI for the trip to White Hart Lane on Saturday. That could see Puncheon being moved to the number ten role, with Lee perhaps dropping to the bench. James McArthur (knee) remains doubtful for the Tottenham clash and Bolasie has now departed for Everton.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Attacking Midfield

Everton

Starting XI: Stekelenburg, Holgate, Jagielka, Funes Mori, McCarthy, Gueye, Barry (Cleverley 84), Baines, Barkley, Mirallas (Lennon 75), Deulofeu (Kone 67).

  • New Everton boss Ronald Koeman handed a debut to summer signing Idrissa Gueye for the home fixture against Tottenham, but Romelu Lukaku and Seamus Coleman were ruled out due to heel and ankle injuries respectively.
  • The Dutchman opted for a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Phil Jagielka and Ramiro Funes Mori joined by youngster Mason Holgate in the three-man backline. James McCarthy was used in the unfamiliar position of right wing-back, with Leighton Baines on the opposite flank. Gueye joined Gareth Barry in central midfield, with Ross Barkley and Kevin Mirallas in central attacking midfield positions behind “false nine” Gerard Deulofeu.
  • Deulofeu was the first player to be sacrificed, as Arouna Kone replaced the Spaniard in a straight swap with 23 minutes remaining. Aaron Lennon then entered the fray in place of Mirallas, playing slightly wider on the left, with Tom Cleverley handed a brief run-out, replacing Barry in the middle of the park.
  • Koeman said after the match that Lukaku should be fit to face West Brom on Saturday, so either Deulofeu or Mirallas could drop out of the starting XI, with the former Barcelona player capable of dropping back into an attacking midfield role. New signing Yannick Bolasie offers further competition out wide or in a central support berth. While McCarthy performed well in an unfamiliar position, he could be vulnerable should Koeman change formations. Having had more time to build up his match fitness, Ashley Williams could be handed his Toffees debut at the Hawthorns, with Holgate appearing the most likely to make way.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Right Wing-Back, Attacking Midfield, Lone Striker

Hull

Starting XI: Jakupovic; Elmohamady, Livermore, Davies, Robertson; Clucas; Snodgrass, Meyler, Huddlestone, Diomande; Hernandez.

  • Caretaker Manager Mike Phelan had very few decisions to make given the lack of senior players available to him, but it was Jake Livermore, normally a midfielder, who was chosen to partner Curtis Davies in central defence as the Tigers hosted champions Leicester.
  • Phelan opted for a 4-1-4-1 formation, with Sam Clucas operating as the defensive midfielder. Robert Snodgrass (right) and Adama Diomande (left) started out wide, with David Meyler and Tom Huddlestone patrolling central midfield. Abel Hernandez led the line.
  • Given the lack of options off the bench, it perhaps wasn’t a huge surprise that Phelan chose not to make any substitutions.
  • With that in mind, and the fact Hull didn’t appear to pick up any injuries, it’s likely they’ll name an unchanged side for their trip to Swansea on Saturday. Shaun Maloney does offer a different option in the attacking midfield areas, but is probably unlikely to force his way into the starting XI given the impressive opening day victory.

Current Status: Very Settled
Risk Areas: Attacking Midfield

Leicester

Starting XI: Schmeichel; Simpson (Ulloa 83), Hernandez, Morgan, Fuchs; Mahrez, King (Amartey 68), Drinkwater, Gray (Okazaki 68); Musa, Vardy.

  • Claudio Ranieri was without the suspended Robert Huth, so Luis Hernandez was handed his Premier League debut, as was Ahmed Musa for the trip to the KCOM Stadium.
  • Musa’s inclusion in the starting XI meant Ranieri went with a 4-4-2 system, with the Nigerian partnering Jamie Vardy in attack. Riyad Mahrez and Demarai Gray started out wide, with Andy King filling the void left by N’Golo Kante in central midfield. Hernandez started alongside Wes Morgan on the right side of central defence.
  • With his side trailing 2-1, Ranieri made a double substitution after 68 minutes, with Daniel Amartey and Shinji Okazaki replacing King and Gray. Amartey took over in central midfield, while Musa moved to the left to allow Okazaki to support Vardy down the middle. As a final roll of the dice, Leonardo Ulloa was thrown on for Danny Simpson, but the Foxes couldn’t find a late equaliser.
  • Huth will be available to face Arsenal on Saturday after serving his suspension, so he should replace Hernandez at centre-back. Summer signing Nampalys Mendy wasn’t included in the 18-man squad on Saturday, but should he be fit, he could challenge King for a starting berth. Gray’s unconvincing display could see Musa switch to the left, with Okazaki behind Vardy, though Marc Albrighton could also come into contention for a starting berth.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Centre-Back, Central Midfield, Left Wing, Support Striker

Liverpool

Starting XI: Mignolet; Clyne, Lovren, Klavan, Moreno; Lallana (Origi 75), Henderson, Wijnaldum (Stewart 88); Mane, Coutinho (Can 70), Firmino.

  • Jurgen Klopp handed debuts to Ragnar Klavan, Georginio Wijnaldum and Sadio Mane for the trip to the Emirates, while Jordan Henderson and Adam Lallana were favoured in midfield over Emre Can.
  • Klopp rolled out the 4-3-3 formation. Henderson was stationed in the defensive midfield role, with Lallana and Wijnaldum operating slightly further forward. Philippe Coutinho (left) and Mane (right) flanked Roberto Firmino in the “false nine” role.
  • After suffering with cramp, Coutinho was replaced by Can with 20 minutes remaining. Shortly after, Divock Origi was introduced in place of Lallana, with the Belgian taking over as the lone striker, moving Firmino into a slightly deeper attacking midfield role. Kevin Stewart came on for Wijnaldum for the final few minutes to help see out the 4-3 victory.
  • Klopp revealed after the match that Coutinho suffered no injury, and the Brazilian should be okay to start at Burnley on Saturday. Alberto Moreno’s poor performance means James Milner could come into contention to start at left-back should the England international recover from a heel injury.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Left-Back

Man City

Starting XI: Caballero, Sagna, Stones, Kolarov, Clichy (Iheanacho 81), Fernandinho, Silva (Delph 64), Sterling, De Bruyne, Nolito (Jesus Navas 59), Aguero.

  • Pep Guardiola handed immediate debuts to John Stones and Nolito, but Nicolas Otamendi was only named among the substitutes having been struggling to overcome a tendon injury. Kevin De Bruyne was a slightly surprising inclusion given his late arrival back to pre-season following his Euro 16 exploits. In goal, Willy Caballero was preferred to England number one Joe Hart.
  • Guardiola started the match with a 4-1-4-1 formation, with David Silva and De Bruyne operating slightly in advance of Fernandinho in central midfield. Nolito (left) and Raheem Sterling (right) started high up the pitch, with Sergio Aguero the lone forward. Stones was partnered by Aleksandar Kolarov at the heart of the defence.
  • Nolito was the first player to make way, with the Spaniard being replaced by his compatriot Jesus Navas just before the hour mark. Navas played on the right wing, with Sterling switching over to the left. Shortly after, Fabian Delph came on in place of Silva, seeing City switch to more of a 4-2-3-1, with Delph sat alongside Fernandinho in central midfield, allowing De Bruyne to move forward into the number ten role. With the scores level at 1-1, Guardiola threw on Kelechi Iheanacho for Gael Clichy as the former Bayern Munich boss searched for a late winner.
  • Should Otamendi be fully fit, he may challenge Kolarov for a starting berth alongside Stones in central defence for Saturday’s trip to Stoke. Nolito had a fairly quiet match against Sunderland, so Navas may have the opportunity to earn a starting spot, while Fernando or Delph could provide additional bite in midfield against the Potters.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Central Midfield, Flanks

Man United

Starting XI: De Gea; Valencia, Bailly, Blind, Shaw; Fellaini, Herrera; Mata (Mkhitaryan 75), Rooney (Depay 89), Martial (Schneiderlin 85); Ibrahimovic.

  • Jose Mourinho handed Premier League debuts to Eric Bailly and Zlatan Ibrahimovic for the trip to Bournemouth, but fellow new boy Henrikh Mkhitaryan was only named among the substitutes.
  • Mourinho used his favoured 4-2-3-1 system, with Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini at the base of midfield. Juan Mata (right), Wayne Rooney (number ten) and Anthony Martial (left) formed the attacking midfield trio behind lone striker Ibrahimovic.
  • With the match as good as won, Mourinho introduced Mkhitaryan, Morgan Schneiderlin and Memphis Depay off the bench during the final 15 minutes, with Mata, Martial and Rooney making way.
  • Both Chris Smalling and Paul Pogba missed yesterday’s clash due to suspension, but the pair will be available for Friday’s home encounter with Southampton. Both have had disrupted pre-seasons though, so it’s not a sure thing they’ll come straight into the starting XI. Daley Blind, and one of Herrera or Fellaini would appear the likely players to make way. Jesse Lingard missed the 3-1 victory due to a foot injury, but he could be available to face the Saints, so Mata’s starting berth reamains in doubt, with Mkhitaryan another option in that position.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Centre-Back, Central Midfield, Right-Wing

1,514 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. The UnderAcheivers
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Should I use my free transfer this week to get Silva out for a Liverpool midfielder? And if so, which one?!

    1. MoeZe3bi
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I still trust firmino

    2. LC1
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      In Firmino we trust

    3. Emp
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Mane for me

    4. The UnderAcheivers
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      So do you guys think I should use my free transfer or hold silva for now

  2. BON
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    How is Bolasie worth £25m?

    How?

    How?

    HOW?

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

      Taxes mostly..

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

    Vardy owners, have you considered that he'll be back on penalties if Mahrez does actually leave? There's two Gameweek's left until the transfer window closes. Two games Vardy could easily score in.

    1. Jazz!
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Mahrez is not leaving

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

        But he could.

    2. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      By the time that happens I'll definitely want rid 🙂

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

      Seems outrageous to hold a player on the condition that his team-mate leaves the club. Either you have confidence in Vardy scoring goals, or you don't.

      If I owned Vardy, I would keep him for one more week.

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

        I said that his next two fixtures are ones he could easily score in.

        I think for people who are tempted to ditch him, it would be a better idea to hold off for a few weeks first.

    4. meerlight
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I've not really considered shipping vardy, but your concern for my team is appreciated 🙂

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

        Nor have I. 🙂

    5. Emp
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      im keeoing for the first five arsenal and pool good fixtures for leicsetr counter attacking style and youd hope they can break down burnley and swansea at home ... Vardy easily could have had a brace on a nother day and then we wouldnt even be worrying about the pens

  4. Iceball
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Give Sanchez a chance or get Liverpool mid instead? I guess 2ft next week could be handy with better view of things.

    1. Costa's Counsellor
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Wait on, lad.

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

      you've really thought this through, haven't you?

  5. Enzo the Baker
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Posted this last night and it let to a nice discussion IMO, so I'm putting it up again with some changes if anyone would like to weigh in on this.

    Early thoughts on Kane vs Ibra for captain GW2 ? (assuming you don't go with Kun due to midweek fatigue, away at Stoke etc). I'm currently swinging towards Ibra, but trying to keep an open mind.

    Ibra :
    + Home debut for utd, on direct FKs as seen today, full BPS if he scores
    + Owned by 42% : second highest in the game

    - Sot'n have a solid defense, and VvD & Fonte are good in the air
    - Utd have a poor record against Soton at home recently (2/2 losses)

    Kane :
    + Averages 20.8 min per chance at home last season : only Aguero better
    + Palace look poor and esp. if Bolasie moves : Spurs should dominate midfield
    - Kane has lower ownership at 19% and many unlikely to captain him after GW1 performance. So even if he gets a haul and you don't captain him - you will climb in OR

    Key questions :
    - Does Janssen help or hinder Kane's output ?
    - Is the "Dembele effect" real ?

    1. Badger Badger Mushroom Mush…
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Personally, if I had both I'd go with Ibra.

      1. Enzo the Baker
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Yeah looks like the better choice, and with the Fonte to Utd rumors doing the rounds, might seal it.

        Gotta feel for Southampton though, sad if they let him go.

    2. Worzel Gummidge
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Both are not looking too good so would be tough picking any of them if I had them. I would probably go Kane because of opposition

    3. Costa's Counsellor
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Ibra scored more points last week therefore he's miles better at football and Kane is rubbish.

      End of.

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

        Let me take a wild stab, you don't own Ibra?

        1. Costa's Counsellor
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          I don't own Ibra.

    4. PurpleCobras
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Not so sure on the Kane positive points - Kane's stats were brilliant for the majority of last season but he ended poorly, had a bad Euros and did nothing this weekend. So in the shorter term his form is awful.

      Palace do look poor but I can't imagine Bolasie leaving will make them any less solid.

      I'm not fully sold on Ibra captain but I would pick him over Kane at this point in time. As a sidenote, I'm wondering whether Mahrez (against a dire Arsenal defence) or Hazard (depending on what he does tonight) might be better captain shouts.

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

        Im capping firminho

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

          Firmino could also be a good shout!

      2. Enzo the Baker
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        You make good points on Kane's recent form and stats - I don't even want to look at the last 4-6 gameweeks of last season : I'm sure it will put me off Kane 🙂 I'm interested to hear your thoughts on the effect of Janssen and the absence of Dembele, although we don't have much recent data on that.

        Have pencilled in a Hazard transfer & captaincy for GW3 (BOU) so will wait and watch on that one. Mahrez I'm not sure about, we expect Kosc back this weekend right ? And Arsenal will surely react to conceding 4 goals with a more solid approach - Cazorla controlling the mid after he came on probably indicates he will start this weekend.

        Looks like Ibra for me.

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

          I'll leave it to the people more in the know than me with regards to Janssen and Dembele!

          Haz transfer then sounds like a sound move, and admittedly Mahrez captaincy also is flawed. Zlat will probably be my pick, but the tiny amount of maverick I have in me is tempted to look elsewhere.

          1. Enzo the Baker
            • 12 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Cheers, and good luck with your choice this week !

  6. Badger Badger Mushroom Mush…
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Thinking about transferring;

    Diomande > Gray
    Rondon > Aguero
    Snodgrass > Hazard.

    And a few more, for the crack. 24 point hit.

    Thoughts?

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

      24 point hit? 😆

    2. Costa's Counsellor
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Love it.

    3. Woy of the Wovers
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Diomande > Zlatan instead. Looks good otherwise

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

      If you're going to take a mammoth hit, you need to bring Capoue in.

      1. Bleach †
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Do it! no-brainer come on

  7. Costa's Counsellor
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Did anyone get Capoue's points?

    1. 2EyedTurk
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I will, just because I had Fischer starting!

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

      1st sub, my last hope is Hazard noshow

      1. Badger Badger Mushroom Mush…
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Or 2x goals from Haz

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

          Like 🙂

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

      I started Capoue

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

      Just a confirmation that he was probably the right 4.5m to choose.

  8. PlayPercentage
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Anyone dropping Aguero yet?
    Scored a penalty, but apart from that City had few chances.
    And the team seem to be a bit perplexed by the tactics required for Pep's "philosophy".
    Zlatan, or even Rooney could be better value forwards over the next few games.

    1. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Not a chance

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

      It's been one game...

    3. Badger Badger Mushroom Mush…
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      This is the 4th or 5th comment I've seen from you slating City.

      Surprised you bothered putting Serg in.

      1. PlayPercentage
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Apart from the penalty, Aguero was ineffective.

        1. Every Dog Has Its Day
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          He scored a bloody goal what else do you want?!?

    4. It’s gonna Ben Mee
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Maybe after 3-5 consecutive blanks.

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

      Did you watch the game? City didn't look amazing but they showed moments of absolute class. Once they get going I think they'll be hard to stop. Plus Aguero could have had another goal - put that half volley just a bit wide.

  9. Plagued by indecision
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    A decent if unspectacular start (with Hazard to play tonight). Firmino and Tadic blanks were frustrating given their heavy attacking involvement but confident they will produce. Any suggestions on where I should strengthen? Nothing in the bank. Tempted to save the FT although considering options for Gray...

    Heaton / Jakupovic
    Friend / Stones / Shaw / Paredes / Amat
    Hazard / Firmino / Lamela / Tadic / Capoue
    Aguero / Ibrahimovic / Gray

    Thanks!

    1. LC1
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Hold out mate.. 2 FT's next week will be more beneficial for you.

      1. Plagued by indecision
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Cheers. Was my thinking too.

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

      No huge issues in that lot - be beneficial with nothing in the kitty to hold this week.

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

      Good team. You're genuinely unlucky Tadic and Firmino didn't come away with attacking points. Save the FT imo.

      1. Plagued by indecision
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks guys. Much appreciated. Holding!

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

      City look weak at the back especially with their keeper flapping around like it's Sunday league. Would shift stones

  10. The Curse of Falcao
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Fischer was the only player who didn't play in my team, which 5.5 or less MID should I go with after that mare?

    1. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Januzaj!

      1. The Curse of Falcao
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Thinking that is a great shout, but still so skeptical about him :S

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

      Jordan Ibe looked good

      1. The Curse of Falcao
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Looked decent against a good full back in Shaw

    3. Whazza
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Liked Ibe

      1. The Curse of Falcao
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Regular starter you reckon?

    4. AA33
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Ramirez

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

      Snoddy and Ramirez looked decent

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

    Afternoon all. I presume Ramsey -> Coutinho is a no-brainer right? I already have Firmino though.

    1. Worzel Gummidge
      9 years, 11 months ago

      No it is not.

      1. 2EyedTurk
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Any interesting alternatives?

        1. Worzel Gummidge
          9 years, 11 months ago

          I would hold and reassess after next GW with 2 FTs.

          1. 2EyedTurk
            • 11 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            Far too sensible a suggestion 😉

    2. Whazza
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I would prefer Mane

      1. 2EyedTurk
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Yeah me too actually, but not sure I can get the extra cash.

    3. Emp
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      ramsey out this week?

      1. 2EyedTurk
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        I think so, talk of him missing Wales' next match as well, could be 3 weeks out at least if so

  12. Worzel Gummidge
    9 years, 11 months ago

    FPL down again. They are a bloody joke.

    1. Mata-Is-The-Juan
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Maybe they running updates? One can hope.

    2. Shifty
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      site's a mess on mobile too. clicking to see a players score is impossible 😆

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

      I don't like any of the changes they've made - really hard to navigate.

    4. bojack
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      One of the worst things about the new site is the fact that you need a large screen to see your whole team if using a desktop / laptop.

      I just don't get that at all, responsive design is a cornerstone of the modern web, the site should be adjusting to suit all screens.

  13. FPL_Sponge
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    FPL site not working for anyone else??

    1. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Seems to be down yeah

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

        maybe they're putting all the old features back. here's hoping...

    2. Rasping Drive
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Not here in Poland.

  14. FPL Maldini
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Kun or Zlatan for captain next week?

    1. Worzel Gummidge
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Kun for me.

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

      Kun

    3. AA33
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I am captaining Kun

    4. El-Kloppico
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Firmino?

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

    Just wanted to ask everyone:

    Those with Redmond, is he your 4th mid or 3rd Mid?

    1. Worzel Gummidge
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th.

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

        For me aswell..

    2. FPL Maldini
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th. Capoue 5th

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

        Same for me!

    3. It’s gonna Ben Mee
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th. I'm playing 3-5-2 though.

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

        how is the 3-5-2 working for you?

    4. culverwood
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th Ramirez 5th

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

        Going expensive! nice!

    5. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th

      1. andy85wsm
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Although right now he's my first mid!

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

          haha he is 4th for me as well....just like some 5.5m options, so was thinking whether he is worth being a 3rd mid or not..will wait and see

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

      In terms of price, 4th. In terms of how I value the player, 3rd.

      1. Jazz!
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Who's the 4th in terms of how you value the player?

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

          Deulofeu. I think Redmond will outscore him and Deulofeu more likely to get the chop from my team.

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

            Same here! I think we have a similar team! 😛

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

        Yeah!

    7. Mata-Is-The-Juan
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th MID here as well.

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

        seems to be the case

    8. Trae44
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      5th, in a 3-5-2 though

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

      4th

    10. AA
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th, 3rd being Tadic

    11. Sting in the Tail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      4th at the moment but if I wildcarded I might consider making him 3rd with Ramirez as 4th. Would allow Kun, Ibra and two big hitters in midfield.

  16. Daaf
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    I need to get Morgan out of my team sooner rather than later.
    Who would you replace him with, not necessarily this week but in a few weeks surely?

    Everton -> Williams or Baines
    Spurs - > Walker
    4.5

    And would you play him against Arsenal for potential attacking returns? Other defenders are Valenica - Stones - Friend - Amat.

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

      Williams

    2. Shifty
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Williams.

    3. Mata-Is-The-Juan
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Morgan > Williams is a straight swap obviously. And I'd go in for him should Koeman confirm he's starting. Take a look at the Boro defence?

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

        I got friend.

        Williams allows a straight swap and has the fixtures. Would you do it this week against WBA? I'm not too confident about City after CL game this week and Southampton looked good too.

    4. Emp
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      i would keep him for swans and burnley

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

      3 home games in his next four, including Swansea and Burnley. What's the rush?

      That said, I probably wouldn't play him this week, just because you have defenders with slightly better fixtures.

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

        Personally, I tend to not transfer defenders unless I really have to. I don't see that you do right now.

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

        There is no rush so I will hold off for now. You make valid points. I just wanted some opinions. Thanks guys!

    6. Basil1977
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I have the same problem, but i have 0.5 itb so i'm swapping for Baines as he is playing wing back, also could be on set pieces maybe pens.

  17. FPL Maldini
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Can Kun do it on a hot summery night in Stoke?

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

      I will give him the armband

    2. Badger Badger Mushroom Mush…
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      It's a morning kick off...

    3. El-Kloppico
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Going with Firmino..
      LIV have goals in their feet

  18. Henryyy
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    I miss last years fpl app for iOS, much faster!

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

      and much neater...worth paying for a good app rather than a crappy free one.

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

        Yes agree 100%

    2. delarrn
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Yeah the new one is awful. 90% of the time I can't see what players the other folk in my leagues have, and the transfer system is horribly complicated. Because of the way it works/doesn't work I ended up with Tadic in my team rather than Cazorla, who I'd finally decided on.

  19. Costa's Counsellor
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Nasty backend error. :S

    1. Irish Madridista ⭐
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      kinky.

  20. bluetiger
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Hi all, mixed GW for me. Only 42 points with Hazard still to play but on another day could have been very different. A couple of players I had in and out of the team leading up to the GW did well but such is life! Still pretty happy with my side for next week:

    Foster
    Shaw/ Stones/ Friend
    Hazard/ Tadic/ Firmino/ Townsend
    Aguero/ Vardy/ Long

    Jaku/ Fuchs/ Fletcher/ Smith

    Planning to hold Fuchs this week unless he looks like dropping in value, in which case will switch to a 4.5 that rotates well with Boro. Thoughts?

    1. No_Mo_Salah?
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Very similar team and will probably save my FT - although nervous about having no Spurs cover. Sounds sensible on Fuchs - McAuley (sat on my bench keeping Foster company this gameweek!) could be a good shout.

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

        Hmmm, cheers. Not sure I'd be happy doubling up on West Brom defence every other week... But could turn out to be inspired! No transfer immediately jumping out at me so hoping to save FT if I can avoid price drops

    2. TheGooners
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I'm in a similar spot, BlueTiger...Fuchs would be the only consideration for burning the FT but leaning towards holding out one more week. If LEI appears inept next week, it might be time to move on from both Fuchs and Vardy as my double swap...

      Valdes
      Stones Friend Fuchs
      Tadic Firmino Martial Alli
      Vardy Aguero Gray

      Jaku Capoue Wollscheid Paredes

  21. FPL Maldini
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    That West Ham back line hasn't been great has it since Cresswell got injured?

    Think Chelsea could get a few

    1. Bunk Moreland
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      West Ham are poor defensively.

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

      Yeah, that was my main concern of going with Adrian/Foster combo...hence didn't go with the same

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

      Not been the same since Demel

  22. Jazz!
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    So they cancelled UFPL to apply some big changes in FPL ... Erm where are these changes?

    1. FPL Maldini
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Not letting you see your rivals points of course

    2. TorresMagic™
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 17 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      The site changed heaps to be honest.

      1. Irish Madridista ⭐
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        for the worse.

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

          this

      2. Jazz!
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Yeah but there's so many issues. The app doesn't even work properly, rival's points sometimes disappears ... etc. Nothing has changed so much that they had to cancel UFPL. 😕

        1. TorresMagic™
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 17 Years
          9 years, 11 months ago

          Imagine how well UFPL would be running now....

          1. Jazz!
            • 11 Years
            9 years, 11 months ago

            It's like they've put so much effort into it just to make it rubbish.

    3. SuperDunny - Used to be goo…
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      No more Notes... the clowns 🙁

    4. Worzel Gummidge
      9 years, 11 months ago

      It takes a lot of effort to make something that cr@p

  23. Irish Madridista ⭐
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    I'm off, seeing Louie CK tonight! 😀

    Good luck peoples 🙂 Hope Ayew scores a tonne! 😉

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

      He's awesome! have a good laugh!

    2. Ayew Serious
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      I won't

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

        But will you start?

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

      Oh shiet, I'm so jealous 😤
      What a brilliant comedian, have a good one, mate 😚

    4. PurpleCobras
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      That's amazing, enjoy!

  24. Lew
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    HELP!

    Nolito

    Will he retain his starting position? Sterling played well and Navas got an assist when he came on. I guess we'll know more after the CL game possible.

    Deulofeu

    Will he start next GW with the return of Lukaku and only two attacking positions up for grabs between Barkley, Mirallas, Deulofeu and now Bolasie?

    Will McCarthy retain his position on the right flank? I can't imagine any of the above will replace him due to their lack of defensive quality.

    1. Jazz!
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Should know more after the CL game, I think he'll keep his place. Navas is poop.

      Deulofeu should start next GW.

    2. FPL Maldini
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Wait and see .....(your rank vanish)

    3. Every Dog Has Its Day
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Yes he will most likely retain his place.

      1. Lew
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Who do you think will lose their place then? Mirallas?

  25. Rains of Castamere
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Twitter rumours but a usually decent source: Ramsey out for two months.

    1. Worzel Gummidge
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Walcott wagon

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

      Source?

      1. Every Dog Has Its Day
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        His mates brothers friends uncle.

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

          Can't argue with that then 😯

    3. Jigger & Pony
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Iwobi nailed

  26. delarrn
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    None of my midfielders came in with the points, but they're worth sticking with IMO. Is it worth using my FT this week to bring in Amat instead of Paredes (my only 4.0 defender), or should I save it on the basis whichever I have is going to be on the bench?

    1. Worzel Gummidge
      9 years, 11 months ago

      If you want play Amat this GW then save and have 2 FT next week.

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

        It would be a decision between playing Amat (Swa v Hull), McAuley (West B v Everton) or Ibe (Bour v West Ham). What dya reckon?

  27. Smythe
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    Who will take Arsenal's next penalty?

    1. Jazz!
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Giroud but they rarely get any.

    2. FPL Maldini
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Cazorla?

      1. Jazz!
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Ah forgot about Cazorla.

    3. Duck Dickworth
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Wenger 😉

    4. thattreblefeeling
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Cazorla if OTP

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

        I forgot about this!

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

      Ozil or Giroud

      1. El-Kloppico
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        Ozil?
        Then I should own the oppositions GK.. a guarantee save..

        Anyway.. Cazorla is 1st on penalty

  28. Duck Dickworth
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    How much more fun it would be with a user friendly FPL and app...
    Someone should consider a new career..

  29. George Sillett
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    43 with Hazard , Costa and Ayew tonight to save the GW.

    1. Jazz!
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      Go Hazard and Costa !

  30. Shteve
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 11 months ago

    is fiso's crack the code still the most reliable place for price rises??

    The %'s seem a bit low to me but maybe that's normal after only 2 days?

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 17 Years
      9 years, 11 months ago

      CTC was terrible last season.
      fplstatistics.co.uk and http://www.fantasyfootballfix.com/live/ were much better.
      We will only know when changes occur.

      1. Shteve
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 11 months ago

        thanks, will have a look on there