Team News
29 August 2016 1531 comments
James H James H
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Next on this Monday afternoon we take a run through the team sheets and tactics for signs of lessons learned over the weekend. We get underway with the first 10 teams before rolling out part two tomorrow.

Arsenal

Starting XI: Cech; Bellerin, Holding, Koscielny, Monreal (Gibbs 74); Xhaka, Cazorla; Walcott, Ozil (Wilshere 70), Oxlade-Chamberlain (Elneny 70); Sanchez.

  • Arsene Wenger made one adjustment for the trip to Watford, with Mesut Ozil making his first start of the season, coming in for Francis Coquelin.
  • Ozil started in his usual number ten role in Wenger’s standard 4-2-3-1 formation, flanked by Theo Walcott (right) and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (left) in the advanced midfield positions. Alexis Sanchez continued as the lone striker for the Gunners, while Santi Cazorla dropped back into the double-pivot alongside Granit Xhaka.
  • Wenger made a double substitution with 20 minutes remaining, with Mohamed Elneny and Jack Wilshere replacing Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ozil. Elneny dropped in alongside Xhaka in central midfield, with Wilshere and Cazorla playing slightly in advance of the two sitting midfielders. Nacho Monreal had to be substituted four minutes later after picking up a knock, with Kieran Gibbs replacing the Spaniard in a straight swap.
  • With the signings of Shkodran Mustafi and Lucas Perez to be confirmed imminently, Wenger will have plenty of options ahead of the home clash against Southampton. The German defender could replace Rob Holding in central defence, while Gibbs will fill in for Monreal should his injury be more serious than initially feared. Perez could feature as the lone striker, although Olivier Giroud is continuing to build up his match fitness and is another option in that position, with Sanchez then likely to be moved back to one of the wide positions. That would leave one of either Walcott or Oxlade-Chamberlain at risk. Wenger also has a plethora of options in central midfield, with Coquelin, Elneny and Wilshere all available, while Aaron Ramsey (hamstring) may also be close to a return after the international break.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Left-Back, Central Midfield, Flanks, Lone Striker

Bournemouth

Starting XI: Boruc; Smith, Francis, Cook, Daniels; Surman, Arter; Ibe (Gosling 59), King, Fraser (Ake 88); Wilson (Grabban 70).

  • Eddie Howe named an unchanged side from the one that lost 1-0 at West Ham for the trip to Selhurst Park.
  • Howe did alter the shape of his side, though, opting for a 4-2-3-1 instead of the 4-4-1-1 used against the Hammers – wingers Jordon Ibe (right) and Ryan Fraser (left) were far more advanced for the Cherries.
  • For the third successive match, Ibe was substituted, with Dan Gosling this time replacing the former Liverpool man just before the hour mark. That change, with Bournemouth holding a 1-0 lead, saw Howe revert to more of a 4-3-3, with Gosling alongside Harry Arter and Andrew Surman in midfield, with King moving to the right side of the front three. With 20 minutes remaining, Callum Wilson made way for Lewis Grabban in a straight swap, while with Palace continuing to press for a late equaliser, Nathan Ake came on in place of Fraser for the final few minutes.
  • The Cherries are still struggling for inspiration in attack, so Wilson’s starting position still appears in a little doubt, with Grabban and Benik Afobe the main alternatives, while Max Gradel could push for a start in one of the wide positions. After an improved performance in general, Howe may stick with the same back four and central midfield pairing.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Flanks, Lone Striker

Burnley

Starting XI: Heaton; Lowton, Keane, Mee, Ward; Boyd, Marney (Tarkowski 72), Defour (O’Neill 57), Arfield (Gudmundsson 57); Gray, Vokes.

  • Sean Dyche unsurprisingly named an unchanged starting XI from the one that beat Liverpool 2-0 for the trip to Stamford Bridge.
  • He kept faith in his usual 4-4-2 formation, then, with Andre Gray and Sam Vokes combining in attack for the Clarets.
  • With his side trailing 2-0, Dyche made a double substitution just before the hour mark, with Aiden O’Neill and Johann Berg Gudmundsson replacing Steven Defour and Scott Arfield in straight swaps. Dyche’s final change saw James Tarkowski introduced for Dean Marney, who had picked up a slight knock. Tarkowski, usually a centre-back, was stationed in front of the back four as Burnley looked to tighten up.
  • With Dyche very loyal to his favoured starting XI, he could again name an unchanged starting XI for the home fixture against Hull in Gameweek 4. Gudmundsson does provide an alternative out wide though, with the Iceland international putting pressure on both Arfield and George Boyd for a starting spot.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Flanks

Chelsea

Starting XI: Courtois; Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta; Kante; Willian (Moses 77), Oscar, Matic, Hazard (Pedro 80); Costa (Batshuayi 80).

  • Antonio Conte only made one alteration for the home clash against Burnley, with the fit-again Willian coming in for Pedro.
  • The Brazilian returned in his usual position on the right flank, with the usual 4-1-4-1 formation looking more like a 4-1-2-3 system this weekend, perhaps due to the Blues being at home and taking on one of the lesser sides. Eden Hazard started on the left, with Diego Costa the central striker, while Oscar and Nemanja Matic operated just in front of holding midfielder N’Golo Kante.
  • With the match won, Conte introduced Victor Moses, Pedro and Michy Batshuayi during the final 15 minutes, replacing Willian, Hazard and Costa in straight swaps.
  • Providing none of his international players pick up injuries over the next 10 days, Conte may well name an unchanged starting XI for the trip to Swansea. Cesc Fabregas, Pedro and Moses do provide other options in central midfield and on the right wing, but Oscar, Matic and Willian should hold onto their starting positions.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Right Wing

Crystal Palace

Starting XI: Mandanda; Ward (Kelly 88), Dann, Delaney, Souare; Townsend, McArthur (Lee Chung-yong 66), Cabaye, Puncheon; Benteke, Wickham (Zaha 66).

  • Alan Pardew made four changes from the side that lost 1-0 at Tottenham for the home encounter against Bournemouth, with Steve Mandanda, James McArthur, Yohan Cabaye and Christian Benteke coming in for Joe Ledley, Lee Chung-yong, Wilfried Zaha and the injured Wayne Hennessey.
  • Pardew opted to change from his usual 4-2-3-1 to a 4-4-2 against the Cherries, with club-record signing Benteke partnering Connor Wickham in attack. McArthur and Cabaye combined in the middle of the park, flanked by Andros Townsend (right) and Jason Puncheon (left).
  • With his side a goal behind, Pardew made a double substitution after 66 minutes, with Lee and Zaha entering the fray in place of McArthur and Wickham. Those changes saw Pardew revert back to the 4-2-3-1, with Zaha on the right, Townsend left and Puncheon in the number ten role. Lee partnered Cabaye at the base of midfield. Martin Kelly came on for Joel Ward at right-back for the final few minutes.
  • Hennessey was ruled out with a leg injury on the weekend, and with Mandanda always expected to be Palace’s first choice keeper, the France international may now get the chance to establish himself in the side. James Tomkins is now fully fit, and after the international break could put pressure on Damien Delaney at centre-back. Should Zaha stay at the club beyond the transfer window, with Tottenham interested in the winger, he should return to the starting XI, with Wickham possibly dropping out – seeing Pardew revert back to his favoured 4-2-3-1 from the start for the trip to Middlesbrough.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Goalkeeper, Central Defence, Left Wing, Strikers

Everton

Starting XI: Stekelenburg: Holgate, Jagielka, Williams, Baines: Barry, Gueye: Bolasie (Davies 88), Barkley (Funes Mori 84), Mirallas (Kone 70): Lukaku.

  • Ronald Koeman made three changes from the side that beat West Brom 2-1 for the visit of Stoke to Goodison Park, with Ashley Williams, Yannick Bolasie and Romelu Lukaku starting in place of Ramiro Funes Mori, James McCarthy and Gerard Deulofeu.
  • Koeman started with the 4-2-3-1 formation he finished the match against West Brom with, meaning Williams partnered Phil Jagielka in central defence, with Mason Holgate playing at right-back. Bolasie (right), Ross Barkley (number ten) and Kevin Mirallas (left) formed the attacking midfield trio behind lone striker Lukaku.
  • For his first substitution, Koeman turned to Arouna Kone, with the former Wigan player taking over from Mirallas for the final 20 minutes. Funes Mori came in in place of Barkley with six minutes left to form a five-man backline as the Toffees looked to hold onto their 1-0 lead, with youngster Tom Davies was handed a few minutes at the death, replacing Bolasie.
  • With Williams and Bolasie now integrated into the side, Koeman’s preferred starting XI appears to be emerging. Seamus Coleman may not quite be ready to return against Sunderland in Gameweek 4, so Holgate could keep his starting spot at right-back for another week. Deulofeu offers an another option on the flanks, but Bolasie and Mirallas appear the first choices for the time being.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Right-Back, Flanks

Hull City

Starting XI: Jakupovic; Elmohamady, Davies, Livermore, Robertson; Huddlestone, Meyler, Clucas; Snodgrass (Maloney 48), Hernandez (Maguire 83), Diomande.

  • Following back-to-back victories, caretaker manager Mike Phelan unsurprisingly named an unchanged starting XI for the home encounter against Man United.
  • Phelan once again rolled out the 4-1-4-1 formation, then, with Robert Snodgrass (right) and Adama Diomande (left) trying to support lone striker Abel Hernandez.
  • Phelan was forced into making a substitution just three minutes into the second half, with Snodgrass forced off due to a calf injury. He was replaced by Shaun Maloney in a straight swap. With the Tigers under siege from United with the match still goalless, Phelan brought on centre-back Harry Maguire in place of Hernandez, forming a five-man backline, while Diomande moved to the lone striker role.
  • Snodgrass is a doubt for the Gameweek 4 trip to Burnley, so Maloney will be on standby should the former Norwich player be ruled out. Otherwise, it’s only new faces arriving at the KCOM Stadium that are likely to see further changes to the Hull side.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Right Wing

Leicester

Starting XI: Schmeichel (Zieler 57); Simpson, Huth, Morgan, Fuchs; Mahrez, Drinkwater, Amartey, Albrighton (Musa 75); Vardy, Okazaki (Ulloa 80).

  • Claudio Ranieri was forced into making one alteration from the side that drew 0-0 against Arsenal for the home clash against Swansea, with Daniel Amartey coming in for the injured Nampalys Mendy.
  • Amartey started alongside Danny Drinkwater in centre midfield in the usual 4-4-1-1 formation, with Shinji Okazaki in the support striker role behind Jamie Vardy.
  • Kasper Schmeichel aggravated an existing hernia injury, and had to be replaced after 57 minutes, with Ron-Robert Zieler taking over in goal for the Foxes. Ahmed Musa and Leonardo Ulloa made late appearances, replacing Marc Albrighton and Okazaki in straight swaps.
  • Schmeichel will undergo a minor operation on his hernia injury over the international break, and is expected to be fit in time to start against Liverpool in Gameweek 4. Amartey did a decent job filling in in central midfield against the Swans, but Mendy (ankle) could be fit to face the Reds, while Andy King offers another option in that position. After getting their first win of the season on Saturday, the likes of Musa, Demarai Gray and Ulloa appear unlikely to force their way into the side for the tough trip to Anfield.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Goalkeeper, Central Midfield

Liverpool

Starting XI: Mignolet; Clyne, Matip, Lovren, Milner; Lallana (Stewart 90), Henderson, Wijnaldum; Mane (Sturridge 87), Firmino, Coutinho (Origi 68).

  • Jurgen Klopp made two changes for the trip to White Hart Lane, with Joel Matip and the fit-again Sadio Mane coming in for Ragnar Klavan and Daniel Sturridge.
  • Matip partnered Dejan Lovren in central defence for the Reds, while Mane started on the right of the front three, with Roberto Firmino continuing in the “false nine” role.
  • Having been a slight doubt before the match due to a muscle injury, Philippe Coutinho was the first player to be replaced, with Divock Origi introduced after 68 minutes. The Belgian operated as the central striker, with Firmino moving over to the left flank. Sturridge was only handed a brief substitute appearance, taking over from Mane on the right of the front three, with Kevin Stewart replacing Adam Lallana during stoppage time as Liverpool appeared happy to hold on for a point.
  • Should Emre Can recover from an ankle injury, he could be an option in central midfield when the Reds host Leicester at Anfield after the international break. The German international has had a disrupted opening month of the season, though, so Klopp could stick with Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum and Lallana in those positions. Origi and Sturridge offer great options in attack, but they may only be named in the side should Klopp switch to a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Firmino then dropping back into the number ten role. Matip would seem likely to retain his start in central defence ahead of Klavan even when the Estonian returns from the minor knee problem that saw him miss the White Hart Lane trip.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Central Striker, Central Defence

Man City

Starting XI: Caballero; Zabaleta, Stones (Kolarov 59), Otamendi, Clichy; De Bruyne, Fernandinho, Silva; Sterling, Aguero (Fernando 88), Nolito (Nasri 75).

  • Pep Guardiola made two changes from the side that beat Stoke 4-1 for the home fixture against West Ham, with Gael Clichy and Nolito coming in for Aleksandar Kolarov and Jesus Navas.
  • Clichy came in at left-back for City, while Nolito returned on the left of the four-man midfield, with Raheem Sterling back onto the right flank in the same 4-1-4-1 formation.
  • After suffering a knock during the first half, and an eye injury early in the second half, John Stones was replaced by Kolarov in a straight swap just before the hour mark. Samir Nasri then took over from Nolito on the left for the final 15 minutes, with Fernando the final substitute, coming on in central midfield in place of Sergio Aguero as Guardiola looked to hold onto City’s 2-1 lead.
  • With Stones named in the England squad, he should be fine to face Man United following the international break. Bacary Sagna (hamstring) could be available for that match though, while Kolarov could also push for a recall, leaving some doubt as to who will play in the full-back positions. Claudio Bravo could come in for Willy Caballero in goal after arriving from Barcelona. It remains to be seen whether Sergio Aguero will face any retrospective FA charge following an incident involving Winston Reid – if he earns a ban, Kelechi Iheanacho could step in up top or Guardiola could even use a “false nine” system. Ilkay Gundogan and Leroy Sane will be looking to step up their fitness in time to offer options against United.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Goalkeeper, Full-Backs, Flanks

1,531 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. FPL_Sponge
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Is transferring Sterling in for Barkley tonight complete madness? (2FTs) I think he's excellent value after his performance on Sunday, price is expected to rise, even with (mun) I want City cover if Aguero is injured/suspended and will transfer out (probs for Lukaku anyway thus covering Everton's fixtures).

    1. Epic Fail
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Yes.

      1. FPL_Sponge
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Why?

        1. Epic Fail
          • 16 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Might get injured or something.

    2. TokyoRisingSun
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Sterling is better value than Barkley imo, go for it.

    3. Ramok
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I would defo go with Sterling as its easier later to downgrade him to Barkley if needen then other way around (if his price go up and no funds left)

    4. Yank Revolution
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Good fixtures for Everton tho, for a long time. Cant u move a diff midfielder?

      1. FPL_Sponge
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Tadic... can only afford that now before price rises. Just looked at stats and in fact this is probs a better option than for Barkley

    5. rdamjan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Sterling away at United, and Barkley at Sunderland. I take Barkley all day.

      1. Swans4life
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Plus Barkley not in the England squad

  2. Ramok
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Im on WC and managed to get teo teams im considering, what would you go with and why?

    A)

    Heaton
    Valencia - Baines - Jagielka
    Ozil - Hazard - Sterling - Redmond
    Diomande - Ibra - Kun

    0.2 ITB Subs Jaku, Amat, Love, Capoue

    B)

    Heaton
    Valencia - Williams - Stones
    Lamela - Sanchez - Hazard - Redmond
    Stuani - Ibra - Kun

    0 ITB Subs Jaku, Amat, Love, Capoue

    Both cases with weak 3rd attacker but cant wrap my head around how to get Gray/Negredo i really apreciate any help here

    1. TokyoRisingSun
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      A has two Everton defenders, not sure I want that much Everton cover in my defence. Nonetheless the rest of the team is good

      1. Ramok
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Jagiella will go for Stones but i wanna give them a go for those fixtures

    2. FPLCEO
      • 17 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Thinking of losing Redmond myself as Saints looking poor and he may get rotated with new signings. Snodgrass a cheaper alternative to free up some cash?

      1. Ramok
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Cant resist Redmond especially when he did always stay up and long/austin were changed and manager fancy him

    3. Lecky Legs FC
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Downgrade Stones & Redmond and bring in Chambers & King £4.5 & £5.5 should save £1mil and both will get game time now he's at Boro & Howe is high on King.

  3. Jonny Sutt
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Repost, bottom of the page

    likelihood Aguero will be banned?

    50% ?

    1. Ramok
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Imo 80%

    2. KISSES
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      75%

    3. Ne0
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      45.5%

    4. fatherted
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Matters not now.

      1. Jonny Sutt
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        It does if you want to avoid price drops for other players

        1. Cevap
          • 16 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          and anyone giving you a percentage is guessing...pure speculation at the moment...so it really does not matter

          1. Woy of the Wovers
            • 16 Years
            10 years, 26 days ago

            72.593%

    5. Le _ Professeur
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      80%

    6. I Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      90%

  4. Yank Revolution
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    I think this is a decent WC team, amazing what you can do without Kun.

    Caps means already in squad.

    FOSTER/JAKU
    SHAW/AZPI/AMAT/Jags or Williams/McCauley
    HAZ/CAPOUE/BARKLEY/Cazorla/Sterling
    IBRA/Giroud/Benteke

    0.8 itb

    1. Ramok
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Real question is how to go back to Kun

      1. Yank Revolution
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        I would just take a wait and see on him. He may take awhile to get back to form and this new calf injury further muddles his outlook.

        Would likely mean hits and Giroud/Sterling out for Kun/Cheap MF. Which would hurt, for sure.

        1. Hurrikane
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Can't be serious, this is you just refusing to admit it would be too hard for you to bring him back in.

          "He's never a wait and see how he goes" kind of player

          1. Ramok
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 26 days ago

            Agree, and with ban commong he will be healthy anyway. Kun is a must have any season

          2. Yank Revolution
            • 14 Years
            10 years, 26 days ago

            When coming back from injury (as he has one) everyone is a wait and see.

            1. Camp No No
              • 12 Years
              10 years, 26 days ago

              ...and Kun has a history of coming back for 15 minutes just to get injured again

    2. TokyoRisingSun
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      As long as you factor in how you're going to get Kun back

  5. KISSES
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Aguero should get banned right? Could do with catching a few risers tonight!

    1. Epic Fail
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Not guaranteed though.

    2. Jonny Sutt
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I'm thinking the same thing, if I make transfers and he's not let's hope he doesn't score a hat trick against United!

    3. JIM BOB
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Should, but might not

  6. MesQueUnClub
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    How much $$$ you think will WC users make during this IB. Don't see many double risers.

    1. FPLCEO
      • 17 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      a little but its not just about the double risers this week its about getting an early run on those that will deliver value in the medium term.

    2. Jøssy ⭐
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      For me it's not about the double risers. If you sign 5/6 players who even rise only 0.1, that's maybe 0.6 of additional cost that you may not be able to afford in a few weeks.

  7. Keno
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Sterling or Ozil? (Already own Sanchez)

    I know Sterling is great but those Arsenal fixtures....

    1. JIM BOB
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Ozil

    2. TokyoRisingSun
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Sterling since you already have Sanchez. Spread your risk

    3. Jonny Sutt
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Ozil Barkley I have, avoiding Sanchez

    4. FPL_Sponge
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Sterling

    5. warchild
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      sanchez is good player,,but next game he would not play as striker anymore since giroud already fit and the new man perez will come,,so ozil and sterling is ok tho,,assuming u have kun and ibra, so avoid to spend money on expensive player.

  8. JIM BOB
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Bottomed.

    A) Do pens / set plays mean Tadic worth the extra 1.3m over Redmond?

    B.) Deeney or Defoe to score most FPL points this year?

    Ta

    1. Le _ Professeur
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      - I prefer Redmond
      - Defoe

  9. The Tinkerman
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    I've done plenty of drafts trying to squeeze in Haz, Sanchez, Kun and Ibra. It's not really possible with current TV's. You can squeeze a decent side out if you downgrade either Sanchez > Ozil or Ibra > Rooney. But even then you face a dilemma with forward positions (playing 343). I prefer Ozil, and would captain him, so for now will assume I'd rather make the Sanchez > Ozil downgrade.

    If you have a cheapish defensive structure (4.5, 4.0)(5.5, 5.0, 4.5, 4.5, 4.0) then you either take a 6.5 striker alongside Kubra and have enough cash to have a reasonably balanced midfield. Or you can take Benteke (who IMO is superior to the 6.5 strikers, particularly if he is on pens as reported) but the midfield is noticeably less favourable:

    With 6.5 striker: (4.5,4.0) (5.5, 5.0, 4.5, 4.5, 4.0) (Hazard, Ozil, 7.0, 6.0, 4.5) (Kun, Ibra, 6.5)
    With Benteke: (4.5,4.0) (5.5, 5.0, 4.5, 4.5, 4.0) (Hazard, Ozil, 6.5, 5.5, 4.5) (Kun, Ibra, Benteke)

    To me, neither of these are ideal. Later on, Ibra > Mkhitaryan and a switch to 2 up top may be a solution. If you take Sanchez, you can wipe 1.5m off the above price structure, which isn't do-able without ruining your team.

    1. Bollard
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I think it is possible as i (and others) have a decent side with all 4 in the team..

      1. Hurrikane
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        If you have either:
        - two sub 6.5m midfielders playing

        -no 5.5m defender or more than one 4m defender

        -jaku/pickford

        -a sub 6.5m striker

        It's not viable.

        1. The Tinkerman
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Having 2 5.5m midfielders is the least painful way to do it. But you could be screwed if someone priced 6.5-8.5 takes off. I don't like having such a poorly structured, or weak, midfield.

      2. The Tinkerman
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        It's possible, of course. It just decimates your defence or midfield. For the long term, and since this is a wildcard it's important to plan further ahead, I wouldn't want to take any further money out of my defence than I have already done above.

      3. Woy of the Wovers
        • 16 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        I've not seen a decent side with all 4.

    2. Jonny Sutt
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      You can have all 3 but your 3rd midfielder is gonna be naff and you will have a leaky defence.

    3. Ramok
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Heaton
      Valencia - Williams - Stones
      Lamela - Sanchez - Hazard - Redmond
      Stuani - Ibra - Kun

      Thats my team if i want to ho with 4 big hitters, only flaws here is stuani imo but if u check my post before im leaning towards rather sanchesless team

      1. The Tinkerman
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        I would not want to play Stuani every week. 352 is a better solution for me. You must have something like 4.0, 4.0, 4.0, 4.5 as your bench, which isn't ideal. Id rather have a 5.5 midfielder playing over Stuani.

  10. Kvelertak
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Think im gonna go with my gut, and do three transfers today. Aware of the injury risk, but thinking its worth the gamble, since the players will rise.

    Townsend, Tadic, Aguero -> Sanchez, Sterling, Defoe

    Problem is that leaves Lamela in my team, so would have to gamble on him not being suspended.
    Also considering Ozil and Lukaku instead of Sanchez and Defoe, but i just have a better feeling about Sanchez...

    1. Yank Revolution
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Why so keen on Sanchez when Ozil and Caz are cheaper, almost as good options.

      1. Kvelertak
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Are they really tho? Think Sanchez will be worth the output. Could be wrong of course...

        1. Hurrikane
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Sanchez has been a prime example of the attraction a big price tag has on managers for some reason.

          1. Kvelertak
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 26 days ago

            You might be right. Im just scared i won't be able to bring him in if he goes off the rails.

            1. Hurrikane
              • 10 Years
              10 years, 26 days ago

              Same boat, but I'm gonna back ozil

    2. mojoindojo
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I am planning on same transfers + Gray to Lukaku. All for -8

  11. NeverGunOwen
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Repost. Little help please.

    A. Courtois, Valencia, Redmond, Bolasie

    Or

    B. Heaton, Collins, Ozil, Fletcher

    1. FPLCEO
      • 17 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      B - all about Ozil

    2. Le _ Professeur
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      From a points perspective, i can see A getting more than B

  12. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
    • 16 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    When you should have used bench boost

    https://twitter.com/OfficialFPL/status/770226431225896964

    1. fatherted
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Oh dear....probably a casual who doesn't even realise. Haga

    2. FPL_Sponge
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Haha starting three DMs (Kante, Dier, Drinkwater) over Sterling, Defoe and Shaw sooooooo bad!

      1. George Sillett
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Why do you feel the need to be so condescending?

    3. Styles_X
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      It's an anti fpl team so they're actually trying to not get the points.

    4. Konig Luther
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      anti fantasy team most likely

  13. Cocky Spaniel Alves
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    If I wildcard I think the big question will be Özil or Sanchez.

    1. FPLCEO
      • 17 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Ozil for me as far more consistent and better value. In a team with Sterling, Lukaku, Redmond etc I need someone I can just rely on for 8-12 points a week most weeks.

      1. Pariße
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        But he's not really as explosive as Sanchez. He's a better captaincy option, because of that which can be important in the absence of Aguero.

        1. Christina.
          • 16 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Ibra/Haz says hello.

          1. Pariße
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 26 days ago

            It's always nice to have 3 😀

    2. Christina.
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      If Kun is out for next 2 I might just spoil myself with Alexis. WC to fix mess.

    3. TokyoRisingSun
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Sanchez is good but I don't think he's worth the 1.5m or so price difference. Ozil can easily match him for overall points

      1. Ramok
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Agree, at the end of the season sanches might be up around 30points to ozil but that 1.5m will make more impact elsewhere

    4. fiveyears
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I don't think I can manage Ibra, Aguero, Haz and Sanchez long term, so Ozil will have to do for me

      1. Hotdogs for Tea
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Yip, same here

  14. Pariße
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    FIFA 17 ratings are being released if anyone's seen them. Thoughts?

    1. Mr. Grv
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Dybala and Lloris seem to be a bit much more than i expected , others are as expected.

      1. Mr. Grv
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Oblack is also a lot higher .

        1. Pariße
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Oblak would be fine at 84-85, he's still young...I think Handanović at 87 is pretty outrageous though. But it seems the overall ratings are generally a bit higher this year.

      2. Hurrikane
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Have you seen lloris play

        Severely underrated if anything

        1. Mr. Grv
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          88 and oblack 87 . Ill give Lloris 84 and oblack 82 .

          1. Hurrikane
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 26 days ago

            84.

            And de gea 91?

            lollllllllll

            Again just gonna assume you haven't seen lloris' highlight reel.

      3. Delhidynamo
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Sanchez and Muller at 87 makes no sense with all the other boosted ratings

    2. Hurrikane
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      United doesn't deserve its ratings all I can say

      1. Pariße
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        This. Everything is okay as long as Rooney isn't higher than 85 again.

  15. BbBb
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    What were Benteke stats like this weekend please?

    1. I Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      You're a member...

  16. I Member
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Anyone have a link to the interview where Baines says he's on penalty duties?

  17. top556677
    • 15 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    2 FTs and 1.4m in the bank. Really unsure who to take out. Do I wait on aguero/lamela/gray ban situation at the risk of missing price rises?

    Foster, Jaku
    Morgan, shaw, friend, stones, amat
    Hazard, redmond, barkley lamela, capoue
    Gray, aguero, ibra

    1. Prison Mike
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Identical team to me apart from Morgan and Shaw, think I will be waiting on the ban situation.

  18. Blurryface
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Thoughts on this wc team
    Foster Jaku
    McCauley Holgate Valencia Nsue Mast
    Hazard Sanchez Lamela Bolassie Capoue
    Kun Ibra Stuani

    1. Christina.
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      No to Stuani

      1. Blurryface
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        OK so San to ozil n stuani to??

      2. micsway
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        who else?

    2. Big Sum
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Who is Mast?

      1. Blurryface
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Damn auto correct. That's amat

      2. Christina.
        • 16 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        brother of Rubate?

  19. Delhidynamo
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Carroll and Townsend both likely to fall tonight

    A)Carroll to Giroud and give Townsend a last chance

    B) Hold steady on both

    1FT

    1. I Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      A

    2. Lyonnais
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I've Townsend and I wait on Aguero/Gray news. My transfer targets are getting changed if one/both of them gets a ban.
      Also there may be one or two injuries over the international break.

  20. Mr. Sitter
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Playing in a draft league, need a gk. Options are Foster or Stekelenburg.
    Who do I pick?
    Form or fixtures?

    1. Epic Fail
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Won't you be keeping them long term? If it's a draft league you might not have a chance to get them again anyway.

  21. andymck
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Who would you rather have next GW; Ozil or Sterling?

    1. Blurryface
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Ozil

    2. Delhidynamo
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Ozil

    3. S.Kuqi
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Özil

    4. Frank Black
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Sterling is cheaper, is in better form and will score more goals while Ozil has better fixtures.

      1. andymck
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        I was planning on getting both if Kun gets banned but won't have enough FTs for the same week. I can get away with skipping Sterling for the derby, right?

  22. S.Kuqi
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Using my wildcard. Is Lukaku worth having with those fixtures without pen duties?

    1. Delhidynamo
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I have Barkley but Mirallas is the value pick for me there

  23. Pointless
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    How reliable is fplstatistics at predicting price changes please? I'm not sure whether to make my two free transfers tonight because Townsend is -98.3... I'd rather wait until after transfer deadline if possible. Planning Kane>Benteke and Townsend>Ozil.Sound move?!
    Worried Townsend will drop tonight.
    Any thoughts appreciated!

    1. Epic Fail
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      I'd wait.

    2. Clump
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      He'll probably drop.
      Comes down to whether you can take it on the chin.

      1. Flynny
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Always found it very good

        1. Pointless
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Thanks all. I can't afford the risk. Money's too tight to mention! I was waiting to see whether Lamela will get banned or whether the new forward West Ham signed at the weekend would be a good/cheaper alternative to Benteke?

    3. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Price falls are more numerous and accurate than price rises so far this year

  24. micsway
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Chadli to West Brom?

    1. Epic Fail
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Yeah.

    2. Konig Luther
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      yes

      1. Swans4life
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        He's the new centre back

  25. nobwak
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    If the FA decide to ban Kun... They surely have to ban Lamela too, right? Don't see how his conduct was any better.

    1. THE Wild Rover
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      It wasn't seen on tv, as far as I know there are only still photo's which won't be enough to charge him

  26. Flynny
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Hi...got 2fts and 1.4itb...how  does this plan sound.

    If lamela gray and Kun banned they will be replaced by sanchez lukaku and benteke for a hit.

    If just gray and Kun banned it is both of them plus ramirez removed for ozil lukaku and benteke for a hit...

    I'll bring in a city milf gw5 for their home game and wildcard gw6 to get Kun back.

    How does that sound??....team is

    Foster jaku
    Valencia stones friend kone amat
    Hazard firmino lamela ramirez capoue
    Kun ibra gray

    Thanks

    1. THE Wild Rover
      • 16 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Seriously? Take a break

      1. George Sillett
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        Did you get my message from earlier WR ?

        1. THE Wild Rover
          • 16 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          No mate, I'll look now

        2. THE Wild Rover
          • 16 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          Done 🙂

          1. George Sillett
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 26 days ago

            You have mail.

      2. Sylas
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        This! I wish everyone did, until we got further news.

        1. Swans4life
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 26 days ago

          You got wait till the you know if players a banned

    2. Jonty Rhodes
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      thats excellent as you can save WC for later. Unfortunately, it doesnt seem i can. Can you advise me on below.

      2 FT left which I have to do today to avoid losses on Townsend and VVD. WC to follow for sure.

      A) Sterling and Holgate
      B) Sterling and McAuley
      C) Any other combination?

      Any further suggestions to improve?

      Foster (Heaton)
      Stones, Terry, Van Dijk, Friend (Amat)
      Townsend, Barkley, Mahrez, Redmond (Capoue)
      Aguero, Ibahimovic (Gray)

      1.4m in bank

      1. Swans4life
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 26 days ago

        B

    3. FPLHaggis
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      City milf sounds good 🙂

  27. Jonty Rhodes
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    2 FT left which I have to do today to avoid losses on Townsend and VVD. WC to follow for sure.

    A) Sterling and Holgate
    B) Sterling and McAuley
    C) Any other combination?

    Any further suggestions to improve?

    Foster (Heaton)
    Stones, Terry, Van Dijk, Friend (Amat)
    Townsend, Barkley, Mahrez, Redmond (Capoue)
    Aguero, Ibahimovic (Gray)

    1.4m in bank

  28. Stoneytq1
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    A. Antonio + Lukaku

    B. Mirallas + Vardy

    Don't see much love for antonio?

  29. S.Kuqi
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 26 days ago

    Whats the situation with West Ham strikers? Who is current 1st choice?

    1. Flynny
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Zaza will start next game....but jury out if he keeps place when carroll fit

    2. I Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 26 days ago

      Zaza