Team News
29 November 2016 1076 comments
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic returns from suspension to net Man United’s leveller at home to West Ham. Mark Hughes switches to 3-5-2 for Stoke’s trip to Watford and Nacer Chadli is handed minutes as a sub upon his return to action for West Brom. After rolling out Part Oneyesterday, here’s the lowdown on the remaining ten teams.

Manchester United

Starting XI: De Gea, Valencia, Jones, Rojo, Darmian, Herrera, Pogba, Lingard (Fellaini 85), Mata (Mkhitaryan 65), Rashford (Rooney 65), Ibrahimovic.

  • Jose Mourinho made two changes for the home encounter against West Ham United, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic returning from his one-match ban to replace Anthony Martial, while Jesse Lingard came in at the expense of Michael Carrick.
  • Those changes saw Mourinho switch back to a 4-2-3-1, with Ander Herrera and Paul Pogba combining in the double-pivot. Juan Mata and Lingard switched regularly between the No 10 role and the position on the right wing throughout the match, with Marcus Rashford stationed on the left of the attacking midfield trio behind lone striker Ibrahimovic.
  • With the score level at 1-1, Mourinho turned to Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Wayne Rooney off the bench, with Mata and Rashford making way with 25 minutes remaining. Mkhitaryan played on the right, with Lingard switching over to the left, allowing Rooney to operate in the No 10 position. The final substitution saw Mourinho turn to the aerial threat of Marouane Fellaini in search of a late winner, with the Belgian replacing Lingard for the final five minutes.
  • Carrick was rested on Sunday having played 180 minutes over the last two matches in all competitions. If he doesn’t start in Wednesday night’s EFL Cup clash against the Hammers, he would look nailed on to start against Everton on Sunday. His selection would probably see Mourinho revert back to a 4-1-4-1, with Pogba probably the only certain starter given he’ll sit out Wednesday night’s cup tie due to suspension. The likes of Rooney, Mkhitaryan and Fellaini could all push Mata, Lingard and Rashford for starting spots. The back four has been more settled of late, but Daley Blind may push for a recall in place of Matteo Darmian, who has struggled over the past few matches at left-back.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Left-Back, Central Midfield, Flanks, Attacking Midfield

Middlesbrough

Starting XI: Valdes; Barragan, Chambers, Gibson, Fabio; Clayton; Traore (Stuani 79), De Roon, Forshaw, Ramirez (Fischer 88); Negredo.

  • Aitor Karanka named an unchanged starting XI from the one that lost 1-0 to Chelsea for the trip to the champions Leicester City.
  • The Spaniard kept faith in a 4-1-4-1 formation, with Adama Traore (right) and Gaston Ramirez (left) continuing to provide the width for ‘Boro.
  • With 11 minutes remaining, Karanka turned to Cristhian Stuani to provide some fresh legs in place of Traore in a straight swap. He did likewise nine minutes later on the opposite flank, with Viktor Fischer replacing Ramirez as ‘Boro looked to hold on for the three points.
  • Karanka’s men were unfortunate not to walk away with the win at the King Power Stadium, so he appears unlikely to make changes for the home fixture against Hull City. He could return to his favoured, and more attacking, 4-2-3-1, though, with either Adam Clayton or Marten de Roon making way for another attacking midfielder, likely to be Stuani or Fischer. Stewart Downing also provides another option in the final third.

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

Southampton

Starting XI: Forster; Cedric, Jose Fonte, Van Dijk, Bertrand; Hojbjerg, Romeu, Ward-Prowse; Sims (McQueen 84), Austin (Long 89), Redmond (Clasie 79).

  • Saints boss Claude Puel made two changes from the side that drew 0-0 against Liverpool for the visit of Everton to St Mary’s, with James Ward-Prowse and youngster Josh Sims coming in for the injured duo Steven Davis and Sofiane Boufal.
  • Ward-Prowse joined Oriol Romeu and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg in the three-man midfield, while Sims was stationed on the right of the front three, with Nathan Redmond on the left and Charlie Austin operating as the central striker.
  • With Puel looking to protect Southampton’s 1-0 lead, he turned to Jordy Clasie off the bench, with Redmond making way for the final 11 minutes, seeing Saints switch to more of a 4-5-1. Ward-Prowse shifted more to the left, before Sam McQueen was introduced in place of Sims. The substitute was deployed on the left, switching flanks with Ward-Prowse. Shane Long provided fresh legs as the lone striker in place of Austin for the last few minutes.
  • Davis missed out on Sunday due to illness but may well be able to return against Crystal Palace on Saturday to potentially reclaim a starting spot in place of Ward-Prowse. Boufal was also unavailable due to illness: he could compete with the impressive Sims for a starting berth in attack if passed fit. Doubt remains over when Dusan Tadic will be available after breaking his nose and he’s another who could challenge for a place in the front three if he’s available.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Flanks

Stoke City

Starting XI: Grant; Johnson, Martins Indi, Muniesa, Pieters; Imbula, Adam; Diouf, Shaqiri, Arnautovic (Crouch 81); Walters.

  • Stoke City manager Mark Hughes made five changes from the side that lost 1-0 to Bournemouth for the trip to Vicarage Road, with Glen Johnson, Marc Muniesa, Jon Walters and Mame Biram Diouf coming in for Phil Bardsley, Ryan Shawcross, Bojan and Wilfried Bony, while Giannelli Imbula earned a recall in place of the suspended Joe Allen.
  • Johnson and Muniesa started at as part of a back three along with Bruno Martins Indi as Hughes rolled out a 3-5-2 formation. Diouf and Erik Piers were utilised as wing-backs, with Imbula and Charlie Adam in midfield. Xherdan Shaqiri and Walters took up the most advanced positions up top.
  • Stoke’s performance was so strong that Hughes only made one substitution, with Peter Crouch replacing Marko Arnautovic for the final nine minutes. Crouch played as the lone striker, with Walters shifting to a more withdrawn role.
  • After winning 1-0, Hughes will have plenty to ponder in terms of selection for Saturday’s home fixture against Burnley. Shawcross missed out with a calf injury on Sunday so Muniesa could keep his place in central defence. Imbula’s return to form may also see him retain a starting berth, even if one of Glenn Whelan (calf) or Geoff Cameron (knee) are passed fit. Allen will be available after serving his one-match ban and would seem likely to return in the No 10 role, with a move back to 4-2-3-1 perhaps on the cards. That would see Shaqiri take over from Diouf on the right wing. Bony was surprisingly dropped to the bench on Sunday, suggesting that Walters may again lead the line against the Clarets.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Central Midfield, Attacking Midfield, Right Wing, Central Striker

Sunderland

Starting XI: Pickford; Jones, Kone, Van Aanholt, O’Shea, Ndong, Denayer, Pienaar (Gooch 79), Anichebe, Watmore (Januzaj 79), Defoe.

  • David Moyes made two changes from the side that beat Hull City 3-0 for the trip to Anfield, with John O’Shea coming in for the suspended Papy Djilobodji, while Steven Pienaar returned from a one-match ban to replace the injured Paddy McNair.
  • O’Shea partnered Lamine Kone in central defence, while Pienaar was part of the three-man midfield alongside Didier Ndong and Jason Denayer. Victor Anichebe (left) and Duncan Watmore (right) flanked central striker Jermain Defoe.
  • With his side trailing 1-0, Moyes turned to Lynden Gooch and Adnan Januzaj, with the pair replacing Pienaar and Watmore in straight swaps for the final 11 minutes.
  • While the Black Cats lost 2-0, they performed reasonably well, so Moyes appears unlikely to make wholesale changes for Saturday’s home clash with Leicester City. Djilobodji will be available after serving his one-match suspension and may return in place of O’Shea at centre-back, while Januzaj offers a more attacking alternative to Pienaar out wide if Moyes looks to return to a 4-4-2 against the champions, with Anichebe joining Defoe up front.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Flanks

Swansea City

Starting XI: Fabianski; Naughton (Montero 86), Fernandez, Amat, Taylor; Cork, Fulton, Fer; Barrow (Rangel 80), Sigurdsson, Routledge (Llorente 66).

  • Bob Bradley decided to name an unchanged starting XI from the one that drew 1-1 against Everton for the home clash against Crystal Palace.
  • The American continued with Gylfi Sigurdsson in the “false nine” role, then, while Jay Fulton, Jack Cork and Leroy Fer again formed the three-man midfield.
  • With the match evenly poised at 1-1, Bradley made an attacking first substitution, with Fernando Llorente brought on to replace Wayne Routledge. The Spaniard took over as the central striker, with Sigurdsson moving to the left of the front three. Then, after Palace pulled a goal back to make it 3-2, Angel Rangel was introduced in place of Modou Barrow. Rangel played at right-back, with Kyle Naughton operating just ahead of him on the right flank to double-up against the threat of Wilfried Zaha. But after Palace took a 4-3 lead, Bradley turned to Jefferson Montero, who came on for Naughton. The Ecuadorian played on the left wing, with Sigurdsson returning to the No 10 role. Cork pushed forward slightly on the right as the Swans looked to find a way back into the match.
  • While Llorente made a huge impact off the bench, the Spaniard may have to be patient to force his way back into the starting XI. Sigurdsson appears likely to continue in the false nine position this weekend given that the Welsh outfit head to White Hart Lane. Montero offers an alternative on the left wing but is probably unlikely to get the nod over Routledge or Barrow for the time being. Federico Fernandez was at fault for a few of the Palace goals, so Mike van der Hoorn or Alfie Mawson could be options to replace the Argentinian. Borja Baston missed out with a minor calf problem but, at best, only looks to have a chance at being named among the substitutes on Saturday.

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

Tottenham Hotspur

Starting XI: Lloris, Walker, Dier, Vertonghen, Wimmer, Wanyama, Dembele (Janssen 83) , Eriksen, Alli (Nkoudou 73), Son Heung-min (Winks 65), Kane.

  • Mauricio Pochettino made three changes for the trip to Stamford Bridge, with Kevin Wimmer coming in for the suspended Danny Rose, while Dele Alli and Son Heung-min replaced Harry Winks and Vincent Janssen.
  • Those changes saw Pochettino return to the 4-2-3-1 formation, with Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele combining in the double-pivot, while Christian Eriksen (right), Alli (No 10) and Son (left) formed the attacking midfield trio. Wimmer slotted in at left-back, with Jan Vertonghen and Eric Dier continuing in central defence.
  • Pochettino’s first substitution saw Winks come on in place of Son with 25 minutes remaining. Eight minutes later, Georges-Kevin Nkoudou replaced Alli, with Nkoudou playing on the left, while Winks slotted in next to Wanyama, allowing Dembele to push forward a little more. As a final bid for a late equaliser, Pochettino turned to Janssen, with the forward sent on in place of Dembele, seeing Spurs end the match in a 4-4-2.
  • Rose will be available to face Swansea City after serving his one-match ban, and should replace Wimmer at left-back. Pochettino could consider deploying Janssen alongside Kane in attack, perhaps starting with a 4-4-2, or in the 4-2-3-1 we could see the same front six that lined up last Saturday if Erik Lamela sidelined with a hip injury. If Toby Alderweireld (leg) were to be passed fit, he’d be expected to return alongside Vertonghen in defence, with Dier then an option to play in midfield.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield, Flanks, Forwards

Watford

Starting XI: Gomes; Kaboul (Kabasele 21), Prodl, Britos; Janmaat, Capoue, Behrami, Holebas (Ighalo 56); Amrabat (Okaka 78), Deeney, Pereyra.

  • Walter Mazzarri only made one adjustment from the side that beat Leicester City 2-1 for the home encounter against Stoke City, with Jose Holebas returning from his one-match ban to replace Juan Zuniga.
  • Holebas returned at left wing-back for the Hornets, in what was a 3-4-3 used by the Italian once again, with Roberto Pereyra (left) and Nordin Amrabat (right) flanking central striker Troy Deeney.
  • Younes Kaboul had been a doubt pre-match due to a calf problem and the defender only lasted 21 minutes before being replaced by Christian Kabasele. Holebas was then forced off with a knock before the hour mark, with Mazzarri deciding to make an attacking change given his side were 1-0 down, with Odion Ighalo replacing the defender. Ighalo joined Deeney in attack in what was more of a 3-4-1-2, with Janmaat moving to left wing-back, while Amrabat played at right wing-back. Pereyra moved into a central attacking midfield position behind the front two. Stefano Okaka was brought on in place of Amrabat as Watford battled for an equaliser. That left the home side with three strikers on the pitch, but with little width down the right-hand side.
  • Should Kaboul and Holebas be unavailable for Saturday’s trip to the Hawthorns, Kabasele and Zuniga appear the obvious replacements. Mazzarri will also be without the suspended Miguel Britos, though, after he was sent off after receiving two yellow cards. Janmaat also offers an option in central defence, although he’s unlikely to go down that route after the Dutch international struggled in that position during the 6-1 defeat to Liverpool. Ighalo or perhaps even Okaka could come into the reckoning if Mazzarri looks to play with two strikers, either in a 3-5-2 or 4-4-2 system.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Left Wing-Back, Flanks, Forwards

West Bromwich Albion

Starting XI: Foster; Dawson, McAuley, Evans, Nyom; Fletcher (McClean 64), Yacob, Brunt, Morrison (Chadli 79), Phillips (Robson-Kanu 83); Rondon.

  • Baggies head coach Tony Pulis named an unchanged side from the one the beat Burnley 4-0 for the trip to the KCOM Stadium.
  • Despite being fit enough to be named among the substitutes, Pulis decided to leave Nacer Chadli on the bench, instead sticking with Chris Brunt, James Morrison and Matt Phillips in the three advanced midfield positions in the 4-2-3-1 formation.
  • Pulis’ first substitution was an attacking one bearing in mind his side were holding a 1-0 lead, with James McClean introduced in place of Darren Fletcher. McClean was stationed on the left wing, with Brunt dropping back into central midfield. Chadli then took over from Morrison in the No 10 role for the final 11 minutes, with Pulis’ final change seeing Hal Robson-Kanu replace Phillips in a straight swap down the right flank for the final seven minutes.
  • With another week’s training behind him, it’s likely that Pulis will look to find a spot in the starting XI for Chadli when West Brom host Watford on Saturday. It could be Morrison who makes way, although Brunt and Phillips may also be slightly at risk. Morrison could also potentially play in a deeper midfield role, but it’s unlikely Pulis will drop either Claudio Yacob or Fletcher.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Flanks, Attacking Midfield

West Ham United

Starting XI: Randolph, Kouyate, Collins, Ogbonna, Antonio, Obiang, Noble, Cresswell, Lanzini (Ayew 74), Payet (Feghouli 90), Sakho (Fletcher 66).

  • Slaven Bilic made two alterations for the trip to Old Trafford, with Mark Noble returning from his one-match ban to replace Andre Ayew, while James Collins earned a recall in place of the suspended Winston Reid.
  • Collins slotted in alongside Angelo Ogbonna and Cheikhou Kouyate in the three-man defence, while Noble partnered Pedro Obiang in central midfield. Manuel Lanzini returned to his more familiar attacking midfield role alongside Dimitri Payet in the 3-4-2-1 system, with Diafra Sakho operating as the lone striker for the Hammers.
  • Sakho lasted 66 minutes before being replaced by Ashley Fletcher after picking up a hamstring problem. Ayew then came on in place of Lanzini in a straight swap for the final 16 minutes, while Sofiane Feghouli was handed a brief run-out in place of Payet.
  • Reid will be available to face Arsenal on Saturday after serving his one-match ban and should come back into the starting XI at the expense of Collins. After a solid performance against Man United, both Lanzini and Sakho could well keep hold of their starting spots providing the latter is passed fit, although Ayew does offer a viable alternative in both positions. Andy Carroll was close to being in contention for the Old Trafford trip and could yet be a factor for Arsenal’s visit.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Attacking Midfield, Lone Striker

  1. andy85wsm
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    I can't make up my mind. Are Arsenal's next 4 fixtures good or not so good?

    West Ham (a), Stoke (h), Everton (a), Man City (a)

    The City game isn't great of course, but otherwise it's 3 away fixtures in 4, or do we ignore this because it's West Ham and Everton?

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

      Well I'll be ditching Kosc for Alonso but keeping Wally.

      I think clean sheets will be an issue but goals shouldn't be.

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

      Everton away will be tough.

      West Ham have tightened up as well.

      1. HNI
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Did you see them last match?

        Conceded scores of big chances and only terrible Manutd finishing put it off...WHam are so bad defensively right now and coupled with Sanchez form I am going Sanchez (C)

    3. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Decent for attacking, not so much defensively

      1. Ha.
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        None of those teams are particularly prolific in attack?

    4. Gazj11
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Arsenal will score and concede IMO

    5. Hurricane Gilbert
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      I think they are decent. Have ignored Sanchez lately but will bring him in for Mané this GW.

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

        Brought in wally for coutinho. Beyond Xmas not so bad too I tink. Will hold on to wally for a while regardless.

    6. Profa Benitez
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Good fixtures for ARS. I wouldn't double up, but owing one Arsenal's attacking midfielder is a necessity. Me personaly can't make up my mind between Sanchez and Walcott.

    7. Lew
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      West Ham is a London derby and I expect Everton to improve sooner rather than later under Koeman. Like you say, City isn't great.

      They're not so good, in my opinion.

    8. Reedy
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      I like all of those fixtures.

      1. Reedy
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        *for attacking returns

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

          This.

          Happy I've brought in Wally this week.

    9. Karan_G14
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      In comaparison to other teams I'd say they are bad.

    10. Ziegler1988
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      We have good records at West Ham and Everton, Stoke H clearly good, only Man City A I expect to be tough in terms of goals

    11. andy85wsm
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Thanks all.

      Attacking good.

      Defending no good.

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

        Have you seen beyond those 4? WOWAWOOWA!

        1. andy85wsm
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Yup - I definitely want Sanchez in after those 4 🙂

  2. Profa Benitez
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Planning to reshape my midfield. Stuck with this dilemma:
    Should I go with Sanchez & Matic or Walcott & Pedro ?
    (I have Hazard already)
    Appreciate your thoughts and suggestions.

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

      Definitely the latter, but why not Siggy instead of Pedro?

      1. Profa Benitez
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Have Siggy already. Tnx

    2. Toure The Route
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      B, you also save cash.
      Besides, Sanchez might blank somewhere n two games and get a brace in the third because he s still a patchy player always. Just explosively patchy.
      Unless you captain him, I think Wally plus the extra cash on Pedro can cover you with extra cash for an Defensive upgrade too .

      1. Profa Benitez
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        It makes sense. Cheers mate

  3. Arteta
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/20161129/team-news-lucas-giroud-and-debuchy

    Olivier Giroud misses out with a slight groin problem, while Mathieu Debuchy has been sidelined by a hamstring injury.
    “Mathieu has a scan today [Tuesday] but we don’t have the results yet,” Arsène Wenger told Arsenal.com.
    “Lucas is in the squad and will will have a mixture of youth and experience, but still 90 per cent of the first-team squad.”

    1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Please rest alexiz

      1. Hurricane Gilbert
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Mufasa Wenger can't handle his son Simba Sánchez. He is a spoiled kid, gets to play whenever he wants.

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

          Stampede in the gorge!!

          1. Hurricane Gilbert
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            Haha best line

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

      Hey Ozl just wanted to ask a Gunner Qs?\

      1) Was Wally equal threat compared to Sanchez last match?

      2) Will Wally be nailed for all matches around boxing day like Sanchez?

      1. Sjaugen
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        1) Walcott was pretty poor afaik

      2. Leaf
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        I'd say definite no & I don't think nailed

        1. HNI
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          SO LEaf and Sjaugen, you think bringing in Sanchez + Austin instead of Wally + Kane was good move?

      3. TokyoRisingSun
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        1. Walcott played decent, if you can't stretch to Sanchez he's definitely worth getting in.

        2. Sanchez much more nailed than Walcott. Expect to see Walcott rotated for others like Ramsey or Ox or Iwobi around the Christmas period

        1. HNI
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          above Qs to you too mate, thanks

          1. TokyoRisingSun
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            Sanchez + Austin is perfectly fine. Would also want Kane though, depends on the rest of your strikeforce

      4. Arteta
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Theo play good but Alexis was on another level once again. Man of the match for me. He's so important to Arsenal right now like I was last season. 😉
        And to answer your second question: I bloody hope so! He's my Coutinho replacement.

    3. andy85wsm
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Jenkinson back to nailed for now then...

      1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        If I was Wenger I'd consider ox at rb

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

          That's why you're not Wenger

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

        Yup. Bellerin said that he hopes to be back in 4 weeks so Jenko is a solid short term option if anyone fancy our defence.

      3. fedolefan
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Jenkinson was not even on the bench and Gabriel was preferred to him. What has changed other than Debuchy's injury?

        1. andy85wsm
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Just Debuchy's injury. Do you think Gabriel is going to play RB?

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

            Wenger clearly said in the post-match conference that he had considered the risk of Debuchy getting injured pre-match, since he was just back after a while and choose Gabriel as backup. EVen Coquelin was considered. Jenkinson may be in the squad now but I thought he was very clearly last choice.

            https://youtu.be/r6QyRwWpzOw?t=89

  4. HNI
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Think I did a mistake by rage transferring in (Sanchez + Austin) instead of (Walcott + Kane)?

    No Kane vs Swans making my stomach curl but just found Austin and Sanchez more dangerous last match...

    What you think? Equal decision in long run or I screwed up?

    1. FF Dirtbag
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      You're fine. Chill those are perfectly good transfers.

      1. HNI
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Just felt Austin would kill that CPL defence next week...At worst I can remove Sanchez after STOKE H and bring in Kane for Deeney

        1. FF Dirtbag
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          I haven't got Kane in. Maybe get some midfield cover?

  5. Mr Alex
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    How does Capoue + Stones -> Fer + Cedric sound?

    Fed would be 4th mid.

    1. HNI
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Would take Snoddy over Fer as he has Penos/FKs/Corners

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

      Good, if the rest of your team can shoulder Fer as your 4th

      1. Mr Alex
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        I have Aguero, Costa, Hazard, Sanchez.

        Was all set to downgrade Sanchez to enable a 4th mid upgrade, but then Sunday happened...

    3. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Looks an improvement. Not sure Fer is strong enough to be a 4th though.

      1. Mr Alex
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Yeh that's the issue. If I want a better fourth mid then one of the above mentioned players has to go 🙁

    4. Reedy
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Good. The defensive switch might suffice, though.

  6. Tutankhamun
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Grav test

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

    First hit of 2016/17 taken!

    Lukaku+Coutinho > Kane(c)+Hazard. Shame Coutinho dropped last night again and Haz rose though. 0.2m down the pan. Was so smug getting Lukaku out before the very same happened too lol

  8. GoonerByron
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Have already taken a -4 for Fuchs + Coutinho -> Nyom + Sanchez.. Am I good to go with the rest? Lukaku stays?

    Foster
    Nyom - Kosc - Alonso
    Sanchez (c) - Walcott - Firmino - Redmond
    Aguero - Benteke - Lukaku

    Jaku - Allen - Holebas - Amat

    0.0 ITB

    1. Gazj11
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Lukaku needs to go

      1. GoonerByron
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        For who though? Can't get Costa or Kane in 1 transfer.

        1. Gazj11
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Austin, Negredo, Rondon?

    2. Hurricane Gilbert
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Nyom leaving for AFCON not a concern for you? Torn between Nyom and Evans

      1. GoonerByron
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        I didn't even think about it before getting him in.. Had dead on 4.3 to play with if I wanted Sanchez so he was just about the only option? 😐

        1. Hurricane Gilbert
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Alright. He will probably be fine until GW20! Yeah at that price he is the best option. Aké the only one I would consider.

    3. Hurricane Gilbert
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Yeah Lukaku can stay a little longer. Next gw downgrade Kosc and upgrade kaku

    4. HNI
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Not for a hit as although Kane has Swansea next week, he played equally bad last match

  9. Gazj11
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    G2G?

    Foster
    Kelly Pieters Gibson
    Allen Siggy Hazard Walcott Firmino
    Aguero Kane(c)

    Pickford Deeney Amat Britos

    1. Sjaugen
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      You'd survive with Allen for this GW.
      Downgrade Deeney for Alonso or Spurs/Ars defender w/ goalthreat next gw. Defense isn't the best, this week or the next

  10. MANGE TOUT RODNEY
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    GW10 I was at 67k and quite happy

    GW13 now at 280k!

    Hate this game sometimes!

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

    Would you start Cech (whu) or Pickford (LEI) this week?

    Head says Cech, but it sounds like Carroll is likely to start for WHU at the w/e and we simply cannot handle him.

    1. Toure The Route
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Need your gut to choose this

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

    Fock it.

    Done Fuchs > Cedric. For a hit.

    1. Ha.
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Ouch.

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

        Don't like?

        Sets me up nicely for bringing in Alonso and Siggy next week

        1. Ha.
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          A hit for hits sake

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

            Think it's a decent transfer moving forward

            1. Ha.
              • 10 Years
              9 years, 2 months ago

              But why not just wait? It may end up in a 0.2m swing, but that is easily recoverable.

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

                Already planned Arnie > Siggy next week for free

                Vert > Alonso (-4) too, if he gets suspended.

    2. Reedy
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Decent.

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

        Cheers - Fuchs has been a disaster.

    3. MANGE TOUT RODNEY
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      So basically Cedric needs a clean sheet to give you net 0 probably.

      1. Reedy
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Yes, but there's no need to judge a transfer on a single week. Cedric might serve him better for the rest of the season.

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

        Long term though

      3. Toure The Route
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Cedric is set to stay there till Gw 23 or so.
        Nobody drops a Soton defender at 4.9 with those fixtures even if they conceed 3-4 games in a row, you know those clean sheets are there.
        Long term the -4 should pay off right?

    4. Gooner Kebab
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      dude

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

        Yeah

  13. Bubz
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    It will be ridiculous if Arsene chooses not to rest Alexis tonight. Literally loves running him into the ground

    1. TokyoRisingSun
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      EFL Cup, he'll be rested.

    2. Demí
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      There is zero chance he starts imo. History says this is the one fixture where Alexis usually does get rested in

      1. Bubz
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Who will he play up front?

        1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Akpom or lucas if giroud not fit

          1. Bubz
            • 12 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            I thought they were both injured

            1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
              • 15 Years
              9 years, 2 months ago

              Lucas was back in training, giroud has a hip problem and will be assesed

        2. Wilshere Knowledge
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Mavididi could play. Wasn't in the U23 squad yesterday.

    3. HNI
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      SO your Giroud transfer worked out slightly well after all...But I wouldnt keep him if I were you for hectic Christmas matches

      1. Bubz
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Have sold to Kane lol

        1. Worzel Gummidge
            9 years, 2 months ago

            My transfers backfired hilariously if you like a 20-30 point swing kick in the nads. Sanchez/Austin to Giroud/Firmino -4. Not even unlucky just lunacy. Was in Poland downing Vodka so I will be blaming that. Now looking to get Sanchez back in.

      2. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        From the guardian

        I suspect he'll be rested for our EFL Cup game in midweek. I also suspect he'll completely lose his sh** over it and turn up at training early the next day and start blasting 100mph shots into the net to demonstrate his annoyance to Wenger.

        That would sum him up - he loves playing football and takes it as a personal insult when he isn't picked.

        1. Bubz
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          That's fair enough but he's a player and Wenger is a manager and he should manage him regardless of whether he gets in moods whenever he doesnt play or not

          1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
            • 15 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            I agree, he shouldn't start tonight

            Same with ozil and Walcott really especially with the amount of games coming up

            Ramsey, lucas, akpom, Niles, ox all need games

    4. TokyoRisingSun
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Alright, who's a good replacement for Allen if he reverts to a CDM role? Able to spend 5.8m max. Currently thinking of Zaha, but would appreciate some differential midfield punts in that price range.

      1. Toure The Route
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Zaha s influence and threat is very high in the palace team. Creativity not too bad either.
        He might just turn out to be the value mid of the season if Pardew trusts him, he is in such hot form even with Benteke missing so many big chances. For all we know he is probably going to break that Cedric clean sheet this week.

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

        how about Philips?
        Allen already in my team and i'll keep him at least for this GW

      3. Kolarov Fpl Legend
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        I m in the same boat. Zaha, Ramirez, Phillips, Moses all good options but i would go with Zaha.

    5. Gilberto.
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Exact money for Koscielny and Lukaku to Cedric and Kane. Gotta be done, right?

      1. FF Dirtbag
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Yes yes yes.

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

        I hate these - really you want to do one this week and the other next.

        I guess on balance it's worth doing.

        1. Gilberto.
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          I know what you mean, gotta take the gamble I think

      3. Ha.
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Yes

        1. Gilberto.
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Thanks everyone, you're the best

          1. Ha.
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            No you are

            1. Gilberto.
              • 12 Years
              9 years, 2 months ago

              Stop it, you

              1. Ha.
                • 10 Years
                9 years, 2 months ago

                Aw shucks

    6. Zizou
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      hey all

      over the next couple of weeks i'm trying to transfer in pedro cedric and kane as my 3 main transfers

      which combo is best to facilitate that

      a) 4.2m def, fer, austin.
      b) 4m def, siggy, anichebe

      any help would be appreciated, i think either combo will balance out

    7. Moose™
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Guys, how many hits have you taken this season?

      Me - 24

      1. Ha.
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        24 hits?! or 6 hits for 24 points?

        3 hits here

        1. Moose™
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Ah. Sorry. 24 points. -8 to bring Aguero in for Swansea game. Worth a hit.

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

        2

        1. Moose™
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Wow. Impressive tho.

      3. GoonerByron
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Have just taken my 2nd hit of the season

      4. MANGE TOUT RODNEY
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Zero

        1. Moose™
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Even more impressive.

          1. MANGE TOUT RODNEY
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            Rank not great though!

            1. Moose™
              • 13 Years
              9 years, 2 months ago

              Mine at 166k. How bout yours?

              1. MANGE TOUT RODNEY
                • 10 Years
                9 years, 2 months ago

                280k, was 67k not long ago though...

      5. Reedy
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        -92pts 😆

        1. Demí
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          For real?

          1. Reedy
            • 15 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            Terrible start, so I gave up on playing for OR. I'm in a couple of Champions League format money leagues though so I'm just taking monster hits on alternate gameweeks

            1. Demí
              • 15 Years
              9 years, 2 months ago

              Fair enough

        2. Moose™
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          How bout you Demi?

          1. Demí
            • 15 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            -64 after failing to press the wildcard. Aside from that just a solitary -4

      6. InSaneMan-e
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        -28 🙁
        and a wildcard haha

      7. andy85wsm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        -24 here

        -8 up until November and -16 in November

      8. ROOTY7
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        -20

      9. Wilshere Knowledge
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        5 hits with another this week.

      10. Kings of Lyon ★
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        -4 here

        1. Moose™
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Never ditch Snoddy out from your team?

          1. Kings of Lyon ★
            • 15 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            He left for a week when he was injured but came straight back in

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

        -12.

        2 of those hits were to redistribute suspended Aguero funds and upgrade Snodgrass after his injury.

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

        First one today! Was only due to Coutinho!

    8. adheto
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Grant, Pickford
      Alonso, Cedric, Morgan, Smith, Amat
      Sanchez, Firmino, Coutinho, Allen, Capoue
      Lukaku, Aguero, Vokes

      0.7 ITB, 1 FT
      Need advice just for GW14, coz plan to get Hazard from GW15
      1. Coutinho > Mahrez (no hit, not sure about double leicester)
      2. Coutinho + Morgan > Mahrez + McAuley (a -4)
      3. Coutinho + Morgan > Mane + McAuley (a -4)
      4. Lukaku replacement, but who? (not sure to get Costa or Kane)

      Thanks..

      1. InSaneMan-e
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Kane seems a golden pick for me
        I got rid of Lukaku and fuchs for Kane and Cedric
        Perhaps Couts and Lukaku-->Kane+ mid that you can afford

        1. adheto
          • 9 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          ah, nice advice..
          if Lukaku, Countinho > Kane + 7.5 Mid, is that Sigurdsson is a good move? coz my plan to get him in GW15

    9. Hurricane Gilbert
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Poor Connor Wickham. Such a talent, best striker in the league when fit.

      1. Toure The Route
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        That's a far shot .
        But he is really clinical.
        Best striker in the league ? You use those words too casually my friend .

    10. boc610
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Bellerin back in four weeks to resume those darting runs up the wing delivering those almost good but not quite crosses and guaranteed (vast majority of the time) 2 point returns

      and all for 6.6m (clyne does the same for 1m less)

      1. InSaneMan-e
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Arsenal keep more clean sheets though

      2. andy85wsm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Are you a Spurs fan by any chance?

        1. boc610
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          nope, just a former owner. sold for azpil and never looked back

          1. andy85wsm
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 15 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            Fair enough.

            You always seem to be talking about how bad the Arsenal defence are as an option as if everyone is talking about them.

            No-one is thinking about getting Bellerin right now.

            Maybe it's just me though.

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

              The people talking about how bad the Arsenal defense is, are typically Arsenal fans. Me included. Not owned a single Ars defender all season. I can never erase that 4-4 against Newcastle from memory.

              1. Wilshere Knowledge
                • 12 Years
                9 years, 2 months ago

                The defence is good, it's the midfield not tracking back that's the problem. 😆

            2. boc610
              • 14 Years
              9 years, 2 months ago

              I'm just amazed at the hype that surrounds them on here, thats all. the way they play means they give chances away at a premium. they actually often get cleanies when they haven scored themselves, which often means they have been on the backfoot.

              1. andy85wsm
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • Has Moderation Rights
                • 15 Years
                9 years, 2 months ago

                This is what I'm saying....there is no hype - not at the moment at least 🙂

                Maybe after Christmas...

      3. Demí
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        I'm sorry but there's no comparison. Bellerin superior and worth the price tag

        1. boc610
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          hes a fantastic footballer but in fantasy terms you really think he's worth the outlay,especially now with chelsea?

          4 cleanies in 13 for gunners

          1. Demí
            • 15 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            Maybe i'm just blinded by last season, but he was unquestionably fpl gold then. Think Arsenal will tighten up as the season progresses.

            18 clean sheets and 6 assists last year!

            Clyne arguably better for bonus, but that's about it

      4. Hurricane Gilbert
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Cuz it's the bitterswear symphony this life

        1. Hurricane Gilbert
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          bittersweet*

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

      Anyone else considering Cedric & Forster double up for Southamptons excellent run of fixtures ??

      1. Reedy
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Yes

        1. Reedy
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Those two and Austin

          1. Mulla
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            I suppose it's a high risk/high reward strategy, SOU tough nut to crack, need to try something a bit different to climb those rankings !!

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

        Not I. Would rather Cedric and VVD if I were to get two.

        1. Mulla
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Agree with VVD pick but I have Pick & Jaku GK combo and need to shift Jaku sooner rather than later ..

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

      Hi guys
      will holebas start the next game or he is considered a risk of a starting place?

      1. Toure The Route
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Nah he ll start

    13. ROOTY7
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Stekelenburg---Forster for free a no brainer?

      Happy with the rest of my team.

      1. Mulla
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Its a yes from me ! See above ..

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

        do it

      3. notidaho
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        I've had Foster all season and WBA are annoyingly leaky... consider Forster as SOT are solid at the minute and have good fixtures

    14. notidaho
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      3.7 ITB 0FTs... Should I take any hits?

      Foster (Heaton )
      Lovren Alonso McAuley ( Smith Holebas )
      Hazard Firmino Walcott Capoue Redmond
      Kun Rondon ( Wilson )

      Annoying can't do Wilson -> in one move

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

        looks decent to me

      2. notidaho
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        As in I should hold?

        Pretty sick of having to play Capoue and Redmond but would need to free up 0.8 to get Kane in for a -8pt hit

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

      Guys I'm ditching Lukaku and Coutinho for
      A. Costa and Siggy
      B. Hazard and Defoe

      What u think? I'm leaning to A but it's a coin flip at the moment

      1. notidaho
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        A for me... Costa more consistent and fixture proof & Siggy has the fixtures

      2. Profa Benitez
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        I would opt for A. Still, suspension tightrope over Costa turns me away from that option.

    16. Lone Wolf FPL
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      NEW POST

      1. notidaho
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        That explains everything

    17. New Article
    18. BadgersBoys
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      I have Heaton and Bobby flagged so, depending on their news, I am looking to get Kane in for Lukaku. The only way this is possible is downgrading Wally to Fer/Phillips/Redmond etc(6.2 ITB) for -4. I have Sanchez.

      Yay or nay, pretty please? Thanks

      1. Profa Benitez
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Yes. Since you have Alexis, downgrading Wally is the price I would pay for getting Kane. Lukaku has neither form or fixtures. Kane has the fixtures for sure, and hopefully form too 😉

    19. Camara
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      For the long term, would you rather have:

      A. Aguero and Milner
      B. Sanchez and Firmino

    20. mogadishu
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Who to get in for Bolasie? 8.4m to spend. Was thinking Pedro or Wally
      Firmino, Hazard, Siggy, Capoue
      Ibra, Kane, Austin