Team News
5 December 2016 902 comments
James H James H
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Antonio Conte is forced to make his first Chelsea change for seven Gameweeks, while Pep Guardiola’s shuffles again ahead of losing three key players to suspension. Elsewhere, Adam Lallana returns to the bench to provide Jurgen Klopp a selection headache, while Henrikh Mkhitaryan earns a first start for Manchester United since Gameweek 4. Here’s the first part of our Gameweek 14 teamsheet summary, outlining the trends and tactics on show, along with early insight into the weekend’s likely line-ups.

Arsenal

Starting XI: Cech; Gabriel, Mustafi, Koscielny, Monreal; Coquelin (Elneny 88), Xhaka; Walcott (Ramsey 66), Ozil (Iwobi 88), Oxlade-Chamberlain; Sanchez.

  • Arsene Wenger made two changes from the side that saw off Bournemouth 3-1 for the trip to West Ham, with Gabriel coming in for the injured Mathieu Debuchy, while Francis Coquelin earned a recall in place of Mohamed Elneny.
  • Gabriel slotted in at right-back for the Gunners, while Coquelin partnered Granit Xhaka at the base of midfield in the 4-2-3-1 formation.
  • Shortly after the hour mark, Wenger chose to withdraw Theo Walcott, with Aaron Ramsey taking his place in a straight swap. With the match won, the Arsenal boss handed out brief run-outs to Elneny and Alex Iwobi in place of Coquelin and Mesut Ozil.
  • Gabriel did take a few knocks during the 90 minutes at the London Stadium but should be okay to keep his starting role at right-back for Saturday’s home clash against Stoke City. Coquelin and Xhaka will also be expected to retain their places in central midfield, but Wenger does have options in those positions, with Elneny and Ramsey both viable alternatives. Oxlade-Chamberlain’s strong display looks set to earn him a third successive start on the left, with Iwobi again likely to figure from the bench.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Right-Back, Central Midfield, Left Flank

Bournemouth

Starting XI: Boruc; Francis, Cook, Ake, A.Smith; Arter, Gosling (Afobe 75); Stanislas (Fraser 55), Wilshere, King (Ibe 46); Wilson.

  • Eddie Howe made two changes for the home clash against Liverpool, with Artur Boruc returning from a back injury to replace Adam Federici in goal, while Jack Wilshere, who was ineligible to play against his parent club Arsenal in Gameweek 13, returned at the expense of Brad Smith.
  • Wilshere played in his usual No 10 role in the 4-2-3-1 formation, with Adam Smith, who was deployed in midfield at the Emirates, stationed at left-back on Sunday. Nathan Ake partnered Steve Cook in central defence, with Simon Francis playing at right-back.
  • After struggling to make an impact in the first-half, Josh King was replaced at half-time by Jordon Ibe in a straight swap on the right wing. But after Junior Stanislas was forced off with a knee problem, Ryan Fraser took over on the right flank, with Ibe moving across to the left. As a final roll of the dice, Howe introduced Benik Afobe in place of Dan Gosling, seeing the Cherries finish the match in a 4-4-2, with Wilshere dropping back alongside Harry Arter in central midfield. Afobe joined Callum Wilson up front.
  • If either Charlie Daniels (hip) or Andrew Surman (hamstring) are available for Saturday’s trip to Burnley, they will come into contention for starting places at left-back and in central midfield respectively. Daniels’ inclusion could lead to a reshuffle in defence, with one of Adam Smith, Ake, Cook or Francis forced to make way. If Stanislas is ruled out, one of Fraser or Ibe look certain to take his place out wide for the Cherries. Fraser’s inspirational display from the bench is likely to earn him the start.

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

Burnley

Starting XI: Robinson; Flanagan (Tarkowski 81), Keane, Mee, Ward; Arfield (Kightly 90), Hendrick, Marney, Boyd (Vokes 76); Barnes, Gray.

  • Sean Dyche made four changes for the trip to the bet365 Stadium, with Jon Flanagan, Scott Arfield, Ashley Barnes and Andre Gray coming in for Matt Lowton, Steven Defour, Sam Vokes and the injured Johann Berg Gudmundsson.
  • Those changes saw Dyche switch for a 4-2-3-1 to a 4-4-2, with Barnes and Gray combining in attack. George Boyd (right) and Arfield (left) played out wide in midfield, while Flanagan came in at right-back.
  • With his side trailing 2-0, Dyche firstly turned to Vokes off the bench, with the striker replacing Boyd for the final 14 minutes. That saw the Clarets switch to more of a 4-3-1-2, with Barnes playing slightly behind Vokes and Gray in attack. James Tarkowski then replaced Flanagan at right-back, while Michael Kightly was given a few minutes late on in place of Arfield.
  • After suffering a third successive defeat, Dyche’s starting XI for the home clash against Bournemouth on Saturday appears uncertain. Tom Heaton missed a second consecutive match due to a calf problem, but could return to replace Paul Robinson next time out. Flanagan got the nod ahead of Lowton at right-back on Saturday, although he suffered a torrid afternoon up against Stoke’s Marko Arnautovic. Defour was surprisingly dropped against the Potters but may well return this weekend, either in the 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1. Vokes is another who may well earn a recall, with Barnes and Gray’s starting roles appearing vulnerable. Boyd and Arfield are perhaps more likely to retain starting berths if, as expected Gudmundsson remains sidelined.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Goalkeeper, Right-Back, Central Midfield, Flanks, Strikers

Chelsea

Starting XI: Courtois; Azpilicueta, David Luiz, Cahill; Moses, Kante, Fabregas, Alonso; Pedro (Willian 49), Diego Costa (Chalobah 81), Hazard (Batshuayi 90).

  • Antonio Conte was forced into making one change to the side that defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 for the trip to the Etihad, with Cesc Fabregas coming in for the injured Nemanja Matic.
  • Fabregas started alongside N’Golo Kante in central midfield in the 3-4-3 then, with Pedro, Eden Hazard and Diego Costa continuing in the front three.
  • Having picked up a knock during the first-half, Pedro only lasted four minutes into the second half before making way for Willian in a straight swap. Diego Costa then also appeared to sustain a problem, forcing Conte to bring on Nathaniel Chalobah in his place late one. That change saw Hazard take over as the lone striker, with Chalobah slotting into midfield as Chelsea looked to hold their 2-1 lead. After scoring the third, Hazard made way for Michy Batshuyai in a straight swap.
  • While Fabregas impressed at the Etihad, Matic could come straight back into the side for the home clash against West Bromwich Albion if he recovers from a muscle injury. Pedro may return from his ankle knock, but after scoring off the bench, Willian will be pushing for a start on the right of the front three. Diego Costa is expected to shrug off his issue which, according to Conte was due to fatigue.

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

Crystal Palace

Starting XI: Hennessey, Ward, Dann, Tomkins (Kelly 89), Delaney, Zaha, Ledley, McArthur (Flamini 89), Puncheon, C Benteke, Townsend (Sako 80).

  • Eagles boss Alan Pardew made three changes for the visit of Southampton to Selhurst Park, with Andros Townsend coming in for the injured Connor Wickham, while Damien Delaney earned a recall at the expense of Martin Kelly at the back. The final change saw Joe Ledley replace the suspended Yohan Cabaye.
  • Delaney slotted in at centre-back alongside Scott Dann, with James Tomkins shifting to right-back, seeing Joel Ward move across to the left. Townsend was stationed on the left of the attacking midfield trio, while Ledley joined James McArthur at the base of midfield in the 4-2-3-1.
  • With Palace putting in a much-improved performance, Pardew only made his three substitutions during the final 10 minutes, with Bakary Sako firstly taking over from Townsend. Kelly and Mathieu Flamini then replaced Tomkins and McArthur in straight swaps.
  • After returning to form with a 3-0 win, Pardew is likely to name a similar side for the trip to Hull City. Cabaye will be available again after serving his one-match ban but may have to settle for a place on the bench. After keeping their first clean sheet of the season, changes are also unlikely at the back.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central Midfield

Everton

Starting XI: Stekelenburg; Coleman (Holgate 67), Williams, Funes Mori, Baines; Barry, Gueye; Bolasie (Valencia 68), Mirallas, Cleverley (Deulofeu 65); Lukaku.

  • Everton boss Ronald Koeman made two alterations from the side that lost 1-0 to Southampton for the home fixture against Man United, with Ramiro Funes Mori, Tom Cleverley and Kevin Mirallas recalled in place of Phil Jagielka, Ross Barkley and Aaron Lennon.
  • Funes Mori started alongside Ashley Williams in central defence, while Cleverley operated on the left of a three-man midfield. Mirallas was stationed in front of him as part of the attacking three for the Toffees.
  • With Everton trailing 1-0, Koeman turned to Gerard Deulofeu off the bench, with the Spaniard replacing Cleverley. Minutes later, Seamus Coleman and Yannick Bolasie were forced off with knocks to be replaced by Mason Holgate and Enner Valencia. Holgate slotted in at right-back, while Valencia’s introduction saw Everton switch to a 4-4-2, with Valencia joining Romelu Lukaku up front. Deulofeu played on the right side of midfield, with Mirallas on the left.
  • After an improved performance, Koeman may look to name a similar starting XI for Saturday’s trip to Vicarage Road. Coleman and Bolasie are doubts, though, so Holgate and Deulofeu will be on standby, with Jagielka and Lennon also providing alternative options. Barkley is another who may push for a recall, although Koeman may well stick with the 4-3-3, perhaps meaning that Cleverley will retain a starting berth. James McCarthy could potentially challenge for a place in central midfield, though. Maarten Stekelenburg was at fault for Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s goal but would seem likely to keep his place ahead of Joel Robles.

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

Leicester City

Starting XI: Zieler; Simpson, Morgan, Huth, Fuchs; Mahrez (Musa 73), Amartey, King, Albrighton (Gray 73); Slimani (Okazaki 68), Vardy.

  • Claudio Ranieri only made one adjustment from the side that drew 2-2 against Middlesbrough for the trip to the Stadium of Light, with Islam Slimani starting in place of Shinji Okazaki.
  • Slimani partnered Jamie Vardy in attack as Ranieri rolled out the 4-4-2.
  • But after falling a goal behind, Ranieri chose to bring on Okazaki in place of Slimani for the final 22 minutes, seeing a switch back to a 4-4-1-1 system. Shortly after, Demarai Gray and Ahmed Musa replaced Marc Albrighton and Riyad Mahrez in straight swaps as the champions looked for a foothold.
  • Given the Foxes have failed to win in their last five league matches, Ranieri appears likely to make some changes for Saturday’s home clash against Manchester City. Nampalys Mendy was an unused substitute on Saturday and could challenge for a place in central midfield in place of either Daniel Amartey or Andy King. Gray or Musa may challenge Albrighton for a starting spot on the left wing, while after scoring as a substitute, Okazaki will be pushing to replace either Slimani or Vardy. Ranieri could also consider freshening up in the full-back positions, with Luis Hernandez and Jeffrey Schlupp possible alternatives. A switch to a 4-5-1 or similar formation may also be a possibility given the Foxes are regularly being outnumbered in midfield this season.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Full-Backs, Central Midfield, Flanks, Strikers

Liverpool

Starting XI: Karius; Clyne, Lovren, Lucas, Milner; Wijnaldum, Henderson, Emre Can; Mane (Lallana 69), Origi, Firmino.

  • Jurgen Klopp was forced into making two changes from the side that beat Sunderland 2-0 for the trip to Bournemouth, with Lucas Leiva and Divock Origi coming in for the injured Joel Matip and Philippe Coutinho.
  • Lucas partnered Dejan Lovren in central defence for the Reds, while Origi operated as the central striker, seeing Roberto Firmino shift over to the left of the front three.
  • Klopp only made one change, with Adam Lallana returning from a groin injury to replace Sadio Mane, who limped off with what appeared to be a muscle problem.
  • After conceding four goals at the Vitality Stadium, Klopp will be desperate for Matip to recover from an ankle injury to replace Lucas in central defence. Ragnar Klavan provides another option in that position. Lallana looks set to push for a recall, although it’s difficult to know how he will slot in if Mane is passed fit for Sunday’s home fixture against West Ham United. Wijnaldum could be the one to make way in central midfield, with Origi perhaps more likely to keep his starting role after scoring his third goal in three appearances in all competitions.

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

Manchester City

Starting XI: Bravo; Stones (Iheanacho 78), Otamendi, Kolarov, Fernandinho, Gundogan (Toure 76), Navas, Sane (Clichy 69), Silva, De Bruyne, Aguero.

  • Pep Guardiola made six changes for the visit of Chelsea to the Etihad, with John Stones, Ilkay Gundogan, Jesus Navas, Leroy Sane, David Silva and Kevin de Bruyne coming in for Bacary Sagna, Gael Clichy, Fernando, Yaya Toure, Raheem Sterling and Nolito.
  • Those changes saw Guardiola match up against Chelsea’s 3-4-3, with Sane (left) and Navas (right) used as wing-backs. Stones joined Nicolas Otamendi and Aleksandar Kolarov in the three-man backline, while De Bruyne and Silva flanked central striker Sergio Aguero.
  • With Sane struggling defensively, Guardiola decided to bring Clichy on in his place in a straight swap for the final 21 minutes. Toure then took over from Gundogan in central midfield, with Guardiola’s final substitution seeing Kelechi Iheancho come on for Stones, with the Nigerian joining Aguero in attack as City looked to find an equaliser, leaving just Otamendi, Kolarov and Fernandinho in defence.
  • Guardiola will be without the suspended Otamendi, Fernandinho and Aguero for Saturday’s trip to Leicester City, so Iheanacho would appear likely to start in attack, while if he goes back to a four-man backline, Stones, Kolarov and Clichy are all set to figure. Either Sagna or Pablo Zabaleta could play at right-back, with Fernando perhaps set to earn a recall in midfield. Sterling could return if he shakes off a minor knock, with Navas and Sane both perhaps likely to drop down to the bench. Toure is another who may well come into contention for a recall given that he is ineligible to play in tomorrow night’s Champions League clash with Celtic. Gundogan’s starting spot could also be in doubt, then.

Current Status: Very Unsettled
Risk Areas: All Positions

Manchester United

Starting XI: De Gea; Valencia, Jones, Rojo, Darmian; Carrick; Mkhitaryan (Fellaini 84), Herrera, Pogba, Martial (Rashford 82); Ibrahimovic.

  • Jose Mourinho made three changes from the side that drew 1-1 against West Ham United for the trip to Goodison Park, with Michael Carrick, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Anthony Martial coming in for Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata and Marcus Rashford.
  • Carrick returned at the base of midfield in a 4-1-4-1 formation, with Mkhitaryan (right) and Martial (left) operating out wide. Ander Herrera and Paul Pogba formed the central midfield partnership.
  • With United holding a 1-0 lead, Mourinho decided to freshen up his midfield during the final 10 minutes, with Rashford firstly replacing Martial in a straight swap. Marouane Fellaini then entered the fray in place of Mkhitaryan, who may have suffered a knock. Fellaini played in central midfield, with Herrera moving over to the right.
  • Eric Bailly returned from injury to be named among the substitutes on Sunday: he will now challenge for a starting role for Sunday’s home clash against Tottenham Hotspur, with Marcos Rojo perhaps the most likely to come under threat. If Mourinho sticks with the 4-1-4-1, Carrick, Herrera and Pogba should all keep their places, but a switch to a 4-2-3-1 could see one of those make way for an extra attacking midfielder, such as Juan Mata or Wayne Rooney. Rashford and Lingard provide further attacking options on the flanks, although Mkhitaryan and Martial may have done enough to retain their starts.

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

Part Two of Lineup Lessons, assessing the remaining ten teams, will be published tomorrow.

902 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. Johqvist
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Wow, really?

    1. Johqvist
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I actually did it. Sorry TM. Nothing worthy of reading though, please carry on.

  2. Albert Cole
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Which fifth mid would you have: Allen or Capoue?

    1. Squires FC
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Can ideally but capoue more nailed out of the 2

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

      Capoue.

      Allen isnt nailed

    3. Kip
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Might want to have a look an Can (4.9)

      1. Here's Tom with the We…
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Depends if it's a playing 5th mid in a 3-5-2 or bench

    4. M00N
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I'm getting rid of Allen if that helps. Didn't even start at the weekend

  3. Hooky
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Any news on when Matip is back?

    1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Ask Optimus .

      1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        A long term injury would mean Coq in and that's gotten a little stale imo .

        1. Hooky
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          He's rotten

    2. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      According to James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo, Matip suffered a knock to the ankle and had a long discussion with the medical staff before he disappeared down the tunnel. Manager Jurgen Klopp later confirmed the Cameroon international had a "little problem with his ankle."

      1. Hooky
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Thanks. Hopefully nothing serious then as they really need him back asap.

        1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          One useful reply one less than useless reply that's how I roll 😎

          1. Hooky
            • 11 Years
            9 years, 4 months ago

            That's more than most on here provide 😉

            1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
              • 15 Years
              9 years, 4 months ago

              😆

  4. Kip
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    I want a pool mid for my 4th midfield slot but cant afford firmino/mané. Who would you prefer?

    A) Can (£)
    B) Milner ( pens and corners but rev OOP)
    C) Lallana ( most involvement but not nailed)

    1. Johqvist
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I would say Lallana is nailed unless injured.

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

      I am thinking of Lallana for my fourth. I could afford Eriksen but I would rather use the money to upgrade my def.

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

    PEP: There will be changes. I am happy to give minutes to players who deserve it. Whether Sergio will play, I will decide today or tomorrow. I like all the players to play. I want to involve all the players. When we play every three days, the players must be rotated.

    1. Dr Dream
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      No City player coming anywhere near my squad.

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

        Same here. Many are considering or already bought Iheanacho but I'm far from convinced that he'll start all December matches. I just can't trust Pep.

        1. Bazzalona
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Ditto.
          He'll start SOME games but not all.
          Seeing as it's pure guesswork it's not worth it imo.

    2. Karan_G14
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      This should be enough for everyone to stop thinking about Iheanacho.

      1. Here's Tom with the We…
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Same. Was thinking of Nacho but just don't trust pep so went Defoe instead

  6. M00N
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Want to get both Cedric and Alonso in. Which order would you do the transfers given next weeks fixtures?
    Potential lineup for next week

    Morgan (manc) Alonso (WBA)

    —————OR—————

    Cedric (MID) Koscienly (STO)

    1. Radebe_5
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Cedric in first

    2. M00N
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Is Alonso going to double rise this week?

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

        No dont think so

  7. Ghost86
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Who will get more points in the next 4 games Alonso or siggy?

    A) Pieters/Smith to Alonso -4
    B) Allen to Siggy -4
    C) wait a week

    1. Kip
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I'd prefer A)

    2. Dedalus1
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      B, but look at Alonso in near future

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

      A hands down, but try and do a and b

  8. RustyBz
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Would you consider:

    Walcott + Aguero + Firmino/Siggy -> Sanchez + Costa + Can

    1. RustyBz
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      (-8)

    2. Ghost86
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      No Walcott and firmino can score next game

      1. RustyBz
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Can they outscore Sanchez and Costa though

        1. RamaJama
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Yes they can. Chosen to keep Walcott and Firmino, also have Sanchez, Costa and Hazard

    3. M00N
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Not sure Can is a 4th mid to be honest. Do you have enough for Firmino + Aguero -> Sanchez + Costa? maybe downgrade a defender too?

      1. RustyBz
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Would be .6 away!

        Would need to downgrade one of Walker/Alonso to a 5.5/5.4

        what do you think?

        1. M00N
          • 11 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          If you are happy with Can then go for it the rest is a an upgrade. I think you will need both Costa and Sanchez going forward.

    4. Kip
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I would.

      Keep Siggy imo

    5. Ghost86
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Aguero to costa

      Then ask yourself can they outscore costa firmino Walcott

  9. NestorC
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Who will get more points in a next few? Dont have Pool cover and have Kane

    A) Son

    B) Lallana

    1. EmreCan Hustle
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      B

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

    Amazing how quickly things change in this game. A few weeks ago Sanchez was overpriced and City attackers were essential after the demolition of Barca.

    1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      FPL players views on players change on a weekly basis

      1. Hooky
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Indeed. Shame that the Aguero ban means people can afford whoever they want now. Captain choice going to be even more vital over the next few weeks to get ahead of the curve.

        1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          yep, a little template is being formed but I have feeling there are some twists and turns to come.

      2. pompeyfan
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        *daily

  11. Dedalus1
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Midfield: Hazard, Eriksen, Firmino, Siggy, De Roon

    Can afford Firmino > Sanchez for a -4. Worth it?

    1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      give firmino one last chance v hammers

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

      I would, you could captain him aswell.

    3. Dedalus1
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Thanks guys. It is a tough one. I would take out Eriksen but I want him back for gw16.

    4. Jazz!
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      My nan could score against West Ham.

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

    Lukaku to Cost for -4?

    1. Besaid_Auroch
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      to Costa even...

    2. Dedalus1
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yes

    3. Hooky
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yes

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

      Yes.

    5. Johqvist
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yup.

  13. SuperDan
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Pick one:
    A) KDB & Lovren
    B) Erikson & Walker

    1. The Rock
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      B

    2. EmreCan Hustle
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      A

    3. Slumdog-Mignolet
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      B. They have the fixtures.

    4. LC1
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      A

    5. FIKO
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      B

  14. The Rock
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    What are people's thoughts on Koscielny?

    Some good fixtures coming up and always a good goal threat but he's expensive and Arsenal haven't looked all that solid at the back. Maybe when Bellerin is back that will help though.

    1. Karan_G14
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      If you can afford Alonso along with him nothing to worry about they have good fixtures after GW17.

      But I'd prefer a Chelsea defender over him if you don't own one.

      1. The Rock
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Trying to fit in both Alonso and Kos. Alonso is in for sure though.

    2. EmreCan Hustle
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Wondering the same thing. Might get Alonso in GW 16 if they don't keep a CS this week.

    3. M00N
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I've not got much returns out of him the last few weeks in games which I expect clean sheets. I'm shipping him for Alonso

      1. Here's Tom with the We…
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        I'd prefer one of the spurs full backs to be honest

      2. The Rock
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Same as Moon, he's been frustrating but will still end up as one of the top 3 scoring defenders imo. just a questions if he's worth the money.

        Walker/Rose/Toby Certainly are good options as well Tom.

        1. Here's Tom with the We…
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          If I had the funds I'd get Rose. I had Kosc a few weeks ago, just so frustrating when premium defenders don't keep clean sheets when you expect them too!

  15. Karan_G14
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Does Andy Carrol usually start all matches when fit (which is rare)?

    Do you think he starts against Pool?

    Appreciate your thoughts!

    1. EmreCan Hustle
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yes, when fit he should start all matches.

    2. The Rock
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      It's not like West Ham have lots of options up front. Sakho is injured, Zaza doesn't look to be in contention, and rightly so.

      So he's challenging Fletcher who's not quite up to it yet and perhaps Ayew who's also just back from injury and can play wide.

      I think he starts when fit.

  16. EmreCan Hustle
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Have exact cash to do Austin to Costa for a hit?

    Seems Costa is about to rise, should I pull the trigger?

    1. SuperDan
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yes

      1. EmreCan Hustle
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Cheers.

  17. tsubasa10
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    philips > payet or philips > redmond ?

    1. EmreCan Hustle
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Payet over Redmond any day. But it depends on what you can do with the cash you save if you get Redmond.

      Is this your 4th midfield spot?

      1. tsubasa10
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        ya 4th

        got hazard, mane, firmino already

        1. EmreCan Hustle
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Perhaps Walcott, Spurs mid or Sigurdsson? West Ham don't look that great.

          1. tsubasa10
            • 9 Years
            9 years, 4 months ago

            going to pick sigurdsson on budget

  18. WDT
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    The carnage when Alexis pulls his hammy tomorrow night...

    1. Ziegler1988
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Hopefully won't even travel

  19. Forza Papac
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    For those, and there seems to be a fair few, that are adverse to taking regular hits, i've averaged a hit of 3.71 each GW so far this season, even taking a -16 one GW and i'm currently sitting just above 33k.

    If I could be bothered to look into further i'm sure i'd find that my points tally is higher than it would have been if no hits were taken. My squad value is certainly much better off.

    https://fantasy.premierleague.com/a/entry/236903/history

    1. Licious Lizard
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Actually you took a hit per GW. Not possible to take a hit in round one, so 13 hits for 13 possible weeks 🙂

  20. Hammers Select
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Any word if Zlatan will be getting a retro ban?

    1. The Rock
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Doubt it. It rally wasn't that bad and no way or knowing if it was even meant.

      1. The Rock
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        really* of*

        Christ.

        1. Here's Tom with the We…
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Looked like the ref saw it so I doubt it

  21. elnino75
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    best aguero replacement? costa(4 yellows) kane? other? CHEERS

    1. The Rock
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      They're you're main two.

      If you're feeling adventurous then there's Origi and Iheanacho or safer picks Austin/Defoe.

    2. EmreCan Hustle
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Kane.

  22. ArsenalBankai
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    What is the outlook on De Bryune at the moment?

    Why hasn't he been netting the goals?

    Siggy is a lot more cheaper with a lot more output in a much shitter team. Think I will stick with him for the festive period.

    The wonders of FPL.

  23. ThurmanMurman23
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    On the back of a relatively good weekend, I've taken my first points hit of the season.

    I've done 3 transfers which is a -8 hit and they are:
    OUT - Lukaku, Mane & Williams
    IN - Kane, Eriksen & Ake

    I was planning to get Eriksen and Kane for GW16 but price rises meant I likely wouldn't have been able to do them, that's why I've gone for Ake as well as he's good back up option for £4.2m.

    Debate I have now is whether to use Bench Boost to make up for that -8 points hit? Team and bench looks like this heading into GW15:

    Cech
    Lovren - Van Dijk - Alonso
    Ledley - Hazard - Eriksen - Firmino
    Kane - Costa - Austin

    Grant - Stones - Ake - Allen

    Appreciate any thoughts if it's worth the bench boost.

    1. Here's Tom with the We…
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Why get rid of Mane before West Ham at home? Definitely not worth bench boosting!

      1. ThurmanMurman23
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Getting rid of Mane freed up the money to change from Lukaku > Kane.

        Lukaku has been dreadful for weeks so it was long overdue getting rid of him. Still got the cover of Firmino at Liverpool who's going to be the main man with Coutinho missing.

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

      Fool

      1. ThurmanMurman23
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Lukaku to Kane in the long run be well worth shipping out Mane. Still got Firmino too, so not all is lost.

  24. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Pep: the reason I change the lineup so often is to let everyone play, I'd use more substitutes if I could

    https://twitter.com/BBCBlueTuesday/status/805777978366029824

    1. Funkyav
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Pep: making it up as he goes along

  25. C_G
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Ideas/suggestions?

    Used my FT on Aguero---> Costa

    2.4 ITB

    Pick Grant

    Walker Pieters Brunt Holebas Amat

    Sanchez Firmino Mané Chadli hojberg

    Kane Costa Austin

    Should I do Chadli ---> Siggy/ Eriksen (-4)?

  26. Ógie
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Iheanacho is pure gold now anyone brave enough to get him will be rewarded handsomely he was better than Aguero nearly when he started ahead of him

    1. The Big Fella
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I assume you've already got him then 😉

      I think he is great but Pep rotates and isn't advsere to using a false 9 so there is no guarantee he will start. Kane on the other hand.......

  27. The Big Fella
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    I have just noticed that Firmino is on the rise and Mane is on the down! Is Mane's injury confirmed and how long is he expected to be out for?

    1. boc610
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      nothing confirmed other than he went of with an injury. id worry only for the fact that it wasn't a knock,seemed like he may have tweeked something, ditto Costa

    2. The Rock
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Do you mean price wise?

      Nothing confirmed yet, i don't think he looked too bad.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Yeah. Mane was getting bought until, seemingly, this morning. Firmino was getting sold. They are both moving in the opposite direction now. I suppose with Costa being potentially injured too, people have to be cautious.

    3. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Hopefully i don't have to worry about Mane again until after AFCON

      1. The Big Fella
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Guinea-Bissau will win anyway mate. Mane will be home early.

  28. The Rock
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Heung-Min Son admits he feels "fresher" now than in the past two months. "I'm fine now and I'm looking forward to scoring & helping #THFC."

    Certainly another good option to consider.

    1. Danstoke82
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Had him in my team for 4 weeks and he got me nothing.

      Still hurts

      1. The Rock
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        He's a bit of a troll alright!

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

    Not happy as a Walker owner. Will very likely get rested midweek in GW16 against Burnley. Leaves him with Hull at home in GW17 as the only favourable fixture.

    Meanwhile Alonso the best def in the game and won't get rotated.

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

      Or am I overthinking this potential swap?

    2. The Rock
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      You don't know for sure he will be rested against Burnley.

      But Alonso is a better option.

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

        True. But it is very likely based on Poch's previous use of rotation.

        1. Here's Tom with the We…
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          I thought that was mainly when spurs had champions league games? Does know one think Alonso might be rested soon as the games come thick and fast?

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

      I'd take the swap. I own both as I've said dude but I think that Alonso is the better choice as he has less ready replacements unlike Walker who only has to look at Trippier!!

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

        @Individual. Will be another -8 though. But would strengthen my chance of points as Walker is not likely to get cs away to united, then rested against Burnley, before hull at home:

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

          Allen Lukaku and Walker to de roon Costa and Alonso = -8

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

          Agreed. Outside chance I'm removing Walker and Kaku for Costa and a 5.0 next week, so you won't be alone. I'd leave it maybe this week and see what happens. Defence not worth a -4 usually, let alone a -8

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

      Is now or never for this run.

  30. Danstoke82
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Allen > -4

    A) Eriksen
    B) Siggy
    C) Payet

    1. The Rock
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      A or B.

      It's close. Erikson has 2 really good fixtures coming up but i think Siggy could get more points over the long term

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

      Not Payet this week.

      Eriksen could be a great call. United not the best fixture but then games vs. BUR HUL are absolutely ideal.