Team News
6 December 2016 872 comments
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Chris Brunt bags a goal and assist from his role on the flank in West Brom’s win over Watford. The fit-again Andy Carroll emerges from the bench to net West Ham’s consolation in a home drubbing against Arsenal, while Joe Allen fails to win a starting role on his return from suspension as Mark Hughes keeps faith in a 3-5-2 formation.

After rolling out Part One yesterday, here’s the second wave of our analysis of the Gameweek 14 teamsheets and tactics, together with early thoughts on next weekend’s likely line-ups.

Hull City

Starting XI: Marshall; Robertson, Davies, Elmohamady, Dawson; Mason (Bowen 62), Clucas, Snodgrass, Livermore (Huddlestone 62); Diomande; Henriksen (Meyler 81).

  • Mike Phelan made just one alteration for the trip to the Riverside, with Andrew Robertson coming in for Josh Tymon.
  • Robertson returned in his usual position at left-back for the Tigers, while Ryan Mason played on the left of midfield in the 4-4-1-1 system favoured by Phelan of late.
  • Phelan has been preparing to bring on Tom Huddlestone and Jarrod Bowen just before ‘Boro opened the scoring, but the pair did enter the fray moments later in place of Jake Livermore and Mason in straight swaps. With nine minutes remaining, Phelan brought on David Meyler in place of Markus Henriksen, with the Hull boss having few other attacking options to utilise off the bench.
  • With Abel Hernandez ruled out for another three weeks ahead of Saturday’s home clash against Crystal Palace, Phelan looks to have few options to freshen up his attack. Henriksen’s starting spot is perhaps the most at risk should the likes of Shaun Maloney be passed fit, while Huddlestone, Meyler and Bowen provide further alternatives if Phelan look to change things up in midfield.

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

Middlesbrough

Starting XI: Valdes; Fabio, Gibson, Chambers, Barragan; Forshaw, de Roon, Clayton; Fischer (Stuani 80), Ramirez (Downing 86), Negredo.

  • ’Boro head coach Aitor Karanka only made one change for the home encounter against Hull City, with Viktor Fischer starting at the expense of Adama Traore.
  • Karanka set up with more of a 4-1-4-1 formation last night, with Gaston Ramirez (right) and Fischer (left) stationed out wide, leaving Marten de Roon and Adam Forshaw playing in advance of holding midfielder Adam Clayton.
  • With 10 minutes remaining, Karanka looked to Cristhian Stuani to provide some fresh legs, with the Uruguayan replacing Fisher. Stuani played on the right wing, with Ramirez moving over to the left flank. But shortly after, Ramirez suffered a slight knock to his foot and had to be replaced by Stewart Downing.
  • It was a surprise to see Traore dropped to the bench last night, but with ‘Boro travelling to face Southampton on Sunday, his pace on the break could see the winger recalled to the starting XI. Ramirez is expected to shrug off his minor knock, so it’s Fischer who may drop back down to the bench. Otherwise, Karanka may keep faith in the rest of the side who impressed on Monday night.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Flanks

Southampton

Starting XI: Forster; Cedric, van Dijk, Fonte, Bertrand; Ward-Prowse, Romeu, Hojbjerg (Sims 59); Redmond, Austin (McQueen 76), Boufal (Long 76).

  • Southampton manager Claude Puel made one adjustment from the side that beat Everton 1-0 for the trip to Selhurst Park, with Sofiane Boufal recalled in place of Josh Sims.
  • Boufal was stationed on the left of the front three, with Nathan Redmond on the right and Charlie Austin operating as the central striker. James Ward-Prowse and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg kept their places in central midfield alongside Oriol Romeu.
  • But with his side trailing 2-0, Puel made a change just before the hour mark, with Sims introduced in place of Hojbjerg. That saw Saints switch to a 4-2-3-1, with Sims on the right of the attacking midfield trio, allowing Redmond to move into the No 10 role. With 14 minutes remaining, Puel brought on Sam McQueen and Shane Long in place of Austin and Boufal. McQueen played on the left wing, with Long operating as the lone striker.
  • After losing 3-0 to Crystal Palace, Puel may look to tweak his midfield, with Jordy Clasie and Steven Davis likely to be in contention to earn recalls in place of Hojbjerg and Ward-Prowse. Changes could also be possible in the wide positions, with Sims, Long and McQueen all viable options.

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

Stoke City

Starting XI: Grant; Johnson, Martins Indi, Muniesa, Pieters; Imbula, Adam (Whelan 86), Diouf, Shaqiri (Allen 60), Arnautovic (Crouch 70); Walters.

  • Mark Hughes named an unchanged starting XI from the one that beat Watford 1-0 for the home encounter with Burnley.
  • Hughes continued with a 3-5-2 formation on Saturday, with Mame Biram Diouf and Erik Pieters operating in the wing-back positions. Xherdan Shaqiri was the most advanced central attacking midfielder, with Marko Arnautovic partnering Jon Walters in attack.
  • Hughes’s first change saw Joe Allen, who was back after serving a one-match ban, replace Shaqiri. Stoke’s second substitution was an enforced one, with Arnautovic having to be taken off after picking up a knock. The Austrian was replaced by Peter Crouch who joined Walters in attack, while Allen slotted in alongside Giannelli Imbula and Charlie Adam in midfield. Glenn Whelan returned from injury to get a few minutes late on in place of Adam in the middle of the park.
  • With the Potters heading to the Emirates on Saturday, Hughes seems set to continue with the same formation. Bruno Martins Indi did suffer a facial injury against the Clarets, though, and will need to be assessed. Ryan Shawcross also remains a serious doubt due to a calf injury, so Hughes could have to consider switching back to a four-man defence were both players to be unavailable. Allen and Whelan may come into contention to start in midfield but, after back-to-back victories, he is likely to name the same starting XI providing Arnautovic is passed fit.

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

Sunderland

Starting XI: Pickford; Jones, Kone, Djilobodji, Van Aanholt; Pienaar (Larsson 46), Ndong, Denayer (Kirchhoff 46); Watmore (Manquillo 85), Defoe, Anichebe.

  • David Moyes made one adjustment from the side that lost 2-0 at Liverpool, with Papy Djilobodji returning from a one-match suspension to replace John O’Shea.
  • Djilobodji partnered Lamine Kone in central defence for the Black Cats, who again lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with Victor Anichebe (left) and Duncan Watmore (right) flanking central striker Jermain Defoe.
  • Moyes was forced into making two changes at half-time, with Jason Denayer (illness) and Steven Pienaar (concussion) being replaced by Sebastian Larsson and Jan Kirchhoff respectively. Watmore then suffered a knee injury and was subsequently stretchered off, with Javier Manquillo offering a more defensive option down the right in front of Billy Jones as Sunderland looked to hang on for the 2-1 win.
  • Watmore looks to have been ruled out for the rest of the season with a serious knee injury, so Moyes may look to either Wahbi Khazri or Adnan Januzaj to take his place on the right wing against Swansea on Saturday. He could also consider switching to a 4-4-2, with Larsson capable of playing on the right side of midfield, leaving Anichebe and Defoe up front. Denayer and Pienaar appear to have more chance of being fit to keep their starting berths, with Larsson and Kirchhoff the obvious alternatives for Moyes.

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

Swansea City

Starting XI: Fabianski; Naughton, Van der Hoorn, Amat, Taylor; Fulton (Llorente 46), Cork, Fer; Barrow (Routledge 71), Sigurdsson, Montero (Borja Baston 63)

  • Bob Bradley made two alterations for the trip to White Hart Lane, with Mike van der Hoorn recalled in place of the injured Federico Fernandez, while Jefferson Montero replaced Wayne Routledge.
  • Van der Hoorn joined Jordi Amat in central defence for the Swans, while Montero started on the left of the front three, with Gylfi Sigurdsson continuing in the “false nine” role.
  • But after heading into half-time 2-0 down, Bradley decided to introduce Fernando Llorente in place of Jay Fulton, seeing the Welsh outfit switch to a 4-2-3-1. Llorente operated as the lone striker, with Sigurdsson dropping into the No 10 role. Then, shortly after the hour mark, Borja Baston entered the fray in place of Montero, helping form a 4-4-2, with Borja joining Llorente up front. Sigurdsson moved to the position on the left of midfield, although he drifted inside for most of the final 27 minutes. Bradley’s final substitution saw Routledge replace Modou Barrow on the right side of midfield for the final 19 minutes.
  • Fernandez suffered a broken toe during training last week, so Van der Hoorn appears likely to keep his starting berth for Saturday’s home clash against Sunderland, with Alfie Mawson the other alternative at centre-back. Bradley may well start with a 4-2-3-1 against the Black Cats, so one of Llorente or Borja may lead the line, with Sigurdsson moving back into the No 10 role. Montero could keep his place on the left ahead of Routledge, while Fulton could one the one to drop out of the starting XI.

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

Tottenham Hotspur

Starting XI: Lloris; Walker, Dier, Vertonghen, Rose; Dembele (Winks 83), Wanyama; Eriksen, Alli, Son Heung-min (Sissoko 71); Kane (Onomah 87).

  • Mauricio Pochettino made one adjustment from the side that lost 2-1 to Chelsea for the home clash against Swansea City, with Danny Rose returning from his one-match ban to replace Kevin Wimmer.
  • Rose slotted into his usual position at left-back, while Christian Eriksen (right), Dele Alli (No 10) and Son Heung-min (left) once again formed the attacking midfield trio in the 4-2-3-1 formation.
  • Pochettino’s first substitution saw Moussa Sissoko replace Son for the final 19 minutes. Sissoko played on the right, with Eriksen switching over to the left of the attacking midfield trio. Harry Winks and Joshua Onamah were handed brief run-outs late on in place of Mousa Dembele and Harry Kane, with Alli ending the match as the lone striker.
  • Following such a strong performance, there may only be one change Pochettino considers making for Sunday’s trip to Old Trafford, with Toby Alderweireld a possible replacement for Eric Dier in central defence. The Belgian returned to the squad to face CSKA Moscow tomorrow, though Pochettino has admitted he is still uncertain whether he will start against United.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central Defence

Watford

Starting XI: Gomes; Zuniga (Ighalo 77), Kabasele, Prodl, Holebas; Pereyra, Guedioura, Capoue, Amrabat; Okaka (Sinclair 90), Deeney.

  • Watford head coach Walter Mazzarri made four alterations for the trip to the Hawthorns, with Juan Zuniga and Christian Kabasele coming in for the injured Younes Kaboul and Daryl Janmaat, while Adlene Guedioura and Stefano Okaka came in for the suspended Miguel Britos and Valon Behrami.
  • Those changes saw the Hornets switch from a 3-4-3 to a 4-4-2 formation, with Okaka joining Troy Deeney in attack. Roberto Pereyra (right) and Nordin Amrabat (left) started on the flanks, with Guedioura and Etienne Capoue in central midfield. Zuniga came in at right-back, while Kabasele partnered Sebastian Prodl at the heart of the defence.
  • With his side trailing 2-1 heading into the final 15 minutes, Mazzarri decided to bring on Odion Ighalo in place of Zuniga, seeing Watford switch back to the 3-4-3. Jerome Sinclair was handed a few minutes at the death, replacing Okaka.
  • Mazzarri will have Britos and Behrami back from suspension for Saturday’s home clash against Everton, but he will be without Pereyra, who will now serve a three-match ban following his sending off on Saturday. The Italian may well revert back to the 3-4-3, with Britos perhaps joining Prodl and Kabasele in central defence. Zuniga could play at right wing-back if Janmaat remains out with a head injury, while Behrami may replace Guedioura in central midfield. After Okaka struggled to make an impact on his first league start for the Hornets, Ighalo or even Sinclair could push for a starting berth alongside Amrabat and Deeney against the Toffees.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Full-Backs/Wing-Backs, Central Midfield, Flanks

West Bromwich Albion

Starting XI: Foster; Dawson, McAuley, Evans, Nyom; Yacob; Brunt (McClean 80), Morrison (Chadli 75), Fletcher, Phillips; Rondon (Robson-Kanu 88).

  • Tony Pulis once again named an unchanged side for home clash against Watford.
  • There was no place in the starting XI once again for Nacer Chadli then, with Chris Brunt, James Morrison and Matt Phillips again starting in the advanced midfield positions in the 4-2-3-1 formation.
  • Chadli was the first player summoned off the bench, taking over from Morrison in the No 10 role for the final 15 minutes. James McClean then replaced Brunt five minutes later, with McClean playing on the left wing, seeing Phillips switch over to the right. Hal Robson-Kanu provided fresh legs in place of lone striker Salomon Rondon for the final few minutes.
  • After registering another victory, Pulis could well consider naming the same starting XI once again for Sunday’s trip to leaders Chelsea. The only obvious change to make would be to recall Chadli in place of Morrison in the No 10 role, but the Scot is probably doing enough to keep hold of his starting spot for the time being.

Current Status: Very Settled
Risk Areas: Attacking Midfield

West Ham United

Starting XI: Randolph; Collins (Arbeloa 7), Reid, Ogbonna; Fernandes (Ayew 63), Noble (Carroll 72), Obiang, Masuaku; Lanzini, Fletcher, Payet.

  • Slaven Bilic was forced into making four changes from the side that drew 1-1 against Man United for the home encounter against Arsenal, with Edimilson Fernandes, Arthur Masuaku, Ashley Fletcher and Winston Reid, who was back from suspension, coming in for the injured quartet Cheikhou Kouyate, Aaron Cresswell, Michail Antonio and Diafra Sakho.
  • Bilic stuck with the 3-4-3 formation despite those changes, with Fernandes and Masuaku occupying the wing-back roles, while Fletcher started as the central striker.
  • The Croatian had to alter his plans after just seven minutes, though, after James Collins suffered a hamstring injury. The Welshman was replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa, seeing the Hammers switch to a 4-3-3 system. The Spaniard slotted in at right-back, with Fernandes moving forward into a midfield role. Fernandes was the next player to make way though, with Andre Ayew introduced in his place, seeing the Irons move to a 4-2-3-1. Ayew played on the right of the attacking midfield trio, with Manuel Lanzini in the No 10 role and Dimitri Payet on the left. As a final roll of the dice, Bilic threw on the fit-again Andy Carroll in place of Mark Noble, seeing West Ham finish the match in a very attacking 4-1-3-2.
  • Bilic will desperately hope to have Kouyate (knock) back for Sunday’s trip to Anfield, with Collins a doubt due to the hamstring problem he picked up against the Gunners. Arbeloa or Havard Nordtveit may have to fill in should both players be unavailable. The groin problems that ruled Cresswell and Antonio out of Saturday’s match weren’t thought to be serious, so the pair may have a decent chance of being able to return in place of Fernandes and Masuaku in the wing-back positions. Carroll may not be ready to start against his former side, but Ayew does offer another alternative to Fletcher up front.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Wing-Backs, Central Striker

872 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. Dr Dream
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    For anybody who doesn't have BT Sport or Sky...or who are watching on an iffy stream.

    The Arsenal match is free to watch on BT showcase tonight.

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

      Nice

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

    Why is wenger playing sanchez?! PSG will smash ludogrets at home

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

      I'm not entirely sure if Wenger is in charge of Sanchez. I think Sanchez is in charge of Sanchez.

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

        That would be ridiculous

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

          But true.

          I'm still laughing at the report of Sanchez doing press ups in the middle of the dressing room team talk by Wenger.

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

            Haha sanchez is a best personality in the league

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

              Absolutely is...for certain. The feel good factor he brings is fab...even before he's kicked a ball. Santi does the same btw....

              You can't beat upbeat.

    2. Monkey Hanger
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      The boy is hot as a pistol. Let him have his fun.

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

      yep he must be huffin glue again if he thinks PSG will slip up against ludogrets

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

        Arsenal won the group. PSG failed. Sanchez assisted, hit the bar (great shot) and was subbed in 70 min with no injury. He will start vs Stoke for 100%. He is the only starter nailed except from Koscielny. 2 goals against Stoke. 4:1 is my guess like vs Palace. They have been playing weak sides recently (except ManU, but they had Grant super performance then) and now they easy fixtures run ends. Only Benteke can score more this gameweek then Alexis 🙂

  3. WE ARE RANGERS
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Scoutcast tonight?

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Hot topic = tomorrow

      1. WE ARE RANGERS
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Thanks mate

  4. FPL Footy Show Pod
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Mustafi and Firmino to Ake and KDB for a -8?
    Leaves me with no l'pool?

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

      Is mustafi injured?

      1. FPL Footy Show Pod
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        No just need a differential I think and I've no city?

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

          Wouldn't do it

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

      Not for me

    3. Phil Dagger ⭐
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      wow

      No

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

        Not at all. Would sell mustsfi tho

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

      No.

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

      Wouldn't spend 10.8 on KDB before we see how City plays. They haven't been impressive since GW6 with or without Kun.
      Also... Firmino is up against West Ham.
      I doubt KDB will get you +8, so even if we're nice and do Ake = Mustafi you're in bad shape.

      1. tm245
        • 14 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Well said, very good way to look at it.

      2. Ohhh Shola Ameobi
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Look at City GW4/5 without Aguero. KDB got 27 points over those two gameweeks.

  5. WE ARE RANGERS
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Pickford
    Alonso Rose Cedric
    Hazard Sanchez Firmino Siggy
    Austin Kane Costa

    Grant Amat Lenihan De Roon

    0.9 itb, no changes needed right?

    1. Monkey Hanger
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Looks solid as.

    2. Dasher0303
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      No necessary changes, but upgrading lenihan or de roon to Gibson/Barragan or Can would be a good idea in time for the Christmas period

      1. WE ARE RANGERS
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Ok thanks mate

    3. zotter
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      As template as you can get

  6. Dasher0303
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Already taken a hit, should I take another to get rid of Allen for Can, so it would be -8 overall???

    Can has the better fixtures and Allen might not even start, also if I don't play Allen, I would have to play either Evans or Barragan or Hojbjerg, which I don't want to do. Can also set to rise this week.

    1. Monkey Hanger
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      No. But I have a feeling you will.

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

      Why not eh?

  7. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    If you had to choose one

    A costa
    B sanchez

    For the sun game so cant have both

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

      Sanchez. Though Costa better next few

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

      Not sure how the Sun game works, but B.

      1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Looking at my score i don't think i do

        Thanks both

    3. Shakermeister
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Sanchez will probably rise in price again this week .Both on form but I would go Sanchez

      1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
        • 16 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Thanks thats a good point. Gone for alexis

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

    http://www.arsenal.com/match/report/1617/pre/first-team/fc-basel-v-arsenal-the-inside-track

    “I keep the group together, whether players and staff we have a squad that is united. Overall, the best way when a guy is having good success and confidence, it's more dangerous to stop him than keep him going.”

    “What is physical and what is mental in that is always very difficult, and predicting who is tired and not is hard. We are not advanced enough in our science, I guess, to know that ahead, so I kept them all together. All the players at the top want to play, and are keen to play. Alexis a bit more extroverted in how he shows it, but you do not get to his level if you don't have a good passion to play at the game. He just shows it in a different way.”

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

      Alexis tells Wenger when he wants to play.

      Never gets injured anyway, he's a machine.

    2. tm245
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I like that, "Alexis a bit more extroverted..."

    3. Je suis le chat
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Good insight. Alexis might have eyes on more goals, balloon d'or's etc.

  9. BB-8
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Anything worth a hit?

    Heaton
    Mustafi Holebas Amat
    Sanchez Firmino Alli Siggy
    Kane Costa Rondon

    Pickford deRoon Evans Pieters
    0FT. 2.9 ITB

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

      Mustsfi to Alonso might be worth it.

      1. BB-8
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Surely Holebas/Evans out before Mustafi?

      2. Je suis le chat
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Hold a week. WBA will trouble Chelsea at the back.

        1. BB-8
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Holebas to Alonso not worth a hit, you think?

      3. Ephurion
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Even with Arsenals great run of fixtures coming up?

        I'm contemplating Holebas -> Alonso for a hit, might be worth it over the next few games

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

      Rondon to Defoe/Benteke?

      1. BB-8
        • 10 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        I like both this week especially Bentekke but Rondon plays Swans at home next week

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

          True.

          1. BB-8
            • 10 Years
            9 years, 4 months ago

            Tempted by Holebas/Evans to Alonso though

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

    I've seen a few times with can as a 4th mid is this really viable?

    And with it is Walcott and gundogen worth the hit to alexis and can?

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

    Hmmm any Iheanacho owners worried about him starting tonight with KDB being rested? I fear a false 9 coming up at the weekend

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

      I don't own him but i think the pitch time will do him the world of good he needs it i am pretty sure he will play at the weekend baring a injury

      1. Gemgem1010
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Same as above- gutted not to put him this week after hearing he will play tonight, I can't justify taking Anichibe out b4 Swansea.

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

      Yep i am wary of that, but even if he comes on for half an hour he can do something, theres another match after 3 days so he'll likely start that

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

    Team sits at 0ft and 4.7m itb

    Heaton (Pickford)
    Azpi McCauley Smith (Amat, Cedric)
    Sanch Firm Walcott Allen (Capoue)
    Costa Austin Defoe

    Very Keen on getting Hazard in but can't quite afford it... any thoughts, is 4.7m to much to leave in the bank for a round

  13. Dušan Citizen
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    I am on -8 as my transfers were Williams, Eriksen and Aguero to S.Ward, Sanchez and Kane.

    Do you think it's too much or is it okay because I've got Sanchez and Kane?

    If I was any smarter, I could have done Firmino and Kun to Sanchez and Kane for -4 only 🙁

    1. BB-8
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yes. Transferring out someone who got you 18 points last week isn't the brightest idea

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

      Not sure removing Eriksen was great, but the transfers make sense.

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

      Very surprised you took out Eriksen.

    4. Pirlø's Pen
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Eriksen gonna be the boy after this week

    5. Karan_G14
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Selling Erikssen was a bad idea.

    6. Dušan Citizen
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I know, but I wanted to keep Firmino...anyway, I could get Eriksen back for Firmino after United game.

  14. sully29
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Please stay fit Sanchez. Please.

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Imagine what an injury would cause on here seeing a few did major surgery to get him in.

      1. Greenbackbøøg…
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Quick -8 to KDB, no big deal

        1. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          😆

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

        They were taking a massive gamble before a CL game if it happens you cant say it will not be deserved

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

          Most of us did early to catch the price rises & falls.
          If i waited til after today i would've missed out on a 0.4 price swing

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

        That would be awful!

    2. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      +1

  15. Viper
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    I done these transfers saturday night and they were described as a 'massive knee jerk'. (I had to do it saturday night or I couldn't afford it)

    Now that the dust has settled, how does it look?

    Aguero & Firmino -> Costa & Sanchez -4

    1. tm245
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Hard to argue with getting in the highest scoring midfielder and forward, though the loss of Firmino is a tough one.

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

        Yeah I know. He was literally the only midfielder I could sell money wise unless I turned it into a -8 and sold Koscielny for Ake

    2. Chris_White
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Good until Sanchez gets injured in about an hour

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

        As said above, a quick -8 to KDB will do the job 🙂

    3. Je suis le chat
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      You were right to catch the price rises. Just hope Alexis stays safe tonight.

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

      Firmino could hurt this week. But then it's Costa & Sanchez, both of them can't be ignored.

  16. Sims
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Cmon psg lose or draw

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

      This.

    2. The Bandit
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Not happening

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

        Probably.

        Would be typical if they draw and arsenal draw or lose too

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

    Currently on wildcard (lucky me) and have this team:

    Foster/Pickford
    Walker/Ake/Alonso/Cedric/Amat
    Sanchez/Hazard/Son/Fer/de Roon
    Kane/Costa/Austin

    0,3m in the bank, around 90k overall

    Anything else to do with this?? Help is very appreciated... Want to get in siggy instead of Fer i guess.

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

      Have to change son to a 5.x midfielder if you want siggy

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

        Talking Arsenal yes but you mentioning Messi and Suarez is interesting.
        Pep hardly ever rested Messi Iniesta or Xavi and 99% of the time they did the full 90.
        Yet when he comes to City nearly every player has been 'rotated' at least a couple of times.
        Makes you wonder.
        Personally I think this puts Sanchez' place in doubt for Everton not Stoke.

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

          Stupid phone.
          Wrong thread.....go down one you'll get the gist

    2. Je suis le chat
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I'd go Ihenacho instead of Austin. I have the latter, but not convinced. Maybe Can instead of Fer and Siggy instead of Son.

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

    If you look at the top top players, they want to play every game

    Messi, suarez hardly ever get rested, not saying Sanchez is there yet but he is a top player and I think if he's fit he plays no matter what

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

      Those two probably fitter than snachez tho

    2. Je suis le chat
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Best for him to play 60 minutes, can't be much harder than training anyway.

    3. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Na, Giroud will bench him.

    4. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Are there many players who don't want to play every game?

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

        Quite a few are happy to not be involved every game. What I meant was the hunger to play every game no matter what the importance

        1. Epic Fail
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          True. Players like Ronaldo not only play, but play the full 90 minutes regularly too, even when they are strolling.

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

        Shaw

    5. Kroosin'
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      But Sanchez is a bit more injury prone than Messi or Ronaldo or Suarez.

    6. Karan_G14
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yea but Messi & Suarez don't have to play 7 games in 25 days now. They'll be chilling at home and watch Sanchez play.

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

      Why risk injury playing in a match that isn't as important as the next 3 coming up.

    8. Shultan
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Messi & suarez will be getting a winter break, sanchez wont

  19. fabiolanzoni
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Got plenty issues, biggest is probably Aguero and Barkley (other are Lukaku, Stones, Jakupovic, Capoue ao)

    1. Aguero -> Costa
    2. Aguero -> Defoe/Austin + Barkley -> Hazard (-4p) (would leave me with 3.6/4.4 ITB)

    Any ideas?

  20. 420king
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    best MID pick for UCL fantasy this week?

    Özil, Pjanić, Di Maria...?

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

      Pjanic

      1. 420king
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        My fav too but will he start for sure? :/

        1. Lyonnais
          • 13 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          I just got Di Maria. Saw a predicted Juve line-up yesterday without Pjanic.

          1. 420king
            • 11 Years
            9 years, 4 months ago

            Thanks man

  21. PlayPercentage
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Should Gundogan owners be worried?
    Everyone else has been rested for the Premier League.
    Yaya could take his place at the weekend.

    1. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yeah

      1. PlayPercentage
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        That's me worried, then. Joe Allen on the bench.

    2. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Yeah. Yaya had no choice tonight.

    3. Karan_G14
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I doubt there many Gundg owners left in these games parts. Most have got rid which is the right thing to do.

    4. Nelson Vivas Fan Club
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      With Fernandinho suspended I think his chances of starting games are better. I'll stick for another round

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

    Put your hands over your eyes time for the people looking to keep money in the bank for aguero when he returns

    Not selected tonight a sign pep has had enough of him?

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

      Probably more because he wants to give Iheanacho match fitness

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

        Yes that could be it but an injury to nacho could be the end

        1. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Plenty of alternatives if that happened.

        2. Chris_White
          • 14 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Not really

    2. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Dead game. Iheanacho needs match fitness and only an injury would make it not worthwhile.

    3. Shultan
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Aguero is not the same under pep as previous seasons.
      More likely to get rotated, frustated in matches, suspensions, playing deep.
      Its between him & sanchez this season & i pick sanchez so kun is not coming back

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

      Yep he is been punished for not taking his chances against Chelsea and losing his head

      This could be very well his last season at City

  23. Bubz
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Would you play Brunt (che) or Amat (SUN) this weekend?

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

      Brunt, at least he has good attacking potential

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

      Brunt

      Wouldn't be surprised to see Bob take amat out again

    3. Phil Dagger ⭐
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      tough but Amat

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

        I'm playing brunt, I know it's Chelsea but he's still playing as a midfielder

        1. Je suis le chat
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          I'm a big Can fan, yet I'd play Brannigan and save the -4. If money is tight, getting rid of Allen could be useful though.

    4. Je suis le chat
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Brunt, 2:1 to Che, Brunt might be involved.

  24. Phil Dagger ⭐
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Sanchez last 24 PL Games

    involved in 24 goals

    18 goals and 6 assists

    I think this should be considered seriously even more than his hat-trick

    may well be my armband stays on him this week too

    1. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Surely it's no surprise that Sanchez is a good option.

      1. Epic Fail
        • 15 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        Unless you're one of those that thought you could cover him with Walcott 😀

        1. Phil Dagger ⭐
          • 9 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          noooo

          I even transferred out siggy in and out same week and didn't get walcott for coutinhi as I had Sanchez most of the time and decided Sanchez + cheap mid is better than those and got Sanchez in for coutinho

          could have easily gotten Wally in but didn't 😉 and took Sanchez in

          captaincy choice is a big factor in this

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

      No doubt on his quality he's a top player. But it's just seems that it's either a double figure haul or nothing for him.

      Hazard for me.

      1. Phil Dagger ⭐
        • 9 Years
        9 years, 4 months ago

        hazard is never a bad shout at home 😉

    3. Je suis le chat
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      True, 11 goals and 5 assists sounds better in 14 games. Or 5 goals and 1 assist in 2 games. Alexis is only warming up. And not to forget this output is in November.

  25. Sancidino
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Gundogan and Rose for Chamberlain and Alonso?

    1. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      In for Chamberlain and Alonso?
      Out for Chamberlain and Alonso?

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

        In for Chamberlain and Alonso

  26. Nelson Vivas Fan Club
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    This is my front 8:

    Firminho-Sanchez(C)-Hazard(VC)-Siggy-Gundogan
    Kane-Austin
    B: Rondon

    Shall I do?:
    A) Nothing and save transfer
    B) Rondon -> Iheanacho (bench Gundogan)
    C) Rondon+Firminho ->Costa+Can (bench Gundogan) for -4

    Any feedback is appreciated!

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

      A) save. I think 2 free transfers will be so valuable

    2. Nelson Vivas Fan Club
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      All of sudden B) became more interesting 😀

  27. Le Bluff
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Hi guys, help needed...

    Who would you rather have in the short term (next 3-5 gameweeks):
    A) Charlie Austin
    B) Marcos Alonso

    Already done Aguero > Costa this week, and will either do Anichebe > Austin OR Williams > Alonso for a -4.

    Any thoughts much appreciated.

    1. Dasher0303
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Easily Alonso. A lot of people are doing Austin to anichebe. Anichebe is the perfect enabler for those with low TV.

    2. Je suis le chat
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Neither urgent. I'd lean towards Alonso as he's a season keeper.

  28. Dasher0303
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Repost

    Already taken a hit, should I take another to get rid of Allen for Can, so it would be -8 overall???

    Can has the better fixtures and Allen might not even start, also if I don't play Allen, I would have to play either Evans or Barragan or Hojbjerg, which I don't want to do. Can also set to rise this week.

    1. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      If you want Can long term, I'd do it this week.

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

    Why is it that only kids get to be mascot's...I wanna be Sanchez's mascot.

    1. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      Have you applied?

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

        No. Do you think I'd have a chance?

        1. Epic Fail
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          I don't see why not. If they ask you for a reference, tell them Epic Fail.

        2. Monkey Hanger
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 4 months ago

          Alexis does not mind who the mascots are so long as they are smaller than him.

  30. Scratch
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 4 months ago

    Pep had better pray Iheanacho comes out of this match unscathed or the press will have a field day

    1. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      I don't think Pep cares what those melons think.

    2. Monkey Hanger
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 4 months ago

      He does not care what anybody thinks, apart from himself.