Team News
20 December 2016 786 comments
James H James H
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Toby Alderweireld misses out as Mauricio Pochettino switches from 3-4-2-1 to 4-3-2-1 for Tottenham’s win over Burnley. Southampton’s Cedric Soares recovers from illness as Claude Puel continues to rotate with abandon, while Daniel Sturridge emerges from the bench to play a key role in Liverpool’s Merseyside derby win.

After rolling out Part One yesterday, here’s the lowdown on the remaining ten teams.

Everton

Starting XI: Stekelenburg (Robles 64), Coleman, Williams, Funes Mori, Baines, McCarthy (Barry 46), Gueye, Lennon, Barkley, Valencia (Calvert-Lewin 72), Lukaku.

  • Ronald Koeman was forced into making one change from the team that beat Arsenal 2-1 for the Merseyside derby, with Ramiro Funes Mori replacing the suspended Phil Jagielka.
  • Funes Mori partnered Ashley Williams at the heart of the Everton defence, while elsewhere, Koeman rolled out a 4-3-3 formation, with James McCarthy, Idrissa Gueye and Ross Barkley forming the three-man midfield.
  • Koeman was forced into making a change at half-time, with James McCarthy having to be replaced by Gareth Barry, who was back from his one-match ban, after picking up a knock. Everton’s second substitution was also an enforced one, with Maarten Stekelenburg replaced by Joel Robles just after the hour-mark. Koeman’s final change saw Dominic Calvert-Lewin take over from Enner Valencia on the right of the front three for the final 18 minutes.
  • Stekelenburg and McCarthy will need to be assessed ahead of the Boxing Day trip to the King Power Stadium, with Robles and Barry the obvious replacements should they be ruled out. Jagielka will be back following his suspension to challenge Funes Mori for his spot in central defence. Koeman may also consider making a change out wide, with Calvert-Lewin, Kevin Mirallas and Gerard Deulofeu alternatives to Aaron Lennon and Valencia.

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

Liverpool

Starting XI: Mignolet, Clyne, Klavan, Lovren, Milner, Wijnaldum, Henderson, Lallana (Can 81), Mane, Origi (Sturridge 81), Firmino.

  • Jurgen Klopp named an unchanged starting XI from the one that beat Middlesbrough for the trip to Goodison Park.
  • Joel Matip missed out again due to an ankle injury, so Ragnar Klavan kept his berth alongside Dejan Lovren in central defence. Divock Origi continue as the central striker, although he and Roberto Firmino did regularly switch positions throughout the match.
  • With the match remaining goalless, Klopp turned to the fit-again Emre Can and Daniel Sturridge, with Adam Lallana and Origi making way in straight swaps.
  • While Klavan performed well on Monday night, Matip is expected to come straight back into the side against Stoke City if he’s fully recovered from his ankle injury. Can could also push for a recall if place of Georginio Wijnaldum, while Sturridge’s impact of the bench will see him push for a start in attack over the busy festive period.

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

Southampton

Starting XI: Forster; Cedric, Yoshida, van Dijk, Bertrand; Reed (Davis 46); Redmond, Clasie, Hojbjerg, Boufal (Tadic 62); Rodriguez (Long 90).

  • Saints boss Claude Puel made six changes from the side that drew 0-0 against Stoke City for the trip to Bournemouth, with Cedric Soares, Maya Yoshida, Jordy Clasie, Harrison Reed, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Jay Rodriguez replacing Cuco Martina, Jose Fonte, Oriol Romeu, Steven Davis, James Ward-Prowse and Shane Long.
  • Those changes saw Southampton line up in more of a 4-1-4-1 formation, with Reed operating in the defensive midfield role. Cedric and Yoshida slotted in at right-back and centre-back respectively, while Clasie and Hojbjerg combined in central midfield. Rodriguez was stationed as the lone striker.
  • Puel decided to change things at half-time, though, with Davis brought on in place of Reed, seeing Saints switch back to their more accustomed 4-3-3. Dusan Tadic then took over from Sofiane Boufal on the right of the front three shortly after the hour-mark, with Puel’s final substitution seeing Shane Long provide some fresh legs in place of Rodriguez for the final few minutes.
  • The rotation we saw for this match raises some alarm bells given Southampton face Tottenham Hotspur on December 28, and then have two further matches in quick succession over the festive period. Cedric and Martina may continue to alternate at right-back, then, while Yoshida could get another start in one of those three matches in place of Fonte. Puel also has a host of options available to him in midfield, although Romeu appears likely to earn a recall against Spurs. After scoring twice at the weekend, Rodriguez may get the nod to start as the central striker, but he looks set to rotate with Long over the coming matches, while Tadic is a threat to both Boufal and Nathan Redmond.

Current Status: Very Unsettled
Risk Areas: Right-Back, Central Defence, Central Midfield, Flanks, Central Striker

Stoke City

Starting XI: Grant; Johnson, Shawcross, Martins Indi; Diouf, Whelan (Sobhi 90), Imbula, Pieters; Allen, Bojan (Adam 83); Walters.

  • Mark Hughes made three alterations for the home clash against Leicester City, with Bojan coming in for the suspended Marko Arnautovic, while Giannelli Imbula and Mame Biram Diouf started in place of Charlie Adam and Xherdan Shaqiri.
  • Those changes saw the Potters return to the 3-4-2-1 formation, with Diouf stationed at right wing-back. Imbula joined Glenn Whelan in central midfield, while Bojan and Joe Allen played in central attacking midfield roles behind lone striker Jon Walters.
  • After Jamie Vardy was sent off during the first-half, it was something of a surprise that Hughes only made his first substitution with seven minutes remaining, with Adam coming on in place of Bojan. That change allowed Imbula to operate slightly further forward in midfield. Ramadan Sobhi got a brief run-out late on in place of Whelan, as the Potters chased a late winner.
  • If Hughes sticks with the 3-4-2-1 for the trip to Anfield, he is unlikely to make too many personnel changes, with Adam and Shaqiri possibly pushing Imbula and Bojan for starting berths. If he switches back to a four-man defence, Diouf could possible drop out of the starting XI, allowing Shaqiri to earn a recall.

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

Sunderland

Starting XI: Pickford; Love (Larsson 88), Kone, Djilobodji, Van Aanholt; Ndong, Denayer; Borini (Khazri 90), Januzaj (O’Shea 80), Anichebe; Defoe.

  • David Moyes made three changes for the home encounter against Watford, with Donald Love coming in for the injured Billy Jones, while Didier Ndong returned from suspension to replace John O’Shea. The other alteration saw the fit-again Victor Anichebe recalled in place of the injured Jan Kirchhoff.
  • Those changes saw Sunderland return to a 4-2-3-1, with Ndong joining Jason Denayer at the base of midfield. Fabio Borini (right), Adnan Januzaj (No 10) and Anichebe (left) formed the attacking midfield trio behind lone striker Jermain Defoe. In defence, Love slotted in at right-back.
  • With the Black Cats holding onto a slender 1-0 lead, Moyes introduced O’Shea in place of Januzaj, seeing Sunderland revert to more of a 5-4-1, with O’Shea slotting into central defence. Sebastian Larsson and Wahbi Khazri then provided fresh legs late on in place of Love and Borini in straight swaps.
  • With Sunderland travelling to Old Trafford on Boxing Day, Moyes may consider switching to a more defensive 5-4-1 formation. O’Shea could potentially earn a recall in central defence, then, with Januzaj making way due to the Belgian being ineligible to face his parent club. With the injury situation worsening at the Stadium of Light, Moyes looks to have few other senior players available to him. Javier Manquillo and Steven Pienaar could potentially return to contention if they recover from knocks.

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

Swansea City

Starting XI: Fabianski; Rangel, Mawson, Amat, Taylor; Fulton, Britton (Fer 70); Barrow (Borja Baston 59), Sigurdsson, Routledge (Montero 77); Llorente.

  • Bob Bradley only made one tweak for the trip to the Riverside, with Modou Barrow recalled in place of Jefferson Montero.
  • Barrow, who had been moved to the left flank in recent matches, started on the right against ‘Boro, with Wayne Routledge stationed on the opposite wing in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
  • Barrow was hooked just before the hour mark, though, with Borja Baston brought on in his place. Borja joined Fernando Llorente, forming a 4-4-2, with Gylfi Sigurdsson then stationed on the left of midfield, although he generally drifted infield. Leroy Fer was then called upon to replace Leon Britton at the base of midfield, with Bradley’s final substitution seeing Jefferson Montero come on for Routledge. Montero took up his usual position on the left wing, with Sigurdsson playing centrally, with no width really being offered down the right.
  • After another poor defensive display, there could be changes at the back for the Boxing Day clash against West Ham United. Jordi Amat’s spot appears the most at risk following a below-par performance against ‘Boro, while the Swans may also need the height of Mike van der Hoorn or Federico Fernandez, should he recover from a toe injury, to help deal with the aerial threat of Andy Carroll. Kyle Naughton may come into contention to replace Angel Rangel at right-back, while Montero could challenge Barrow and Routledge for the starting spots on the flanks. Changes are perhaps slightly less likely in midfield, although Fer and Jack Cork are viable alternatives to Britton and Jay Fulton.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Right-Back, Central Defence, Flanks

Tottenham Hotspur

Starting XI: Lloris; Walker, Dier, Vertonghen, Rose (Davies 77); Wanyama, Winks; Alli (Son Heung-min 73), Dembele (Sissoko 63), Eriksen; Kane.

  • Mauricio Pochettino made two alterations for the visit of Burnley to White Hart Lane, with Harry Winks replacing the injured Toby Alderweireld, while the fit-again Mousa Dembele came in for Moussa Sissoko.
  • Those changes saw Spurs line up in more of 4-3-2-1 formation, with Winks and Dembele playing slightly in front of holding midfielder Victor Wanyama, allowing Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli to play in central attacking midfield positions behind lone striker Harry Kane.
  • Pochettino’s first substitution saw Sissoko replace Dembele just after the hour-mark, seeing Tottenham switch to a 4-2-3-1, with the France international stationed on the right of the attacking midfield trio. Son Heung-min then replaced Alli on the opposite flank 10 minutes later, while after Danny Rose picked up a slight knock, Ben Davies was brought on in his place at left-back for the final 13 minutes.
  • Following back-to-back wins, Pochettino isn’t expected to make many changes for the trip to St Mary’s on Boxing Day. Alderweireld missed out with a minor back problem at the weekend, but should be fit to return against his former side. He could replace Eric Dier in central defence, then, unless Pochettino decides to go with a three-man backline. Winks may be in danger of dropping to the bench, with Sissoko a viable alternative in a 4-2-3-1. Son has come off the bench in both of the last two matches, though, and appears to have fallen down the pecking order somewhat. Rose picked up a knock to his thigh late on but will be expected to recover to face Southampton.

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

Watford

Starting XI: Gomes; Kaboul (Janmaat 78), Prodl (Kabasele 31), Britos; Amrabat, Behrami, Capoue, Holebas; Ighalo, Deeney, Zuniga (Success 56).

  • Hornets head coach Walter Mazzarri made three changes for the trip to the Stadium of Light, with Valon Behrami, Juan Zuniga and Troy Deeney coming in for Adlene Guedioura, Jerome Sinclair and the injured Roberto Pereyra.
  • Behrami joined Etienne Capoue in central midfield in the 3-4-3 formation, with Zuniga and Odion Ighalo flanking central striker Deeney. Nordin Amrabat was stationed at right wing-back for the Hornets.
  • Mazzarri was forced into making a first-half substitution, though, after Sebastian Prodl was forced off with a knock. He was replaced by Christian Kabasele in the three-man backline. Isaac Success was then introduced before the hour-mark in place of Zuniga on the left of the front three. The final change saw Daryl Janmaat replace Younes Kaboul, seeing Watford switch to more of a 4-2-4 in search of a late equaliser.
  • Prodl is a doubt for the Boxing Day clash against Crystal Palace, so Kabasele could come into the side if Mazzarri sticks with a three-man backline. Likewise, Janmaat offers an alternative to Amrabat at right wing-back, although the Moroccan could also be used further forward. A switch to a four-man defence could see both Janmaat and Amrabat start, though. Success is another who could push for a recall on the opposite flank, while if Stefano Okaka recovers from a hamstring problem, he would also be in contention to start alongside Deeney in attack.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Right Wing-Back, Flanks

West Bromwich Albion

Starting XI: Foster; Dawson (Morrison 74), McAuley, Olsson, Nyom; Yacob, Fletcher; Brunt, Chadli (Leko 82), Phillips (Robson-Kanu 81); Rondon.

  • Tony Pulis made one adjustment from the side that beat Swansea City 3-1 for the home encounter against Man United, with Craig Dawson returning from suspension to replace James Morrison.
  • Dawson slotted into his usual position at right-back, with Allan Nyom switching over to left-back. That meant Chris Brunt returned to the position on the right of the attacking midfield trio in the 4-2-3-1, allowing Nacer Chadli to take up the No 10 role.
  • With the Baggies trailing 2-0, Pulis introduced Morrison in place of Dawson for the final 16 minutes, with Brunt then returning to left-back, and Nyom to right-back. Matt Phillips and Chadli then made way for Hal Robson-Kanu and Jonathan Leko, with Robson-Kanu (left) and Leko (right) flanking Morrison in the No 10 position.
  • Jonny Evans was thought to be close to a return last weekend, so he should have a good chance of being available for the Boxing Day trip to the Emirates following his calf problem. Should that be the case, he’d likely replace Jonas Olsson at centre-back, while Morrison may push for a recall in place of Chadli.

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

West Ham United

Starting XI: Randolph; Kouyate, Reid, Ogbonna; Antonio, Noble, Obiang (Fernandes 46), Cresswell; Lanzini (Ayew 46), Carroll, Payet (Nordtveit 90).

  • Hammers boss Slaven Bilic named the same side that beat Burnley 1-0 for the visit of Hull City to the London Stadium.
  • Bilic rolled out the 3-4-2-1 once again, then, with Dimitri Payet and Manuel Lanzini operating in the attacking midfield positions behind lone striker Andy Carroll.
  • But with the match goalless at the break, Bilic decided to introduce Edimilson Fernandes and Andre Ayew in place of Pedro Obiang and Lanzini in straight swaps. Havard Nordtveit was called upon late on to help hold onto the 1-0 lead.
  • Obiang picked up his fifth yellow card of the season on Saturday, so he’ll miss the trip to Swansea on Boxing Day due to suspension. Fernandes appears the obvious replacement, then, with Nordtveit and Lanzini perhaps other alternatives. Bilic may also consider handing Ayew a start against his former club, with Lanzini’s starting spot looking the most vulnerable.

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

786 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. RustyBz
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Would you be displeased with this enough to take a hit?

    Pickford;

    Alonso, Holebas, Amat;

    Sanchez(VC), Hazard, Siggy, Eriksen, De Roon;

    Ibra(C), Origi;

    Jaku, Smith, Evans, Costa 0ITB

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

      good team. g2g

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

        Not over the moon with Amat & De Roon but hard to do anything with them without downgrading elsewhere

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

      In the same situation as you Rustybz. Could upgrade Evans to Cedric/Jones for a hih, but I'm saving as I want more flexibility for when Couts/Kun is back. Also want Brunt rather than those two defenders. Besides rotation could hit any team hard during Xmas. Risky to take hits then.

      Although it doesn't please me to play Amat and de Roon, it will only be for 1 gw. Saving FT in GW19 to have 2 FTs and more info when Kun/Couts is back.

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

      Displeased with the defence, not worth a hit though.

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

      Other than me playing Ben Mee instead of Amat that is my XI.

      Good luck 😀

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

    Any suggestions?

    Pick
    Alonso Walker Lovren
    Sanchez Hazard Siggy Eriksen
    Costa Kane Anichebe

    Jaku Holebas Fletcher Love
    2FT 0.4 ITB

  3. George James
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Is Alonso cap this week a shout?

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

      12 points probably

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

      Nah Ibra/Haz better shouts

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

        this. or sanchez. always go for the highest ceiling for captains

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

      Kante suspended. No Costa to help defend set peices, an area Bournemouth are strong.

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

    All these explosive big hitters are gonna make bench boost tactics interesting. Most rmt's seem to have anichebe/de roon/Capoue Amat and another cheap defender. With so much value tied up in front 7s getting a decent bench gonna be hard even with a wc

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

      And are we gonna rip these apart in a dgw

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

      Swansea prioritizing the FA cup?! Could see Amat as a double gameweek essential. 🙂

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

        2 pts

  5. Speédy
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    kane + eriksen - sanchez + benteke for free?????

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

      I would

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

    Is Lingard an option for budget Utd midfielder?

    1. George James
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      would be if nailed

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

      It would be nice if he was
      He should make way on Mykis return so i would stay clear for now

    3. United10
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      will only feature in 50% of games, id stay away

    4. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Not a regular starter - I wouldn't bother.

      You'll need all 3 United slots soon - Sir Philip Jones, Mkhitaryan and Ibra

  7. andy85wsm
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Do we think Can becomes a regular again in the Liverpool side now he's back from injury?

    Interested to hear what people think before I ship Capoue and demote Can to 5th mid.

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

      Seems quite likely. Wijnaldum not been pulling up any trees

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

      He has every chance
      He was flying before the injury i cant see why he should not regain his place

    3. pax888
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      I think he'll play v Stoke and Wijnaldum will play v Man City.

      However when Coutinho comes back I can see the following line up:

      Can Henderson Wijnaldum
      Lallana Firmino Coutinho

      Origi on bench.

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

      was regular before injury with good form.
      it was 5PPG - 3 goals & an assist over 5 games. So steady which at 4.9m has to be good value.
      Price might make him a 5th mid but those performance stats still have to make him a very useful 4th mid.
      So he's staying for me at least until of end of the month.

      Besides who else is there (apart from maybe Phillips) that can offer those sort of numbers in the price bracket?

    5. liiusions
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Think he's preferred to Wiji although I think a lot depends on the opposition. Can seems to be preferred against more physical opposition like WBA and Palace

    6. Gregor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Wijnaldum has done a god job in an unfamiliar role, I think Klopp prefers Can though. Might see a bit of rotation.

    7. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Cheers all. Still remain undecided.

      May just keep 2 points Capoue and the extra 0.2m. He at least starts every game 🙂

  8. Shirokov(c)
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Capoue, I will forgive you for all those bench points if you score this weekend.

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

      He doesn't care

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

    Alli ---> Sanchez (-4)

    worth it?

    1. The Enlightener
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Oh God yeah

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

      yes

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

      thanks!

  10. andy85wsm
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Any PC players on here? I have some BF1 trial codes if anyone is interested - gives you access for 10 hours

    1. The Wise Owl
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Yes please! Maddogmcree2@gmail.com

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

    team for this week below.
    how does
    "Mane, Kane > Lallana, Aguero"
    sound for NEXT week? (exact cash ATM, can afford tonights Kane drop)

    Heaton (MID)
    Valencia (SUN) Alonso (BOU) Smith (che)
    Sigurdsson (WHU) Mane (STK) Sanchez (v) (WBA) Eriksen (sou)
    Origi (STK) Kane (sou) Ibrahimovic (c) (SUN)

    Pickford (mun) de Roon (bur) Collins (swa) Pieters (liv)

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

      Manè is lethal at home. Possible (c) for me.

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

      not interested in Kun until we see how City progress after that victory over Arsenal. good shout to be early, but at that price, it needs to be consistent without kung-fu kicks and elbows going around

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

    Kosc to azpi for -4?

    Is this ok? Long term until season ends

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

      look at Arsenal's fixtures. any other way of getting a CHE defender?

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

        Alrdyhave alonso but felt the need for another

        Kept kosic for too long and not rewarding

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

          All about future points and having Arsenal and Chelsea def looks great

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

        look at Arsenal's defence...

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

          😆 fair enough, but feel they will turn it around

    2. RAFA THE GAFFA
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Not for a hit, no

    3. Donnie Brasco´s
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      YES, do it!
      you wil probably get 7or8pts for Azpi this GW!

    4. Pat Bonner
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      No way. Arsenal have an amazing run of games, wish I could get bellerin into my team

  13. Donnie Brasco´s
    • 12 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    For GW 18 I have 10 of 11 players which have Home game!

    Heaton
    Lovren-Cholevas-Cedric-Amat
    Firmino-Walcott-Sanchez-Hazard
    Ibra-Lukaku->only Lukaku have Away game!!
    Any toughts?

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

      What's to comment on?

      1. Donnie Brasco´s
        • 12 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        This is so strange to me, I think that this situation was never been in my 9 years of playing this 🙂

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

          Statistically isn't not your first time. Not even close

  14. Pat Bonner
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Anyone considering a gw20 wc? Been in free fall recently and 750k now. Want to go against the template as nothing to lose

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

      I've been toying with the idea.

      Did it last year and turned out very well. Didn't affect outcome for dgws either, but I had to plan transfers in advance and take a few hits.

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

        Yep that's the danger, have to plan well in advance for dgws. Looking at West Brom double up in defence, bellerin, kdb and/or aguero and coutinho is back. Could be nice few differentials to make up some ground

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

      I did that last season. Kept it funner for longer although still finished miles back

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

        Cheers, I've always played safe but this season could be one to just have some fun. Wc and take a few hits for rest of season

    3. Donnie Brasco´s
      • 12 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Im on 800 000 and not considering early WC!
      Waitt at least 6-7 GW-s.
      I remember last year when I used my WC when Double GWs come, also in that time I used all my chips and finished my season on top 100 000....
      Thi is a marathon, remember that.
      This is my 9 season and always is about the same.
      Most of players on the top 1000 are used some of thier chips....

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

        I agree, probbetter to save it but I'll still be annoyed at a top 100k finish. So thinking I might as well have some fun

        1. Donnie Brasco´s
          • 12 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          With WCds are always the same, just when you used it - you feel sorry 🙂
          My advice is SAVE YOUR WC until GW 26-30.
          Cheers!

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

            Cheers

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

      I personally wont be - that WC done me well last year when i used it week before DGW so will be looking to do something similar

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

        Thanks for reply. I actually think that wc stopped me winning my mini league. Took out Spurs players and had 15 dgwers and team was unbalanced after that

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

          It was for me but the gain i made from the bench boost on the DGW was immense and i gained so much! Up to you - go with your gut!

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

      unless you need to make wholesale changes then it's not worth it.
      you've got 2 or 3 Fts before GW20. If necessary a few hits won't hurt.

    6. Team Cruel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      I'm using before GW19.

  15. Bobby_Baggio
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Afternoon all. Going to use my WC next GW so for this GW may aswell use my FT - Anything worth a gamble or transfer? Only have a 0.3m ITB so upgrading De Roon is pointless. Thanks

    Heaton
    Lovren - Smith - McAuley
    Hazard - Zaha - Sanchez - Lallana - DeRoon
    Ibra - Kane

    (Pickford) - Pieters - Amat - Costa

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

      Good luck using a wc in 19. Could be teamsheet roullette

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

        I have it so may aswell use it before it expires - can shuffle few people around as i do need to fit in chelsea defence

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

      Pieters > Jones and bench de roon?

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

        this

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

        Or play jones over mcauley

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

          Cheers defense is the only option and Jones looks good to me for 1 week

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

      For 1 week Costa to benteke

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

        Thanks but ive made too much on Costa price wise so dont want to lose that only to have to get him back in.

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

      1 week punt on Batshuayi. Thank me later.

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

        Would love to but as i said above ive made alot of money from costa and dont wanna lose that

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

          Can you switch Kane in and out?

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

            Kane i can yes

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

        Hazard false 9?

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

          Nah. Conte won't change the 3-4-3 formation. It's been too successful for him.

    5. RAFA THE GAFFA
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Loose the FT and wildcard now for boxing day bonanza??

  16. HamezMace
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Do we expect Phil Jones to play the next two for United?

    1. 1314
      • 11 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      likely

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

      He will play the next one. And he will play at least one of two after that. CBs probably don't need the same kind of rest as other players but he might be rested for Boro to keep him fresh for WH.

    3. Puncheon Guly
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      I was just going to ask the same thing. He's surely better than rojo of smalling gets his place back, but that's a big if. Mourinho also likes one right and one left footer. Plus Jones' injury issues suggest a rest would be sensible...

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

      Inconclusive then....thanks guys, think he's worth a punt with the fixtures

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

        Worth it

  17. THFC4LIFE
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Heaton
    Alonso holebas Valencia chambers
    Lallana siggy Eriksen Sanchez
    Ibra(c) Defoe

    Jaku hojbjerg love Costa

    G2G?
    Took a -4 to get ibra and Valencia in what do you guys think?

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

      Yeah man.

  18. FPL Virgin
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    I'm like those talking trees in lord of the rings when it comes to transfers.

    I did Cedric > Phil Jones today.

    Wise?

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

      I have Cedric and worried about his game time with saints playing ever other day. Good move I think

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

        It was seeing that there was only 3 days between their 3 xmas games that clinched it for me.

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

      Sounds like I didn't miss out on much as I haven't seen those movies. 😛

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

        They're rubbish, TM. Clerks 2 will confirm this.

    3. Miguel Sanchez
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Am considering the same for a hit this week. Planning to bring in Costa and Benteke with the next couple of free transfers so might take the hit now and hope that Phil outscores Cedric over the next few... SUN, MID, whu are really great fixtures if he starts all three.

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

      Did the same on Saturday because Costa > Ibra would've been priced out if I waited. Feeling confident about Jones.

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

      doing A.Smith to Jones.
      Will keep Cedric for now as still think he could be useful in Jan and only a 0.2m difference.
      Not sure about Bournemouth defence even if Smith is OOP and he doesn't justify the price diff with Ake if later on I want to change 4th/5th defender.

    6. A.T
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Ents are not trees ffs. 👿

  19. Defoenitely
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Eriksen > De Bruyne and Sigurdsson > Walcott for a -8?

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

      Noooooooo.

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

      Wouldn't do either moves for free

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

      No, siggy at hom is gold

  20. tokara
    • 11 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    If ox is out, rambo too...walcott surely wont be rested for next three gw right?

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

      I think he will be rested for the FA Cup most likely.

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

    Jones or Valencia?

    Is the 0.6 more spent on Valencia worth it?

    I've decided I'm selling Cedric for a hit too much rotation at Southampton and they have congested fixtures all the way up till Jan - Feb. He will get rotated pretty often imo.

    Appreciate your thoughts!

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

      I think its worth it for Tony V. More nailed and attacking potential. I also don't think cedric will get rotated much.

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

        He will be rotated have a look at Southampton's fixtures from now they are very congested.

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

          has just had 2 weeks off so I think he is no more prone to rotation than any other defender. Jones/Valencia could also see a rest vs Middlesborough on 31st

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

      I suspect Jones will only be short term. Jose has already been shopping by the sound of things. But Jones might be ok until Bailly comes back (although I'm not 100% sure)

  22. Stupendous
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Hey all. I haven't seen it mentioned so if it isn't, is Batshuayi(sp), genuinely predicted to lead the line for Chelsea this week or is he planning maybe Hazard up top?

    Thanks and sorry if mentioned before.

    Team news indicates Bats

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

      Sounds like using up 2 transfers more than anything.

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

        Well I have no other issues atm so for free it wouldn't bother me one bit to do it then reverse it or even part of a hit next week.

        You haven't addressed the question really pal

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

      Would be surprised if it isn't Batshuayi - would simply be a straight swap and no need to change the system at all

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

        I'm tempted but surely Bats had no form he hasn't played at all

        1. andy85wsm
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 15 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          Seems like a pointless transfer. Guaranteed to have to get rid of him next week.

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

            Well I can't find A SINGLE striker I want outside of Ibra and I don't have United players in my team or leagues so I'm itching to have a flutter.

            Leading all my leagues so I can punt

          2. Stupendous
            • 13 Years
            9 years, 2 months ago

            Can you offer me a single option other than Ibra for one week?

            Anyone!

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

              Go Batshuayi. Great for a 1 week punt.

    3. Shirokov(c)
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      I'd be almost certain Bat will start.

      Hasn't got the gametime he's deserved so it'd be an insult for Conte to not play him.

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

        Hat trick incoming then

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

      I'm captaining Batshuayi. He's the ultimate differential.

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

        I'm not sure I'd captain him but genuinely flirting with a one week punt. You serious or joking here?

  23. Baz
    • 16 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Should I play Cedric (TOT) or Amat (WHM) ?

    Almost identical clean sheet odds

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

      Cedric, plays in a MUCH better defense and atleast has some attacking threat

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

      Cedric all day for me.

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

      Cedric.

    4. Pat Bonner
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Cedric

    5. Baz
      • 16 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      thanks all!

  24. Lightbody
    • 15 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    How am I set for Boxing Day, chaps?

    Valdes(bur)
    Alonso (BOU) - Jones (SUN) - Cedric (TOT)
    [vc] Sanchez (WBA) - Siggy (WHM) - Mane (STO) - Hazard (BOU) - Lallana (STO)
    [c] Ibra (SUN) - Benteke (wat)

    Bench: Pickford (mun); Amat (WHM), Anichebe (mun), McAuley (ars)

    0FT, 0.0ITB

    1. Danno - Emre Canada
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Looking good

    2. Dr. Agabuse
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      n1

  25. Bobby_Baggio
    • 14 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Current check on people's T.V and S.V?

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

      103.3 SV. Not sure on TV think 105.3ish

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

        Ok cool mine is similar

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

      105.1, .3 itb.... for the sake of accuracy 😀

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

      £104.2 S.V.
      £102.2 T.V.

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

        whoops, thought S.V. was 'squad value' and 'T.V.' 'transfer value' (not 'selling value' and 'team value')!

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

          Yeah, this is problematic, the FPL site itself refers to squad value rather than team value. We misuse the terms on here really. But traditionally on FFS TV = current players plus bank and SV = sale value plus bank.

    4. Danno - Emre Canada
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      105.2

    5. Mc JPP
      • 9 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      TV 100.5
      SV 99.5

  26. bojack
    • 9 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    I wonder how, or if, the FPL site enforces the one team per unique player rule. Since multiple people can login from one household, as they do from mine, how do they know I am not running my cats' teams for them?*

    *joke

    1. George Sillett
      • 10 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Ask Ruth NZ this question.

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

        Because?

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

      Personally I think the rule is designed to prevent automated massively-multiple entries rather than to prevent someone helping a family member with their team.

      Others seem to be aghast at such an idea. Maybe when they have a father who is nearly 90 and likes having his team but can't do all the work of it they will see things differently.

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

        Yeah fair point. Only reason I ask is because my missus has a team too (rarely logs in tho) 😀

  27. Dr. Agabuse
    • 13 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    Zaha out of form or will play better vs Watford (a)?
    Better alternative to bring in for up to 5,7?
    Cheers

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

      keep

    2. SC not pearls before swine
      • 15 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      Blanking against Chelsea and Manchester united, even at home, isn't too unexpected. I don't really see a better option in that price bracket.

  28. St. Joseph
    • 10 Years
    9 years, 2 months ago

    So everyone still doesn't know that hazard is rated doubt for this gameweek.

    Ben dinnery posted - source from the sun.

    This man never let down with his post fyi.

    1. Worzel Gummidge
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Ben Dinnery is a slavering pleb.

        1. St. Joseph
          • 10 Years
          9 years, 2 months ago

          He is the most reliable injury source atm imo

      • Stupendous
        • 13 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        That highly reliable amazing paper, the Rag Sun.

      • FALCAO & MOU
        • 11 Years
        9 years, 2 months ago

        Fuchs Ake, as if Kane pissing me off was not enough.

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

      It's probably been heavily discussed but are many going costa to ibra?

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

        if you bought costa late then swap. if loads of value tied up in him then bench. If you wanted to swap you should have done last weekend

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

          I've had him most of the season,was hardly going to swap him before the palace game

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

            defo keep then. I only bought last week so have got rid in the hope ibra smashes it vs sunderland

    3. Whazza
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 2 months ago

      The Sun claim Eden Hazard will remain at Cobham for treatment on a niggling knee problem after players were given 3 days off by Conte. #CFC

      Early doubt for BOU?

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

        Sounds like it. If so, I'll have to shift him for a -4 otherwise I'll be playing 541.