Scout Reports

The Promoted – Brighton and Hove Albion

We begin our pre-season coverage of the promoted sides with analysis of Championship runners-up Brighton and Hove Albion.

Along with Champions Newcastle United, Chris Hughton’s troops dominated the division, with the pair swapping first and second spots for much of the campaign.

The Seagulls secured promotion with three games to spare following a 2-1 victory against Wigan Athletic. But two defeats and a draw in the final trio of fixtures meant they finished second on 93 points, one behind Rafa Benitez’s Magpies.

Promotion is a major event in the south coast side’s history, given they last graced the top flight of English football in 1983.

The Statistics

PWDLFAGDPCS
Total4628997440+349321
Home2317334614+325412
Away2311662826+2399

CS = Clean sheets

Home form was crucial to Brighton’s successful season. Their 17 wins in front of their own fans was a Championship record and their three defeats was bettered only by Reading’s two home losses.

They also set a defensive record at the Amex Stadium, shipping just 14 goals on the way to earning 12 shut-outs.

In addition, their tally of 46 home goals was the third best in the division, with only Newcastle (49) and Norwich City (55) scoring more. Having said that, with 14.4 shots per game at the Amex, Brighton ranked just 11th in terms of attacking threat at home.

The away form is perhaps more concerning. Brighton’s goal output nose dived to just 28 on their travels, which was only the tenth best in the Championship and eight shy of Newcastle’s tally of 36. However, the 12.3 shots per game does rank sixth overall.

Brighton still managed to accrue 11 victories away from the Amex – the third best record behind Fulham and Newcastle. A resilience on the road was key to that success: over their 23 away days they conceded just 26 times, with only Newcastle, Sheffield Wednesday and Fulham shipping fewer.

If they are to prosper in the Premier League, the Seagulls will have to remain resolute at the back, particularly at the Amex, but an increase in their attacking zeal against the top flight’s stronger defences will also be critical.

The Manager

Chris Hughton racked up just under 300 appearances as a left-back for Spurs between 1977 and 1990. Following brief spells at West Ham United and Brentford, he retired at the age of 34 in 1993 and took up a coaching role at Spurs.

He remained with the North London side for another 14 years, becoming assistant manager, and twice served as caretaker boss. When Spurs boss Martin Jol was sacked in October 2007 Hughton, his assistant manager, was also dismissed.

But he did not remain out of work for long, joining Newcastle’s management team as first team coach just four months later. As with his time at Spurs, he was called on as caretaker manager on three separate occasions and, following the Magpies’ relegation to the Championship in 2009/10, he took on the job permanently, steering them back to the Premier League.

However, he lasted less than six months in the top role and was sacked following a 3-1 defeat to West Brom in December.

A season-long stint at Championship side Birmingham City followed, in which Hughton guided them to the group stages of the Europa League and the promotion play-offs, where the Blues lost to Blackpool in the semi-final.

The Midlands side missed out on the Premier League, but Hughton still moved into the top flight when appointed manager of Norwich in 2012. He ensured they remained among the elite of the English game in his first season, but was sacked towards the end of the following campaign as the Canaries moved closer to eventual relegation. He then joined Brighton in 2014.

His favoured formation for much of his managerial career, and in particular for Brighton in the 2016/17 campaign, has been 4-4-2.

During his final season at Newcastle, this was used most frequently with Andy Carroll and Shola Ameobi up front, supported by Kevin Nolan in an attacking midfield role.

For Norwich’s 2012/13 Premier League campaign, 4-4-2 was also used most often, but for the following season, Hughton made changes with Grant Holt fielded as a lone striker supported by attacking midfielders including Robert Snodgrass.

Hughton has admitted he will modify his tried and tested 4-4-2 for Brighton’s return to the top flight and look to deploy a lone striker supported by a number 10.

“I think it’s difficult to go through a season playing 4-4-2, particularly as a new club. Leicester play it generally but they are more established. I would see myself at times playing it but also very much a 4-4-1-1.” – Hughton

The Promoted Squad

A core of around half a dozen players were utilised most frequently by Hughton in his 4-4-2-focused promotion push, with the rest prone to significant rotation. At home, those players with more attacking intent were favoured, while on the road defensive acumen became a priority.

Home or away, Glenn Murray was the most used striker, deployed 45 times – the same number of appearances as midfielder and set-piece specialist Anthony Knockaert. Also in midfield, Dale Stephens was fielded 39 times.

At the back, keeper David Stockdale was another mainstay, appearing 45 times, veteran right-back Bruno notched 42 appearances and centre-back Lewis Dunk turned out 43 times.

Most are expected to feature for the Seagulls next season. However age may curtail the pitch time of Bruno (36) and Murray, who is 33.

Here’s an assessment of those players who made at least five appearances for Brighton last season and who are still currently with the club:

David Stockdale (45 starts, one assist)
Should the former Fulham stopper sign a new contract, which was put on the table last week, he is set to be a regular for Brighton’s top flight effort, having missed just one league match during 2016/17. But it has been reported this week that he has rejected the deal on offer, suggesting contract wrangling may continue for some time should he decide to remain.

Given the Seagulls’ strong defensive record at home, the 31-year-old looks to be a worthy candidate for those who favour a cheap goalkeeper rotation strategy, particularly if, as expected, he is priced at 4.5m.

However, we should perhaps not expect Stockdale to replicate the form of Burnley’s Tom Heaton on arrival back in the Premier League. Stockdale produced a save every 36.2 minutes last season, compared to Heaton’s 22.1 minutes this term and 22.3 minutes in his own promotion from the Championship back in 2015/16.

Bruno (42 starts and four assists)
The Spanish right-back has appeared 183 times for Brighton since joining in 2012 from Valencia and has been defying his advancing years admirably ever since. For the second successive season, he was named in the Championship team of the year and next season will be hoping to retain a starting berth despite celebrating his 37th birthday in October.

But as a Fantasy prospect, he will need to deliver on his attacking promise to compete with the arguably more secure Lewis Dunk.

Bruno did produce four assists last season, supplying a key pass every 112 minutes – an identical rate to Chelsea’s Marcos Alonso and only just slower than Bournemouth’s Charlie Daniels (109.3 minutes).

Liam Rosenior (Nine starts, one substitute appearance and one assist)
Utility man Rosenoir is a seasoned professional, with 118 top-flight starts under his belt for Fulham, Reading and Hull City. The 32-year-old has been a useful player for Hughton, able to offer cover in either full-back or wide midfield roles. A similar role is likely for his return to the top flight.

Gaetan Bong (24 starts, four assists)
Should Hughton fail to recruit another left-back, Bong is the most likely to start in that position. His average a key pass every 90 minutes top ranks in the Brighton defence and helped produce four assists across his 24 starts, although he offers very little goal threat having mustered just seven shots on goal.

Sebastien Pocognoli (17 starts, three substitute appearances, one goal and one assist)
On loan from West Brom, this Belgian left-back has not been offered a permanent contract by Brighton. It seems unlikely that he will put on a Seagulls shirt again, although as he is out of contract with the Baggies this summer. Hughton may consider an offer should he fail to secure other full-back targets, but with just 17 starts he was already behind Bong in the pecking order.

Lewis Dunk (43 starts, two goals and one assist)
The towering defender was the only regular centre-back for Brighton last season and looks assured of starts next term.

Two goals and an assist in 2016/17 hint at the potential of attacking returns and, with a 38 attempts – a shot every 98.5 minutes – Dunk clearly offers a genuine goal threat.

Dunk is also an obvious stand-out when it comes to bonus point potential.

He produced 481 clearances, blocks and interceptions (CBIs) – at a rate of a CBI every 7.7 minutes. That would place Dunk among the top echelons of Premier League defenders. Bournemouth’s Steve Cook, who topped the ranks for CBI’s, claimed one every 7.1 minutes.

He also won a tackle every 52.7 minutes – top-ranked among Hughton’s defence and again a rate that would place Dunk among the top Premier League defenders.

But Dunk’s disciplinary record is a major concern. His 12 yellow cards was more than any of this team-mates, and he also picked up a red card – over the season, that may just hinder his Bonus Points System output.

Shane Duffy (31 starts and two goals)
Irish international Duffy was Dunk’s most regular centre-back partner, but a fractured metatarsal in April conspired to curtail his starts to just 31. He signed a four-year deal last summer and looks the frontrunner to start alongside Dunk next season, although fresh recruits in this position look likely in the summer.

Two goals last season offers the prospect of the occasional attacking return, particularly at set-pieces – his aerial duel winning rate of 6.1 per match was more than any of his team-mates and was fifth best in the Championship.

With a CBI every 8.09 minutes, Duffy could also compete with Dunk for bonus points, although he cannot compete for tackles won. Nonetheless, if Duffy is more kindly priced than Dunk , he would perhaps become the preferred option.

Uwe Hunemeier (11 starts and one goal)
German central defender Hunemeier was back-up for Duffy during the 2016/17 campaign and a similar role beckons in the top flight.

Should Duffy or Dunk succumb to injury, he may offer limited appeal as a temporary option. Notably, he recorded a CBI more frequently then Duffy (8.05 minutes) and only just slower than Dunk while registering a shot on goal every 90 minutes – faster than both Duffy and Dunk.

Dale Stephens (33 starts, six substitute appearances, two goals and two assists)
Defensive-minded midfielder Dale Stephens started the campaign under a cloud, but emerged to the bright sunshine of promotion by the end.

After missing out on promotion in 2015/16, he put in a transfer request that was turned down. Once he had agreed to stay on, he finished with 39 appearances, including six as a substitute.

The 27-year-old signed a new four-year deal earlier this month, which indicates he has been given assurances of pitch-time and looks an almost certain starter in Brighton’s return to the top flight.

However, as a Fantasy prospect he appears limited, with just two goals and the same amount of assists last season.

Steve Sidwell (26 starts, eight substitute appearances, one goal)
The Premier League veteran was the most regular starter alongside Stephens in central midfield. The former Arsenal, Chelsea, Fulham, Stoke, Aston Villa and Reading player has racked up 200 appearances in the top flight and this is likely to be a key reason why Brighton have offered him a new deal.

But with his last regular Premier League starting role coming in 2013/14, when he recorded 34 appearances for Fulham, he may be little more than a bit-part player next season.

Also, with just one goal last campaign, albeit a sensational 45-yard screamer against Bristol City, he offers little threat. A 4.5m price tag seems likely given his lack of guaranteed pitch-time.

Beram Kayal (17 starts, three substitute appearances one goal and one assist)
Brighton’s Israeli international is also far from secure as a starter, having shared roles with Steve Sidwell to partner Stephens in central midfield for much of last season. With minimal goal threat and rotation hanging over him, he looks a poor Fantasy option in the Premier League.

Oliver Norwood (14 starts, 17 substitute apperances, two assists)
Another bit-part player during Brighton’s promotional push, the Northern Ireland international is set to continue to be used as back-up in central midfield.

Jamie Murphy (20 starts, 15 substitute appearanaces, two goals and three assists)
Former Motherwell left-sided winger Murphy could be a dark horse for Fantasy returns, with goals and assists in his locker.

He produced a shot every 45.0 minutes and a key pass 62.4 minutes – hardly stellar numbers but statistics that hint at some potential.

However, with almost as many substitute appearances as starts, his pitch-time is in question.

A Scotland call-up to face England at Hampden Park in June could give him the platform to prove to Hughton he should be a regular starter, but it seems likely that his opportunities will be confined to home fixtures.

Solly March (Nine starts, 16 substitute appearances, three goals and two assists)
Sussex-born March joined Brighton as a teenager in 2013, but at the age of 22 has has still not established himself as a first-team regular.

He is most likely to compete with Murphy for a left side of midfield berth in home games against weaker opposition. Despite his poor underlying statistics, he is a firm fans’ favourite and 2016/17 was seen as a breakthrough year for him by the Seagulls faithful.

Jiri Skalak (24 starts, seven substitute appearances and five assists)
He frequently shared pitch time with Murphy and March on the left side of midfield and looks far from secure as a regular starter. No goals is a major concern for suitors, and five assists from a total of 31 appearances is a poor tally to take into the top flight.

He averaged a shot every 76.6 minutes and a key pass every 48.8 minutes.

A disciplined player who will track back, he is more likely to be fielded in tough away matches next season as Hughton looks to show resilience on the road.

Anthony Knockaert (44 starts, one substitute appearance, 15 goals and eight assists)
After signing in January 2016 from Standard Liege, the former Leicester City winger became a regular in the first XI. He scored five times in his first season with the Seagulls, but it was the 2016/17 campaign where he became essential.

With 15 successful strikes and eight assists, no other midfielder in the Championship was involved in more goals – a feat that earned him the divsion’s Player of the Year award.

A four-year contract was agreed in March, so he is assured of starts and looks set to be mainly fielded on the right side of midfield, although he is sometimes asked to switch sides mid-match.

In terms of Fantasy Premier League’s bonus point system, it is worth noting that he also had a successful pass rate of 81.3% last season and he topped the ranks for both shots (106) and key passes (93).

Indeed, his rate of a shot every 35.6 minutes and a key pass every 40.5 minutes offers evidence that Knockaert will be the side’s key provider of attacking points and a major Fantasy target as a result.

A 6.0 price tag would be a likely valuation considering he is also Brighton’s set-piece taker.

Glenn Murray (39 starts, six substitute appearances, 23 goals, five assists)
With 23 successful strikes in 2016/17 and a 30% goal involvement rate, Murray has flourished in his second stint at Brighton, having joined from Bournemouth in 2016, initially on loan and then on a permanent basis.

The striker, who left the Seagulls in 2011 to join Crystal Palace, has a contract in place that takes him to the end of the 2018/19 season, which indicates he will remain for their return to top-flight football. However, age is not on his side, and at 33 he may feature from the bench far more often.

Currently, Brighton’s number one penalty taker, the veteran could be a reasonable third striker option for those looking to use a 3-5-2 formation – if he’s priced around the 5.5 mark. With eight goals for Crystal Palace and three for Bournemouth in the Premier League, he is more than capable of finding the net at the highest level.

However, Murray’s rate of a shot every 33.2 minutes is not all that impressive when you consider that Newcastle’s Dwight Gayle will return to the top level having produced an attempt every 24.4 minutes for the Magpies.

Sam Baldock (27 starts, four substitute appearances, 11 goals and four assists)
Even as the most regular partner for Murray, Baldock’s starting role is far from secure, particularly if Hughton opts for a lone striker.

Joining from Bristol City in 2014, where he scored 34 times in 83 appearances, he has failed to live up to expectations, managing just 18 goals from his 78 run-outs for the Seagulls.

A goal tally of 11 and four assists last season is reasonable for the Championship, but it seems unlikely he will get near those figures at the top level.

Producing a shot on goal every 35.2 minutes, his likely role will be as a back-up striker, or fielded alongside Murray should Hughton revert to a 4-4-2.

Tomer Hemed (20 starts, 17 substitute appearances, 11 goals, four assists)
The second Israeli international in the Brighton squad, Hemed has scored 33 times in his 81 appearances for the Seagulls since joining in 2015, but during the 2016/17 campaign, he shared pitch-time with Baldock.

Just 20 starts indicate that the 30-year-old forward will be far from an assured starter, while a possible switch to a lone striker system diminishes his appeal further.

Nevertheless, with 11 goals and four assists last campaign, he does offer the possibility of attacking returns. His current contract runs out at the end of next season and he is keen to stay with Brighton in the top flight, according to a recent interview.

The Potential Targets

Hughton has already planned ahead for a switch to a lone striker formation by recruiting German playmaker Pascal Gross from relegated Bundesliga side FC Ingolstadt 04 on a four-year deal.

Hughton has described his capture as “an attacking midfielder in a more advanced position, operating behind the forward line”.

Gross is a set-piece specialist, is likely to take the number 10 role and could even challenge Knockaert for Fantasy managers’ attention based on an impressive 2016/17 campaign. He recorded 95 chances – more than any other Bundesliga player and supplied a key pass every 27.5 minutes – a statistic bettered only by Emil Forsberg of Leipzig and Franck Ribery of Bayern Munich.

Over his 32 appearances in Germany’s top flight, Gross scored four goals and assisted a further four times.

Josh Kerr, a teenage defender from Celtic’s youth squad who can play across the back four, has been captured to join Brighton’s U23 development side. If he impresses, he may well earn starts towards the end of the season, but looks to be an investment for the future.

It has been reported that Hughton is keen to add resources in central midfield, with Manchester City’s Aaron Mooy a target. The Australian international impressed on loan at Huddersfield Town and earned a spot in the EFL Championship team of the season. If recruited, he looks the frontrunner to partner Stephens in the centre of the park.

In light of Murray’s advancing years, attacking recruits are another priority area, with Hughton reportedly eyeing up Isaiah (Izzy) Brown – another player to impress at Huddersfield in the Championship. The 20-year-old is on loan at the Terriers from Chelsea and can play as a forward or winger.

Another forward thought to be on Hughton’s radar is FC Sion’s Moussa Koante, who has racked up 33 goals in 74 starts for the Swiss side.

Today’s press has also linked the Seagulls with Eupen winger Henry Onyekuru who has produced 24 goals and 14 assists for the Belgian side this term. However, there are a host of clubs competing fiercely for the Nigerian – including Arsenal.

Almost inevitably, Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham is being strongly linked to a loan move to the south coast. Reports suggest that Brighton have permission to talk to the 19-year-old who scored 26 goals while on loan at Bristol City in the Championship last season.

J0E Podcaster and writer. Tweets stats and stuff via @FFScout_Joe Follow them on Twitter

953 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Somalion
    • 14 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    😯

    Chelsea are interested in signing Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan, Sky in Italy are reporting today.

    Manchester United have made an opening offer of €35m but Inter value Perisic at between €55m and €60m.

    1. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Good player. But not worth anything of the sort.

      1. Somalion
        • 14 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Nowhere in the 50 or 60 million bracket, that's beyond ludicrous.

        1. goriuanx
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Far more understandable when Griezmann, Bernardo Silva are costing big money. But Ivan Perisic for that sort of money..is hilarious.

          1. Somalion
            • 14 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            I can understand it, Griezmann as well is a brand so I know exactly why United would be after him for bigger money (business side of things always comes into play. Having Pogba + Griezmann would be extremely marketable).

            Agreed. I do like Perisic, was a bit excited when I heard about it last night but not for that kind of money.

    2. Syd.
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      £20 million extra gets stuck on to the transfer fee when United become interested

      1. Somalion
        • 14 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        I would've said once Chelsea jumped on board. Inter sounded happy enough to take £36 million last night.

    3. diesel001
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Better to up the fees to £85m and get Dybala or Mbappe IMO.

      1. Lawrø
        • 12 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Better to save up for a season and buy Messi and Ronaldo in my opinion. Could you imagine that front three?

        Ronaldo - Rashford - Messi

        1. Dreams
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          😆

        2. diesel001
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Fundamentally anyone is available for the right price even Messi and Ronaldo. But their prices might be in the £160m+ each range.

    4. Eden Hazardous
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      I love Perisic. Kind of player that is needed in the squad & has very good end product. Age the only concern for me.

    5. Pariße
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Good player but nowhere near worth that kind of money. This is ridiculous.

  2. 007 [RoboKlopp]
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Who is best prospect for our 3rd strikers:

    A. Dwight Gayle
    B. Fernando Llorente
    C. Others

    Thx you.

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Llorente if he is 7 or less, otherwise Ayew or King if classified as forward

      1. Cilly Bonnolly
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        King will be I think. He was a striker before this season wasn't he? In reality as opposed to fantasy I mean?

    2. Lovren an elevator
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      B. (As long as he stays)

  3. Holmes
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Any decent football manager game available which requires less space?

    And best place to download them?

    (PC or Android)

  4. JAC THE CAT
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    I've done some research on Anthony Knockaert 2016/17 and his stats remind me of Matt Ritchie in Bournemouths 2014/15 promotion season.

    Ritchie was 25 in that season, the same age as Knockaert now and played only 62 minutes less than the Brighton man. Both scored an impressive 15 goals, Ritchie won on the assists front with 17 compared to Knockaerts 8.

    The following season in the premier league Ritchie registered 4 goals and 6 assists for Bournemouth.

    1. Lovren an elevator
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      I have been thinking the same. I was excited about Ritchie and nearly drafted him in my draft league but obviously glad I didn't.
      I am thinking Gross could threaten Knockaert's appeal and therefore may look into him. I definitely want a cheap promoted mid but the only other option so far coincidentally is Ritchie!

      1. diesel001
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Capoue? If Silva can get the best out of him.

        1. Lovren an elevator
          • 9 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          I like that idea. Would have to see him in pre-season. Has Silva signed for Watford then?

          1. El-Kloppico
            • 8 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            Almost done imo

          2. RedLightning
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 13 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            His appointment as Head Coach was confirmed yesterday.

        2. Pariße
          • 9 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          We need to see what position he plays there. If he's back to being a defensive mid, he's not worth it.

    2. El-Kloppico
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      I took the gamble on Ritchie too and not too disappointed considering the price and team.
      Concerning Brighton, I am considering Murray as an enabler.. Reminds me of Gray!

      1. Lovren an elevator
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        If they don't sign another striker, then yes. Ahead of the others in the squad and has proven he can get the odd goal. Personally his age isn't a concern

  5. Team Cruel
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Reus out for 6 months. He makes Sturridge and Phil Jones look like fitness gurus.

    1. Syd.
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Poor chap

    2. Somalion
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Thought that was Bild saying he might have done his cruciate and he could be out for 6 months? Not seen anything from Dortmund yet.

      Much like Aguero, I always wonder just how good Reus could be without the injury issues.

    3. The Big Fella
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Out again?!!?

  6. goriuanx
    • 13 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Both Manchester City & Real Madrid have launched €130m offers for Monaco striker Kylian #Mbappe, according to Telefoot. #MCFC #ASM

    1. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Wish we could spend half of that on a player.

      1. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Who's we?

        1. Dreams
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Liverpool.

          1. goriuanx
            • 13 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            I think we'll spend around £50m on one player.

            1. Dreams
              • 7 Years
              7 years, 20 days ago

              Yeah. Looks like it. Van djik would be a great buy.

              1. Tansey
                • 9 Years
                7 years, 20 days ago

                He would be a good pick but if we're spending 50m I feel that big a sum could be better spent elsewhere eg. Lacazette

    2. diesel001
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Well played City. Trying to go with the big boys. That's the way to do it.

      1. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        If there's one club who'll close in the top 3 in the world, it's City.

      2. Syd.
        • 15 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Sweet salty bitterness

        I like it very much

        1. diesel001
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Not bitter at all. I want the PL to be the best - that to me means breaking the bank and competing with Barca, Real, Juventus, Bayern and PSG.

    3. Lawrø
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      This kid's doomed to fail in my opinion, way too much way too soon... World's most expensive player at 18?!?

      1. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        If I were him I'd stay at Monaco. It'd be a shame if he moved and failed. But I guess it's hard to say no to that money and level of club.

      2. Lawrø
        • 12 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Bookmark this for when he wins the ballon d'or

      3. Dr Dream
        • 11 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Not doomed to fail but they're certainly setting about the right way to heap too much pressure on him.

        1. Dreams
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Reminds me of the kid Odegaard. He would have been better off playing in Eliteserien.

    4. Syd.
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Who is Telefoot

      1. Lawrø
        • 12 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        French. Not to be trusted imo

        1. Lawrø
          • 12 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Those two sentences are completely independent of one another! 😆

          1. Syd.
            • 15 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            😆

      2. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        In case you haven't heard of them, Man City are a small club from England.

        😉 Joking.

    5. the snazzy viking
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      He should just stay at Monaco, there he can develop

    6. El-Kloppico
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      The future Anthony Martial or James Rodrigues..
      If he want to prosper into a great player, he rather foolow the path of Benzema than the 2 mentioned above.
      Benzema waited until he get the right level of experience before leaving France, when the other 2 chased fame too quickly and failed.

      1. diesel001
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Was Martial that good? His stats weren't as good as Mbappe's. James is good IMO, but overshadowed by all the other greats at Madrid.

        1. Dreams
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Ranieri called him his best signing.

  7. El-Kloppico
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    What will be the price for Bernardo Silva next season do you reckon?
    Will he be a regular or a rotation headache?
    With so many MID at Pep disposal and surely some more to sign, at what price would you gamble on Bernardo Silva?
    I think he'll be rated at around 8.0 - 8.5!

    1. Dreams
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Same price I think. 8-8.5.

    2. Syd.
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Probably spot on with that prediction. Apart from KDB all City midfielders were more or less priced in that bracket last season

  8. grapesland
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Great article!

    (there is an error on stats table, the GD doesnt add up)

    1. Wild Rover
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Looks right to me

      1. diesel001
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        How can the sum of the GD at home + GD away not equal the Total GD. +32 + +2 does not equal +39

      2. grapesland
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        +2 away
        +32 home
        = +39 total

        Doesnt add up no? 🙂

        1. Wild Rover
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Yeah, I looked at each individually. The goals against column is wrong which also throws out the total column 🙂

    2. Billy Gilmore
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Not to mention the even more obvious D/L numbers which don't add up. Apparently Brighton played 50 matches this season...no wonder they got promoted.

  9. Lovren an elevator
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Will Bernardo Silva be nailed? I can't decide whether £43m is a significant amount anymore!

    1. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Don't think anyone knows for sure. You're right about the price tag - can't always tell!

      1. Lovren an elevator
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        I see him creating a real problem with rotation. Unless ofcourse Aguero or D. Silva are on their way out.

  10. Ógie
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Monaco GP about to get under way come on Kimi and Sebastian

    1. Syd.
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Hopefully Kimi will take him out at the first corner

    2. Wild Rover
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Worst GP of them all. Glamorous and spectacular scenery but terrible racing

      1. Wild Rover
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        *apart from senna in the rain

      2. Syd.
        • 15 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        It kind of sums up F1

        All glamour and no substance

      3. Ógie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Great race anything can happen Olivier Panis 1996 Jarno Trulli 2004 it is where dreams are made

  11. pundit of punts
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Would be exciting to see Luis Enrique replacing Wenger.

    1. A.T
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Personally I'd like to see Wenger buy the couple of signings he thinks he needs and then goes on to win the league.

      1. A.T
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Just for the Lols

  12. dhamphiir
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    BLUES ALSO WANT PERISIC

    Chelsea are interested in signing Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan, Sky in Italy are reporting today.

    Manchester United have made an opening offer of €35m but Inter value Perisic at between €55m and €60m.

    1. Wild Rover
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Or you could have just read the top of this page 😉

      1. dhamphiir
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        I thought it was not posted here.

    2. Numb
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Do Chelsea need another "Willian" type player. I imagine Mourinho is desperate for one better than Lingard. Unless the original Willian is going to United??

  13. bojack
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Great article thanks.

    Shame about Dunk's predelection for collecting bookings.

    1. Syd.
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      And that was against slow over the hill forwards in the championship. Imagine him trying to deal with the nimble feet of a PL forward

      1. bojack
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        I think I'll stay away from Brighton players, at least initially. Long way to go though.

        1. Syd.
          • 15 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          We do need those cheap enablers thou so a few of the promoted players will make their way into our teams

          1. bojack
            • 7 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            True.

  14. 007 [RoboKlopp]
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Will 352 formation more nailed than 343 next season? Considering midfielder dominated top points this season.

    A. Yes
    B. No

    Please explain, thx you.

    1. bojack
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      There's something I don't like about having a 4.5 - 6.0 forward in my squad. Irrational perhaps, but I prefer 343 for that reason.

    2. Speédy
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      depends really on player pricing and new signings

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        This

  15. Numb
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    @Mods - can you see how many posts (including replies) there have been in, say, the last 24 hours? And how this would compare to a peak time during the season?

    1. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Don't think so.

      Spoiler alert - it's lower 🙂

      1. Numb
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Yeah, I figured that. Surprised you haven't got analytics like that.

        1. andy85wsm
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Who says we haven't? 🙂

          I'm sure Mark does. Unlikely to be shared publicly.

        2. andy85wsm
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Although you could just go back and count I suppose 🙂

          1. Syd.
            • 15 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            He wants you to count them for him 😎

            1. Numb
              • 9 Years
              7 years, 20 days ago

              This

  16. Syd.
    • 15 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Race over

    Vettel will win under team orders

    1. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      I hope he wins the world championship but it would be nice to see Kimi win this one

      No way Kimi will give up the lead here unless he is out raced

      1. Syd.
        • 15 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        True. Kimi can be very stubborn at times and Vettel could throw his rattle out of the pram again

  17. bojack
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Fabregas didn't sound too pleased about being left out yesterday. Is his time at Stamford Bridge up?

    1. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Hopefully.

      He's too good to not be a regular starter

    2. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      If Fabs and Wilian started that game it could have been a very different story

      But in saying that Fabs fluting around down in Barcelona during the week opening shops and having a good time with his celebrity mates instead of being totally focused on the FA Cup final so he only has himself to blame for not being on the 1st team

  18. The Big Fella
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    If Liverpool sign a LB this summer, where do you think Milner will play? If he has a more advanced role he may be a good purchase as he will no doubt be classified as a defender next year and will be on pens. I assume Liverpool's CS will be higher as, if those glasses of his work, Klopp will work on his defence for his CL campaign. Alternatively, he may not then fit into the squad and may be excluded. I personally prefer him to Henderson but Klopp may have other ideas.......

    1. andy85wsm
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Squad player probably and not first XI

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        You're probably right. Shame. I rate him as a CM. I think he would do well as a box-to-box in a 3 alongside a DM and a more attack-minded player.

    2. A.T
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      It has to be in the middle 3 surely. Not worth bothering with unless as you say, he's classed as a defender.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        I think he almost definitely will be classed as one. I just don't see where/if he will play.

        1. andy85wsm
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Think it will depend on signings before FPL is back up again

          If they sign a new LB then FPL could just use common sense that Milner is unlikely to play defence for most of the season

          1. The Big Fella
            • 7 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            Or at all. I suppose we shall have to see. I will be bringing him in if he plays and is classified as a defender though. What is even more interesting is who will take over on pens if Milner isn't in the starting 11

    3. diesel001
      • 7 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Liverpool should sign Bertrand. Might as well continue their policy of signing Southampton players.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        According to the BBC they're in for Benjamin Mendy at Monaco. Competing against City and United. Looks like Shaw is yesterday's news......

        1. Ógie
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          I hope Shaw comes back to his best next season

          A leg break is not easy to recover from mentally and physically he should be given every chance imo

          1. The Big Fella
            • 7 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            Yeah and so young too. Unfortunately, Mourinho isn't known for giving youth a chance. He will buy in a LB and then Shaw will be old news.

        2. diesel001
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          If Liverpool want to progress they need to spend big. But realistically you can see them lining up as follows:

          Mignolet
          Clyne Matip Lovren Bertrand
          Can Coutinho Henderson
          Mane Firmino Lallana

          1. The Big Fella
            • 7 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            Not sure I agree mate. They will be bringing in more people than just Bertrand (and he isn't even a given as other clubs want him too). I have no idea how Henderson starts for either Liverpool or England.

            1. diesel001
              • 7 Years
              7 years, 20 days ago

              Realistically though who would Liverpool buy to improve the midfield? I suppose Wijnaldum will play instead of Can. Klopp loves Henderson. It would have to be some top midfielders, but do Liverpool have the money to lure them? Could they get a Griezmann for example? I don't think they could.

    4. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      If a first team left back is signed, Milner will be a squad player.

      There's 3 CM spots. Emre Can, Henderson, Lallana and Wijnaldum are all better than Milner. Klopp has spoken about Coutinho playing CM too. And this is without any signings in midfield.

  19. ⚽️ Dingo ⚽️
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Bong will be first selected in my squad this season.

    1. Wild Rover
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Who? Hope he's a donkey. Donkey Bong has a nice ring to it

    2. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Bony?

      1. Wild Rover
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Just seen that he's a Bright def. Can't see why he would want him

        1. ⚽️ Dingo ⚽️
          • 7 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Because.......Bong.

          1. The Big Fella
            • 7 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            Hahahahaha

    3. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      I think i will do Bong for a hit in gw2

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Hopefully that week your points will be high

        1. Stats Don\'t Lie
          • 9 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Reckon he'll be blazing past us up the ranks

      2. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        The problem with FPL is the grass is always greener on the other side.

        1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Sterling work

          1. Jafooli
            • 12 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            😎

      3. bojack
        • 7 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Ganja believe there's a player called that?

  20. ★Kuntheman★
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    https://youtu.be/3JlVnmUuAp8

    Look at Ederson's assist for the second goal. Exactly what Pep needs.

  21. The Big Fella
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    I am hoping so badly Iheanacho goes to a mid-table club as he will be guaranteed to start and will hammer them in. He is such a good player and scores/assists pretty much every time he plays.

  22. Ógie
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Vettel 🙂

  23. ★Kuntheman★
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    I'm loving all the rumors and everything surrounding City thus far, but it looks like Pep is aiming to have two good options in every position, and that screams rotation and that screams players being frustrated with game time. Hard to work out, but amazing on paper and in theory...

    1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      If Roman bought all of the players Chelsea were linked with in his first two years he would have been bankrupt .

    2. UnitedFan
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      If you had to pick one attacking player that you'd say was most nailed out of them, who would it be in your opinion? KDB? Sane? Jesus?

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        KDB easily. Then Sane.

        1. UnitedFan
          • 8 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          Right. He'll be pricey though. Could do with a few more goals than he got this season for 10m plus

          1. ★Kuntheman★
            • 8 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            If he stops hitting the damn woodwork, you'll get those numbers lol

            1. UnitedFan
              • 8 Years
              7 years, 20 days ago

              Haha yeah, small margins in fairness

    3. HammersFan
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      I remember back when hughes first took over he always talked about owning good players for every position. With champions League and all the cups though gives plenty of chance for all the players.

      My only worry is how it effects squad harmony if you constantly change your first 11.

      1. ★Kuntheman★
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Very few of Pep's players are in the Confederations Cup. They need to work hard during preseason to get it right.

        We couldn't even get rotation right this year...

  24. Team Cruel
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    https://streamable.com/x7vfk

    Tim Krul is hilarious. Need him back in the PL.

    1. UnitedFan
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Haha, absolutely mad

    2. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      He was a great fpl asset once upon a time

    3. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Dreadful peno to be fair.

      Zaha would be proud.

      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Time for this again

        https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Ln45vQv8Lbk

        😀

    4. Gnu
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Nice to hear Steve McLaren doing the voiceover at the end of show, didn't realise he worked for Dutch TV!

  25. dhamphiir
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Zlatan Ibrahimovic, 35, has several offers from other clubs and will definitely stay in Europe, according to his agent. (Sky Sports)

  26. ★Kuntheman★
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    City officials are apparently pressuring Pep with Joe Hart, as they do not want to see him go to a direct rival.

    Easy solution. Send Bravo to the Chinese League, bring in Ederson, and have them compete.

  27. Ógie
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Dangerous looking crash in Monaco i hope Pascal is ok 🙁

    1. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      He is ok 🙂

  28. dhamphiir
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Newcastle are in the chase for Man City outcast Eliaquim Mangala, according to the Manchester Evening News.

    City are looking to offload the French defender this summer and La Liga side Valencia are also said to be interested in his services.

    1. ★Kuntheman★
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      I'd send him out for free, anything above that is a great deal.

      He bullied Costa in his first game, scored an own goal the next game, and then became one of our biggest flops.

      1. dhamphiir
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Manchester City didn't renew contract for three defender (Zabaleta, Clichy and Sagna) and Mangala maybe in his way out.
        Who do you think they are gonna sign (defender) if Walker sign for City? They need strong back up defender if they are gonna challenge for league and other competition?

        1. ★Kuntheman★
          • 8 Years
          7 years, 20 days ago

          I could see Maffeo getting promoted, or maybe we sign Fabinho as well.

          1. ★Kuntheman★
            • 8 Years
            7 years, 20 days ago

            It'll be Mendy and Kolarov on the other side.

            1. dhamphiir
              • 8 Years
              7 years, 20 days ago

              Mendy will be good signing for Manchester City. He was amazing at Monaco this season

      2. liiusions
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        He was embarrassing that game vs Liverpool 😆

  29. dhamphiir
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    BREAKING: West Ham make offer for Manchester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho, according to Sky sources #SSNHQ

    1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      That was announced yesterday ? . Dial up ?

      1. dhamphiir
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 20 days ago

        Skysport just posted now on their twitter official

  30. liiusions
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 20 days ago

    Anyone watched Naby Keita (Liverpool target) play? Just watched some videos of him on YouTube and he looks amazing, but then again who doesn't on YouTube

    1. dhamphiir
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 20 days ago

      Wasn't he included in Bundesliga team of the year or season this year?