Team News
15 January 2018 1147 comments
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Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain fills the void left by Philippe Coutinho’s departure to help consign Man City to their first defeat of the season, as Jurgen Klopp switches allegiance between the sticks.

Wilfried Zaha is shifted to the flank as Bakary Sako vindicates Roy Hodgson’s decision to start him up front by netting the winner against Burnley.

Cenk Tosun is handed the lone striker role on his debut for Everton, while Eddie Howe opts for a three-man defence as Bournemouth see off Arsenal.

Here’s part one of Line-up Lessons, assessing the teamsheets and formations from Gameweek 23, with one eye on what’s to come over the midweek FA Cup replays and beyond.

Arsenal

Starting XI: Cech; Chambers (Ramsey 73), Mustafi, Holding; Bellerin, Wilshere, Xhaka, Maitland-Niles; Iwobi (Walcott 76), Welbeck; Lacazette. Subs not used: Ospina, Mertesacker, Kolasinac, Elneny, Nketiah.

  • What we saw: Arsene Wenger kept faith in the 3-4-2-1 formation for the trip to Bournemouth, although he was again without Mesut Ozil (knee) and Alexis Sanchez, with the Chilean set to leave the club over the coming days amid interest from both Manchester clubs. Alex Iwobi and Danny Welbeck started in the advanced midfield positions, while Jack Wilshere recovered from an ankle sprain to keep his place in central midfield. With the score at 1-1, Wenger decided to switch to a 4-3-3, with Aaron Ramsey returning from injury to join Wilshere and Granit Xhaka in central midfield.
  • What we learned: With plenty of injuries for the Gunners, Wenger had few options to change things around at the Vitality Stadium. Laurent Koscielny is expected to return to training this week and may be available to return against Crystal Palace on Saturday. Nacho Monreal (ankle) could have an outside chance of being available, while Sead Kolasinac was back on the bench on Sunday. The Bosnian offers a possible replacement for Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who himself may be an option to start in a more advanced role. The return to fitness of Ramsey means Wenger could consider switching to a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, perhaps depending on whether Ozil is ready to return. Alternatively, one of Ramsey or Wilshere could be used in a support role behind Alexandre Lacazette if the Gunners retain their wing-back system.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central defenders, left wing-back, central midfield, attacking midfield

Bournemouth

Starting XI: Begovic; Francis, S. Cook, Ake; A. Smith, Gosling, L. Cook, Daniels (Mousset 63); Ibe (Pugh 86), Fraser; Wilson (Afobe 90). Subs not used: Boruc, Surman, Arter, Simpson.

  • What we saw: Cherries boss Eddie Howe decided to match up against Arsenal’s 3-4-2-1 formation, allowing all five of his leading defenders to start. Jordon Ibe and Ryan Fraser were stationed in the advanced midfield positions, while Lewis Cook and Dan Gosling were favoured in central midfield. With his side trailing 1-0, Howe decided to bring on Lys Mousset for Charlie Daniels, seeing Ryan Fraser move to right wing-back, and Adam Smith to left wing-back. Mousset played in the attacking midfield spots down the left flank.
  • What we learned: Howe showed he isn’t afraid to try a different formation yesterday, and given Saturday’s opponents West Ham United are also playing with three at the back, he could well stick with the 3-4-2-1 this weekend. That would make personnel changes unlikely, with Andrew Surman and Harry Arter possible alternatives in central midfield, while if either Josh King or Junior Stanislas (both hamstring) are available, they could challenge Ibe and Fraser for starting spots. The Cherries face a trip to Wigan Athletic in an FA Cup third round replay on Wednesday night, although Howe is likely to ring the changes for that match.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central Defence, Central midfield, attacking midfield

Brighton & Hove Albion

Starting XI: Ryan; Bruno, Duffy, Dunk, Bong; Stephens, Propper (Kayal 76); Knockaert, Gross (Baldock 66), Izquierdo (March 46); Murray; Subs not used: Hemed, Goldson, Schelotto, Krul.

  • What we saw: The Seagulls lined up in a more attacking 4-2-3-1 for the trip to West Bromwich Albion, with Glenn Murray starting as the lone striker. Jose Izquierdo was preferred on the left wing, while Gaetan Bong got the nod over Markus Suttner at left-back. But following a disappointing display, Izquierdo was replaced by Solly March at half-time in a straight swap. Sam Baldock returned from a lengthy spell on the sidelines to make his first appearance of the season, joining Murray in attack as Brighton switched to a 4-4-2.
  • What we learned: The return to fitness of Baldock provides Chris Hughton with another attacking option and, after replacing Pascal Gross at the weekend, there is a slight concern that the German may be more vulnerable to being withdrawn late on in matches. Tomer Hemed continues to offer a viable alternative to Murray, while March could come in for Izquierdo on the left wing for Saturday’s home clash against Chelsea. Rotation remains an issue at left-back, with Suttner and Bony continuing to share starts.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Left-back, left wing, lone striker

Burnley

Starting XI: Pope; Bardsley, Tarkowski, Mee, Taylor; Cork, Defour; Gudmundsson (Wells 85), Hendrick (Nkoudou 63), Barnes; Vokes. Subs not used: Lowton, Westwood, Walters, Lindegaard, Long.

  • What we saw: Sean Dyche used a 4-2-3-1 formation for the trip to Crystal Palace, with Ashley Barnes again used on the left wing, allowing Sam Vokes to start as the lone striker. James Tarkowski and Ben Mee shook off their knocks to start, while Phil Bardsley was again favoured over Matt Lowton at right-back. The Clarets ended the match with substitutes Georges-Kevin Nkoudou and Nahki Wells in attack alongside Barnes and Vokes, leaving only Jack Cork and Steven Defour in midfield.
  • What we learned: Scott Arfield missed out at Selhurst Park due to a hamstring injury, but if he’s fit for Saturday’s visit of Manchester United to Turf Moor, he could earn a recall on the left wing. That would make Barnes an option to replace Vokes up front if Chris Wood remains sidelined due to a knee problem. Stephen Ward (knee) faces a struggle to be fit for the weekend, so Charlie Taylor looks poised to continue at left-back, while Bardsley could again retain his start at right-back ahead of Lowton. New loan signing NKoudou offers another option out wide after making his debut at the weekend.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Full-backs, left wing, lone striker

Chelsea

Starting XI: Courtois; Azpilicueta, Cahill (Christensen 33), Rudiger; Moses, Kante, Fabregas (Pedro 57), Bakayoko, Alonso; Hazard (Willian 57), Morata. Subs not used: Caballero, Zappacosta, Batshuayi, Luiz.

  • What we saw: Antonio Conte surprisingly decided to leave Andrea Christensen on the bench for the home encounter against Leicester City, with Gary Cahill and Antonio Rudiger joining Cesar Azpilicueta in the three-man defence. The Blues again lined up in the 3-1-4-1-1 system, with Eden Hazard again operating in a central support role behind lone striker Alvaro Morata. Conte was forced into making an early change, with Cahill’s hamstring injury seeing Christensen enter the fray. Following a flat first-half performance, Conte decided to take off Cesc Fabregas and Hazard just before the hour mark, with Pedro and Willian coming on, seeing the home side switch to a more attacking 3-4-2-1 formation.
  • What we learned: After failing to score in a third consecutive match in all competitions, Conte could consider switching back to the more attacking 3-4-2-1 for Saturday’s trip to Brighton. Either Willian or Pedro may push for a start, then, with either Tiemoue Bakayoko or Fabregas appearing most at risk of dropping to the bench. The Italian’s team selection for Wednesday night’s FA Cup third round replay against Norwich City is likely to provide some clues as to his thinking for the weekend. Ross Barkley could make his Blues debut in midweek, but his lack of match fitness makes him an unlikely starter for Gameweek 24. Danny Drinkwater provides another alternative in the middle of the park. At the back, Christensen is expected to replace Cahill, although the skipper’s injury isn’t thought to be too serious. Conte’s intentions with the Dane now requires monitoring given that David Luiz is also now a rotation option.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central defenders, central midfield, attacking midfield

Crystal Palace

Starting XI: Hennessey; Fosu-Mensah, Kelly, Tomkins, Van Aanholt; Zaha, Milivojevic, Riedewald, McArthur; Benteke, Sako. Subs not used: Speroni, Cabaye, Lee, Souare, Kaikai, Delaney, Wan-Bissaka.

  • What we saw: Roy Hodgson again rolled out a 4-4-2 formation for the home clash against Burnley, although he did hand a start to Bakary Sako, who lined up alongside Christian Benteke in attack. That saw Wilfried Zaha move to the right side of midfield, while James McArthur was stationed on the left wing. Jairo Riedewald was preferred to a fatigued Yohan Cabaye in the engine room, while Patrick van Aanholt replaced the injured Jeffrey Schlupp at left-back.
  • What we learned: The decision to hand Sako just his second start of the season paid off handsomely for Hodgson, and should see the former Wolves winger retain his start for Saturday’s trip to Arsenal. Ruben Loftus-Cheek (knock) has missed the last three matches, but would be an option to start in place of McArthur if fit to return. The more defensive Riedewald is likely to retain his start ahead of Cabaye in central midfield, while unless Joel Ward (calf) is ready to return, the back four is set to stay unchanged.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central midfield, wings, forwards

Everton

Starting XI: Pickford; Kenny, Holgate, Jagielka, Martina; McCarthy (Schneiderlin 72), Gueye; Bolasie (Lennon 57) Rooney, Sigurdsson; Tosun (Calvert-Lewin 62). Subs not used: Robles, Williams, Niasse, Lookman.

  • What we saw: Sam Allardyce handed a Premier League debut to Cenk Tosun, with the Turkish international starting as the lone striker in an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation. Wayne Rooney was deployed in the No 10 role, while James McCarthy was preferred to Morgan Schneiderlin alongside the returning Idrissa Gueye at the base of midfield. Mason Holgate and Phil Jagielka formed the centre-back partnership, with Ashley Williams dropped to the bench, while Jonjoe Kenny returned at right-back.
  • What we learned: Following another poor defensive display, Allardyce could consider making changes at the back for Saturday’s home meeting with West Bromwich Albion. Williams is likely to push for a recall in central defence, while Holgate is a possible alternative to Kenny at right-back. Schneiderlin may come into contention to replace McCarthy in central midfield, while Aaron Lennon and Dominic Calvert-Lewin could be viable starters out wide, most likely in place of Yannick Bolasie. Tosun is expected to make his first home start after an encouraging debut.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Right-back, central defenders, central midfield, right wing

Huddersfield Town

Starting XI: Lossl: Smith (Kongolo 71), Jorgensen, Schindler, Malone; Mooy, Hogg; Lolley (Pritchard 65), Ince, van La Parra; Depoitre. Subs not used: Sabiri, Coleman, Williams, Mounie, Hefele.

  • What we saw: David Wagner decided to hand Joe Lolley just his second start of the season in the No 10 role in the usual 4-2-3-1 formation. That saw Tom Ince move over to the right wing, while Jonathan Hogg was preferred to Danny Williams at the base of midfield. With Chris Lowe out injured, Scott Malone started at left-back for the Terriers. Laurent Depoitre led the line, with Steve Mounie on the bench. Alex Pritchard and Terence Kongolo were handed their Huddersfield debuts off the bench, with Pritchard taking over the No 10 role. Kongolo joined Christopher Schindler in central defence, with Mathias Jorgensen shifting across to right-back.
  • What we learned: Following an encouraging debut, Pritchard could be handed a first start when Huddersfield head to Stoke on Saturday. Lolley is the player most likely to make way in a straight swap. Collin Quaner could provide another option in the attacking midfield positions if, as expected, he recovers from a hamstring problem, potentially putting Rajiv van La Parra’s start at risk. Mounie will push for a recall in place of Depoitre, while Williams is a viable alternative to Hogg in central midfield. At the back, Kongolo could be considered either in central defence or at left-back, while if he is fit to return from a foot injury, Lowe provides the alternative at left-back.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Full-backs, central midfield, attacking midfield, flanks, lone striker

Leicester City

Starting XI: Schmeichel; Amartey, Maguire, Dragovic, Chilwell; Mahrez, Ndidi, James (Iborra 90), Albrighton; Okazaki (Fuchs 73), Vardy (Gray 82). Subs not used: Gray, Iheanacho, Hamer, Slimani, Iborra, Benalouane.

  • What we saw: Foxes boss Claude Puel opted for an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation for the trip to Chelsea, with Shinji Okazaki starting in the No 10 role behind lone striker Jamie Vardy, who returned from injury. Matty James was preferred to Vicente Iborra in central midfield, while Ben Chilwell got the nod over Christian Fuchs at left-back. Aleksandar Dragovic replaced the injured Wes Morgan in central defence. After Chilwell was dismissed for a second bookable offence, Puel decided to bring on Fuchs in place of Okazaki, seeing the Austrian take over at left-back in a 4-4-1 system. Demarai Gray was then introduced for Vardy as Leicester ended the match without a recognised striker, instead packing the midfield in order to hold on for a point. James was forced off with a knock late on, seeing Iborra come on for the final few minutes.
  • What we learned: Following an impressive performance at Stamford Bridge, Puel may keep changes to a minimum for Saturday’s home fixture against Watford. He does, of course, have plenty of strong options to choose from, with Gray a viable starter in place of Okazaki in the No 10 role, while Iborra will be on standby should James not be fit to face the Hornets. At left-back, Fuchs will challenge Chilwell, though he will serve his one-match ban against Fleetwood Town in the FA Cup third round replay tomorrow night and therefore looks a probable starter against the Hornets. James could retain his central midfield spot after recovering from his knock. Leicester’s star men – Vardy, Mahrez, Maguire and Schmeichel – could be rested for the midweek cup tie.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Left-back, central midfield, attacking midfield

Liverpool

Starting XI: Karius; Gomez, Matip, Lovren, Robertson; Oxlade-Chamberlain, Emre Can (Milner 79), Wijnaldum; Salah (Lallana 87), Firmino, Mane (Klavan 90). Subs not used: Mignolet, Ings, Solanke, Alexander-Arnold.

  • What we saw: Mohamed Salah recovered from a groin injury to return on the right of the front three in the usual 4-3-3 formation for the home encounter against Manchester City. Virgil van Dijk was ruled out due to a tight hamstring, so Dejan Lovren partnered Joel Matip in central defence, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain joined Emre Can and Georginio Wijnaldum in central midfield in the Reds’ first league match since the departure of Philippe Coutinho. Loris Karius was preferred to Simon Mignolet in goal. The Reds ended the match in a 5-4-1 as they looked to hold onto their 4-3 lead, with Ragnar Klavan slotting into central defence.
  • What we learned: Emre Can was withdrawn yesterday due to illness, but with Liverpool not playing again until a week tonight against Swansea City, he should have plenty of time to recover. James Milner is the main back-up option in central midfield, unless Jordan Henderson is back in contention following a hamstring injury. The extra recovery time should also boost van Dijk’s chances of being fit to replace Lovren in central defence. Even when Alberto Moreno is available again following an ankle injury, the form of Andrew Robertson at left-back means the Spaniard faces a battle to get back into the side. Klopp has confirmed that Karius is now his number one, with Mignolet set to be consigned to bench-warming duties.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central defenders, Left-back, central midfield

Part two of Line-up Lessons, assessing the remaining ten teams, will follow tomorrow.

1,147 Comments Login to Post a Comment
  1. Captain Kakaroto (I blame R…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    HI LADS,

    I realy mad at myself that I still didnt get Arni. Would you get him to this team and how?
    I thought ditching Son cause his form is home games and MUN BUS game after. what you say?

    Pickford, Ryan
    Ota, Azpi, Mee, Duffy , Robertson
    Salah, Sterling, Son, Lingard , RLC
    Kane, Aguero, Niasse

    Thanks

    1. Can’t beat em so&hell…
      • 14 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Would have to be for Son.... I wouldn't though...

    2. Ghost Gooner
      • 12 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Ditch Son after Sou

    3. arndff_
      • 14 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Save your ft and then you can ditch Son @GW25

      1. Captain Kakaroto (I blame R…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        YEA but bournemouth is so leaki I think arni will do very well.

  2. Lingardium Leviosa.
    • 11 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    How many points for Lingardinho tonight?

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 17 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Hopefully 6 more than Jones.

    2. MarvelouSuccess
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      11

    3. Hazardous1983
      • 15 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      2 as i got him.in i am.bad luck on players

    4. yakirh
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      As a non owner I think I made a mistake and 12 points incoming

    5. Futile Tinkering
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      I need 11 from Jones TM & Lingz wont get 17 😡

    6. Licious Lizard (delete acc)
      8 years, 6 months ago

      10 + 1-3 baps

  3. Jet5605
    • 11 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Does anyone think Albrighton could be a great option (cheaper alternative to Mahrez/Vardy) over the next few weeks? Nailed, has dream fixtures and partial to goal/assist himself.

    1. arndff_
      • 14 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Could be great.

    2. MarvelouSuccess
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      mahrez is more explosive though and is my fave choice soon if he doesnt go anywhere.

      1. Jet5605
        • 11 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        You'd prefer the Mahrez/cheapo striker combo to Albrighton/Firmino?

        1. MarvelouSuccess
          • 13 Years
          8 years, 6 months ago

          mahrez and wilson will be good imo

    3. XabiAlonso
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Get the ox

      1. The Wizard of Ozil
        • 10 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        Is he nailed? I would if he was

  4. Dr Dream
    • 13 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    I only have Lingard tonight but there's one inescapable fact....he's not Pogba..

    It's like looking forward to a pint of Bitter instead of a glass of Wine...

    1. MarvelouSuccess
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Lingard is on fire though and has done more than Hazard of late.

      1. Dr Dream
        • 13 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        I know. But visually Pogba is awesome at times.

    2. Netley Lucas
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Got both Wakey, what is it they say about mixing beer & wine?

  5. FlockofSeagulls
    • 8 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Anyone else worried about not owning Aguero next gw?

    The standout captain option imo, and in a gw with so many captain options there could be a few banana peels flying around.

    1. diesel001
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Sergio Leonel 'Kun' Aguero

    2. Deulofail
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      I would be if Salah wasn't a good captaincy option

      1. *sigh*
        • 14 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        Only if Pool don't concede and I think they will. Kun captain all the way this week for me I think. Watch Newcastle v Swansea on MOTD.

        1. Deulofail
          • 10 Years
          8 years, 6 months ago

          Why only if Pool don't concede?

    3. Dr Dream
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Nah.

      I think my rival had Firmino > Aguero lined up but he might have changed his mind now. If so he may as well be playing on the moon.

    4. FPL Blow-In
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Be nice to have but I wouldn’t rip my team up for him. I don’t think Newcastle will be easy either

    5. SADIO SANÉ
      • 11 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      don't think he's standout, and I have him, if you have Kane-Firmino I wouldn't really be worried at all tbh

      1. FlockofSeagulls
        • 8 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        I have Kane and Firmino, and at least 3 other solid captain options. Problem is picking the right one, lol.

        I have no doubt Aguero will be one of if not the highest points scorer next gw.

        1. SADIO SANÉ
          • 11 Years
          8 years, 6 months ago

          he's the lowest owned of the 'obvious' ones so I'm pretty tempted tbh - Salah safest I guess, luck needed either way

    6. Do I Not Like Orange
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Yep, but can't justify losing Kane or Firmino in the form they're in.

    7. el polako
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Seems to me that little Sergio is past his prime, not worried at all.

    8. Dannyb
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Am I the only worried about how he's looked recently? I'm not sold at all which is why I've gone for Firmino. That and the blank game week 28.

  6. Jet5605
    • 11 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Which 5.8 of less midfield player should I get in for Rich in order to enable DCL > Firmino next week?

    A - Doucoure
    B - Albrighton
    C - Get Mahrez instead of A&B and forget Firmino

    DDG
    Ota - Alonso - Jones - Ogbonna
    Salah - Sterling - Lingard - Arnie - Rich
    Kane

    Speroni - Kenny - DCL - Okazak

    1. arndff_
      • 14 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      B

  7. Tazah
    • 8 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    To be honest the swap deal of ozil and mikhi makes more sense in terms of each teams needs.... But Jose would probably ruin him too

    1. arndff_
      • 14 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Jose is good at it 🙂

    2. Fred54
      • 11 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Yep lots of talk that Ozil would go to Man Utd in Jan from back in the summer. But with him being a wallflower, Ozil avoiding Mourinho it seems.

    3. Deulofail
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Jose wouldn't let him play without putting the required effort in. More likely Arsenal would get nothing out of Mkhi until Wenger leaves, I suspect.

      1. FlockofSeagulls
        • 8 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        Ozil would struggle hard with Mourinho.

        Don't think I've ever seen Ozil put in a shift defensively.

        1. Sims
          • 9 Years
          8 years, 6 months ago

          Under mourinho was when he truly made his mark...

          1. Sims
            • 9 Years
            8 years, 6 months ago

            I know it was Madrid and he didn't have to defend but still funny that his best years cane under mourinho

            1. FlockofSeagulls
              • 8 Years
              8 years, 6 months ago

              This was going to be my response to your first comment. 😉

              Different leagues different expectations.

        2. Tazah
          • 8 Years
          8 years, 6 months ago

          Had him at Madrid

          1. FlockofSeagulls
            • 8 Years
            8 years, 6 months ago

            Source?

  8. diesel001
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Why is Pogba playing deep again?

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 17 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      It's Stoke, he will join in.

    2. Netley Lucas
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Maureen likes 4 attackers + Pogba in these games

    3. Dr Dream
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      He'll get forward plenty time...don't worry about that.

      Those diagrams are like something left over from the seventies and are best ignored sometimes..

  9. Steve Stiffler
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Son or Mahrez

    1. MarvelouSuccess
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      mahrez. son has tough fixtures.

    2. Fred54
      • 11 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Mahrez now, Son later on.

      1. Fred54
        • 11 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        *Assuming he's not going to Chelsea or anywhere else.

  10. diesel001
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    My team for next few GWs. Risky as all in on Chelsea, Liverpool and City, but could pay off:

    De Gea
    Kenny - Christensen - Otamendi - Alonso
    Salah - Ox - Hazard - Sterling
    Crouch - Aguero

    Elliot - RLC - McBurnie - Dunk

    Dunk / Kenny are a rotation pair
    Crouch / RLC are a rotation pair

    1. Licious Lizard (delete acc)
      8 years, 6 months ago

      No Kane, no gain.
      But good team for next week other than that.

    2. Fred54
      • 11 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Well I hope you have better luck when I sold Kane...

    3. Rainer
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Selling Kane, what could go wrong 🙂

      1. diesel001
        • 9 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        Thing is - I am looking forward to selling him. Going to be a roller coaster. Just outside the Top 10k so not like my rank is crap. Might pay off, might not. But going to be a lot of fun.

    4. *sigh*
      • 14 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Kane plays gw 28 though while City/Chelsea may not

      1. diesel001
        • 9 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        I may get him back for GW28. I am thinking about a Free Hit in GW 28 anyway. Hopefully Chelsea make it through in the EFL Cup and maximise the blank.

        1. *sigh*
          • 14 Years
          8 years, 6 months ago

          Good luck bud

  11. King Kun Ta
    • 10 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Hmmmm...would you take a look at this bunch? Had a great GW but i'm not really happy with the *players.....What to do?

    Foster (Elliot)
    Ogbonna Ota Holgate* Mee (

    1. King Kun Ta
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Oooppss...

      Foster (Elliot)
      Ota Christensen* Ogbonna Holgate* (Mee)
      Salah Sterling Arnie Son (Atsu*)
      Kane Aguero (DCL*)

      1 FT & 0.2 ITB

      Save or suggestions for a transfer?

      Cheers!

  12. Jet5605
    • 11 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Did I read somewhere that Puel has said he's no longer worried about Mahrez leaving this month?

    1. Mo Mané No Problems
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      “All these noises are just speculation,” Claude Puel said, as reported by Football.London.
      “Of course we are in the transfer window and it is normal for the all the best players."
      “It is not a question in our minds.”

    2. MTPockets
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Think he said he's not leaving this month.

  13. MTPockets
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Wish I'd done Rich to Lingard.

  14. Do I Not Like Orange
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    How soon does Mkhi come onto the radar? As crap as Arsenal currently are, he could be a bargain at that price.

    1. FlockofSeagulls
      • 8 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Wenger is much more lenient when it comes to his attackers tracking back, e.g. Ozil. Hence I'd expect Mkhi to thrive under Wenger as it allows him the freedom he never had under Jose.

      Definitely a potential bargain if the deal is made.

  15. diesel001
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Reporter: No Mkhi in the squad tonight
    Mourinho: I would be lying if I said it was a 100% tactical decision. I chose players who are 100% Man Utd.

    1. Licious Lizard (delete acc)
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Sancheesy incoming

    2. Fred54
      • 11 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      My God, Mikhi has gone out of place at Man Utd faster than an Xmas tree in one of my supplier's reception...

  16. Digital-Real
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Messi Lingard time

  17. Homo Neanderthalensis
    • 12 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Is Pogba back in that defensive double pivot role tonight? Seems so from the team sheet. Fuming if that’s the case.

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 17 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      yes, how much ball do you expect Stoke to have?

      1. Homo Neanderthalensis
        • 12 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        Not much, probably between 35-40% possession.

        I haven’t a clue why Mourinho plays Pogba so deep.. it is obvious the positives he brings to the team when he’s allowed free roam as an attacking mid.

        I sometimes think Lukaku was a terrible buy.. forces Mourinho to play him as a lone striker.. and with all options in the team it also forced Pogba deep. Awful if you ask me. He can never get 100% from Pogba when he does this.

    2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 16 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      They will not play as defensive mids at home to stoke

      1. Homo Neanderthalensis
        • 12 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        I sincerely hope this is the case mate.

  18. Ronnies
    • 11 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Best pick guys ?

    alli > ?

    a) mahrez

    b) sane

    c) keep

    Tnks guys.

    1. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Keep. Southampton. This fixture last season he scored 15pts if I'm not mistaken

    2. yakirh
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Keep
      I have him as well
      Sell him next GW

  19. THE SHEEP HUNTERS
    • 8 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    The moment you wake up with a hangover and open up the can of tripe dog food...... Rashford against tired legs.

  20. Kiwivillan
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Still can't believe Cranberries singer dead at 46

    1. Sims
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      People already making zombie jokes...

      1. Kiwivillan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        How long do you think they will linger?

        1. Fred54
          • 11 Years
          8 years, 6 months ago

          About 28 days...

    2. *sigh*
      • 14 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      R.I.P. sweet voice

  21. 2hotty
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    hazard and rooney to arnie/son and firmino for -4 or just do hazard to kdb with free transfer

  22. cheese XL
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Pope
    Alonso Otamendi Ogbonna Gomez
    Salah Sterling Arnie Son
    Kane Firmino
    Elliot Gross Dunk DCL

    DCL to Wilson for -4 Or just play Gomez?

    1. yakirh
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Play Gomez

      I think we better log off because UTD play Stoke and we dont have any UTD players
      Going to be a massacre

  23. ignis88
    • 9 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Any advice what to do with 2FT?

    De Gea

    Alonso - Christ - Ota

    Salah - Son - Sterling - Arnie - Lingard

    Kane - Firmino

    (Speroni Masuaku Holgate Niasse)

    Contemplating Christensen -> Virgil ?

    1. ignis88
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      forgot to say, 0.3 ITB. Other ideas involve shifting Niasse, or Speroni

  24. Hotdogs for Tea
    • 10 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Pogba in the double pivot then ....

    1. Dr Dream
      • 13 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Aye. The same one Yaya Toure was in a few years ago...

    2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 16 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      Utd won't be playing a double pivot at home to stoke FFS

      1. Hotdogs for Tea
        • 10 Years
        8 years, 6 months ago

        Lol - you must be an owner 😉

  25. Chippo, Hadji, Aloisi.
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 15 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Courtois Hennessy
    Alonso Gomez mustafi ota (Ogb)
    Salah sterling Arnie lingard (king)
    Kun Kane (Quaner)
    0.1ITB
    Was thinking for a -4
    Mustafi and king > Long (or another 4.2or less) and Oxlade-Chamberlain.
    Yay or nay?

  26. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
    • 16 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Early Lingard assist for Pogba goal to get things started

    1. G-Whizz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 8 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      *Pogba assist for Valencia goal to get things started...

  27. Tazah
    • 8 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    2-1 to United - my opinion based on life experience and things I have read...
    Source: the one and only tazah

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 17 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      *yawn*

    2. Sims
      • 9 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      More reliable than your earlier source?

    3. yakirh
      • 10 Years
      8 years, 6 months ago

      4-0

  28. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
    • 16 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Can Rafa the Sly Old Viper engineer a draw v city this weekend... a 0-0 perhaps?

  29. Dot Polka Dot
    • 10 Years
    8 years, 6 months ago

    Kane and Lingard (4-5-1)

    or

    Vardy and Firmino (4-4-2)

  30. New Post