Pre-Season

The midfield bench fodder options available in FPL

Our analysis of the Fantasy Premier League price list will conclude with a look at budget midfielders.

While we may have struggled to so far pick out many gems among the cut-price defenders and forwards, the sheer weight of numbers among similarly priced midfielders – there are currently 119 such players priced between £4.5m and £5.5m inclusive at the time of writing – suggests there may be more joy to be had in the middle of the park.

With sub-£6.0m midfielders representing more than 25% of all FPL players, we will split this analysis into three separate articles.

This first piece will look at players available for £4.5m, the second focusing on £5.0m midfielders and a final feature to follow on those available at £5.5m.

The £4.5m Options

There are, at the time of writing, 35 FPL midfielders available for £4.5m.

The primary function of a £4.5m midfielder is to be an emergency option on our benches, to be ready to come in for a two-point (or better) return when rotation, injury and/or suspension bites hard.

The first requirement of such a player is that he is a reliable starter.

That immediately rules out a large number of Fantasy assets, although pre-season is yet to start in earnest and we may well see a surprise name emerge from this bargain bin of players.

Possible Starters

Leander Dendoncker was benched only once from Gameweek 22 to 38.

There aren’t too many players at £4.5m who can guarantee us a game.

One of the most popular options in FPL right now is Leander Dendoncker, who currently sits in 9.5% of squads.

The Belgium international had to bide his time to become a regular starter under Nuno Espirito Santo, not making the matchday squad until Gameweek 10 and failing to make a single start in the first half of the season.

Dendoncker’s debut finally came in Gameweek 20 and he went on to start all bar one of Wolves’ final 17 league fixtures.

The central midfielder has scored twice in 2019 and, after his full debut, only six players in his position went on to register more big chances – all of them more expensive in FPL.

Wolves’ participation in the Europa League may lead to some rotation but Santo’s squad is fairly small, so Dendoncker should still get plenty of league starts.

Isaac Hayden is the only £4.5m-rated FPL midfielder who features in more FPL squads at the time being, although the Newcastle midfielder – who started the Magpies’ final 20 games – is seeking a move away from the north-east for personal reasons and his whereabouts next season are still to be confirmed.

Dale Stephens made 29 starts for Brighton and Hove Albion last season, meanwhile, registering two attacking returns.

A regular under Chris Hughton, we will have to monitor the Seagulls in pre-season to see if he features prominently in new boss Graham Potter’s plans.

Matteo Guendouzi offers semi-regular starts but that, arguably, isn’t good enough when we are also concerned about rotation to our heavy hitters.

The French midfielder made 23 starts last season but was named as a substitute on a further 14 occasions, coming on ten times.

Oriol Romeu is perhaps up there with Dendoncker in terms of first-team prospects, having started 21 of the 23 matches that Ralph Hasenhuttl oversaw.

The one-time Chelsea midfield spoiler has scored exactly one goal in each of the last four seasons, which is arguably perfect for those who don’t want the anguish of seeing their third-choice substitute stuck on the bench after a double-digit haul.

We may be able to add Tom Trybull to the mix, with the Norwich defensive midfielder a regular starter in the second half of the season at the expense of fellow £4.5m asset Alex Tettey.

The Rest

Grady Diangana made six starts and 11 substitute appearances last season.

Nampalys Mendy made 23 starts last season but not one under Brendan Rodgers.

Aside from those already mentioned, Morgan Schneiderlin was one of only two other £4.5m midfielders who reached double figures for Premier League starts (ten) but even he looks likely to be a backup again this season.

Grady Diangana was briefly a budget midfielder to monitor last season but West Ham’s plethora of attacking options may again restrict his chances, while the future of anchormen Pedro Obiang (who made 12 starts for the Hammers) and Carlos Sanchez is in some doubt.

Moritz Leitner was peripheral in the season run-in for Norwich after being an ever-present in the first 18 matches (the Canaries being well stocked in central midfield), while youngster Todd Cantwell may well be sent out on loan by the Championship winners.

Henri Lansbury, Birkir Bjarnason and the ‘out of position’ Keinan Davis look unlikely to be heavily involved at Villa, meanwhile.

The likes of Mohamed Elneny, Danny Drinkwater, Matty James and James McCarthy would appear to be backup options or surplus to requirements at their respective clubs, with only Arsenal’s Egyptian making any league starts (five) last season.

Youngsters such as Ethan Ampadu at Chelsea, Luke Dreher at Crystal Palace, Tahith Chong and James Garner at Manchester United, and Callum Slattery and Tyreke Johnson at Southampton will be hoping for breakthrough seasons at their respective clubs but remain only prospects for the future at present. Only Slattery of this group made a league start last season.

Brighton’s Beram Kayal will have his fingers crossed for more game-time under new boss Potter, while defensive midfielder Hamza Choudhury is one to monitor (for starts, if not attacking returns) as he continues his development under Brendan Rodgers.

Daniel Amartey is the other Leicester midfield option at £4.5m but it is difficult to see where the some-time right-back fits into Rodgers’ system when he returns from an ankle injury.

Oliver Skipp made just two starts at Spurs last season, while Domingos Quina and Nathaniel Chalobah – who were in Javi Gracia’s starting XI on just three occasions each – will likely be backup options again in central midfield.

Rafael Camacho has left Liverpool on a permanent deal while Luke Amos has joined QPR on loan from Spurs.

It should be stressed that the above information is how we see the picture in early July and there is plenty that could happen between now and Gameweek 1.

We’ll keep you up to speed on all the developments in pre-season and shine a light on any names from this price tier should they look like threatening some league starts.

1,267 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Moxon
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Everyone ready for another Auba hattie against Boreham Wood and a silly bandwagon?

    1. Moxon
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Nvm, its Arsenal XI not the proper Arsenal

  2. EgyptianKing
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Feedback on this team please mates?

    Ryan
    TAA, Robertson, Coleman, Walker
    Siggy, Fraser, Salah, Sterling
    King, Deulofeu

    Cheers!

    1. El Tel
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I like it, but my only qualm would be finding 0.5m to upgrade Coleman to digne

      1. EgyptianKing
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Thank you mate!

        I will consider it

        1. KunDogan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Keep an eye on Zinc in preseason...

    2. dunas_dog
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Very good- would suggest Robertson to Van Dijk and Coleman to Digne

      1. EgyptianKing
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Thank you mate!

        Tbh I like a lot the TAA / Robertson duo, and simultaneously I consider that Coleman can still provide good attacking threat.

        I will consider your suggestion though, of course.

        Cheers!

        1. Zenith UK
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          With TAA/Digne you'll have the set piece taking wingbacks as opposed to the open play ones (Robbo/Coleman). Plus VVD will nod in TAA's corner crosses!

          Note on the team: Deulo, no thank you. Due to funds wouldn't know what to suggest in his place as DCL would be too much of an EVE triple up and nobody else really worthwhile for 7.5 except for Jimi.

    3. Modest Bob
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      As a top 100k ranking player, i give my approval.

      1. EgyptianKing
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Ahah thank you!

      2. Fantasy Gold
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        lol

  3. Rasping Drive
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    I had my first FPL dream of the year last night. It was just before GW3, I’d rolled over a transfer and was thinking about losing it.

    Sigh, one day i will really have to get a life.

    1. Supersonic Marv'
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Have you tried cheese before bedtime? Might at least liven your dreams up a little bit.

      1. Rasping Drive
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I will give it a go, Marvin, thanks.

      2. Wild Rover
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Years ago we actually had a late night cheese eating experiment to see who had the most bizarre dream 😀

        1. Supersonic Marv'
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          And what was the result?

          1. Wild Rover
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            I honestly can't remember but I think Jamsiep had a bad one

            1. Rasping Drive
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 14 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Hahaha. I wonder what became him. Gave up FF when he went to Uni I recall. Top manager, mind

              1. Wild Rover
                • 13 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                I imagine he hangs out on twitter with the like of AP and Attila the Bum

                1. Rasping Drive
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 14 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  Aye, more than likely. With MFaulkner making the odd appearance.

                  1. Wild Rover
                    • 13 Years
                    4 years, 8 months ago

                    They were an entertaining bunch all supporting different teams. AP Man U, Jamsiep Chelsea, MFaulkner Arsenal, Voronin Liverpool and Attila Newcastle.

                    1. Rasping Drive
                      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                      • 14 Years
                      4 years, 8 months ago

                      Yes, you remember well. I wonder what happened to Wassup? Last I remember he was a self-confessed transfer addict, claimed someone broke into his account one week and made 15 transfers, but turned out it was him 😀

                      Or did he change his name to something else?

      3. Rasping Drive
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Marvin, did a mod just remove the drug references? Blimey, a little OTT

        1. Supersonic Marv'
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Yeah I half suspected it would get kicked. Fair enough I suppose although I was only joking.

  4. El Tel
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    I can't see past this 5-3-2 format for now.

    All defenders subject to change over pre season Alonso > Azpil, etc.

    Moura in from the start with Son ban should be up top with Kane and 7.5m allows to jump on mid options..

    Gunn
    TAA - Digne - Alonso - Robertson - Mendy
    Salah - LMoura - Sterling
    King - Deulofeu

    Bench: 4, Jorginho, Dendoncker, 4.5

    1. WVA
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Gunn has got to go for sure!
      Downgrade Alonso(bad fixture) and Jorginho up upgrade Gunn.
      I'm going 532 too.

      Ederson
      TAA Robbo Walker Digne Ake
      Salah Sterling Siggy
      King Deulofeu

    2. Zenith UK
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Bye: Gunn, Alonso, Mendy, Deulofeu

      If you did Robbo to VVD and Alonso to Azpi you could spend the extra 1M on Gunn > Lloris/Pickford.
      Mendy you could find another 6M defender or downgrade and upgrade Jorginho to a Perez(?)

  5. Asbestos City
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts on this Salah/Mane-less outfit?

    Ryan
    VVD-TAA-Digne
    KDB-Sterling-Maddison-Zaha
    Aguero-King-Kodjia

    Bench
    Button Aarons-Donkey-Kelly

    1. El Tel
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      You are braver than me

      1. Asbestos City
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Top 50K last year with no Salah, I figure Mane was holding me back from top 10K....

    2. Valar(Keith)
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      If you can upgrade kodija it looks good.. Maybe swap Aguero for Kane.. That way you can rotate captaincy between Sterling and Kane (they rotate home and away) or plan on a kdb to son swap later and do the same

      1. Asbestos City
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Yeah no funds left, but this is far from finished. Thanks for the suggestions. The idea was to start out with KDB and see how he looked, cause I can't turn him down at that price. Son is the logical move that will happen if he looks like his medical history has caught up with him.

    3. Sid1891
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I think it will only work if Liverpool scores two or less goals per game, which is highly unlikely

    4. Hint
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Kodjia won't start. Wesley at 6 could be a worthwhile gamble but I'd try to get to 6.5 if you can if they are going to start in your side.

  6. HollywoodXI
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    What do you think of this lot:

    Heaton (Button)
    TAA Robbo Digne Walker Trippier
    Salah Sterling (4.5 4.5 4.5)
    King Vardy Delo

    1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Like this very much. Been considering something similiar myself.

    2. WVA
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      It's nice but Siggy outscored Vardy for a mil less and has better fixtures. Trippier also bad second fixture.

      1. HollywoodXI
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I have a feeling Siggy will troll early doors. Digne is now on corners and free kicks as well so that lessens Soggys appeal for me. I also think Vardy (and Leicester) will smash it this season so I’m happy with that choice (he’s also a strong third place captaincy choice behind Sterling and Salah). Re Trippier, with Aurier injured, Poch can only play KWP ahead of Trippier and I don’t think that’ll happen so I’m happy with that pick. Plus Tripper is again on a fair few set pieces.

        1. Helia
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Digne was on corners and free kicks last season too and siggy was killing it. Infact his best fpl half of the year was since Digne started taking set pieces to be fair

  7. Scotty B
    • 11 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Dendonker & Romeu probably best 4.5 mids to go with I would say. They certainly look the most assured of starts.
    Of the 4.5 attackers any chance Gallagher may get a chance at Southampton this season? He got the odd appearance towards the end of last season

    1. No Professionals
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      No, he'll leave for a championship team.

    2. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      SCOTTY B 7 Years1 day, 16 hours ago
      See you in 5 weeks for the curtain raiser...thanks for all advice and comments last couple of weeks.
      Add me to league's of you like or give me codes so we can have fun

  8. Kobayashy
    • 4 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Any love for Enda Stevens? He's a Republic of Ireland international and managed six assists and four goals for Sheffield last season. Could be a decent bench option at 5m.

    1. Skalla
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      5m is too much for the bench for me , would be a good bench option at 4.5m.

      1. Kobayashy
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Fair enough - what about Ahmed El Mohamady? 4.5m, and scored 2 goals, 8 assists for Villa?

        1. Skalla
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Villa fans say Elmo is not first choice this season but we should know a few decent 4.5 defenders after pre-season so just keep that spot open for now.

          1. Kobayashy
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Good shout, thank you!

          2. Hint
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            I would go for Targett at 4.5

    2. Sterling Malory
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I'd play him, too good for bench.

      Also, Sheffield "United" thanks x

      1. Kobayashy
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Ha, I'll just say 'the Blades' next time

        1. Sterling Malory
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Perfect.

          Wouldn't want to get confused with that other team from Sheffield whose name I shall not mention.

          1. Kobayashy
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Haha, good point!

    3. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      O’Connell would be my choice of the Blades defenders.

  9. Scotty B
    • 11 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Ake or A.Smith + 0.5?

    1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      D

      1. Scotty B
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Yawn

    2. WVA
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Ake!!!!
      What's made you come round to this?

    3. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      e

  10. FPLMarc
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    As it's hard to fit them all in, which of these should I go without?

    Double Liverpool defence
    Salah
    Sterling
    Kane
    Sigurdsson/Richarlison
    Some Leicester (ideally Vardy)
    Some Bournemouth (probably King)
    Zaha

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Bournemouth.

    2. No Professionals
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Zaha

    3. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Siggy & Zaha

      1. Pieterke30
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        523 then? Kane Vardy King up top and Sterling and Salah in midfield? Seems impossible to me

        1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Big Back 5, Salah, Sterling, Vardy King in front of them - then make a call on how to split your remaining budget across GK & last attacking slot

          1. HollywoodXI
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            That’s my team 🙂

          2. Pieterke30
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            But no Kane then.

            Because of AFCON I will probably start with Kane, not Salah.

            1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
              • 14 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              You’d probably have even more surplus budget for the GK/last attacking slot if you went Kane over Salah

              Unless & Until I hear Klopp say Salah is missing the first two games he’s not leaving my side 🙂

              Not overly fussed about Kane, he could hattrick GW1 of course, but I’m not a big fan of him for FPL, although will probably own him at some time this season with his kind price tag

              1. Pieterke30
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                I would accept said hat trick 😉

                Annoying that he doesnt perform that well with Moura though.

    4. Skalla
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Do you already have Digne/Coleman as I would drop them ahead of some of those options!

      1. FPLMarc
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Yeah Digne is in there too.

        It's hard to get Kane in there, despite knowing he's one of the few under-priced players.

    5. WVA
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Kane
      Some Leicester to start with
      Zaha

      1. KunDogan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Kane & Leicester

    6. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Kane
      Zaha

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

    Thoughts on this lot?

    Heaton (Button)
    TAA Robbo Digne Walker Trippier
    Salah Sterling (4.5 4.5 4.5)
    King Vardy Delo

    All three 4.5’s play every week.

    1. Sid1891
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Like it

  12. Sid1891
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    7.0m mid thoughts?
    Currently on Zaha

    Thanks for replies

    Ederson
    Taa Robo Ake Laporte Digne
    Zaha Sterling Salah
    King Defoleu

    4.0 Jorginho 4.5 4.5

    1. Skalla
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Zaha a good option but not keen to start GW1 with Zaha vs Digne/Coleman so going to only pick one of those after pre-season.

      1. Sid1891
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers

    2. WVA
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Great team, I've got Siggy over Zaha by downgrading Jorginho and Robbo to VVD

    3. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      if ake goes city hes not a good choice as wont play much imo

      1. EMBOLOFAN
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        jorg to dendonker

  13. Sterling Malory
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Tinkered with my team again, thoughts?

    Ryan
    TAA Laporte Digne
    Salah Siggy Redmond Pereyra
    Jota Aguero King

    Button Norwood Aarons Targett

    1. Villatrax
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I like it, but I am concerned about Redmond and Jota. Southampton don't have great fixtures early on (LIV,MUN,tot in first 7). Do you think Jota will be fatigued by Europa League?

      1. Sterling Malory
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I just feel like Soton will start brightly and played well against the top 6 under Ralph.

        Jota is a maybe, but I think he represents good value and potentially Europa League could mean he is more match fit early on.

  14. statenisland
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Could I have thoughts on this please?

    Ederson, 4.0
    TAA, VVD, Digne, Azpil, 4.5
    Salah, KDB, Lucas Moura, Pulisic (new to league but could be a hit), 4.5
    Jiminez, Pukki (hopefully a punt that turns to gold), 4.5

    1. Sid1891
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      No Man City attackers can hurt
      Certainly Pulisic is interesting option but we need to see him in preseason. Given this still brave to put him from the start

    2. Skalla
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      You are right , Pulisic could need a hit to get out of your team 🙂 Do like that it is a bit different and gtg until after pre-season!

      1. statenisland
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I think I'm going to risk it for first few games - hopefully get a headstart on these before others jump in on Pulisic and Pukki after first few GWs.

  15. Villatrax
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    What does everyone think of this team? The plan is a wildcard GW4/GW5 if the team doesn't start so well. Any feedback is appreciated.

    Ryan
    Robertson TAA Coleman
    Salah Sterling Sigurdsson Zaha Willian
    King Deulofeu

    Button Kelly Wickham Reid

    1. Gashead9
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Nice 3-5-2 if Willian can hold done a regular place in the team, 2 4m defenders could be risky though

      1. Villatrax
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Do you think Willian will be the greatest benefactor of Hazard's move away from Chelsea and continually start LW too?

        1. Gashead9
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          On paper yes, he should do, but a bit of an unknown. I'd rather wait and see myself but could be a great option at 7.0 if he does

    2. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      bench too weak, wld downgrade willian

  16. Gashead9
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Latest draft. Leaves me with 1.5 ITB for some flexibility. Burnley GK could be Ederson, Dunk could be upgraded to a 5.5/6 or one of my strikers if some options emerge

    Heaton or Pope
    Robbo, VVD, Digne, Dunk
    Salah, Sterling, Siggy, Lucas,
    King, Deulofeu

    4m GK, Dendoncker, Kelly, 4.5 Fwd

    1. Villatrax
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I have difficulty gauging whether Heaton/Pope/Hart start for BUR, but on the outset they have ARS and LIV within the first 5 GW's. They have a great run GW6-10 though.

      I believe your back 4 will do well. LIV have the fixtures to warrant a double up.

      How does Spur's recent signing of Tanguy Ndombele affect Lucas? I imagine Lucas will stand to benefit with Son's ban for the first two GW's. I recall a weird relationship between Lucas and Kane though (Lucas does well if Kane doesn't start? It might be vice versa...)

      Side note: What's your opinion on VAR's inclusion? Is additional emphasis on penalty takers warranted? Do you play Deeney instead of Deulofeu?

    2. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      ederson

      i’d want 2 playing subs though

  17. FishHead
    • 4 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Today's draft.

    Heaton
    Digne - TAA - Laporte - Dunk
    Madison - Siggy - Salah - Wijnaldum
    Aguero - Vardy

    Button - O'Connell - Romeu - Wickham

    1. Villatrax
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Here are some questions if you want some feedback: Is Wijnaldum playing 90's? What's the reasoning behind the selection of O'Connell? Aguero fatigue from Copa America? Otherwise it's a strong side.

      1. Sterling Malory
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        O'connell represents a good attacking threat from both open play and set pieces, plus guaranteed starter.

        Plus, out of the promoted teams SHU had the best defensive record last season, especially at home.

        1. Nomar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I have him in my team.

    2. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      wijnaldum truly bizarre choice

  18. The 12th Man
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Set and forget for the whole season.

    Ederson
    VVD,Robertson,Laporte
    Salah(c)KDB,Sigurdsson,Perez
    Jota,Deulofeu,King

    Ryan,C.Taylor,Dunk,Dendonker

    Thinking only worth getting on 10m + player and (c) him. Then spread the rest.

    1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Could work! wasted money + city slot in Ederson imo.

      1. The 12th Man
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Ederson > 4.5 and upgrade Perez > Bilva Or Taylor > Zinc maybe?

        1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Something like that.
          Or maybe

          Ederson -> 4.5
          VVD -> Robbo
          Perez -> Fraser

          1. The 12th Man
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            and only have 2 City?

            1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              It's not about what team the player is playing for, it's about how many points they can score

  19. Yip Jaap Stam
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    I haven’t seen a single team with auba in yet? Considering he was ho

    1. Yip Jaap Stam
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      ***. Considering he was the highest scoring forward, I thought there would be many after him.

      1. Rasping Drive
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        He’s one you have to set and forget for the season. A lot of annoying rotation with Laca last year. Not sure folks have the patience.

    2. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      If Emery isn't going to start him every week are you going to be confident captaining him ? .

    3. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Rotation risk, rumours to united, Kane same price, Salah & Sterling better captaincy options

    4. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      His manager is a nightmare - and he’s expensive compared to Sterling/Salah so understandably not hugely popular

      Could do well though

      Constant rumblings of arsenal wanting/needing to sell him though - in which case Laca would immediately become very interesting

    5. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I’m between him and Kane and Vardy. Auba has a lot going for him imo early on - don’t see rotation is likely then.

      Newcastle in week 1 is a huge draw for me

    6. Jaws
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      People seem to forget Auba hardly missed a minute until GW26 when Emery started focussing on the EL.

  20. Yip Jaap Stam
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Vvd or Robertson?

    1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Robertson. If you desperately need 0.5 to get satisfied with your squad, go for Virgil

  21. ZTF
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Stones nailed?

    1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      No

      1. ZTF
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        They signing a new CB?

        1. Wild Rover
          • 13 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Well he wasn't nailed last season regardless. Maguire a target

        2. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          They are after Maguire. Even if they weren't, wouldn't go for Stones. Otamendi is still there.

          1. EMBOLOFAN
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            he’s favoured over otamendi

    2. Skalla
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Nope and they are looking to buy another centre-back , tbf not even Sterling/Aguero/Kdb is nailed in a Pep team...

      1. Wild Rover
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I'd say KDB is as nailed as any outfield player if he stays fit

        1. Skalla
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Yep agree KdB when fully fit but will prob be eased in this season so only 'nailed' player is Ederson but they all score points anyway if you keep them for a few weeks so just pick your favorite even if that is Stones!

        2. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Here’s hoping.

          I’m wondering about the Dilva situation. Last season and he’ll be gradually phased out you’d think. That makes KdB more exciting for me.

          I’m also curious about Sane. It wouldn’t surprise me if he started up top with Bilva moving back. Thing is preseason will likely tell us little as with Kun and Jesus out there’ll be all sorts of different formations probs

    3. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      he’ll play more often than not

  22. Edwards123
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Siggy & Ward-Prowse or Milivojevic & Maddison?

    1. Yip Jaap Stam
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Yes first one

      1. Edwards123
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers fella, thats the one i was learning towards

    2. noahzark22
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      B

  23. evilfish
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts on my team please.

    Heaton

    Robertson TAA Laporte Digne Trippier

    Salah Sterling Perez

    Vardy Calvert-Lewin

    Button Dendonker Stephens Nketiah

    1. Skalla
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Looks good until we see DCL and Perez in pre-season , could be better options.

    2. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Very nice

      DCL? Could be terrific value but he was mostly miss last time out and also devalued Digne by not putting away chances. My inclination would be Coleman and your 6.5 of choice.

    3. Supersonic Marv'
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Surely Everton will sign a striker won't they?

  24. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Laporte at 6.5 mil seem a bit overpriced to me, considering all the other good options for premium defenders.
    Or maybe TAA, Robbo, VVD, Digne, Trippier etc are just underpriced.

    1. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Yep

      Having had him at 6 last season he felt like expensive cs until DGWs. Question is whether Pep will try and use him offensively from corners etc from week 1 - in that case he could be fair value.

    2. g40steve
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Everyone said he could not push on last year, he hurt those who thought that.
      Remember the DGW?

      1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I remember the DGW, or even the DGW's. He did very well in both of them. Is that the reason for his 6.5m price tag?
        I assume he has got his 6.5m pricetag for being the most nailed city defender (atm).
        But there will be someone cheaper who will be nailed on aswell. Walker/Zinchenko/Mendy/The new signed guy/Maguire.
        VVD is priced the same and between those two, there is no doubt in my mind VVD is the better choice.

    3. Skalla
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      That is a fair price as you pay extra for him being more nailed than other city assets but agree would rather have Liverpool defense ahead of him but they only have 3 spots so plenty will have Laporte until one of the left backs become an option.

    4. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      city xgc towards the end of last season was unreal

      1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        No doubt. But Walker and Mendy is in the same back line for 0.5 less.

        1. EMBOLOFAN
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          less nailed

          1. EMBOLOFAN
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            i have both laporte and mendy fwiw

    5. George Sillett
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      He looks like the most nailed option. That's what you're paying for.

  25. FlyingWithoutIngs
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Zaha has been nailed down in my team for weeks but now I’m worried if he doesn’t get the move he wants he seems the player to spit his dummy out. If he does get his move to Arsenal how soon does he start or how quickly does he settle into the team? What’s everyone’s thoughts?

    1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      If he goes to Arsenal he would probably not be nailed, since no Arsenal attackers were last season

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Although it looks like Arsenal would have to sell one of Auba or Laca to fund the Zaha move.

        1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          If they did actually sell Auba to Utd and Zaha moved to Arsenal.. then yes, would probably be golden.

      2. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Oh I think they’d play an 80 mill player for the first few weeks anyway.

    2. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Don’t see the dummy thing. There’s excellent history at Palace - he’s unlikely to do an Arnie imo.

      More concerning I think is how this transfer affects Palace as a whole. They tend to leave things to the last minute in any event. If this drags on that could make offensive reinforcements less likely as they wait to see how it plays out. I would only get him in if Palace get a Bats equivalent - recent history isn’t encouraging that they will

      1. EMBOLOFAN
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        they’ll have plans in place

        1. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I follow Palace. There’ll be plans but they won’t move until the last minute and maybe not even then. Take a look at last time around.

          1. EMBOLOFAN
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            correlation =/= causation

  26. ZTF
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Gunn (Fahrmann)
    TAA Robbo Digne Laporte (Diop)
    Salah Perez Sterling Zaha (4.5)
    Jota King (4.5)

    Any improvements? Cheers

    1. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      gunn has a tough start. like it otherwise

      1. EMBOLOFAN
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        will be interesting to see where perez plays preseason

        1. Get up ya bum
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          He's gotta be wide surely?

      2. ZTF
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Rotates nicely with Fahrmann tho! Cheers

        1. EMBOLOFAN
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          2 different ways to get 2pts 🙂

  27. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGeniusâ…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    It has been a while, since I made a table ... ! 😀 But they were usually quite popular! 😉

    https://members.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/my-stats-tables/view/32600/

    Doosra's Goldenball's Deadball Demons!

    Vote early, vote often - you know the drill!!! 😆

  28. Kobayashy
    • 4 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Any reason that Christensen isn't a good option at Chelsea for 5m while Rudiger is still out?

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      May well be. Depends on Zouma.

    2. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      good shout

    3. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      What side is he normally on? Is he a more natural Luiz or Rudiger replacement? And Zouma?

      This could be great.

      1. Kobayashy
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        He normally fills in at CB, where Rudiger would normally line up who has an 'unknown return date'. After the opening GW, they have pretty great fixtures all the way through November (GW12)!

        1. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Nice.

          I’m provisionally on Luiz - liking fixtures - but if I understand you right there’s a decent chance Christensen could start. Is that right?

          1. Kobayashy
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            At the moment, it looks like the balance is going to tip between Christensen and Zouma who returned for training recently, only preseason will tell us more. I can't say for certain, but this could be a wonderful option for 5m to free cash up elsewhere.

    4. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Probably the best option for a 5.0 defender (Chelsea fan)

    5. Kobayashy
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      False alarm, looks like Zouma returned to preseason training despite interest from Everton...

      1. EMBOLOFAN
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        doubt both zouma and christensen will stay

        1. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          4 CBS are needed. In the same way I fear Bats won’t be going anywhere as 3 cfs are also needed unless you’re City.

    6. Rotation's Alter Ego
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Just in the middle of writing a piece on Chelsea's FPL potential, hopefully this bit on the CBs might give some people more to mull over on the issue:

      "Assuming that Lampard continues with a 4-3-3 formation, that leaves 2 spots for centre-backs, and it’s not an easy call to say who will start. Rudiger will face a tough battle to be ready for the start of the season, meaning he can probably be ruled out from our teams early doors. Luiz earned himself a contract extension despite being over the 30+ threshold after dominating last season – He topped Chelsea players for Aerial duels won, CBI’s (Clearances, blocks and interceptions) and headed goal attempts, 2nd for minutes played (behind Azpilicueta), 2nd for passes (behind Jorginho) and remarkably 2nd for big chances created (behind Hazard). Fond of long, searching balls over the top of high defensive lines, he could find more success in this approach if Lampard elects to play a young, quick front 3 as expected. However, he faces competition from the far younger duo of Zouma and Christensen both of which should be cheaper than Luiz. Uncertainty over who will start would put me off until we have a clear indication of how Lampard will set up, but there could certainly be value found here if one of the younger CBs can secure a spot in Rudiger’s absence or even oust one of Rudiger or Luiz. This could be a real possibility too – back in February of 2018, Lampard was full of praise for Christensen, going as far to say that the team should be built around him and that he’d remain in the side even if Van Dijk had been signed in that January window. Since then, Christensen found himself less popular under Sarri and no longer had the regular minutes he did with Conte, but it’s worth considering that Lampard’s opinion may not have changed. A further arrow in the Christensen quiver is that both Luiz and Zouma tend to play in the left CB role, whereas Christensen and Rudiger played on the right, making Christensen the more logical replacement – though I wouldn’t consider this a major deciding factor at this stage."

      Apologies if there's typos, haven't proofread yet.

      1. Kobayashy
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        This is really useful context, thanks very much!

      2. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Good read.

        In principle I’m looking for a set and forget backline (dreaming I know). But a cheap Chelsea defender could enable a lot.

        Is Azpi under any threat in your view?

        1. Rotation's Alter Ego
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I believe it is a season too early for Reece James, so not yet for me. Maybe towards the end of the season we might see some more rotation.

  29. FPL Pillars
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    I can’t wait until pre season, then we finally have some insight into squad selection / GW1 line up.

    1. Get up ya bum
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      True it is very good for insight into managers thoughts on tactics and player selection.
      It's a meaningless gauge of form though so try to avoid that pitfall.

      1. FPL Pillars
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I wouldn’t say meaningless but it’s not the be and end all. I finished 91st last year 😛

        1. Get up ya bum
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          No it is completely meaningless in that regard.
          And seeing as you got the tape measure out and unzipped... I have a 78th, have finished top 13k 9 times, and 59k is my worst ever finish out of 12 years.
          Is mine girthier? :mrgreen:

          1. FPL Pillars
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Based on last year me, before you 🙂

  30. Black Panther
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A lot to like about Zinchenko at the moment.
    • Mendy likely to miss start of the season.
    • New long term contract and number 11 shirt.
    • Frees up 1m over Laporte.
    • Good chance of gaining value at the start with his low ownership.

    1. Get up ya bum
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Why is Mendy missing?

        1. Get up ya bum
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Thanks but no mention on why. Injured again?

          1. Black Panther
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            I assume so, hopefully Pep will give us some idea how long he's going to miss.

    2. EMBOLOFAN
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      why would mendy miss the start of the season?