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. Lucky Z
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Ryan
    TAA Robertson Laporte Digne Diop
    Zaha Salah
    Kun Vardy Pukki

    Button 4.5 4.5 4.5

    Thought?

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

      weak bench forces moves early on. Not sure I'd want to depend on a WHM defense and norwich striker every week.

    2. jia you
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I really don't like this at all, Pukki + Diop + Ryan in starting XI with a poor bench...back to the drawing board I reckon mate 🙂

    3. Lucky Z
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Thanks!

    4. Tony Moon
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I actually don't mind this. You have two good captain choices and a decent balance. Pukki might be worth a punt with your other two proven strikers. He gives a nice spot which you could easily change to another mid price striker if a surprise emerges - Wesley, Giroud, etc, or a Watford or Wolves striker. You could see if Zinchenko starts regularly in pre season - if so, maybe have him instead of Laporte, which gives £1m for a nice upgrade elsewhere.

    5. Zilla
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      That's not bad actually

    6. jayzico
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Aint that bad bro. Bench is better than mine. I just can't pull myself away from 3,4,3

      Just Pukki for me is a bit meh - could be wrong. How about DCL for first few

  2. jia you
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Considering the fact that I'm going without Salah/Mane at the start and have both TAA & Robbo nailed in my starting team atm, which one?

    A. Coleman + VVD
    B. Digne + 5.5 (AWB/Trippier) + 0.5itb

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

      I think it unwise to go without Digne, at least for a while. 🙂

      1. jia you
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        ...fair enough Doos, part of me wants to believe that Coleman is just as good a pick...but I feel that I'm lying to myself 😉

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

            Liking Maddison

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

          You're not lying to yourself. Check the members article on Coleman vs. Digne. Crystal clear.

      2. jayzico
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Agreed. Digne a must unfortunately.

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

      With the schedule, I'd triple Liverpool Defense and it's really a tossup between coleman and digne. My preference is Digne

      1. jia you
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        ...if I go triple LIV defence that means Coleman over Digne, that's my current dilemma...most much prefer Digne and for likely good reason with his set piece threat!

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

          I’m in between.

          Voted Digne but having had him cheap last time (4.8:9?) and benching him with only occasional blips I’m uncertain.

          Last season’s experience is colouring how I view season stats. Laporte and VVD are two more I’m doubting having had them for long stretches. One I hit with big time the other I failed with.

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

          then VVD all day. Coleman will produce similarly to Digne

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

          I've ducked out of my triple Pool defence cos I couldn't miss out on Salah. Still got Laporte and Digne though.

          1. jia you
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Booo mate, Salah fear strikes another 😉

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

              Yeah well, it's a corking line-up, with a double-pivot of Salah/Sterling.

              1. jia you
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Sounds good mate!

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

      B

      1. jia you
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers mate, and I am leaning towards that despite feeling that triple LIV defence could be gold early on!

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

      Close but B

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

        A and its not close

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

      B. Not close

  3. Davidwes
    • 4 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Whats your thoughts on Jorginho?

    1. jia you
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Mediocre player in EPL but he looked so good in Italy...as an FPL asset, hard to see him doing that well but if on pens and given a bit more freedom by Frank...maybe!

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

        I guess we will have to wait for pre season to see his role under frank. Last season his exp assists was 5 and if he is on pens i believe he could be a decent option. Lets remember he is only 5 milions

        1. jia you
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          ...its almost a curse being 5.0 (a bit like Noble), feels too cheap and risky to start every week but so annoying benching returns if he does get them 😉

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

            Word is, Noble is being given starts this Season. We will see how it goes, but a lot of positivity from the coaching staff.

            1. jia you
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Don't see why he wouldn't, natural leader, great passer (underrated a bit really) with a lot still to offer ye imo!
              (actually several of my drafts have him first sub)

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

                Good man. Yeah, he was in mine, until I found an extra 0.5. Might still slip back in there.

                1. jia you
                  • 7 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  I still like this saved draft of mine with Noble available to me as first sub after the City game:
                  Ederson
                  TAA / Robertson / VVD / Digne
                  Sterling / Siggy / Brooks / Lucas
                  Vardy / King
                  (Button, ASmith, Noble, Greenwood)

            2. jayzico
              • 13 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              You a Noble fan Doos? Surprising.

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

      A very good midfielder. Not a good fpl asset.

    3. Clintymints
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Nah

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

      Sarri's man. Yet to see if he's Frankie's

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

      Only an FPL option if he somehow gets penalties.

  4. RubberDucky
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Wife: oohhh getting closer
      Me: yeah i know, counting down
      Wife: are you more nervous than excited?
      Me: No definitely more excited, why would i be nervous, i have played #FPL for years?
      Wife: i was talking about the birth of our 1st child!
      Me: oh right. Er will go make the tea.

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

        LoL

    • Siggy in the Middle
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      If Zouma stays at Chelsea, how much worse of an option does that make Digne?

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

        It would raise a question, but Toffees still have those fixtures.

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

        Does not change Digne's potential , the key player for those CS last season was Gueye.

    • JJeyy
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Best option?
      A) Kane and KDB
      B) Sterling and Siggy

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

        Kane has confirmed the august curse 3 years in a row now, why do people continue to draft him in august.

        B

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

          The curse is nonsense. His lack of firepower without Son is not.

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

            Agreed.

            He was just a goal and assist behind Kun last season after 4 matches even after WC - hardly disastrous.

            That was Son free too.

        2. Siggy in the Middle
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          He didn't do badly last season in August

      2. Clintymints
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Possibly A if they can recoup their previous form and consistency

        Most will say B though, incl me

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

        As a top 100k ranking player, i will say B.

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

          No need to keep starting your responses with this nonsense. It's not even very impressive. I ranked 20k, with my top ranked season 4.4k - but I never start a post with it. Plenty on here are much higher.

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

          Game hasn't even started yet,... just saying! As a previous "top 10k ranking player". So you might just want to face it, you are one of more than 6million participants no more, no less. Again just saying "as a previous top 10k ranking player".

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

        I am going Kane and Siggy but A at the start if KdB is looking good pre-season!

    • ZTF
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Just as it's not mentioned in the article, Mo Leitner will definitely start the season for Norwich & will keep his place barring injury. One of our key players, arguably our best in the first half of last season. When he got injured Vrancic/McLean both stepped in &, well ,we just kept winning, so Farke saw no need to change (similar story to Klose). Doesn't pick up too many goal contributions but should get the odd assist, as he's usually on set pieces.

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

        With Aarons and Lewis? Can't see it, myself. Only 1712 minutes, last Season.

        1. Men in green tights
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          He has got too you , like you said almost everyone on here is inside the top 100k but it makes no difference now with it being a clean sheet maybe he/she should enter the sites league ,to show us how good or bad they are

          1. Men in green tights
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Post should have been for the most improved player

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

          How's that relevant?

    • Goat
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Simple question, appreciate any answers:
      A) Ederson & Van Dijk
      B) Kepa & TAA

      Thanks

      1. Udo
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        A for me.

      2. the dom 1
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        A

      3. Clintymints
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Ederson and TAA

        make it fit

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

        A). Various reasons. I don't like expensive goalies, but in the context of Citeh, Ederson might at least be value.

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

        B

    • the dom 1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      what do you prefer?

      a. Siggy & King

      b. Perez & Wilson

      Cheers

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

        Richar and King

      2. Cluckfuster
        • 12 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Anything involving Perez.

        Probably Perez + King

      3. Kryten
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        B

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

        Cheers for the comments

    • Hazardous1983
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      How is this

      Ryan (heaton)
      Taa digne robbo (kelly 4.0m)
      Salah fraser sterling perez (dendoncer)
      Wilson jota long.

      1. Clintymints
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Drop long for a sh!tter and invest the dollas at the back

    • Cluckfuster
      • 12 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Is Vardy and Perez too much Leicester for one team?

      Salivating at the prospect of Perez.

      1. Kryten
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I am wouldn't do both personally do you think vardy will play every game now?

        1. Cluckfuster
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Probably not but I've underestimated Vardy before.

          He's like the Tom Brady of FPL.

          1. Kryten
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            True i have great memories of vardy partys but I am a stats man these days and his are always poor even when he scores a brace so avoiding. Hes definitely on my watchlist

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

        Foxes got some real firepower. No problem doubling up on Vardy with Perez, Maddy or Tielemans.

      3. jia you
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I want Leicester double up but not from the start, hence I'm feeling a Lucas punt in GW one and then downgrading him to Maddison or Perez (if looking sure starter).

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

        To start, yes. Vardy is the proven player. Fixtures mixed to start so I'd hold of on Perez to see how he fits in

      5. FPL_Gyarados
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I have both!

    • Kryten
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      So probably been debated already but are people going

      A. Maddison
      B. Perez
      C. Both
      D. Neither

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

        If I'm picking one it's Perez and I have just posted a team below with him in but not sure if I'd rather the funds back on Azpi rather than Diop.

      2. hnmfm
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Perez edges it because he's 0.5 cheaper

        1. Kryten
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Good point easy switch o expect see maddison will assist most of the goals so if vardy scores Perez miss out on points but maddison may assist

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

        One with Vardy. Unless Tielemans trumps them.

      4. Baby Bowen
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        100% A - he's proven at Leicester already and on set pieces

        1. Kryten
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Yeah I am swinging this way easy switch to perez if it's a wrong choice

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

        Neither, as Sigurdsson has best fixtures, and Fraser is the more accomplished player.

        LEI : WOL 54 che -367 shu 50 BOU 257 mun -134 TOT -138 NEW 135 liv -566

        1. Kryten
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Nah doosra I think maddison is a much better option than siggy as Leicester have better striker in vardy and will score more. I also think Brooks, king and Wilson spread the Bournemouth points on fraser

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

            I think that you may find yourself in a pickle. But good luck!

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

              I can see four blanks in the first six. 🙂

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

              Cheers we will see mate it could go either way. Also great to see you back on here and all well mate I recall you had a bad health spell couple of years ago

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

                Yes, indeed. 2015-2016. Thanks. 🙂

        2. Baby Bowen
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Both more expensive though

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

        Starting with vardy. Would do Tielamens before Maddison should he stick around. Perez is a wait and see how he fits in. Maddison had a poor second half last year so would want to see a return to form first

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

      I'm sure I'm making teams now because I like to be ripped apart, only kidding, just tinkered again slightly;

      Lloris, Button
      TAA, VVD, Walker, Digne, Diop
      KDB, Richar, Moura, Brooks, Perez
      Kane, King, Greenwood

      Arguably have 13 if not 14 starters here

      1. Kryten
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Looks ok as a draft you will probably tinker more. The only comment is I prefer cheaper goalkeepers strategy lloris seems a risk

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

        What is the point of Button?
        Your backside is hanging out of it.
        Every midfielder a punt.
        Under a spreading Greenwood tree ... I hate it. 🙂

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

          First two sentences have me completely stumped, I can't lie!

          I hardly would classify KDB or Richar as punts. KDB hit 200 in the two seasons he wasn't injured.Richar has hit back to back 100+ point seasons, as has Perez (granted club move). Moura hit double digit goals last season and over 100 points as well (with that being said he'll probably swap to Anderson from GW2). Brooks may have been a one-hit wonder fair enough but fixtures look good.

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

            OK. Fair enough. My midfield looks like this:

            Mané, Sterling, Sigurdsson, McArthur & Stephens, and I have Kane up top.

            I would only ever consider captaining ONE of your players.

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

            There is nothing wrong with your team although I'd look at changing keepers myself

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

              Maybe get Ederson instead of Walker. Very risky going without both Sterling and Salah but I'm sure you are aware of that

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

                Yeah, I'd consider a back three from Pool before Salah. Mane I will probably work a way for him to get in the team.

      3. S.Kuqi
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Too much spend on defence. You need atleast one captain option more

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

          TAA/VVD, KDB and Kane all viable captain options...?

    • S.Kuqi
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Anyone ever managed to have even half decent season playing with five at the back or 442?

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

        I tried four for a while ... *shudders*

        1. S.Kuqi
          • 11 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          On purpose or because you had inj. / suspensions?

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

            On purpose.

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

        442ed last season bar some GWs and yeah it went very well I'd say. It mainly depends on the players not the formation though.

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

        This could be the first season it works! (maybe)

    • S.Kuqi
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Has anyone found alternatives for Perez in price bracket 6.5 and under?

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

        Monitoring Gross.

        New attacking manager could make him central again. Think Brighton may implode when they ship goals for fun but can see them starting brightly in attack anyway

        1. S.Kuqi
          • 11 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Good shout! Nice starting fixtures too

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

        Townsend(6.0). And at 5.5, there is McArthur. Both more than 300 mins last Season. I have Sigurdsson, so can only afford McArthur.

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

          3000, ffs.!!! 🙂

      3. Kryten
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Maybe grelish as gamble oh and Brooks

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

        Not for GW1 but wait for CHO at 6m

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

        I really like brooks. Great young player, had a great season. Expecting more minutes this year

      6. jia you
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Brooks and James at 6.0 on my radar

      7. Free Hat
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Pereyra

    • hnmfm
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Last tinker, I'll probably settle with this if things stand.

      Ederson
      TAA - Robertson - Digne - Coleman - Laporte
      Salah - Sterling - Perez
      Deulofeu - King

      Subs: Button - Kante - 4.5 - 4.5

      1. Kryten
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Big gamble if king, deulf and perez are not working out its difficult to change to someone else at thise prices the price point balance seems of to be

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

          What are the odds that all three flop? and I'm not expecting much from them anyway, the main men in my team are Salah, Sterling, and the defense.

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

            Very similar to me. I've got a 6.5 front 3 of King, Jota and Deulofeu.

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

            It's kind of if one flops eg if deulfeo starts poorly who is your replacements but I could be wrong

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

              I don't think i'd panic if any one of them blanks the first 3 - 4 GWs, it's expected for 6.5

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

        I like it. Was thinking about 5 at the back also but have actually switched to 3. I wouldn’t go two Everton but could pay off handsomely so goodluck

    • S.Kuqi
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      If Morata stays in Spain surely Giroud is worth a try from the start?

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

        Wait for Tammy and Batty to be priced up.

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

        There is still Bats and Tammy so no gaurentee he is the main man yet.

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

        A wait and see for me but I’ve had that thought.

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

        If he can be as good as he was in europa league last season he will be a very good pick. I am intrested

    • Helia
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      All I seem to be going back and forth on is whether to go with robbo and Digne or save 1.0 with Coleman and vvd instead! Thoughts?

      Ederson
      TAA robbo Digne
      Siggy Salah kdb brooks
      Wilson delefeou DCL

      4.0 Elmo Hayden kelly.

      *note- brooks is 100% locked in my team for now so don’t tell me to use funds to upgrade him 🙂

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

        I have Digne and van Dijk. Works for me.

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

          I’m just overthinking I think

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

            Maybe. Every time Liverpool play, you will be waiting on 9 points from 26.00 of your funds. I could not survive that for many weekends. 🙂

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

              Maybe it’s abit if wishing I did that last season, but I don’t think it will be too often those 3 players return 9 points in total in a match. Will be disappointing when they inevitably do of course though.

    • Lord Bendtner
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      *** - 4.00
      TAA - Rob - Digne - *** - 4.00
      Siggy - Sterling - KDB - *** Dendoncker
      Kane - King - 4.5

      A) Lloris - Dunk - Yarmolenko
      B) Ryan - Trippier - Yarmolenko
      C) Ryan - Diop - Zaha

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

        B for me.. although me personally would find an alternative for yarmolenko... but to be fair haven’t seen or heard much about westham lately.. is there potential there you think?

        1. Lord Bendtner
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          will pay attention to pre season, might also get a Brighton winger Knockaert/Trossart or maybe Townsend for CP

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

            Townsend could actually be a good pick. Not going there myself but don’t mind it

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

        Don't like Liverpool attackers? I think you've gotta go with either Salah or mane. Just my opinion of course

        1. Lord Bendtner
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I do but just scared they miss 1st game, Sterling can become Salah when we know more

    • Whats the Mata?
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Hey guys! Hope everyone's doing well!

      Thoughts on this draft? Is a 442 with a rotating 4th def.

      Ederson
      TAA - Robbo - Digne - Taylor(bur)
      Salah(C) - Sterling (vC) - Siggy - Ayoze Perez
      King - Deulofeu

      4.0 - Dendonker - ElMo - 4.5 striker

      Cheers 🙂

      1. Siggy in the Middle
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Not sold on the strikers. I'd probably just take one of the two and upgrade the other

    • Gringo Kid
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Million dollar question

      A) Sterling & Deulo
      B) KDB & Vardy

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

        A), imo.

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

          Would you also prefer Raz and King over KDB and Vardy? I think Deu can be big this season with more mins. Currently have him and Vard up top with KDB. Would like to get Sterling, but it would mean King + Deu up top, which makes me nervous.

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

        Very close. B.

      3. cravencottage
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        B

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

        A - Deu with that start may get you some quick price rise.

      5. FPL_Gyarados
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I have B

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

        A for me

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

        B for me

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

        Not much in it but B

    • The Road Dogg
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Views on this team?

      Gunn 4

      TAA VVD Digne 4 4

      Salah KDB Siggy Zaha Perez

      Lacazette King 4.5

      Not sure whether to go with Bernardo and Kane instead of Lacazette and KDB

      Bench is obvs rubbish as well...

      1. Tcheco
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Bernardo & Kane definitely

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

        Laca over Bilva in my book. There’s a potential switch to Vardy there if it doesn’t work.

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

        Tbh I’d rather go kdb and say Wilson... even if it means a double up on Bournemouth. Not a fan of the laca pick

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

          I’d go Bernado and Kane over kdb laca though

    • DAZZ
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I really thought they’d mix it up this season with a new chip. Same old same old i guess

      1. Gregor
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Two of each chip with one to be used in each half of the season might’ve been interesting.

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

        One less actually

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

          ?

    • pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      This is my bodge that gets Vardy and Kane/Auba

      Heaton
      TAA Robbo Walker Digne Holebas/Ake/Christensen
      Sterling KdB McArthur/Moutinho
      Vardy Kane/Auba

      There’s a variant where I ditch Digne and get two 5.0s at the back to have Perez/Gross. If Christensen does look nailed at Chelsea I’d be tempted

      1. Rigid Digit
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        The Auba / Kane thing is giving me a headache - both are nailed and capable of 20+ Goals and 10+ Assists
        Kane at 11.0 is a bit tempting, but if Erikssen goes his supply may be cut a bit.
        Auba looks generally more lively, and Kane can (historically) be a slow starter.
        Kane at the moment, but easy switch to Auba if The Arse actually look a bit organised this year (or I might just say stuff it and go with Firmino and stick the spread the extra 1.5 in Midfield and Attack).

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

          Yep

          Auba is 100% nailed of course but I’d expect him to at least start the season. Eriksen is a factor but so is Son - not 100% convinced but stats make Kane Son much much better than Kane Lucas.

          I’m looking at fixtures and thinking Kane works from week 3 after City to get Newcastle home

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

            Even * isn’t

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

            "Auba is 100% nailed of course" - Are you high mate?

    • Helia
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Guata nailed for palace yeah? Him and Ryan actually rotate extremely well together it seems. I don’t see myself doing that, but just noticed that and thought I’d throw it out there to see what ppl think!

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

        Expensive combo. May as well get Lloris for the same price. He got heaps of saves last time out and more cs seem quite possible too.

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

          I honestly assumed Guaita was 4.5. My bad.... not the biggest fan of Lloris pick or any 5.5 pick. May aswell go Ederson

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

            Have you seen that Lloris finished like 10 points less than Ederson last season with considerable amount of less starts? Not to mention all the drama he had going on off the field? Also do you see City revisiting the same amount of clean sheets. Spurs actually had quite a poor season.

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

              10 points less or like 10 points less ?

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

                24 points less with 5 games less. He average 4.3ppg, I'll round down to 4 which = 20 potential points missed. He finished 4 points off of Ederson.

                Yes he saved two pens, Ederson also got an assist. Point being take away then pen save it's basically the same amount of points but you save 0.5M that's the argument I'm making. Do you want to spend 0.5M more for 10 more points or you want to upgrade from someone like AWB to Azpi/Luiz where there 38/44 point swing?

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

              Don’t forget he got pen saves. More convincing I think are the number of saves he made - much more sustainable

    • Siggy in the Middle
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Ryan

      TAA VVD Digne Vertonghen

      Zaha KDB Maddison Salah

      Kane King

      (Bench fodder)

      Or

      Ryan

      TAA VVD Digne Vertonghen Walker

      Sterling Salah Zaha

      Vardy King

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

        First one

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

        B

    • aapoman
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      What's up with this Perez hype?

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

        Strong finish to last season and ppl seem to think he may be paired up top with Vardy and being in a better team will score more. A wait and see for me. Could be used on the wing.

        1. aapoman
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Yeah at 6.5 if he starts firing he could be a great option but currently I'm not on the hype train

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

            Agree. Trying to avoid possible transfers off the bat. Would much rather see how he fits in forst

    • coriswrasse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      First draft after much thought. I'd like to start the season with a full squad of starting players. Thinking of waiting and watching with Ayoze and have Mili as place holder for that slot potentially. Firmino, my Liverpool attacker, is nailed and allows investment elsewhere. Looking to spend 9m on the best two 4.5m GK's. Not sure if I have got that quite right.

      What do you think?

      Ryan, Heaton
      Coleman, VVD, TAA, (Dunk, Cathcart)
      Fraser, Mili, Siggy, Sterling (Dendonker)
      Wilson, Firmino, Deulofeu

      1. Gregor
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Agree on the goalkeepers, not sure about the cheap defenders and think you could afford to have a non-playing £4m fodder player in the early weeks. I doubt Firmino will keep up with Salah and Mané but he could be good, I was actually disappointed that Firmino didn’t drop in price.

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

        Decent. I like it for a Salah/Maneless team. Don’t see too many teams with Bobby in there... classy player, hope he does well for ya.

      3. Little fekirs
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I’d look to get another captain in personally.
        Heaton >>> 4.0
        Dunk>>> 4.0
        Mili>>> Perez/Brooks/Townsend
        Firmino>>> Kane

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

        How patient are you prepared to stay with Mili? I had him to start last season and he produced zilch - until I dumped him. Not quite but very nearly a one trick FPL pony

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

        Dont like it tbh. Firmino is not worth 9.5. Dont like Mili either.

    • Little fekirs
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      A. Kane | Brooks | Wilson
      or
      B. King | Mane | Lucas Moura

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

        A by a mile for me

        1. Little fekirs
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Cheers, was leaning that way.

          Kane captain for villa looks good.

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

        B

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

          SORRY, meant A =)

    • Davidwes
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Whats your thoughts on
      Chicharito 6,0$ now that arnautovic is going to china.
      (He is currently in my team)

      1. Gregor
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I would presume West Ham will be buying a new striker, maybe even two.

      2. Rigid Digit
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Chicharito is (apparently) looking for a way out.
        Maxi Gomez, Rondon or Belotti may be arriving (or even Wilson) - all better options
        And I would expect at least one of them to be in the 6.0 bracket (Rondon?)

      3. coriswrasse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        on the watchlist for now. I'd like to see how they play for a bit. King is a good placeholder.