Scout Notes

What are Lundstram’s chances of starting for Sheffield United?

Fantasy Premier League managers learned more about some interesting £4.0m defenders in Saturday’s friendlies.

There were further starts for bargain bucket options available at Sheffield United and Norwich.

Each one deserves some scrutiny to see if they can become viable assets this season…

Meanwhile, Watford rolled out a new formation in a win at QPR.

Barnsley 1-4 Sheffield United

Sharp may be paired with Robinson up front for Sheffield United this season

Goals: Ben Osborn (£5.0m), Callum Robinson x2 (£5.5m), Luke Freeman (£5.5m)

Assists: John Lundstram x2 (£4.0m), L Freeman, George Baldock (£4.5m)

Interest in Sheffield United’s John Lundstram (£4.0m) continues to rise after another impressive performance on Saturday.

The central midfielder, classified as a defender on FPL, has been involved in every single one of the Blades’ pre-season friendlies so far this summer and his total of 334 minutes is the second-highest at the club.

Crucially, defensive midfielder Lundstram has also been contributing to the attacking phase of the game this summer, increasing the excitement around him as an FPL asset.

Against Barnsley he came away with two assists, bringing his pre-season tally to three, also impressing with his ability to win the ball back in midfield.

Sheffield United have just one friendly left before Gameweek 1 as they travel to face Stade de Reims and Fantasy managers will be hoping to see Lundstram involved again.

However, we must still assess his competition for a place in the Blades’ midfield before the start of the campaign.

Chris Wilder currently has five options to choose from for Sheffield United’s three central midfield slots including Lundstram, Oliver Norwood (£5.0m), John Fleck (£5.0m), Luke Freeman (£5.5m) and Ben Osborn (£5.0m).

As things stand, Norwood and Fleck have played the most minutes behind Lundstram, 310 and 297 respectively, while Freeman and Osborn are behind on 268 and 90.

However, applying some context to the pre-season game-time for all five midfielders does attach some remaining risk to Lundstram starting in Gameweek 1.

Freeman and Osborn both arrived at the club over the summer which, certainly in the case of the latter, could explain why they have not been as heavily involved in pre-season preparations as the three who were on the books at Bramall Lane last year.

All five central midfielders can offer reasons why they could start against Bournemouth on Saturday August 10 too.

With Lundstram, his extensive use in pre-season, plus Wilder’s recent comments on his usefulness, indicate he is in the frame.

With Norwood, he is the creative heart of Sheffield United’s midfield, registered 43 starts last season, and may even have claimed the penalty-taking duties.

Fleck started all but one of the Blades’ league fixtures in 2018/19 and also came away with two goals and 10 assists.

Recent addition Osborn earned plenty of credit at Nottingham Forest and quotes from Wilder upon his arrival should keep Sheffield United’s central midfielders on their toes.

“He will want to play, as all of them will, that’s the attitude we want from everyone. He’s not just come here to make the numbers up. He’s an intelligent footballer who plays in a number of position and he’ll put enormous pressure on our current players who might think they’re cemented into the team.” – Chris Wilder

Meanwhile, the case for Luke Freeman (£5.5m) to start in that central midfield trio is also strong, especially after his most recent outing.

Coming on for Lundstram in the 64th minute he added a goal and assist to his increasing total of pre-season attacking returns (two goals, three assists).

In fact, no Sheffield United player has been involved in more goals this summer than Freeman (five) and Wilder recently name-checked the player in his list of options to help his side find the back of the net in the Premier League.

“I’ve said all along we need to score goals in the Premier League. We’ve already got Billy Sharp, David McGoldrick, Callum Robinson, Luke Freeman, Ravel Morrison. We’re not coming in to sit back on our own box. We will go out to win football matches.” – Chris Wilder

Therefore, despite the encouragement of Lundstram’s displays and heavy involvement so far, we will have to wait for the final pre-season friendly and possibly any other quotes from Wilder before being able to guarantee starts for him.

Meanwhile, it appears that Mark Duffy (£5.5m) is unlikely to be in with a shot of starting, despite proving an important player last season.

Amid discussions between him and Wilder over a new contract, which the manager seems unwilling to discuss, he has not been used in any of the last three friendlies.

“He came to see me on Thursday, I think it was, and talked about a new contract. I reminded him that he signed one 18 months back and got a rise to Premier League money. Unless it’s a special case, my work has to be improving the first-team squad by bringing players in. Not looking after players already under contract. He’s had a rise. That’s a decision I will make (whether he will rejoin the main group). He clearly felt his future was elsewhere. If you ask the best manager in the business, if a player isn’t happy, well.” – Chris Wilder

Also impressing in pre-season and potentially offering value as an out-of-position asset for Fantasy managers is Callum Robinson (£5.5m).

After plenty of time on the flanks of attack at Rotherham, he was classified as a midfielder by FPL but Robinson looks set for life as an out-and-out centre-forward at Sheffield United.

After he scored twice for the Blades in their 4-1 win at Barnsley, taking his pre-season tally to three goals and one assist, Wilder explained that Robinson will be used exclusively in the middle this season, which bodes well for Fantasy managers.

“We don’t really play with wide forwards so he’s a forward. He links, he stretches and he wants to run in behind. He’s just an athletic modern-day centre-forward. Part of his game is that he can score and we need that in our game.” – Chris Wilder

In terms of whether Robinson will start games this season, his chances do look good.

Billy Sharp (£6.0m) is very nailed on in the front pair of the 3-5-2 formation, but it’s probably between Robinson and David McGoldrick (£5.5m) for that second slot.

The latter is ahead on pre-season minutes (264 to 200) but there are mitigating circumstances here. McGoldrick got 45 and 62 minutes in the first two friendlies, with Robinson getting just 15 in the second one as it was shortly after signing.

In the last three pre-season matches, Robinson has played up-front for 185 out of a possible 270 minutes while McGoldrick has been there for just 157.

Elsewhere, there was an interesting development in defence as Wilder shifted wing-back Enda Stevens (£5.0m) into the centre-back trio with Jack O’Connell (£4.5m) reportedly out with a minor ankle injury.

Finally, Dean Henderson (£4.5m) made his first appearance of pre-season at Oakwell and, given he was the first choice in 2018/19, the Manchester United man should start in goal against Bournemouth in Gameweek 1.

Sheffield United XI (3-5-2): D Henderson; Stevens, Egan, Basham; Osborn (Bryan 75′), Lundstram (L Freeman 64′), Norwood, Fleck, Baldock; McGoldrick (Sharp 70′), Robinson (Morrison 75′).

Luton Town 1-5 Norwich City

Pukki is currently missing with a toe injury

Goals: Marco Stiepermann (£5.5m), Josip Drmic x3 (£5.5m), Patrick Roberts (£5.5m)

Assists: Kenny McLean (£5.0m), Max Aarons (£4.5m), Todd Cantwell (£4.5m), Roberts

Teemu Pukki (£6.5m) missed a second pre-season match in a row with a slight toe problem as Norwich beat Norwich on Saturday.

“We didn’t want to take any risks with Teemu’s toe and get another hit. I am pretty sure he will be available for these last two tests.” – Daniel Farke

In his absence, Josip Drmic (£5.5m) has started both matches, not offering a great deal against Brentford but netting a hat-trick at Kenilworth Road.

His first two were intelligent poacher’s finishes, while the third was a towering header from a corner.

As we discussed in our recent Scout Report, Drmic has a long way to go to prove whether he can offer the same level of reliable goal-scoring as the injured Pukki, but this performance will have no doubt helped his confidence.

Those concerned about Liverpool’s defensive potential after a 3-0 defeat to Napoli can take some encouragement about Gameweek 1 from further fitness issues in Norwich’s attack.

Not only is Pukki currently out, but creative midfielder Emi Buendía (£5.5m) also missed the Luton game as Daniel Farke revealed his struggles with a few injuries during the pre-season.

“Emi has been out with a few little injuries and he needs some more game time but with no setbacks, he will get that.” – Daniel Farke

Patrick Roberts (£5.5m) is certainly making a strong case to start on the right flank of attacking midfield in Gameweek 1.

The Manchester City loanee has been involved in every friendly match for Norwich so far this summer, has been taking corners, and has now been involved in more goals than any of his colleagues.

It was his corner that found Drmic against Luton, while Roberts finished off the Kenilworth Road rout with an impressive strike from range. He now has one goal and three assists across the course of pre-season.

Just as he showed against Brentford, Max Aarons (£4.5m) showed off some more exciting runs, his advanced positioning contributing to Drmic’s opening goal.

Exchanging passes with Todd Cantwell (£4.5m), his squared ball to the centre-forward was played from inside the six-yard box.

With five of Norwich’s pre-season matches played, centre-back Grant Hanley (£4.0m) remains the most-used player by Daniel Farke this summer.

His pre-season minutes tally of 384 is 47 more than the second-placed Jamal Lewis (£4.5m) on 337 and could indicate that a start in Gameweek 1 is on the cards.

Admittedly, central defence has proved problematic for Farke this summer with Christoph Zimmermann (£4.5m) sustaining an injury that should see him miss the start of 2019/20.

Meanwhile, Timm Klose (£4.5m) himself had to recover from a minor knock before he could contribute to pre-season matches.

Despite having both Klose and Ben Godfrey (£4.5m) available to start against Luton, Farke still opted to play Hanley ahead of the latter.

The former Newcastle man himself also went off with a minor knock against Luton, as did Marco Stiepermann (£5.5m) but Farke is not too worried about either player.

“Just a dead leg for Marco. He got a knock in the first half and it got more painful. Grant went to make a tackle and stretched his groin a little. The initial diagnosis was not too bad, but we got him off and now we see how he will react.” – Daniel Farke

Even if Hanley does get some appearances at the start of the campaign, Hanley may not hold on to his place for too long as Zimmermann is reportedly ahead of schedule in his recovery.

“I don’t expect him to miss more than two or three games. I expect him to be back much earlier than the first international break. We’ll see how it develops. We still have to be careful in his rehab and scan the knee often to judge how the knee reacts but it looks good and he is not far away.” – Daniel Farke

Norwich City XI: Krul; Lewis (Heise 59′), Klose, Hanley (Godfrey 80′), Aarons (Byram 59′); McLean, Trybull (Leitner 73′); Cantwell (O Hernandez 73′), Stiepermann (Srbeny 59′), Roberts (Idah 73′); Drmic.

QPR 0-1 Watford

Prödl (left) congratulates Capoue (right) on his winning goal at QPR

Goals: Etienne Capoue (£5.0m)

Assists: None

Javi Gracia experimented with a 3-5-2 formation as Watford beat QPR 1-0 on Saturday.

The Hornets manager has typically been a fan of either 4-4-2 or 4-2-2 but he changed things up at Loftus Road.

Christian Kabasele (£4.5m), Craig Dawson (£5.0m) and Sebastian Prödl (£4.0m), making his first appearance of pre-season, were the three centre-backs chosen.

Gracia introduced Adrian Mariappa (£4.5m), Craig Cathcart (£4.5m) and right-back Dimitri Foulquier for those centre-backs around the hour-mark.

The system allowed Adam Masina (£4.5m) and Kiko Femenía (£4.5m) to play as wing-backs and have opportunities to involve themselves in the attacking phase of the game.

Watford were somewhat reliant on Ben Foster (£5.0m) at Loftus Road as some sloppy losses of possession allowed QPR plenty of chances in the game.

In the end, there was a stroke of luck about Etienne Caopoue‘s (£5.0m) winner as he tried to place an effort on goal, the ball finding the net after taking a wicked deflection off Ryan Manning.

Troy Deeney (£6.5m) and Isaac Success (£5.0m) led the line as a strike partnership with Andre Gray (£6.0m) and Stefano Okaka replacing them on the hour-mark.

Meanwhile, Gerard Deulofeu (£6.5m), Jose Holebas (£5.0m) and Nathaniel Chalobah (£4.5m) all missed the game with injuries.

“Little problems all of them. Chalobah, even Holebas, Gerard – our players today who we preferred to rest. But, in a couple of days hopefully, they will be ready. In this moment we prefer to be prudent.” – Javi Gracia

Watford XI: Foster; Kabasele (Foulquier 60′), Prödl (Mariappa 60′), Dawson (Cathcart 60′); Masina, Quina, Hughes, Capoue (Cleverley 60′), Femenía (Janmaat 60′); Success (A Gray 60′), Deeney (Okaka 60′).

905 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Horlicks esq.
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Can someone talk me out of this one please. I cant fault it, but then I am Mr Bias today. Gameweek 1 ready?

    Pope

    Walker TAA Robertson

    Lucas Perez Zaha KDB Wijnaldum

    Kane Wilson

    Ryan Digne WB Greenwood

    1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Digging your own grave with no Salah or sterling

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

        I just dont think Salah is worth the cash at the minute. and KDB has been as good as Sterling in pre season. but yes its a risk

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

          That last phrase ... 😐

          Get Sterling, and start again.

          And this time, don't bench Digne ...

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

            Ha,

            Im not ever gonna pick a fight with a FPL legend like yourself, Doos.

            But in terms of value, the 2.5m is huge and KDB is a master. Sterling best asset, but for the saving I can have Kane and KDB.

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

              I have Kane and Sterling. And Ederson. And VVD and TAA.

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

                - where is your membership, btw? 😀

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

                  Haha, wow this is a 'light in the eye' investigation.

                  I have been called a 'commie' on here by old heads like Atila the Hun et al.

                  I try to navigate the game with just my research and understanding of what goes on. It sometimes works,

                  2017 - 2018 - OR 4,437.

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

                    Fantastic!!! It is just that I have got all this info ... 😀

                    And I might be a "commie", too ... 😉

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

                      +1

        2. Murder On Zidanesfloor
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Salah is amazing value at 12.5 as a captaincy option. One of the Best value player In the game imo

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

            Fair enough. good point. But I am going without.

    2. Invincibles
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      A Salah hatrick would be an issue.

    3. jay01
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      If that’s how you want to set out your team you can do.. but Imo you don’t need Lucas and Kane especially if you have to have wijnaldum in mid.. id downgrade Lucas and upgrade Wijnaldum

      1. jay01
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Also you simply can not have Digne or AWB on the bench that’s wasted cash right there

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

          All set for GW2 those two. Strength in depth my boy.

          1. jay01
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            You are not serious hahah

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

      Quite like it but then I have a conceptually similar team. I could be thrown off by Pepe but my core front 6 are

      Perez Fraser KdB
      Auba Kane Wilson

      Arsenal in week 2 could be great and then there's a move to Sterling in 3 from Auba Fraser.

      On your set up I'd really doubt Zaha given how short Palace are everywhere and probable late transfers and double Spurs in week 2.

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

    Arsenal attack will be intriguing to watch as a neutral this year

    Not just to see does Emery continue with his tinkerman tendencies, but also to see how they share goals and points between Laca, Auba, Pepe

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

      1st and 3rd feeding second all season.

      There are no other goal scorers in that team imo.

      Laca probably gold.

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

        All three are fairly competent goal scorers rather than assisters though

        Be interesting to see how it gels

    2. avfc82
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      It's surprising the third best attack in the league last season is largely being ignored on here, but you can't have em all. An attacking four of Aubemayang, Ceballos, Mkhitaryan and Lacazette has goals written all over it.

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

        I owned Auba & Emery made him a nightmare - not queuing up to go back there tbh

        He's in
        He's out
        He's on
        He's off
        He's wide
        He's central
        Etc
        Etc

        1. avfc82
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I guess it's timing, I had good experiences with both him and Lacazette last season, especially the latter who I captained at Fulham when the majority went Kane vs Cardiff.

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

            Yeah I think you need that bit of luck with the timing when it comes to Emery

            I really don't want to be trying to second guess him this year, not worth the hassle!

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

          But you are happy to own Sterling who played the same amount of minutes and got 30 more points for an additional 1m?

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

            Unquestionably

            Sterling gets an extra point per goal, has the likes of KDB and Bilva teeing him up, and gets a CS bonus

            '' Happy '' is an understatement 😉

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

              All of that was true for last season where he scored just 30 more points and was as unreliable in terms of minutes as Auba. Funny how people see Auba as not fit for captaincy or even as an asset in their side but are very happy to own Sterling and even tout him as great captain material for gameweeks 3-6 (where he has about 25% chance to be benched according to last season's numbers)

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

                Im not saying Sterling is a bad pick by any means, just pointing out the inconsistency in how Auba and Sterling are viewed on here.

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

                But its also true this season? Sterling still gets 5 points per goal,is still playing in the city attack, and still gets a CS bonus?

                Also, You know 30 points per million is off the charts on value for elite attackers?

                That's like a 10.0 scoring 300 points

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

                  That last argument doesnt make any sense and I suspect you know it.

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

                    What?

                    Where else are you going to get 30 points per extra million amongst elite attackers?

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

                Thats for what for you have a VC?

      2. Murder On Zidanesfloor
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        And Pepe. Looks like it's a done deal

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

        The problem is Pepe for me. That's one rogue factor too many in all probability.

        I was all set for Auba week 1 and 2 given fixtures and his being the best likely captain in week 2. But if Pepe predominantly plays on the right and muscles in on pens I'm not sure Im up for the 2 week play in the same way as if it had been just Auba Laca.

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

          I can see them eating into each others returns to be honest and/or a bit of a merry go round starting to try and chase returns between the three of them

          I'm not partaking, but it will be intriguing to watch from afar 🙂

          1. FC Hakkebøf
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Same could be said with City. But if they score enough, then thats hardly a problem.

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

              But the majority of city's attack are unselectable for this exact reason?

              1. FC Hakkebøf
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Sterling and Aguero got over 200 pts last season...

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

                  And are in the minority who are selectable?

        2. avfc82
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          If you're looking at Aubameyang for the opening 2-3 GW's, I wouldn't be too concerned with Pepe. I don't think he's even started pre season training with Lille, so its going to take a few weeks to get up to speed.

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

            Oh that’s good to hear. May unrip my team

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

            Ah but presumably that’s just Afcon - he’ll be good to go by week 2 I guess and that’s the week I wanted to captain Auba.

    3. Brosstan
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Im fairly certain I will start with Laca over KDB if he is 100% cleared of injury for GW1

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

        I've juggled things around to lose Wilson and get Laca with a cheeky little punt on Ceballos. If Ceb is benched, Donckers can step up, no problem.

  3. Invincibles
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Bottomed

    My draft on launch and still no changes.

    Pope, Ryan
    TAA, Rob, Digne, Zinchenko
    Salah, Sterling, Siggy, Zaha, Dendonker
    King, Jota, Greenwood

    Any changes? Considering siggy/zaha > perez for a better city def option.

    1. - Z -
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Ryan into 4M GK
      And Zincheno into Walker.
      Not a fan of King but its oke

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

        Siggy to Perez to upgrade King to Wison

    2. brownc46
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Might have to call bs on you having Greenwood on launch day

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

        Why exactly? He started the last game and expect him to get a lot of minutes this season. Now back to your vegan sausage rolls.

        1. brownc46
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Since launch I said if you could read. You claim to have him in your team since launch which is obviously a lie.
          Ahh what an original comment

          1. The Overthinker
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            I had him since my first draft


            Not a biggie

            1. brownc46
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              First draft no
              But since the game launched before he'd played a single minute of pre-season? Nah

              1. The Overthinker
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Duh yes. Have him in my team Before the pre season started

                  1. brownc46
                    • 8 Years
                    4 years, 8 months ago

                    hahahaha

                  2. The Overthinker
                    • 7 Years
                    4 years, 8 months ago

                    Here.

                    Sorry my bad . Not.much time between the two drafts

                    had him in my second draft which was before the pre season .

                    https://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2019/07/02/what-fpl-managers-can-expect-from-brighton-winger-leandro-trossard/?hc_page=3&hc_sort_by=comment_date#hc_comment_20400122

                    1. Now I'm Panicking
                      • 9 Years
                      4 years, 8 months ago

                      Ha ha - fair enough mate 😀

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

                  I had him too. There are only 7 x 4.5 strikers and he was and is the stand-out option. I had pre-determined to go big on Liv and City and the back and midfield, so I always knew starting 3 strikers was not going to be a tactic for me.

          2. Invincibles
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            You're wrong, had him since launch day along with quite a few others. Not surprised you take fpl matters so seriously though when you support such a dross team.

            1. The Overthinker
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Ignore him 😀 just made his first comment an hour ago. Another wannabe

              1. brownc46
                • 8 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Err no, I made my first comment 3 years ago when I joined...

                You're full of BS today lol

            2. brownc46
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Did you know that football exists outside the Premier league?

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

                Yeah actually I support Lincoln City as I was born there. I also know that your team serves vegan produce and generally have a terrible following.

                1. brownc46
                  • 8 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  My word you're a toxic hypocrite

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

                    Probably best to go your separate ways now. Thread is massively off-track and nobody will come out of it looking good.

                    Bigger issues in the world, not worth wasting your time arguing over stuff like this! 🙂

  4. - Z -
    • 4 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    What do you think about Mount.?Too risky for my taste...but...

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

      Either him or Barkley would fit my team just perfectly. You only got one problem in each case.

      If you go with Barkley, your problem is Mount. If you go with Mount, your problem is Barkley.

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

      Barkley is playing too well in pre-season to warrent losing his place. BarkelyMount is the new BarkelyKovocic

    3. jay01
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I’m going for him.. if he carries on his pre season form he will play.. can play anywhere in the attacking mid areas as shown in the games against Kawasaki and Reading (also his comments after the Reading game)

      1. jay01
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Comments saying that he’s willing to play anywhere he can help the team.. in the Reading game he was switching to the flanks during the game

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

          But that's before willian/cho in the mix - plenty of competition for starting spots there too.

          1. jay01
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            That’s true but that’s when they get in the mix.. I feel that Mount will most definitely start this seasons first couple of games

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

      If they rotated 1 per game a double up would probably even be worth it, but can see sub appearances all over the place there unfortunately... And that's before Loftus cheek in the picture too

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

        Big fan of Mount and really want him. But for 6m I have to be certain he starts regularly, so I'll wait a bit.

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

    Pope (4.0)
    TAA, VVD, Coleman (Cathcart, Lundstram)
    Salah, Sterling, Fraser, Pérez, Robinson
    Jota, Vardy (Greenwood)

    Robinson as a 5th mid punt.

    Decent? Too much Leicester? Jota a problem considering Europa?

  6. Karan14
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Why isnt anyone picking Villa's gk?

    If they dont sign Butland or Heaton is their current defense or gk not good enough?

    1. - Z -
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Villa's defense is terible last year....just imagine them in PL

      1. - Z -
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Was* (my god)

      2. Karan14
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Havent looked much at the promoted teams much honestly.

      3. avfc82
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Villa's defence was actually pretty tight once Mings signed.

        1. Karan14
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Mate could you shed some light on Henderson at SHU?
          Defensive record at home looks pretty good in the championship.
          Did he make alot of saves too?

          1. avfc82
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 14 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            I like Henderson, and would feel more confident investing in Sheffield United's defence than Villa's.

    2. Andy'81
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I'm not too keen on Villa's opening fixtures plus they'll likely sign another GK before the window closes.

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

        Think villa have a great run after spurs

  7. columbus189
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Is is to much with a back 4 like this?

    Robertson- van Dijk-Coleman-Alexander-Arnold

    With Targett on bench.

    Just not sure abou Salah and Mane in the 1st 3-4 weeks as they need to get in game shape.

    1. columbus189
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      The rest looks like.

      Pogba - Fraser - Pérez -Sterling

      King - Kane

      With the option to downgrade one defender and switch Pogba for Sane or De Bruyne.

  8. bitm2007
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    No Kaku in United's Norway squad, good for Rashford and Greenwoods early season game time.

    https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/49153333

    1. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Not sure about that.
      OGS has been hinting about playing Martial at No 9.
      James can play on both wings.

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

        Yea this. Martial will be striker along with Rashford if Kaku goes. That said Greenwood will surely get lots of minutes for a 4.5 bench player.

    2. sully29
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      If Lukaku goes they'll sign a replacement anyway.

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

    Tuff One

    A - Ederson / Laporte / Deulofeu
    or
    B - Ryan / Zinchenko / Vardy

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

      B

  10. Maddi Son
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    I think Trossard is still number 1 on my punt list. Assists galore in pre-season and really nice fixtures. Perfect placeholder for either Mount or Barkley.

    Not long now boyos

  11. sirmorbach
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Lads, I'd appreciate your thoughts on this lot:

    Pope
    TAA, VVD, Laporte, Coleman
    Salah, Sterling, Fraser, Robinson
    King, Vardy

    Pros: Salah, Sterling, Vardy, solid defence
    Cons: King, and Robinson of course.

    Is it good? Robinson (oop, 5.5) *too* punty as 4th mid? Jota over King even with Europa? Anyways, what do you think overall?

  12. Andy Unsocial
    • 11 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A.Vardy + Coleman
    Or
    B.Rashford + Perez

    Your thoughts ?

  13. Maddi Son
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A) Digne, 4.5, 4.0
    B) Coleman & rotate two 4.5's

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

      Rather A. Hate cheap defender rotations personally.

      1. Maddi Son
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        That's what I'm currently on, cheers.

  14. Brosstan
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Lundstram basically forces 5atb out of fashion. Even for me as a huge fan of the value in defense. Im very happy with this 1 premium team right now.

    Fabianski - 4.0
    VVD - TAA - Laporte - Zinchenko - (Lundstram)
    Salah (C) - KDB - Moura - Fraser - Townsend
    Wilson - Wesley - (Greenwood)

    If Laca is declared 100% fit for GW Ill have him instead of KDB for the opening 2 fixtures. Mount at 6.0 is tempting as a punt but Ill go with the dullard pick in Townsend from the get go. 2 good opening fixtures for CPL.

    1. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Fabianski, Townsend and Wesley im not too fund of. Rest looks neat

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

        But those are my differentials!

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

      I'm a Palace sceptic early on. Townsend could pop cup with something but I'm not sure he's ahead of the 5.5 pack really given how short Palace are all over the place. Unless you're wedded to Wesley I'd go 5.5 and 6.5 personally.

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

        I dont see any 5.5 that appeal at all.

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

          Fair dos but I'd have had McGinn as likely a prospect as Wesley and that'd give you Jota up front if you're a fan and not put off by EL. I'd even have Moutinho as equally likely as Townsend to get an assist.

          Hoping I'm wrong!

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

            I have a feeling about Townsend, could be wrong of course. Hes at that stage of his career and age now where one would expect a gradual increase in output (true for PPM from 17/18 to 18/19 already) and he seems an integral part of Hodgson's side. I think he could take another step up and if he does hes a great pick. Even at the output of last season hes very good value.

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

                First 4 arent too bad. I will alternate him and Wesley anyway, play whoever has the best fixture and happy with a good nailed player first on my bench.

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

                  This may be voodoo and a Palace fans natural pessimism but Palace almost invariably get off to a slow start and come good late season - deadline day transfer policy effect!!! Only in the Pardew year did we get off to a flier and Townsend pick is helped by a strong Palace.

                  Those fixtures are really hard to pick given upside down home away form too. SU looks good but beside that they feel the wrong way round.

                  Do think Townsend is a good one to monitor for the reasons you outline.

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

          I was on Meyer but I also decided Palace need avoiding early doors. My next option was Ceballos but I'm not sure of starts. Then the FFS report today highlighted Albrighton. He looks the best bet to me.

  15. hogree
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A. Ederson + King
    B. Ryan + Wilson

    Preference?

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

      Wilson + some other 4.5 such as Henderson

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

      A. the difference between Ederson and Ryan will be more than King/Wilson IMO

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

        Rep

  16. FC Hakkebøf
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    So I tried to change my Squad a bit. Make it slightly different than the 'template'.

    Ederson*
    Robertson TAA Digne Davies* Zinchenko
    Salah (C) Siggy Fraser
    Kane King

    No City offensively. But at least I got the option to get one of Sterling or Aguero pretty easy come gameweek 3 in case Salah/Kane do not match the the output of the City players. Not afraid to go without City attackers for the first two games tbh.

    *Could become Lloris/Walker or Ederson/whoever seems nailed for Spurs. I like the idea of going 5 at the back with so many simarly priced options from Chelsea and Manu as well to switch with. Having a heavy mid and forward also makes it flexible in terms of getting on any bandwagon. A strong GK is what really makes the difference compared to other teams.

    Thoughts?

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

      Your midfield is too weak. In my opinion.

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        What would you do different? The formation puts me in that spot.

        12.5 8.0 and 7.5 too light?

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

      Except for Davies this is extremely template.

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        How is going without City template though?

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

          Most have one City attacker, true, but if you dont view attacking coverage as a thing then your team is all solid template picks despite lack of City. Kane is likely to match Sterling if fit over the season. Its a good team.

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

            Maybe harsh of me to say that Kane instead of Sterling is "extremely template" tbf 😆

            1. FC Hakkebøf
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Yeah maybe a bit 😀

              Going 5 at the back, having a solid GK and Davies is what makes it 'slightly' different as I stated. But thanks

  17. Srv210
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    who do you think can be the best 5.0m and 4.0m standout defender this season like AWB and doherty were last season??

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

      Guilbert, I guess, but I see no Doherty and *definitely* no AWB. Lundstram is the only 4.0 I think might start.

      1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        We didnt start with the knowledge of Doherty though. He only exploded around GW10 if I'm not wrong

        1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          GW 4 my bad

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

          You're right, but here's where I'm coming from: teams. Wolves was a lot better than the teams that have possible 4.5 standouts this season. This is why I think Guilbert is the better option but still no Dherty, even when we had no previous knolwedge of him.

          But then again, who knows, right

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

      5.0 and under: Guilbert and Stevens

    3. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Infact Doherty was 4.4m when he got popular after his GW3/4 heroics.

      I think one of the Burnley 4.5m def or Guilbert could be great value this season

  18. juho
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Pick one please

    A) Ederson, TAA, Siggy
    B) Fab, VvD, KdB

    Assume neither set of players will be transferred out unless injured

  19. The Mighty I
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Settled on this

    Ryan Button
    TAA Robertson Laporte Digne Diop 4.5
    Salah Sterling Fraser Perez Dendoncker
    Jota Deulofeu Greenwood

    1. The Mighty I
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Ignore the Diop, in there by mistake

    2. Dr. Mantis Toboggan
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Very very template, not that it's necessarily a bad thing.

      I'd lose Ryan

  20. FPL-(VAR)dy
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Kane+Perez
    or
    KDB+Wilson

  21. sirmorbach
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    I know it's been asked a hundred million times, but I'd like to hear your thoughts. Who is the best option as a 6.5 striker?

    King seems to be the most picked. Pros are some good fixtures and pens, cons are not that great stats on open play and away games.

    Jota. Pros: good player. Cons: Europa.

    Wood. Pros: PL tested. Cons: stats not that great.

    Deulofeu: Pros: fixtures. Cons: does not seem to score against the big 6 even if his life depended on it.

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

      If Everton don't sign a striker, I'm going for DCL. Otherwise, King for me. Good first 2 fixtures to start and plays in an attacking team.

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

        Interesting. Will consider DCL myself, I could use 0.5

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

      I've been agonising over the same

      Looking at GW1-3, I'm currently on Deulofeu, but Jota seems to be in sensational form

      Others such as Wesley and Adams will be on my watchlist

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

        I'm currently on King. Jota does seem to be on sensational form, but I'm really concern over Europa.

    3. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      All pretty ropey - don't see many/any scoring double figures this season. I'm looking more at the 6.0 options (Wesley/Ings/Adams) who I would expect to score similarly and keeping the change.

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

        Hmmm. Interesting indeed. Who are you on right now? Although I do have hopes on him, Adams is not PL tested yet. Ings maybe?

        Anyway, would like to hear your thoughts.

        1. Now I'm Panicking
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Ings probably at the moment if he stays fit in pre-season (that's a big if!)

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

            Cheers!

    4. Brosstan
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      King because of fixtures and nailedness.

      Deulofeu is not nailed at all, Id rather own Deeney tbh.

      Jota has bad fixtures and while he is the one with the highest potential I think its better to take advantage of King's fixtures and switch to Jota later.

      Wood/Barnes could also be good options but not with opening fixtures, wait until gw5 if you want any of them.

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

        I really appreciate it, mate. Really do.

        As for what our friend above has said, do you think it would be better to go for, say, Ings over King and spare the 0.5?

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

          Im on Wesley myself so yes I think there is value to be found in the 6.0 bracket. Its all about what the .5 nets you elsewhere though, King will probably get more points than Wesley for instance.

  22. Baz
    • 14 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A) VVD + Digne
    B) TAA + Coleman

    Could go either way! Think i'm leaning to B..

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

      A), for me. I also have TAA.

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

        Cheers, Robertson is first choice for me!

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

          OK.

    2. Muzzy87
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      B

    3. FPL Elephant
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I’m on B

  23. Bruno Bruno!!
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    How is this team looking?

    Any suggestions welcome.

    Ryan
    Coleman Mings TAA
    Salah Mount KDB Sterling Fraser
    Delofeu Wilson

    Button Greenwood Kelly Rico

    0m itb

  24. Muzzy87
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Afternoon all!

    Would be great to get your thoughts on a couple of options from a DRAFT league perspective so a longer term view:

    A) Adams or Ings
    B) Barnes or Wood
    C) Giroud, Abrahams, Bats or None too risky
    D) Willian or Pulisic
    E) Deeney or Deulefeu
    F) Siggy or Richarlison

    Currently on the former for all but have been wracking my brains for ages!

    Thanks in advance and best of luck for the season!

  25. Tomm
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    How is this looking my 2nd draft?
    Ryan
    VVD Robertson Coleman Zinchencho
    Salah Sterling Fraser Zaha
    Wilson Daelofeu

    Button Dendonker Kelly Greenwood

  26. Mattias
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Is there a code for the members league, Torres' LMS league etc going about? Or a website to find then if it's not to be posted on the boards?

    Cheers!

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

      Members league code is on the home dashboard of the members area.

      TM's LMS league is bcvy39, there's a Community article on it as well fwiw

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

        Nice one thanks. Must have missed it in the members area.

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

    Do you think Zouma will be in the starting 11 for Chelsea with Rudiger injured?

    1. Muzzy87
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Touch and go with him and Christensen. I think Christensen will start the season

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

      Maybe, it's hard to call right now.

      It would have helped his case a lot if he had looked more solid alongside Luiz last night, but sadly they got caught out a few times with Reading getting behind him or between him and Luiz. Personally, I think Christensen is currently ahead out of the two, but that could all change with the remaining 2 preseason games.

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

      more than likely imo

  28. bangers and M*A*S*H
    • 12 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Torn between 2 teams. Difference is

    A) Stephens, Dendoncker and Kane
    B) McGinn, Siggy and King

    Rest of team:

    Boruc - 4.0
    Digne - Robbo - TAA - Laporte - Lundstram
    Salah - Sterling - Mount
    Greenwood - Adams

    Any advice? Other I should downgrade?

  29. sirmorbach
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A. King, Laporte, Robinson (Sheffield 5.5 oop, 4th mid punt)
    B. Ings, Azpi, Pérez (have Vardy already though)

  30. Chandler Bing
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Say Everton don't sign a striker, is there no chance that one of Niasse and Tosun steal the striker spot from DCL?

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

      more likely rich moves back there if anything

    2. Pukki Party
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Richarlison played ST too last season, don't think Dcl is nailed at all.