Community

Why FPL offers a positive alternative to gambling

From data analysis to personal stories, the Community Articles section of Fantasy Football Scout is home to some thought-provoking, user-penned pieces.

In the article below, Scout user mide looks at the positive side of Fantasy Premier League (FPL) as an alternative to gambling.


In a world where gambling has become increasingly popular and accessible, it is important to highlight alternative avenues that empower individuals to profit from their knowledge of football and sports. One such avenue is Fantasy Premier League (FPL), a virtual game that offers football enthusiasts a platform to showcase their skills, engage with the sport, and enjoy the thrill of competition.

In this article, I will discuss why FPL can serve as a positive alternative to gambling, allowing individuals to harness their expertise while fostering a sense of community and enjoyment.

Skill-based Competition

Fantasy Premier League revolves around the strategic selection of players, formation, and tactical decision-making. While there is still ‘chance’ involved, FPL often rewards players who invest time and effort in analysing statistics, assessing player performances, and making informed decisions. This skill-based competition enhances the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, as success can be correlated with an individual’s understanding of the game.

Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making

FPL encourages participants to employ critical thinking and strategic decision-making. Selecting players, determining formations, and making transfers throughout the season requires careful analysis of team dynamics, fixtures, player form, and injuries. By engaging in such strategic exercises, individuals develop skills that can be applied in various aspects of life, including problem-solving, risk assessment, and long-term planning.

Community Engagement

FPL creates a vibrant and inclusive community of football fans who share a passion for the sport. Players can join private leagues with friends, family, or colleagues, fostering healthy competition and camaraderie. Engaging in discussions, debates and banter surrounding FPL allows individuals to connect with like-minded enthusiasts, like in the Fantasy Football Scout comments section, enhancing their overall football experience. This sense of community provides an avenue for individuals to bond over their shared interests and develop lasting friendships.

Educational Value

Participating in FPL promotes learning and deepens one’s understanding of the sport. Players become more aware of various teams, players, and tactics as they closely monitor performances and analyse data. This increased knowledge enriches the football-watching experience, enabling individuals to appreciate the intricacies of the game on a deeper level. Moreover, FPL can be an educational tool for newcomers, as it encourages them to explore and familiarise themselves with different players and teams.

Emotional Investment

Fantasy Premier League allows individuals to emotionally invest in the game, creating an added layer of excitement and entertainment. Supporting one’s own selected players and teams adds an extra dimension to the enjoyment of football matches. FPL participants have a personal stake in the success of their chosen players, fostering a stronger connection to the sport and generating enthusiasm throughout the season.


FINAL THOUGHTS

By encouraging strategic thinking, fostering community engagement, providing educational value, and promoting emotional investment, FPL offers a positive alternative that allows fans to channel their passion for the sport and enhance their overall football experience.

We are at risk of losing our beautiful game because football is now inescapably linked to gambling, which provides services that can lead to addiction and financial ruin.

In my opinion, it would be great if Fantasy Premier League could help individuals around the world who do intend to profit off their knowledge of football healthily and sustainably. To do this, they could infuse more financial incentives into FPL and make it a country-by-country competition. I’d encourage them to open FPL to funding and let there be more money available weekly for competitors. The only current means people know how to make money from football is through gambling and it is up to the Premier League to change that narrative.

FPL can, and could even more so, be a power for good.



261 Comments Post a Comment
  1. TheBiffas
    • 3 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    This is all well and good, but this page repeatedly promotes gambling adverts anyway - rather ironic, no?

    1. Old Man
      • 13 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Not with my adblocker

      1. Tomerick
        • 10 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Your ad blocker blocks most of the FFS articles?

    2. AC/DC AFC
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      It's probably a distribution from gambling in some ways. That's not a bad thing.

      I realise you're making a different point which I respect.

      Gambling has been pushed incessantly around the UK social media and TV. Some people, largely young men who become compulsive gamblers have even taken their own lives as they hit rock bottom.

      In a way like Instagram can promote ultra skinniness and image obsession in young people, there's often a very dark side and real consequences for people who become hooked and vulnerable to something.

      Social media itself is based upon the psychology of endorphin release, which online gambling plays on with dire financial consequences if you lose your own personal impulse control.

      1. AC/DC AFC
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        *distraction

      2. Tomerick
        • 10 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        The problem is it isn’t a distraction from gambling when affiliated sites and content creators constantly push gambling. It becomes a gateway for new gambling addicts and a potential pitfall for recovering ones.

  2. Bob B
    • 11 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    In FPL Draft,

    A. Keep Gusto
    B. Cash
    C. Konaté
    D. Livramento/Hall

    1. Big Mike
      • 2 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      How many are you looking to keep? A and B look the best choices.

      1. Bob B
        • 11 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Sorry, I either keep Gusto or move on to B, C or D

  3. FPL GREG
    • 14 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    I want an unlimited transfers no price rises second official game, gamble every week as much as you like for free!

    1. The-Red-1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      This would suit me too! haha

  4. it lies in the proles
    • 7 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Mubama to Antonio for -4?

    Money no issue, bench Pedro. To maximise fixture vs Luton

    1. gart888
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      I'll always say yes to someone who wants to sell Mubama!

  5. Charlie Price
    • 3 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Hi Mide,

    Enjoyed reading your thought provoking article. Whilst footballers are obviously banned from betting on football, it seems many have a team entered in Fantasy Premier League.

    I noticed that Trippier actually benched Haaland when City played Newcastle! Assume he was trying to avoid a conflict of interest in that game.

    How long though before professional footballers are prevented from playing fpl?

    1. Dunster
      • 3 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      I believe there was a comment on here that noted every Newcastle player who does FPL benched Haaland. Seems to have been a group decision

    2. Zenith UK
      • 8 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      It's quite widely known that you bench players you're against and most have three from their own team and captain teammates or themselves (see Salah interview for example). They'll never have the luxury of doing well.

      Personally if I was them I'd make a pseudonym account and just play it as best as I could (if they were that into stuff like this).

      1. Cruyff's Eleven
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Just like Ivan.

      2. Andy_Social
        • 12 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        I believe some clubs have policies on FPL. Some ban it, some make players do like Trippier did. It's funny seeing how rubbish all their squads are though - can't imagine any causing problems.

        1. AC/DC AFC
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          I'm pretty sure half are picking their mates.

          Some as a sign of respect for who they think are decent players.

        2. Derbz87
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          I think its ludicrous that people think multi million paid professional footballers would decide to have an off day just so Haaland scores more points in their FPL side.

          1. Andy_Social
            • 12 Years
            1 year, 1 month ago

            I don't think anyone's suggesting that, but since you bring it up, presumably Toney and Paqueta were not in need of a bit of quick cash when they placed their bets. Sometimes a different psychology is at work.

            1. Zenith UK
              • 8 Years
              1 year, 1 month ago

              FPL isn't for cash though (unless you're betting on it separately)

          2. Zenith UK
            • 8 Years
            1 year, 1 month ago

            Exactly this 😀

        3. Zenith UK
          • 8 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          That's what I mean, it's known you can't be captaining Haaland if you're a Newcastle defender/player/anything to do with the match day squads really, even staff most likely get frowned upon for it.

  6. gellinmagellan
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Pickford
    Chilwell Estu Udogie Cash
    Salah Saka Sterling Mitoma Rashford
    Haaland
    Turner, Joao P, Baldock, Mubama

    Start Cash or Joao Pedro or Baldock?
    Or…take -4 and get someone in

    1. The Biscuitmen
      • 2 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Baldock is probably better call but Liverpool's defence is poor so Cash could certainly get some returns too. The only possible change would be Rashford to Maddison?

  7. Zenith UK
    • 8 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Bring back Ultimate FPL. Missed it so much!

    1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
      • 15 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Part of the reason they will never do so is because they used to charge a fiver to enter and there was a cash prize. With all the people going nuts over gambling ads I reckon they will avoid like the plague. They could make it for free I guess but would it get the traffic or on the other hand it's so much better than fpl do they worry it will kill the main game

  8. Big Mike
    • 2 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Any news on who takes penalties for Chelsea?

    1. Zenith UK
      • 8 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Think Enzo missed one? Not sure if he's nailed on though

    2. Letsgo!
      • 7 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Sterling

      1. Rasping Drive
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 15 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        That’s a good enough reason not to buy him.

        1. Letsgo!
          • 7 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Hahahah good for u

  9. DV8R
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    What changes should I make to my team? 2 FT and 0.9m itb

    Onana (Turner)
    Chilwell, Dias, Estupinan (Torres, Baldock)
    Rashford, Saka, Odegaard, Mbeumo, Mitoma
    Haaland, Watkins (Mubama)

    I was thinking Odegaard to Maddison and then bank FT? What else?

    1. The Biscuitmen
      • 2 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Yeah, Sterling or Maddison in. Are you keen on holding Onana? If you would be burning a transfer otherwise moving him on could be worthwhile.

  10. No Professionals
    • 7 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    really considering wildcarding this...

    Onana
    Chilwell Colwill Estupinan
    Rashford Saka Foden Mbeumo Mitoma
    Haaland Jackson

    Turner Baldock Gabriel Mubama
    1FT 3.5m

    no absolute burning platforms, but I'd go to...

    Flekken
    Chilwell Gvardiol Udogie
    Foden Saka Maddison Sterling Mbeumo
    Haaland Jackson

    Areola Estupinan Archer Cash

    leaves me a full 4.7m for flexibility moving forward.

    thoughts?

    1. BobbyDoesNotLook
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      This shows how insane the pricing is this year.

      1. BobbyDoesNotLook
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        But definitely no need for wc. Let's hope more difficult times come and there is actually need for wc before NY.

        1. No Professionals
          • 7 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          the issue is I have a dead bench (Gabriel, Baldock and Mubama) whereas others have massively benefited from having the right cheap players. I can't get Sterling because Colwill is blocking him. This season, it doesn't feel like a wildcard will be needed to change the core, squad surgery feels like a sensible use as I'll never be able to use free transfers to get there.

      2. No Professionals
        • 7 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        could do Fernandes instead of Foden and Alvarez for Archer, and accept the benching headaches...

    2. Zenith UK
      • 8 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Archer > Watkins. G2G. Unsure on Flekken but why not I guess

  11. Derbz87
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    As with anything in life be it gambling, drinking, even exercise, addiction to something is the main problem. Sure FPL probably won't give you financial problems like gambling but its the damage to peoples relationships from any addiction which often goes missed and I think there are a lot of people probably addicted to FPL neglecting spending time with friends and families and making what is just a game subject to so much luck something far more serious than it actually should be. I much preferred the game in the pre content creation days. There's nothing strategic or mentally stimulating about watching the same ideas floating about and going with the crowd.

    1. KunDogan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Fair point

    2. AC/DC AFC
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Time is a consequence and impact on family or social life is an indicator or harm for compulsive gamblers.

      Sound familiar?

    3. Dunster
      • 3 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Agree with this. I plead guilty.

      1. Andy_Social
        • 12 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Well .... what's the alternative? I mean, if FPL disappeared tomorrow, would you fill the void by chatting to your family? Would you heck - you'd just get lost in TikTok or some other timewaster!

        But gambling is a different category - it's not just lost time - it's the family's lost income.

        1. Dunster
          • 3 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Agree entirely. Personally I recognise I have an addictive personality.

          I used to smoke 20-30 a day. I haven’t touched a cigarette in 6 years, but I know if I smoked just one with my mates over a beer it would turn into a packet.

          I like a drink, but I try very hard to limit as again I know I could very easily become a bloke with a problem.

          I have a flutter on the football. But I absolutely limit it, because I know the danger of chasing losses.

          I love FPL. It’s a free game that I can spend mental energy on (that bluntly I feel i need to spend) and enjoy. Personally I don’t want to be bombarded with gambling ads.

        2. Derbz87
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Doesn't FPL disappear for a month or so every year?

    4. Cruyff's Eleven
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Ultimately, for an "addict" the gambling, drinking, exercising, working, chocolates is but a symptom of a deeper lying issue.

      Giving up on one will inevitably push one to the next until the deeper lying issue is addressed.

      1. Cruyff's Eleven
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Trying to outsmart the next bloke in picking a "fantasy team" is a pass-time, a hobby until one finds it starts affecting your physical, mental or spiritual well-being. Now you are arriving in the same danger zone as the "addict" and ideally one should have a look at what's really bothering them. I promise you, it's not Haaland missing a penalty or Reece James tweaking his hammy.

  12. Gazzpfc
    • 8 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    1 FT

    Pickford
    Estupinian Udogie Chillwell
    Bruno Mbeumo Saka Maddison Rashford
    Haaland Jackson

    Turner Archer Botman Gabriel

    Any ideas?

    1. The Biscuitmen
      • 2 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      That's pretty good. Like many others it's the possibility of Rashford to Sterling

  13. Licious Lizard
    • 11 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    "We are at risk of losing our beautiful game because football is now inescapably linked to gambling, which provides services that can lead to addiction and financial ruin."

    I'm not sure who Mide is, but the above article just shows how clueless how the people behind FFS are regarding this whole situation.

    It's honestly an insult that this site keeps posting articles on mental health and anti-gambling, while at the same time runs ads targeted towards both adults, youths and kids on this very site for gambling companies.

    Fantasy football should NOT be a gateway drug to gambling and FFS is doing their part in making it so.

    I haven't been a paying member on this site for years because of this - and I only logged in to point out the hypocrisy and air my frustration.

    /LL

  14. TanN
    • 3 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    A) Keep Salah
    B) Sell Salah (and buy Maddison)

    1) Buy Darwin (to replace Pedro)
    2) Keep Pedro

    i) Keep Eze a little longer
    ii) Sell Eze for Maddison

    !) Sell Kabore (for Udogie)
    !!) Keep Kabore

    Bit confusing I know, but these are the decisions I'm struggling to make

    1. The Biscuitmen
      • 2 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Kabore to Udoige

    2. Lee8686
      • 6 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      I think kabore is well worth keeping as a 4m backup especially with upcoming fixtures

      I'd also definately keep Eze, his stats have been fine and has a plum fixture this week. If he blenks then get rid

  15. The Rock
    • 15 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    This is a fantasy football based website. You don't need to "highlight" FPL here. We are all already very aware of FPL, hence us being on this site.

    What you shouldn't be highlighting, and promoting and benifiting from on a fantasy football website, is gambling. Which is what's constantly happening on here these days.

    1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
      • 15 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Thing is do you think they actually care what a few folk think. At the end of the day these same people are joining membership and adding to their website traffic. It's like supporting them whilst people moan at them at the same time. Big companies are bothered about profit. Not people . Why would scout be the same. Look at the Hub. They would employ a serial murderer if they knew it would give them profit

      1. gart888
        • 10 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        I chose not to buy a membership this year because of all of the gambling stuff.

        1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
          • 15 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Yeah and that is more than what most are doing but you are still here posting adding to their traffic making them more AD revenue

      2. The Rock
        • 15 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Yeah, the membership auto renewed for me this year but I won't be renewing next year. Site has gone downhill massively.

  16. The Biscuitmen
    • 2 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    I've 1FT this week. Rashford > Maddison, Rashford/Mitoma> Sterling or roll?

    1. gart888
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      I'd do Mitoma to Sterling. Huge difference in fixtures.

      1. The Biscuitmen
        • 2 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Thanks

  17. Mama Murphy's chair
    • 8 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Have 1FT. With 0.4 ITB.
    Thinking of hanging on with WC to GW 8 or 9 or beyond.
    Anything need attention now or in near future?
    Pickford
    Estupinan Chilwell Henry
    Rashford Bruno Saka Marinelli Foden
    Haaland Watkins
    (Turner Baldok Bell Mubama)

    1. LC1
      • 9 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Martinelli to Maddison or Sterling

      1. Mama Murphy's chair
        • 8 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Cheers, was thinking Martinelli or Rashford out.
        Liking Maddison. Just got rid of him for Foden when yellow flagged 🙂

  18. Letsgo!
    • 7 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Really can see son as a differential this week, just got a feeling hes gonna score , he shld be taking pen as well right?

    1. Wrong Captain Choice - Ag i…
      • 15 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      I noticed Son took that first penalty in the shootout. So I assume he is the number 1 pen taker.
      The problem is in open play he plays very wide and does not get involved in the play.
      What needs to happen is Ange gives up on his Richarlison project and plays Son as a striker, But Ange seems likely to persist with the Brazilan as no9 - particularly given the nice fixtures and he scored v Fulham in the cup.

  19. Lee8686
    • 6 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    I don't normally take many hits and although my team this week looks sound enough I can't stop looking at.....
    Wissa in for João Pedro (-4)

    Already used to free transfer bringing in Sterling

    What do we recon?

    1. Lee8686
      • 6 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Note....it's a 5-6 week move and I can see him repaying the -4 potentially in this gw alone

    2. Ze_Austin
      • 5 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      I would, yeah

      Who would you start if you benched Pedro instead?

      1. Lee8686
        • 6 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        For this week Rashford

        From GW4 onwards they would both play and Eze will be gone

        If that makes sense

        1. Stykes
          • 12 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Then definitely just play Rash and bench JP.
          Wissa will probs outscore JP by 4, but wouldn’t make that bet against Rash.

    3. lugs
      • 7 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      i'd do that move

  20. BobbyDoesNotLook
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    2ft, 0itb
    Onana/Turner
    Chilwell Estu Pinnock (Gabriel,Kabore)
    Saka, Foden, Bruno, Rash, Ode
    Haaland, Alvarez (Osula)

    A) Sterling in
    B) Madders in
    C) a+b

    If A or/and B who to move out
    1) Ode
    2) Rash
    3) else

    Additional possibility is Gabriel to Udogie, bench Pinnock (BOU) but I like Brentford's fixture.

    1. Firmino
      • 9 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Ode to Maddison

    2. Lee8686
      • 6 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      I'd definately do Ode to Sterling

      And

      Gabriel to Udogie

      Then I'd play Udogie, Chilwell and Pinnock for this week only

      1. BobbyDoesNotLook
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Not bad shout, thanks. Benching Estu feels scary though with the xGI + EO combo.

        1. Baps hunter
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Being afraid isn't good strategy. This is good week to bench Pervis.

          1. BobbyDoesNotLook
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            1 year, 1 month ago

            That is also fair point. Estu has been great is also not a bad point though.

    3. Baps hunter
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      AB 12

      1. Baps hunter
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Well, actually Gabriel out is 1st priority, Øde out 2nd.

  21. Wrong Captain Choice - Ag i…
    • 15 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    The PR department worked overtime with that article - plus throwing in 'mental health' these days just a word to show concern and a veneer of caring and so on.

    But the reality is playing FPL in itself is a form of gambling it is the same kick a person would get from putting on a bet, that clean sheet where your defender is subbed at 60th minutes. A gamble on an defensive FPL treble up and so on. A treble captain chip etc. Anyone who pretends otherwise is lying.

    It is obvious why betting companies would be only too delighted to get involved in fantasy football, young impressionable minds. Can hit the target market earlier than if it was just pure betting.

    What FFS should really be saying beyond all the patronising sweet talk - is contact your medical professional if you feel that you have the personality type that lacks self control or personal responsibility.
    FPL should be a good indicator for that. How do you react to a good gameweek? How so you react to a bad gameweek?

    As for the gambling itself the genie is long out of the bottle, it is now seen as socially acceptable. Young men in particular are easy targets for the betting industry. An industry with very low over heads. Easy money and not much oversight.

    A person just has to ask themselves are they personally in control or does their reaction to a win or a loss control them?
    As simple as that.

    1. lugs
      • 7 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      fpl definitely gives me the same buzz as gambling, a differential captain pick is like picking a good priced winner on the horses, but its always the ones that got away that annoy me the most

      mulling all week whether to bring in x player but don't do it only to see him score a brace can really put me in a bad mood, i get the same feeling in the rare times i gamble, i really fancy this 16 to 1 shot that wins, but ended up backing the favourite well that bugs the hell out of me too, the difference between the 2 though is in fpl i'm not losing any money so its relatively harmless

      1. Cruyff's Eleven
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Until you pick a fight with a friend or a loved one because you are upset (and want to feel better about yourself by winning that fight).

        Or when you lose so much sleep you can't go to work (properly) the next day.

        1. Cruyff's Eleven
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          I can give you another half a dozen examples of unhealthy, unhinged behaviour that's "relatively harmless".

          1. lugs
            • 7 Years
            1 year, 1 month ago

            we're not robots and are allowed to feel emotion, good or bad, it will pass in a day or two, if you become unhinged and start beating your spouse or something then you have a serious problem that has nothing to do with fpl

            1. Cruyff's Eleven
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 6 Years
              1 year, 1 month ago

              Yup, what I said - FPL is a symptom of a deeper issue.

              1. Baps hunter
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 6 Years
                1 year, 1 month ago

                So is fishing. Getting big fish up is exciting, getting nothing in bad weather makes me angry. However, I don't beat my wife because of two reasons.

                1. Cruyff's Eleven
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 6 Years
                  1 year, 1 month ago

                  Good, you are mentally mature and strong enough to realise that you have no control over fish nor weather AND you do not seem to have any underlying mental health issues which are triggered by uncooperative fish or bad weather.

      2. Wrong Captain Choice - Ag i…
        • 15 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        True is good for many who do FPL instead of gambling much more harmless - but the way the brain reacts is similar. The danger with the FPL is that the younger generations get hooked to the gambling earlier - and they use FPL as starting point.

        1. AIRMILES
          • 13 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          I don't think FPL is the problem though. People are going to have hobbies, and lots of people will have unhealthy addictions with those hobbies. Lots of kids game, and I don't think that's such a problem until they introduce those mystery boxes and then kids are spending money for a box with a random virtual thing inside it, which ultimately is completely meaningless. And FPL is fine because you can play it for free without gambling any money, and that's going to be the case for the majority of players, but then gambling laws are so loose in this country that websites like this one, which attracts youngsters, peddle the same nonsense bookmakers day after day, when the simple warning message should be 'YOU WILL LOSE YOUR MONEY'.

        2. lugs
          • 7 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          funnily enough i still remember the first winner i ever backed on the horses, i was bunking off school at the time and went into the bookies to kill time, stuck 2 quid on a 10 to 1 shot that won, and that was my drinking money for the weekend 😆 , these days though i rarely drink or rarely gamble but do obsess over fpl, so maybe it could be argued that fpl is filling a void that i would otherwise be filling with something a lot more destructive

    2. All Muxed Ip
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      The bottom line is that for most fantasy players ,without small cash incentives it's as stimulating as alcohol free lager

    3. Arteta
      • 9 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Very well said, and I agree with you.

      However you look at it, gambling is part of the FPL and comes in many different forms, and one of them is captaincy. For example, this week I'm considering Saka (c) because Manchester United will be without two of their starting defenders, Varane and Shaw. I assume he may get 10+ points, and it could be worth a shot.

      But will I go to a few betting sites and put 100€ on him to score a brace just because I think he could do it? No. I know where the limits are and when to stop, and there's no harm outside of a possible lack of FPL points if it doesn't work out.

  22. Firmino
    • 9 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Which move would you do or both for -4?

    A) Martinelli -> Maddison/Foden (would play Saliba or Kabore)
    B) Shaw -> Udogie
    C) Both -4

    1. Eightball
      • 4 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Not sure I would do that for a -4 but Shaw to undogie makes sense as he is out for ages.

    2. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Would not doing B mean playing both Saliba and Kabore ?

  23. Derbz87
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Just noticed Burnley own all three goalkeepers who were in PFA team of the year for Championship, League 1 and League 2.

    Also thought it was a bit odd that the side with the most clean sheets in the PL last season doesn't have a single player in the defence but Saliba, Stones and Dias make the cut despite missing huge chunks of the league season.

    1. Eightball
      • 4 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      DDG got the golden glove. Surely he should be in there over Ramsdale.

    2. Mayor of Flair
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      That is quite interesting

    3. Nate(U)dog(ie)
      • 4 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      The biggest question is why Saliba is at LB and Kane LW. Not to mention Ramsdale over Alisson

    4. Arteta
      • 9 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      They decided to go down that road and picked a few players who played less than 3/4 matches. Would Schar, Magalhaes, and Shaw/Estupinan make more sense? Maybe. Alisson or Pope instead of Ramsdale? Why not. Salah versus Saka is also debatable.

  24. N00B
    • 10 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Mbeumo owners, what you will do with him?
    A) keep
    B) sell for Maddison (I already have Sterling and Foden)

    1. Eightball
      • 4 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Keep for a while longer. I don't think he is a bad option.

    2. The Biscuitmen
      • 2 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      If I had him I'd keep him. You've got him as he's going to be one of their main players and they have a fairly kind run of games for a while.

    3. Old Man
      • 13 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      You can certainly wait until this week is over before making any such decision.

    4. Mayor of Flair
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      B

  25. Eightball
    • 4 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    A)Rashford + Pedro to Sterling + Alvarez (-4)
    B) just do one of these moves and don't take a hit.

  26. Questions for Zophar
    zøphar
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    1 year, 1 month ago

    Taking questions for my Gameweek 4 Scout Q&A piece, send them in!

    1. Mirror Man
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Marmalade, or jam?

      • Hairy Potter
        • 9 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Midfield FOMO. Is it best to hold the likes of Martinelli, Rashford, Jota or ship them for new shiny toys like Maddison, Sterling or Foden?

        Also is taking a hit to do two of the above moves crazy at this moment in time?

      • The Knights Template
        • 10 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Son, Kulusevski and Maddison triple up is the new template, how can we thank TKT for looking after us?

        1. Cruyff's Eleven
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Hahaha. That's made me laugh, thank you Sir

        2. Hairy Potter
          • 9 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Sarr to haul against Burnley!

      • boc610
        • 12 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        who invented the skip?

        1. Hairy Potter
          • 9 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          KP

      • HNI
        • 11 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Are we living in a simulation?

      • GRIMANDI [formerly boring M…
        • 13 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Is this a perfect chance to play Archer. Home to a horrible Everton side. League debut. Strongly considering him over Estupinian this week & play 3-4-3. Probably the only time i'll do it this season!!

      • snow pea in repose
        • 4 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Is it worth picking up any NEW mids ahead of their favorable schedule?

      • Ha Ha Land
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Is this Sterling madness only because of the Luton game. He basically played 130 good minutes. What's your opinion on sustainability of Sterling return.

      • Winston.
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        The optimal 5 midfield… a) for the next 5 gameweeks, and b) for long term (season picks)?

      • Winston.
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        If you were to wildcard now, what would your team look like? Top options for different positions?

      • torshov_bulls
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        I have a midfield of Rashford, Bruno, Ødegaard, Saka and Sterling.
        One free transfer. Hold transfer or sell one? If so, who? Ødegaard currently top of sales list, but the Sunday game could be an open affair, no?

      • Show Me Bobs
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 1 Year
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Play Digne or Cash this week?
        Leaning towards Digne because he seems much more involved. Cash with a lucky break on 2 goals?

    2. Boom XhakaLacaSaka
      • 5 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      0.3 itb 1FT

      Pickford
      Colwill Chilwell Estu
      Salah Saka Rashford Eze
      Jackson Haaland Pedro

      Turner Cash Kabore Anderson

      A) Roll
      B) Pedro > Archer
      C) Rashford + Pedro > Maddison + Alvarez (-4)

      1. Mayor of Flair
        • 10 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Roll

    3. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Martinelli or Rashford out for Sterling?

      Will be using WC in the international break so it's just for the GW4 fixture.

      1. Mayor of Flair
        • 10 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Martinelli

      2. Tonyawesome69
        • 5 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        For a 1GW punt, are you not considering Bowen v Luton?

      3. RoelDw
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Martinelli

      4. antis0cial
        • 8 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        1 week I’d go Bowen

    4. Mayor of Flair
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Good looking WC?

      Sanchez
      Estu Chillwell Tripper
      Saka Bruno Maddison Sterling Diaby
      Haaland Wissa

      Turner Isak Baldock Bell

      Thanks!

      1. Old Man
        • 13 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Baldock might be off to Turkey. Personally I wouldn't have Isak - the Champions League beckons and Wilson will get many more starts than now. Areola instead of Turner?

        1. Mayor of Flair
          • 10 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Cool thanks

    5. RoelDw
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      1 year, 1 month ago

      Start Watkins (LIV) or Wissa (BOU)?

      1. Old Man
        • 13 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        You must have a strong attack - I'd start both those.

        1. RoelDw
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Then I'll need to drop any of
          Saka Eze Rashford Sterling Diaby

          1. Old Man
            • 13 Years
            1 year, 1 month ago

            Eze is a nice player - very easy on the eye. He's also probably the one I'd bench as CP are not very creative. Either him or Rashford - it's quite possible Arteta might see sense and play Gabriel. But difficult, so good luck wit your choice.

            1. RoelDw
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 10 Years
              1 year, 1 month ago

              Thanks man!

      2. Tonyawesome69
        • 5 Years
        1 year, 1 month ago

        Let's see the rest of your team

        1. RoelDw
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          1 year, 1 month ago

          Onana
          Estu Chillwell Akanji
          Saka Eze Rashford Sterling Diaby
          Haaland Wissa

          Turner Watkins Saliba Kaboré