Scout Reports

Moving Target – Gylfi Sigurdsson

Everton’s extensive summer rebuilding programme took its latest, and perhaps most significant, twist as the club finally confirmed the signing of Gylfi Sigurdsson from Swansea City.

The announcement ended several months of speculation and, presumably, protracted negotiations between the two clubs with the Icelander agreeing a five-year contract for an undisclosed fee. It is widely reported that Everton have paid up to £45 million for Sigurdsson’s services.

That is a remarkable fee for a player previously left out in the cold at Tottenham Hotspur, only to return to south Wales and dramatically rekindle his form from the 2014/15 campaign onwards. Ultimately, that renaissance has inspired Everton’s relentless pursuit.

His new manager, Ronald Koeman, could not have sounded more delighted to have finally sealed the deal.

“We don’t sign one player who will score 25 goals but we need several players around our striker to get that number. He is one of those productive players – he’s shown that at Swansea and also in the past. In my opinion, in his position, he is one of the best in the Premier League.”

The History

Born in Reykjavik, Sigurdsson’s big break came when he joined Reading in 2005 at the age of 16.

He progressed to make his professional debut in a League Cup tie against Luton Town in August 2008.

After taking in loan spells at Shrewsbury Town and Crewe Alexandra, Sigurdsson enjoyed a breakthrough season for Reading in 2009/10, registering 20 goals and 10 assists over 44 matches in all competitions.

Those performances led to a move to German side Hoffenheim, but after producing nine goals and three assists in 29 league outings in the 2010/11 campaign, he fell out of favour.

He joined Swansea on loan for the second half of the 2011/12 season before signing for Spurs on a permanent basis in July 2012.

Sigurdsson struggled for first-team opportunities at White Hart Lane though, totalling just eight goals and five assists over two seasons.

The midfielder moved to Swansea as part of the deal which took Ben Davies and Michel Vorm to Spurs ahead of the 2014/15 campaign.

He has been a key figure for the Swans over the past three seasons, registering 27 goals and 27 assists from 106 league matches.

He claimed nine goals and 13 assists in 2016/17, along with 18 Fantasy Premier League (FPL) bonus points. Indeed, Sigurdsson has scored 18 or more bonus points over each of the last three seasons.

After representing Iceland at U17, U19 and U21 levels, Sigurdsson made his senior debut against Andorra in May 2010.

He has made 50 appearances for his national side, tallying 15 goals and nine assists.

The Prospects

There is no question that Sigurdsson was prime Fantasy talent during his spell at the Liberty Stadium.

His game is ideally suited to Fantasy Football as a player who always provides an end product, either through his own threat on goal or via his substantial creative influence on the team.

Sigurdsson has been quick to underline this in his first interview with his new club.

“For myself, I would like to score as many goals as possible and create as many goals for my team-mates as I can. These are my targets.”

Statistically, Koeman is spot on – Everton have signed one the best players in the Premier League and they have been quick to underline this by rolling out an impressive list of significant metrics.

Among them is the fact that Sigurdsson has been directly involved – scored or assisted – 53 goals since the start of the 2014-15 season; that is second only to Spurs’ Christian Eriksen among midfielders. However, Everton exclude Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez in that statement – the Chilean has been involved in an incredible 75 goals over his last three seasons. But we can surely forgive Sigurdsson for failing to rival that figure.

Indeed, his contribution to the Swansea cause since 2014/15 was quite incredible.

He was involved in – scored or assisted – 42.5% of their goals on his return to the club, and that rate increased to 44% the season after. In 2016/17 things stepped up yet again – Sigurdsson played a part in 50% of the Swans’ goals when on the pitch.

Set-pieces played a major role in that influence and his prospects at Everton will surely be dependent on his responsibilities in this area.

At Swansea, the Icelander enjoyed a monopoly on free-kicks, corners and, crucially, penalties. He has scored three spot-kicks in each of the past two seasons, while he assisted a league-high eight goals direct from deal-ball situations in 2016/17.

Only West Bromwich Albion (22) and Chelsea (20) scored from goals from set-plays than Swansea (17) last season, with much of that attributed to the quality of the midfielder’s delivery.

This could be particularly significant to fellow new boy Michael Keane – a major threat from set-pieces, his 22 efforts inside the box was just three off Marcos Alonso’s 25 among FPL defenders.

While Sigurdsson will perhaps face far more competition for these roles at Goodison Park, Koeman has already stressed what his new signing can offer.

“Gylfi is one of those players like Rooney, a quality player who knows a lot in the Premier League. He will also be an important player in our set plays. He is what we need to find that balance in the team.”

In the Gameweek 1 victory over Stoke City, it was Rooney who took four of the Toffees’ six corners, with Sandro Ramirez and Kevin Mirallas behind the others.

Leighton Baines also provides a left-footed option and he, along with the aforementioned trio, are all rivals for direct free-kick duties. As for penalties, it’s surely Rooney who is most likely to vie with Sigurdsson.

However, Sigurdsson’s cultured right foot means he should move to the front of the queue. If that dominance at Swansea translates to his new surrounds, there can be no question that his potential – even with a price hiked to 8.5 in FPL and 10.4 in Sky Sports – is exceptional.

Koeman’s plans for Sigurdsson’s position could also be significant.

Tactically, the Dutchman is very flexible. Against Stoke City in Gameweek 1 he started with a 3-5-2 formation, before switching to a 4-3-3 when it became apparent that his set-up was being nullified by the Potters.

Koeman has also favoured a 4-2-3-1 system in the past, but with Rooney, Davy Klaassen and Sigurdsson all stronger in central areas, something may have to give.

Again, the Everton boss has highlighted his options with Sigurdsson on his arrival.

“Gylfi can play in different positions. He can play in midfield, he can play as a number 10 and he can also play in a free role on the side – they are the two or three positions that we will use him.”

Gylfi Sigurdsson – Touches – 2016/17
members

Assessing Sigurdsson’s touch map from last season, it is clear that he operated on the left of a front three. He could fulfil a similar role at Everton in a 4-2-3-1 formation, or, as Koeman indicates, he could be trusted in the number 10 role, perhaps behind Rooney as a lone striker.

Equally, a 4-3-2-1 may allow Koeman to deploy Rooney and Sigurdsson in central positions, with Sandro perhaps completing the attacking trident either as a lone striker or alongside Sigurdsson behind Rooney.

Significantly, with Koeman remarking on Everton’s lack of a “25-goal” striker, it is very likely that Sigurdsson will be handed a role that will harness his own goal scoring ability. He will surely look to the Icelander, along with Rooney and perhaps Sandro, to aim for a 15-goal return over the season.

However, Sigurdsson’s contribution in terms of goals and assists may ultimately be more dependent on the allocation of set-pieces than his position in the line-up.

He is such an expert practitioner that should he monopolise matters for Everton and also seize penalty-taking duties, we could reasonably expect Sigurdsson to replicate or better his rate of goals, assists and points at Swansea City.

The immediate enthusiasm for Sigurdsson is calmed by an evil run of opponents over the next four Gameweeks.

Everton are about to embark on a brutal stretch (mci che TOT mun), affording us the opportunity to assess the attacking freedom he is granted and where the team’s dead-ball responsibilities lie.

Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that the playmaker was almost fixture-proof last season. Seven of his nine goals came against all but one of the top eight sides – Spurs were the only exception.

From Gameweek 7, Koeman’s men experience an outstanding run of opponents right up to Gameweek 21 – the deadline for the first FPL Wildcard. Everton appear to face just three stern tests during this spell – Arsenal (GW9) and Chelsea (GW19) at Goodison Park, along with a Gameweek 16 Merseyside derby.

If Sigurdsson settles into a prominent attacking role and is armed with a full suite of set-pieces, he will be installed as a hot property for this run.

The Goodison Park match against Bournemouth in Gameweek 6 is perhaps the first time we seriously consider Sigurdsson for our squads.

Having overcome mediocrity and relegation struggles to shine at Swansea, we should expect Sigurdsson to make progress.

For the first time as a Fantasy asset, he could deliver double-digits for both goals and assists. If he achieves that, he will push himself on to the periphery of heavy-hitter status and begin to rival the contributions from Christian Eriksen, Dele Alli and Kevin De Bruyne.

Sigurdsson has the talent and, at Everton, perhaps now the stage to take the next step as a Premier League player and Fantasy darling.

His departure from Swansea could dent the prospects of Fernando Llorente, however. In terms of assists to goalscorers in last season’s top flight, no pairing bettered Sigurdsson and Llorente (six), which was on a par with Spurs’ Eriksen and Harry Kane.

The Swans have been heavily linked with West Brom’s Nacer Chadli (6.0) as Clement looks to reinvest, though it remains to be seen whether the Belgian could flourish in anywhere near the same manner.

Further Reference

Gylfi Sigurdsson Wikipedia

Gylfi Sigurdsson Transfer Markt Page

Gylfi Sigurdsson 2016/17 You Tube Highlights

1,336 Comments Post a Comment
  1. KLOPPS AND ROBBERS... the s…
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Zanka or Lowe from Huddersfield?

    1. KLOPPS AND ROBBERS... the s…
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Hello top of the page 🙂

    2. Evasivo
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I'm a fan of Lowe personally

    3. arndff_
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Lowe

  2. Helia
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    When Son is in the spurs team... do they play a different formation? or do Alli and Eriksen shuffle abit, e.g. Eriksen drop deeper or Alli more central etc?

    1. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Yep. Different formation.

    2. Eden ACCOUNT CLOSED
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      4-2-3-1 Son plays in the 3, though Sissoko started ahead in GW1.
      3-4-2-1 Son misses out, though occasionally played LWB.

    3. Respect My Authoritah
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      4-2-3-1 with Eriksen and Son wide

    4. Bollemuza
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Hopefully when Rose and Trippier is back we go back to a 3-4-3 with Alderwireld, Vert, Dier at the back. As soon as that happens im getting Trippier. He´s gong to feed kane/alli/son with assists

  3. rnrd
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    I am a Salah and Lukaku owner from the start but am considering KDB as a captain this WE. Is it non-sense to you?

    1. Helia
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Hard to judge when kdb is going to explode. id just stick to kaku

    2. FER FUSCH AKE
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      no, city might haul big time

    3. Luca Toni
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Yes.. As FPL is not about the best player in team but player who can contribute points and KDB that's always a risk..
      E.g. Matic was MOM in United win over WHM ..

      1. rnrd
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        well KDB assists records proves he can contribute big time. No possible comparison with Matic

        1. Luca Toni
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Yes he can.. i was talking with respect to Options you have ...
          He is not the only designated player for set pieces or penalties .... eventually its all about luck on that day and it can well turn out a big differential...

        2. ☻ Jon Snow ☻
          • 8 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          He might share the points with Silva

    4. arndff_
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Im going with Kaku for (C) again

  4. The Red Devil
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Mounie + Pogba
    Or
    Rashford + mooy

    First seems better to me
    Both players nailed

    1. @BigChrisso
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      A

      if you must have a man u mid why not mhki over pog?

    2. Hasselbaink Forever - Defoe…
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      A

    3. arndff_
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      A

  5. Brownie2976
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    How's this team looking guys

    Foster elliot

    Marriappa Yoshida zanka jones davies

    Salah eriksen de bruyne mkyi Carroll
    Lukaku firmino mounie

    1. Luca Toni
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Why marriapa is there ?

      1. @BigChrisso
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        You read my mind

        1. Luca Toni
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Yeah .. i forgot him post his Reading days...

          1. Ruud Gullit..Nowhere
            • 6 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            Was a decent player back then.

      2. Brownie2976
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Frees up 0.5m and I plan to play 3 at the back. Any suggestions to strengthen my team

  6. Z
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    For FPL Draft:

    A. Keep Sandro
    B. Mounie
    C. King
    D. Rodriguez
    E. Vokes

    1. The Wizard of Ozil
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      B or C imo.

    2. Hasselbaink Forever - Defoe…
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      C

    3. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      B or C

      Probably c > b > e > a > d

      I don't think Sandro is going to score many...

      1. Third Eye Vision
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        14 goals in La Liga last season from 30 appearances. Took him 30 seconds to score in the Sevilla friendly a couple of weeks ago. He's definitely got potential.

  7. @BigChrisso
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Looking forward to a Jesus Hatty Monday night (C)

    1. Luca Toni
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      i thought about it and went with Firminho ..
      backfired big time in last GW >.

      1. @BigChrisso
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        In doubling down on him. Great record at Etihad last season before injury.

  8. Pegboy
    • 13 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Now that Fabregas has dropped 0.1m, I'm tempted to roll the transfer and play Carroll.

    Foster (Elliot)
    Bavies Kolasinac Yoshida Cedric (4.0)
    Eriksen Richie Carroll (Fabregas Chalobah)
    Jesus (c) Kane Lukaku

    a) Bench Fab
    b) Fab > Tadic
    c) Fab > Matic Richie > Mkhi (-4) or free next week
    d) other

    1. Midlands Saint73
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I am benching Fab, he will come good over the course of the season.

      1. hannibalos
        • 14 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        I will do the same. He is the only descent mid at 7M along with Lanzini (injured) from West Ham and Wijnaldum from Liverpool. Of course if he loses his place to Bakayoko then we will have to think what we will do but Fab is crazy, even in 20 minutes as a sub he can produce many assists

  9. Turns
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Who to swap Zaha for?

    (a) Ritchie (1m ITB)
    (b) Atsu (2m ITB for upgrading Willian in GW3)
    (c) Redmond
    (d) Tadic
    (e) Keep Zaha

    1. ☻ Jon Snow ☻
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Atsu

    2. @BigChrisso
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      F). Walters

    3. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Atsu, but I'm not a big fan and depends on the rest of the team. Playing Atsu every week is going to be painful.

      1. Page 302
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Thing is, Atsu is so cheap that you could rotate him with any old 4.5 defender.

    4. Baz
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      D

  10. Eden ACCOUNT CLOSED
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    No option but to (C) Lukaku this week.
    Swansea conceded 29 shots to Southampton (Yes that renowned high scoring team).
    I predict a bloodbath for Swans.

    1. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I'd captain Jesus, Kun, Kane and probably some Liverpool midfielders before Lukaku. And I have him.

      1. White Hart Kane
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        How come

        1. Luca Toni
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Law of averages 😛 😛 ...

        2. Pegboy
          • 13 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          I think Clement will shut up shop, sit deep and Utd don't have the creativity to unpick teams. Don't be fooled by West Ham's pitiful defence.

          I can see the counter argument though. I just reckon the others have a better chance of scoring more.

          1. Eden ACCOUNT CLOSED
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            That's BS mate - He did this versus Soton and still conceded 29 shots....that's not an arguement.

            1. Pegboy
              • 13 Years
              6 years, 7 months ago

              Fair enough if you disagree with it. Did you watch the full game and see how defensively they set up and the quality of opportunities they conceeded? I haven't seen the full 90mins so can't comment.

          2. Make Arrows Green Again
            • 7 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            It's their first home game of the season. Digging in for an unlikely 0-0 when the fans will not be happy as it is with the sale of Siggy isn't really an option for them. I think they will see it as a bit of a free hit and have a go.

      2. Eden ACCOUNT CLOSED
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        I've learned my lesson after Jesus (C) last week

        1. @BigChrisso
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          You have lost faith in Jesus

      3. Geriatric Unathletic
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Do you enjoy dropping down your leagues like a stone?

    2. arndff_
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Kaku is the man

  11. FER FUSCH AKE
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    how do I delete my draft team? Gave up on it before I even started.

  12. White Hart Kane
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Is it safe enough having no Arsenal coverage at the moment?

    1. Luca Toni
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      nothing is safe .however no one looks like who would explode and all big teams are firing .

    2. FER FUSCH AKE
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      but of course. there are better players from other teams. This coverage shi* is nonsense.

    3. Dannyb
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I haven't got any and I'm not worried tbh.

    4. rnrd
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I think it's safe until the sanchez case is sorted out
      If Sanchez is no sold before the end of the market and that Arsenal is in the top 3 at this point, Sanchez will dive right into the battle and that will be scenes imo.
      He's not the kind of guy that sulks as a girlfriend more than 2 days

  13. BobBradleysOpportunity
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    start stephens or PVA?

    1. arndff_
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Stephens

    2. Buck The Trent
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      S

    3. @BigChrisso
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Why pay for PVA's attacking threat and bench him? Madness

    4. slamdunk
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Stephens

  14. nonofyourbuisness
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    what are peoples thoughts on leicester defenders ? Thinking for future gameweeks as well ?

    1. arndff_
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Maguire is a good pick imo

      1. Pegboy
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Agree. And Simpson looks underpriced. Fixtures are too off putting at the moment though.

  15. arndff_
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Does anyone know how many goals Lukaku has scored vs Swansea in his career?

    1. Nailed Jesus
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Should be a factor imo. Swansea played with many different defenders/managers over the years. Lukaku played with inferiors midfielders behind him.

      1. Nailed Jesus
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        *shouldn't

    2. Luca Toni
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Everton last won against Swansea in 13-14 season so i am assuming not much ..

    3. FER FUSCH AKE
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Wikipedia

    4. makaveli123
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Check the hot topic. Poor form against them, but now he's playing for a better team.

  16. Waxys
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    David Silva is another KDB

    1. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Just 2m cheaper a bargain!

      1. FER FUSCH AKE
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        why do you post and then answer yourself?

      2. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        What is your side ways?

        1. Eze Really?
          • 9 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Waxys

    2. BobBradleysOpportunity
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      not on set pieces, scores a few less goals, but yeah probably better value

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        He actually is on corners occasionally though

    3. Comment removed. Please refer to our terms and conditions on posting comments.

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        If you bothered to read pep's interview he said he will deploy David silva and KDB together against teams that play deep.

        Also check his minutes last season he won plahernkf tje season pep favours him.

        For all we know KDB is an equal rotation risk with him

        1. Comment removed. Please refer to our terms and conditions and be courteous to other posters.

          1. Waxys
            • 6 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            Meh calm down lol.

            Pep had no problem benching KDB a few times last season.

            0 evidence he won't be rotated too when champions league kicks in

            1. Eden ACCOUNT CLOSED
              • 8 Years
              6 years, 7 months ago

              Rotation is different to his position in the XI being at risk...Silva could lose his spot, KDB could not.

              1. Waxys
                • 6 Years
                6 years, 7 months ago

                Silva won't lose his spot

      2. RLukaku
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Calm down mate

        1. Comment removed. Please refer to our terms and conditions on posting comments.

    4. FDMS All Starz
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Won't play week in week out, Bernardo silva will challenge for his place

      1. Waxys
        • 6 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Pep didn't name Bernardo silva as a midfield player

    5. J0E
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Just a reminder to posters to be courteous to each other.

      Posts that are insulting or abusive will be removed.

  17. Give The Todd Some Love
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Are Sane owners keeping for now?

    1. Luca Toni
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Avoid .. he won't be a regular starter with the options available unless he explodes in one of the sub appearances..

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Well the owners can't avoid him.

    2. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Surely there can't be many.

      1. Give The Todd Some Love
        • 12 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Didn't really pay attention in preseason, assumed he'd get loads of minutes because he was brilliant last season.

        Clearly I was wrong

        1. Rupert The Horse
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Yeah if you weren't on here much pre season then fair play but he wasn't in anyones team due to us all believing they'd play 2 up top, which indeed the case is.

  18. Live Lad
    • 9 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Any one against my idea to get Ince as Zaha's replacement?
    Not convinced by Ramsey. He will be good a few GWs from now but by then I will be using my WC. Have JWP so no more Saint.

    1. @BigChrisso
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Do it. Be a shepherd not a sheep

      1. Live Lad
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks mate!

    2. Exdeo
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I don't mind

      1. Live Lad
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Cheers buddy

  19. Rupert The Horse
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Costa has released a statement saying he's not coming back to Chelsea and only wants to play for Athletico Madrid.

    1. Waxys
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Haven't we known this for a while?

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        We thought it, but for it to be official is a bit out of order.

        1. Give The Todd Some Love
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Don't understand why Conte hates him so much, he was told months ago that he wasn't in his plans. He's a great striker.

          1. Rupert The Horse
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            Yeah I just don't know what its all about. He was an integral part in that team last year. Well something must have happened.

  20. Where dahoud at
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    My gameweek 2 team

    Foster

    Ake, yoshida, dann

    De bruyne, salah, pogba, willian

    Kane, (vc) lukaku (c) j. Rodriguez

    Please leave me a rating and suggestions

    1. Exdeo
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      not bad, relax and enjoy GW2

    2. The Wizard of Ozil
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Really like it. 8.5/10. Dann could be a threat from set pieces too VS pool.

    3. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      7/10, but hard to comment without see bench, £ITB, number of transfers used etc.

      Defence looks weak. I'd prefer Mounie over JRod. Willian might need shipping next week when he becomes a major rotation risk.

  21. 3-4-3 is too inflexible
    The Rumour Mill
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Formatting fail above! 2nd attempt lol.

    Bench flexibility in formation selection

    This was something which occurred to me in pre season as a consideration, but has now come to the forefront of my thinking due to the likely injury to Simon Francis, who is in my team.

    When selecting your formation prior to the start of the season, one factor that can be overlooked is that of flexibility. Flexibility is useful at any point of the season, but I think it can be the biggest ally at the start of the season, when information is at its most starved. As well as not knowing which teams and players are in and out of form, there are often team sheet surprises, as well as the usual factors which can happen throughout the season like injuries and suspensions. It appears to me that the most common formation in FPL, 3-4-3, particularly one which employs a non playing 4.0 defender on the bench, is especially inflexible at the start of a season.

    By effectively writing off one position (5th defender), you only have a pool of 4 players to choose from, for a position where 3 players must be on the pitch. This means that as soon as there is an unexpected defensive rotation or injury, you are forced into your 4th defender autosubbing on (wherever he is positioned on your bench), who may have a dreadful fixture, or be in poor form. At this point getting just 2 points from him would be considered a success.

    But by selecting an initial squad of 15 likely starters (i.e. no 4.0 non playing defender), you are immediately giving yourself more options for your bench. Furthermore, by playing 4-4-2, 4-3-3, or a number of other formations, you can actually order your bench in the order you want them to come on, and not be at the mercy of meeting FPL’s formation rules. If you have a bench of players from different teams, you can even play the fixtures to an extent here.

    Furthermore, and getting back to my initial point on Simon Francis, this flexibility can extend beyond the gameweek in question. It can enable you to wait for further information on an injury, or even roll free transfers, which is especially useful at the start of a season (as highlighted by Mark on last week’s scoutcast). I.e. I’m quite happy to have Francis in my team for GW2, but if he doesn’t play, equally happy for my first bench player ( a midfielder, in my case) to play instead.

    Of course all this depends on the FPL season in question. Last year we had Amat as a playing 4.0 defender, making 3-4-3 safer; and in future seasons we may have a playing 4.5 striker emerge in pre season, which makes 4-4-2 even more viable.

    1. @BigChrisso
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      You didn't just repost this did you?

      Oh the humanity!

      1. FER FUSCH AKE
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        almost got killed for this yesterday.

        1. @BigChrisso
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          For reposting a lengthy post on the same page or calling someone out for doing so??

    2. Exdeo
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Holy Jesus, you have a lot of patience

    3. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Conciseness was more the issue than formatting.

    4. Make Arrows Green Again
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      It's all perfectly sensible and informative. Thanks.

    5. J0E
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I'll delete the original - lack of paragraphs may have caused the site to crash if left up for too long 😉

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks Jonty, much appreciated! 🙂

    6. Ruth_NZ
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I have never owned a 4.0m non-playing defender and probably never will. So I guess I agree with you. 😉

      The 4.0m non-player is dead budget. You are essentially playing with 96m and 14 players. For 0.5m more you can have a rotation option and (as you say) a better constructed bench. Even if you only start that player one week in five, at least that 4.5m is working for you. Better that than 4.0m dead.

      Lots of managers run into problems with injuries over the season and are sometimes forced into transfers or even hits as a result. If they are only playing with a 14-man squad to start with (in effect) then they deserve all they get in my opinion. 🙂

      1. Make Arrows Green Again
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Rational as always, Ruth

      2. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Cheers Ruth, agreed. It took me personally a while to appreciate this reality though 😛

      3. joey
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        I always have a 4m defender, ideally one that will play bit if not one that won't drop in value like Rangel might. For me that's still getting value from my budget. As you say you may only play them once in 5 weeks, in those weeks that's the difference between (for example) Yoshida/Stephens and Bertrand. There are probably other examples that work better but essentially you are asking your 4.5m defender to score in one week the difference between a 5 and a 5.5m defender over the course of 5 weeks or so.

        I can see the value in it but I always try and get as much money out on the pitch, especially at the beginning of the season when the budget is tightest.

        1. Ruth_NZ
          • 9 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Yeah, early season before the 1st wildcard is the time when it makes most sense. You always have the wildcard to rescue you. I'd never do it after the 1st wildcard though.

      4. Amateur Pundit Zan
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        It comes down to what that last 0.5 buys you.
        1) a 4.5m defender you include in a rotation (every 4th or 5th game max given you would sacrifice your least useful defender if getting a 4m) + the small risk you need to rely on them.
        2) a 0.5m more expensive player than you would have otherwise had who you play every week.

        It's obviously going to vary with the specific players in question but I would say it's generally better to invest the money in your first team though it does come with some risks.

    7. Make Arrows Green Again
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      By the way, this is the joy of 5-2-3. You can have three regular starters as bench fodder for 4.5 each.

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Good point. A number of the 4.5 midfielders this year appear to be nailed on, some of them even work quite nicely in fixture rotation with one another (although rotation of attackers is always tougher to call than that of defenders)

    8. GreenWindmill
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Yeah, I don't think I've ever knowingly selected a non-starter (has happened through poor judgment once or twice though!)

      This season I have two 4.5 defenders and two 4.5 midfielders and I choose which one (or more) to play each week. Expecting to go with 3-4-3 most weeks but will look afresh each GW. That's the plan anyway, will see how long I persist before changing structure.

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Haha yeah we've all been there on occasion!

        Yeah same structure for me too, I'm aware a change in my team structure may come with Hazard's return to the Chelsea team though, as a Willian owner.

        1. GreenWindmill
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          I have Willian too - guess we've gone through similar thought processes pre-season!

          1. The Rumour Mill
            • 7 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            Haha must have done! Thats reassuring given your season history! 🙂

      2. alexmj
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Same here, I've got Carroll, RLC, Daniels, Lowe and Mee rotating. Playing 2/5 and 3/5 if another defender has a tough fixture.

        Gives great fixtures all the way to Christmas.

        1. The Rumour Mill
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Very nice. I might have missed a trick by selecting 2 x 4.5 from the same team (Swansea). Ah well, one to remember post wildcard and for next season! Good luck for the weekend, Daniels, Mee and Lowe starting for you this week I'm assuming?

          1. alexmj
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            Yes and benching Alonso at Spurs.

    9. FFPro
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      One of the main reasons I went with 433 with Kolas over a 6mil mid is this. I have Tom Carroll as my first sub always. Better than a 4.5 def who may have an awful fixture and get subbed in for negative points.

      1. FFPro
        • 9 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Rotating Daniels and T Carroll between 433 and 343.

        I think Mark is doing something similar with Daniels Fraser & Carroll Tammy between 442 and 343

        1. The Rumour Mill
          • 7 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Yeah exactly, I went with Kolasinic too, certainly celebrated that assist last Friday! Swansea and Bournemouth rotate quite nicely don't they? As I was saying above though I might have overdone it owning both Naughton and Carroll. Going to go with Romeo as first sub this week, West Ham looked pretty bad last week and Romeo wasn't far of getting bonus points.

          1. Philman
            • 14 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            But Pro still has a 4m non-playing defender 🙂

            1. The Rumour Mill
              • 7 Years
              6 years, 7 months ago

              Good spot 🙂 But its less of an issue in a flexible 4-3-3 than in an inflexible 3-4-3. I think through composing my post and seeing the replies, its the combo of inflexible 3-4-3 combined with 4.0 defender that I see as being especially risky.

    10. Jamie_GAWA
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I'm not gonna change formation so every now and then I get a decent sub coming on instead of my 4th defender or Carroll.

    11. Gregor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Ideally I'd want three good defenders in my team then two decent ones who rotate well on the bench to come in as and when necessary

    12. djpete
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Works with a 352 as well. Francis, Carroll and Quaner on my bench.
      Shouldn't need to transfer out Francis straight away...

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        I'm hoping Francis is fit to play, he wasn't completely ruled out in the press conference today, which is better news than I was expecting to be honest!

        1. djpete
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          I'm not sure I want to gamble with him to be honest, so I'm opting for Carroll on the pitch, dropped Lowton, and sticking with the 352 this week.

    13. DantheManinaPan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Or, we play 3-4-3 with a starting defender as sub, a starting mid as sub, and when one gets injured, replace. Flexibility is still possible if you buy players in the right price ranges

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Very true. Buying players where there are many options at their price points is another key part of flexability, especially if you leave 0.5 itb to not be a slave to price rises and falls

    14. Biancazzurri
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Good point, but it's done now... so many of us Long benchers will just keep dodging the bullets until WC.

    15. Strangelove
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Great post...and I'll have to remember this as I'm still learning about tactics in fpl... especially on using chips. A flexible bench with likely starters is a real boon when using the bench boost chip... I always seem to overlook this!!

      1. rocrocodile
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        You might want to save that BB chip till right after a WC anyway.

      2. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks 🙂 Yeah you certainly want a playing bench when bench boosting. As Rocrocodile says below, if you play it straight after a wildcard you will give yourself the best chance, as hopefully you will have selected 15 playing players in your wildcard the week before. It is also wise to use it in double gameweeks where you are effectively getting 2 rolls of the dice rather than one!

    16. Philman
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I would say I disagree, but that would be harsh. It just depends how you want to play the game.

      We all know that every 0.5m is really useful when selecting a GW1 squad. I therefore want to spend as little as possible on a player that will be rooted to 3rd on my bench.

      This only becomes as issue if two of the remaining 4 defender become injured/don't start. Spending 0.5m more on a 5th def may only give you a player that scores 1/2 points anyway, and if you are in the situation of losing 2 defenders, you can always use an FT on a defender rather than an attacker. FTs are not exclusively for mids and forwards. You can then bring in a good defender based on knowledge of form and fixtures at that time.

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        More than one way to skin a cat 🙂

        Thats true, but if just one becomes injured, then it forces you to autosub the 4th defender, who may have a bad fixture. Thats the main thrust of my argument really. I'm totally with you regarding your point on FT's though.

        I think you raise an interesting point on budget too, would you always try to spend all the 100m on your squad? I think another useful way to be flexible at the start of the season is by saving a little money itb.

    17. Jafalad
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      This is all common sense but the plain fact of the matter is that your 2nd and 3rd subs rarely garner many points as someone pointed out in pre-season after totalling their subs' scores for last season.

      I found something similar. 4.0s are needed more as enablers more than anything else. How often did we play Amat?

      Once - maybe twice - and then returned to the bench.

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Fair point. Just depends how much risk mitigation you want to build in to your squad really!

    18. Ryan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      It has nothing to do with formation. More to do with having a non player. I play 343 but every player is a starter and I can rotate as I wish. Extremely flexible formation so long as there is no 'bench fodder'. As soon as a 4m non player is selected you put yourself at risk.

    19. Forza
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I use 3-4-3 and all five of my defenders are nailed on, and often four have decent fixtures. Because of that, I'd almost always rather have my fourth defender come on instead of Carroll. Even with an injured Lejeune, I have Alexander-Arnold as a very nice first sub this week.

      Your issue is with crap fourth/fifth defenders, not formations.

  22. Waxys
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Everton boss Ronald Koeman refuses to rule out deal for Chelsea outcast Diego Costa

    #Everton top 4

    1. willl
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      #RooneyBenched

    2. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Short term loan move is the only possible option. No way would he choose them as a permanent option over Madrid.

    3. @BigChrisso
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      @bigchrisso refuses to rule out a donut with his coffee.
      Does anyone think he'll go for it?

      Hate reports like this in the media, something from nothing, mere click bait imo.

  23. Emp
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    anyone know what press statements are out today?

    1. Emp
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      rather which managers are doing pressers today i should say...

    2. noquarternt
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Day before the game innit...probably tomorrow

  24. supersham
    • 12 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Anyone know whats happening with Danilo? Likely to be dropped once Mendey is fit?

    1. Annie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      yes

    2. Exdeo
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Pep knows

    3. Speédy
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Yes, he's backup to Mendy

  25. thom830g
    • 6 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Start Atsu or Gabbiadini this weekend? Think Atsu looked like the only dangerous thing coming from Newcastle and with Gabbiadini's playing time in doubt?

    Rest of the team is:

    DDG
    Kompany - Bertrand - Daniels - Davies
    KDB - Salah - Willian - (?)
    Kaku - Jesus - (?)

    Elliot - Carroll - Long

    1. Exdeo
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Atsu

    2. Live Lad
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      I will still start Gabbi.

  26. FDMS All Starz
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    If kane blanks this week and Jesus gets a goal or two then this is what I'm doing:

    Kane & Mounie --> Firmino & Jesus

    ...having in mind I have Alli

    1. Exdeo
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      and then get ready for Kane's hatty against Burnley

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Yep, thats why I'm hoping he blanks. Every penny counts, and it would be nice to have him for that hattie while he has low ownership.

      2. FDMS All Starz
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        But over the season, I see Jesus & firmino scoring more points than kane & mounie

        1. Rupert The Horse
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          6 years, 7 months ago

          Oh come on, Mounie has played one game and now you predict what he scores over the season. Typical.

          1. FDMS All Starz
            • 8 Years
            6 years, 7 months ago

            Bro I'm basing it on previous seasons, you are just saying that because Mounie is a new player, let's just say J.rod then instead of Mounie, both 6M...I know we don't know mounie' potential but this is an assumption based on his price.

    2. Speédy
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      And then Kane scores a Hattie against Burnley

    3. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Sweet, I'm hoping he blanks.

    4. Gooner Kebab
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      certainly hope so - i have jesus and if jesus blanks he'd drop.

    5. Just a fountain
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Im concerned Jesus may drop before Monday.. No patience around here after Saturday/Sunday results..

    6. @FPLMason
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Before Burnley at home?

  27. klavan
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Zaha to
    A) Atsu
    B) Ritchie
    C) Ince
    D) JWP

    1. Speédy
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Ramsey

      1. klavan
        • 7 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        Want to free up some funds

  28. EL_FENOMENO
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    If we take out KDB who is City's most assured starter and fpl gold ?

    1. Exdeo
      • 9 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Jesus

    2. thom830g
      • 6 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Jesus

    3. noquarternt
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Aguero

    4. Kun Tozser
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Walker

  29. flipperallstars
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Zaha to Ritchie or atsu is a tricky one, the latter great bed me £2mto upgrade elsewhere next week. What is the favourite pick at present and reasons?

    1. J0E
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Depends on the team. On paper I think Ritchie will be most involved - if we think Newcastle will score.

      But for team flexibility Atsu offers the chance for a substantial upgrade elsewhere - plus he's a good player for a team with good fixt.

  30. Alexis Nonsense
    • 8 Years
    6 years, 7 months ago

    Who has the best frontline this year?

    Haz - Morata - Willian/Pedro

    Jesus - de Bruyne/Silva - Aguero

    Ozil - Lacazette - Sanchez

    Mhki - Lukaku - Pogba

    Alli - Kane - Eriksen

    Salah - Firmino - Mané

    1. FER FUSCH AKE
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      SFM

    2. FPL ZB
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 7 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Gross Murray Knockaert

    3. noquarternt
      • 8 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      Pogba is hardly 'front line'

      1. Alexis Nonsense
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        No, not de bruyne or Ozil either, but they'll be part of the attack

      2. Alexis Nonsense
        • 8 Years
        6 years, 7 months ago

        I forgot that Man U dont have a front line, they have Lukaku and 9 defenders

    4. lilmessipran
      • 11 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      OLS

    5. boc610
      • 12 Years
      6 years, 7 months ago

      SFM