Team News
9 April 2018 3327 comments
James H James H
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Danny Welbeck is the main beneficiary as Arsene Wenger rotates heavily once again ahead of European action, while even Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is hooked early.

Jurgen Klopp also makes significant teamsheet alterations with one eye on Liverpool’s Champions League trip to Man City on Tuesday.

Elsewhere, Andreas Christensen’s run of five league starts comes to an untimely end, while an injury to Christian Benteke allows Wilfried Zaha to profit from a move up front as Crystal Palace draw Bournemouth.

Here’s part one of Line-up Lessons, assessing the teamsheets and formations from the Gameweek 33 matches, with one eye on what’s to come from the midweek European matches and beyond.

Arsenal

Starting XI: Cech; Bellerin (Holding 75), Mustafi, Chambers, Kolasinac; Elneny, Xhaka; Nelson (Wilshere 64), Iwobi, Welbeck; Aubameyang (Lacazette 72). Subs not used: Macey, Ozil, Monreal, Nketiah.

  • What we saw: Arsene Wenger again decided to rotate for the home fixture against Southampton which was sandwiched in between Europa League matches against CSKA Moscow. Sead Kolasinac started in place of Nacho Monreal at left-back, while there were again no starting spots for Laurent Koscielny and Aaron Ramsey in the Premier League. Reiss Nelson (right), Alex Iwobi (No 10) and Danny Welbeck (left) formed the attacking midfield trio in the 4-2-3-1 formation behind lone striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The introduction of Jack Wilshere in the No 10 role saw Iwobi move onto the right wing.
  • What we learned: With Sunday’s trip to Newcastle coming just three days after the second leg in Russia, we could again see Wenger use his squad at St James’ Park. The Gunners do hold a 4-1 lead over CSKA Moscow following the first leg, though, so he may be able to afford to hold some of his leading players back for Gameweek 34. But should Koscielny and Ramsey be named in the starting XI on Thursday night, they appear unlikely starters on Sunday. However, Mohamed Elneny will now miss the next three league matches due to suspension, so Wilshere or Ramsey will likely be required to partner Granit Xhaka at the base of midfield. Monreal could return at left-back, while Rob Holding and potentially Ainsley Maitland-Niles, providing he recovers from a knock, offer possible alternatives to Hector Bellerin at right-back. After being rested on Sunday, Mesut Ozil could start the next two matches, making Nelson an unlikely starter against Newcastle. But Wenger’s options are limited in the attacking midfield areas with Henrikh Mkhitaryan ruled out for several weeks with a knee ligament injury. The decision to hand a weary Aubameyang a rest with 20-minutes to go indicates that the striker is not quite as bulletproof as anticipated in league matches, with Wenger determined to help Lacazette rediscover some sharpness and confidence.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Defence, central midfield, flanks, attacking midfield

Bournemouth

Starting XI: Begovic; Francis, S Cook, Ake, Daniels; Fraser, L Cook (Surman 80), Gosling, Pugh (Mousset 62); Defoe; Wilson (King 62). Subs not used: Boruc, Smith, Simpson, Taylor.

  • What we saw: Simon Francis returned to the starting XI following a hamstring injury, allowing Ryan Fraser to move forward to the right side of midfield in the absence of Jordon Ibe, who missed out due to illness. Marc Pugh replaced the injured Junior Stanislas on the opposite flank, while Jermain Defoe was preferred to Josh King in the support striker role in Eddie Howe’s usual 4-4-1-1 system. King entered the fray on the hour mark in place of Callum Wilson, seeing Defoe move into the lone striker role.
  • What we learned: After both scoring as substitutes, King and Lys Mousset are likely to push for starts when Bournemouth travel to Liverpool on Saturday. Should Ibe be ready to return to face his former club, it may be he and Mousset who compete for one of the wide berths, with Fraser appearing a more probable starter after a strong display at the weekend. Wilson’s recent lack of goals means he could make way for King, seeing Defoe lead the attack. The Cherries then face a home clash against Manchester United four days later, but with limited options to rotate, there aren’t expected to be many changes. Andrew Surman may be an option to provide fresh legs in central midfield, though.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central midfield, flanks, forwards

Brighton & Hove Albion

Starting XI: Ryan; Schelotto, Duffy, Dunk, Bong; March, Propper, Stephens, Izquierdo; Gross (Kayal 76), Murray (Ulloa 67). Subs not used: Saltor, Baldock, Goldson, Locadia, Krul.

  • What we saw: Chris Hughton decided to hand a recall to Solly March for the home clash against Huddersfield Town, seeing Jurgen Locadia drop to the bench. March was stationed on the right side of midfield in the usual 4-4-1-1 system. Elsewhere, Dale Stephens was fit to return in central midfield for the Seagulls. Following the sending off of Davy Propper, Hughton decided to bring on Beram Kayal for Pascal Gross, switching to a 4-4-1 formation.
  • What we learned: With Propper now suspended for the next three matches, Kayal should replace the Dutchman in central midfield. With a trip to Crystal Palace up next, Anthony Knockaert is back in contention following a three-match ban and will compete with March and Locadia for the role on the right wing. Leonardo Ulloa replaced Glenn Murray shortly after the hour mark but is unlikely to usurp the former Eagles player for the trip to Selhurst Park. Hughton’s men face Tottenham Hotspur in their second match of Double Gameweek 34 but, given the lack of options available to the Seagulls boss, it’s unlikely that there will be many changes. As evidenced at the weekend, though, the veteran Murray could have his pitch-time cut.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central midfield, right wing

Burnley

Starting XI: Pope; Lowton, Tarkowski, Long, Ward; Lennon (Hendrick 81), Cork, Westwood, Nkoudou (Vokes 70); Barnes, Wood. Subs not used: Heaton, Marney, Wells, Taylor, Bardsley.

  • What we saw: Sean Dyche was forced into making one change for the trip to Watford, with Kevin Long replacing the injured Ben Mee who missed out due to a shin injury. With his side trailing 1-0, the Clarets boss decided to introduce Sam Vokes in place of Georges-Kevin Nkoudou, switching from a 4-4-1-1 formation to a 4-4-2. Vokes joined Chris Wood up front, while Ashley Barnes played as an inside forward down the left flank.
  • What we learned: The Clarets face two home matches in Double Gameweek 34, hosting Leicester City at Turf Moor on Saturday, before entertaining Chelsea a week on Thursday. If available, Mee will return in place of Long in central defence, while Johann Berg Gudmundsson could also be fit to return. The Iceland international would be expected to replace Nkoudou on the left wing if available. Jeff Hendrick could see some minutes either in central midfield or as a No 10, while Vokes’ goal means he may also challenge for pitch time, perhaps at the expense of Wood. Tom Heaton was back on the bench at Vicarage Road and continues to put pressure on the impressive Nick Pope in goal.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Goalkeeper, central defenders, central midfield, left wing, forwards

Chelsea

Starting XI: Courtois; Azpilicueta, Cahill, Rudiger; Moses (Pedro 78), Fabregas, Kante, Alonso; Willian, Morata (Giroud 78), Hazard. Subs not used: Caballero, Drinkwater, Bakayoko, Christensen, Emerson.

  • What we saw: Antonio Conte made two changes from the side that lost 3-1 to Tottenham Hotspur for the visit of West Ham United to Stamford Bridge. The fit-again Thibaut Courtois replaced Willy Caballero in goal, while Gary Cahill started in place of Andreas Christensen in the three-man backline. The introduction of Pedro in one of the two attacking midfield spots saw Willian end the match at right wing-back in Conte’s usual 3-4-2-1 system.
  • What we learned: The Blues now face trips to Southampton and Burnley in Double Gameweek 34 before their FA Cup semi-final against Saints on April 22. Christensen remains part of Conte’s first choice defence, but is the most vulnerable of the back three should Cahill earn the occasional start. Davide Zappacosta and Emerson Palmieri offer cover in the wing-backs positions, providing the former recovers from a tendon injury, while Tiemoue Bakayoko and Danny Drinkwater are likely to be handed minutes in central midfield. Having missed just 13 and 22 minutes in the last five matches, Willian and Eden Hazard seem likely to see off the threat form Pedro for Saturday’s early kick-off at St Mary’s, while Olivier Giroud may start one of the next two in the league as the main alternative to Alvaro Morata. Ten points behind fourth, the Blues now have little hope of securing a top-four finish means in general that rotation seems far more likely at Turf Moor, with the FA Cup set to be the priority. Hazard may well be protected in that second fixture, which may actually help cement Willians two Double Gameweek starts.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Central defenders, central midfield, attacking midfield, lone striker

Crystal Palace

Starting XI: Hennessey; Wan-Bissaka, Tomkins, Sakho, van Aanholt; McArthur, Cabaye, Milivojevic, Loftus-Cheek; Townsend, Zaha. Subs not used: Lee Chung-yong, Cavalieri, Souare, Fosu-Mensah, Kelly, Riedewald, Daly.

  • What we saw: With Christian Benteke sidelined due to a groin injury, Roy Hodgson switched from a 4-3-3 formation to a 4-4-2 for the trip to Bournemouth. Ruben Loftus-Cheek was recalled on the left side of midfield, with James McArthur stationed on the opposite flank. Andros Townsend joined Wilfried Zaha up front for the Eagles. Hodgson was boosted by the return to fitness of James Tomkins in central defence, though, seeing Martin Kelly drop to the bench.
  • What we learned: Unless Benteke is fit to return for Saturday’s home meeting with Brighton, changes appear unlikely. Hodgson would probably switch back to a 4-3-3 should Benteke return, with Loftus-Cheek or McArthur appearing most at risk of dropping to the bench. Kelly and Timothy Fosu-Mensah provide cover in defence but aren’t expected to push for recalls.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central midfield, flanks, central strikers

Everton

Starting XI: Pickford, Coleman, Jagielka, Keane, Baines, Rooney (Gueye 57), Schneiderlin, Davies (Baningime 79), Walcott, Tosun, Bolasie (Calvert-Lewin 61). Subs not used: Martina, Niasse, Funes Mori, Robles.

  • What we saw: Toffees boss Sam Allardyce mirrored Liverpool’s 4-3-3 formation for the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. Tom Davies returned as part of the three-man midfield in the only change from the 3-1 defeat to Man City, seeing Dominic Calvert-Lewin drop to the bench.
  • What we learned: Following an improved performance against Liverpool, Allardyce is likely to stick with a similar side for Saturday’s trip to Swansea. Idrissa Gueye returned from a muscle injury as a substitute on Saturday and may challenge for a start in central midfield. Calvert-Lewin is a possible alternative to Yannick Bolasie out wide, while Wayne Rooney and Morgan Schneiderlin should battle it out to partner the fit-again Gueye in the middle of the park.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central midfield, left wing

Huddersfield Town

Starting XI: Lossl, Hadergjonaj, Jorgensen, Schindler, Kongolo; Ince (Depoitre 90), Hogg (Billing 80), Mooy, van La Parra (Quaner 90); Pritchard, Mounie. Subs not used: Smith, Malone, Coleman, Lowe.

  • What we saw: David Wagner rang the changes for the trip to Brighton after going four matches without a win. Florent Hadergjonaj returned at right-back, while Tom Ince replaced the injured Elias Kachunga on the right wing in the usual 4-2-3-1 formation. The other change saw Steve Mounie recalled as the lone striker ahead of Laurent Depoitre. In search of a late winner against 10-man Brighton, Wagner brought on Depoitre for Ince, switching to a 4-4-2.
  • What we learned: The Terriers will have to check on Jonathan Hogg ahead of the home clash against Watford after the midfielder was unable to carry on after being on the receiving end of the tackle which saw Davy Propper sent off. Philip Billing provides the main alternative in central midfield. Mounie is likely to retain his start up front after getting on the scoresheet, while if Wagner looks to make a change in the attacking midfield spots, Collin Quaner is the player most likely to push for a recall. Tommy Smith remains an alternative to Hadergjonaj at right-back.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Right-back, central midfield, flanks, lone striker

Leicester City

Starting XI: Schmeichel, Simpson (Okazaki 56), Morgan, Maguire, Chilwell; Iborra (Choudhury 41), Silva; Mahrez, Diabate (Gray 76), Albrighton; Vardy. Subs not used: Iheanacho, Dragovic, Jakupovic, Fuchs.

  • What we saw: Foxes boss Claude Puel handed recalls to Adrien Silva and Fousseni Diabate for the home meeting with Newcastle United. Silva replaced the suspended Wilfred Ndidi in central midfield, while Diabate took over from Shinji Okazaki in the central support role in the usual 4-4-1-1 system. But with his side a goal behind, Puel decided to bring on Okazaki before the hour mark, forcing a reshuffle. Marc Albrighton moved to right-back, seeing Diabate shift across to the left wing, while the Japanese international played in his regular support striker position.
  • What we learned: After being forced off with a hamstring injury on Saturday, Vicente Iborra is a major doubt for the Double Gameweek 34 matches against Burnley and Southampton. The Spaniard was replaced by youngster Hamza Choudhury at the weekend, and with Ndidi suspended and Matty James injured, he could now earn successive starts. Okazaki, Demarai Gray and Kelechi Iheanacho are all possible alternatives to Diabate in a central support role, while Gray is also an option on the left wing in place of Albrighton. Christian Fuchs may start one of the next two matches at left-back at the expense of Ben Chilwell.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Left-back, central midfield, left wing, attacking midfield

Liverpool

Starting XI: Karius, Clyne, Lovren, Van Dijk, Klavan, Wijnaldum, Henderson, Milner (Oxlade-Chamberlain 68), Ings (Alexander-Arnold 89), Solanke, Mane (Firmino 74). Subs not used: Camacho, Mignolet, Masterson, Jones.

  • What we saw: After Wednesday night’s 3-0 win over Manchester City in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final, Jurgen Klopp decided to make five changes for the trip to Everton. Andrew Robertson (calf) and Mohamed Salah (groin) missed out with injuries, while Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Roberto Firmino all dropped to the bench. Nathaniel Clyne and Ragnar Klavan came in at right-back and left-back respectively, while Georginio Wijnaldum returned in central midfield in the usual 4-3-3 system. Danny Ings (right) and Dominic Solanke (central striker) joined Sadio Mane in the front three. With Everton pushing forward late on, Klopp decided to introduce Alexander-Arnold for Ings, with the youngster providing cover in front of right-back Clyne.
  • What we learned: The Reds face their major Champions League test at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night, before hosting Bournemouth at Anfield on Saturday. Robertson and Salah are both expected to be in contention for the City clash, while Alexander-Arnold, Oxlade-Chamberlain and Firmino should also return to the starting XI. Klopp’s lack of options in attack means if Salah does play tomorrow night and comes through unscathed, he will be expected to feature against the Cherries. Emre Can remains doubtful for the second leg due to a back problem, but Jordan Henderson is suspended for that match, so he appears a sure starter this weekend. Either James Milner or Oxlade-Chamberlain may drop to the bench in Gameweek 34, with Wijnaldum perhaps a more probable starter. Solanke and Ings could be options if Klopp looks to rest either Mane or Salah at the weekend. Given he’s an unlikely starter tomorrow night, Klavan may be an option to replace either Dejan Lovren or Virgil van Dijk in central defence. Alberto Moreno offers an alternative to Robertson down the left if he can recover from a knock.

Current Status: Unsettled
Risk Areas: Defence, central midfield, flanks

Part two of Line-up Lessons, assessing the remaining ten teams, will follow tomorrow.

  1. Gudjohnsen
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Austin nailed?

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Their only good striker. Even if Protected for the cup which I doubt he will be crucial to Southampton’s chances of staying up

    2. Ron_Swanson
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      no way

    3. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Super sub is what his fitness holds.

  2. Sergeant Garcia
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Ramsey and Auby > Lingard and Lukaku a nobrainer? or too much rotation risk?

    1. Sergeant Garcia
      • 10 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Never mind, just saw i already own Smalling & DDG and I'd own 4 manu players -,-

      1. Ibracadabra
        • 16 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        Works with Gross and Lukaku since you would have 3 MANU.

        1. Sergeant Garcia
          • 10 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Not keen on Gross, but probably the only option in that price bracket.

    2. Garth Marenghi
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Sensible

  3. FPL Virgin
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    More and more big names in FPL are coming around to my FH34, WC36 and BB37 idea.

    The Iceman from FF Surgery.

    FPL Kat.

    Ben Crellin.

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Good luck 🙂

    2. Rik Waller
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      You'll owe them all an apology

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        What for? The 200 point gameweeks? 😉

        1. Rik Waller
          • 8 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Haha yeh could work out tbf.
          Got lucky with this GW though. So many nearly points for WC picks

          1. Ask Yourself
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            This was the difference

          2. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            I agree. The GW32 WC template had so many great picks with plum fixtures this week.

            1. Rik Waller
              • 8 Years
              7 years, 8 months ago

              You must be worried about City in GW35 now after that loss. Be difficult to get them in without FH

              1. FPL Virgin
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 9 Years
                7 years, 8 months ago

                Not really, I've planned ahead.

                The FH is more valuable in a gameweek with two lots of fixtures rather than a gameweek with one set of fixtures.

    3. barracuda
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Where can I read about your idea Virg?

        1. barracuda
          • 8 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Nice read but got my TC. Otherwise very smart. Well done mate

          1. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            Cheers. I have my TC as well. Using it in 38.

    4. FPL Virgin
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Alex Ball too!

      Forgot about him.

    5. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Just know Ben out of those.

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        I'm genuinely surprised.

    6. Earn your Spurs
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      it's a fair idea so well done for that. even if it doesn't work doesn't make it a bad idea.
      equally other ideas are valid.
      good luck!

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        That's good of you, thank you.

    7. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Any link to the top 2's teams?

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        They're both pretty active on Twitter.

        1. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Are they ranked higher than you?

          1. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            Well, that's not exactly difficult 🙄

            1. TorresMagic™
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 16 Years
              7 years, 8 months ago

              Wouldn't be surprised if these so called big names weren't.

      2. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        The FF Surgery is a great pod. It's the best audio pod of the lot imo.

        1. Kiwivillan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Heresy! Off with his head

        2. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          I only listen to stuff where I know their teams/ranks. That way you can take the bias out and also know if they are good at FPL.

          1. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            The IceMan knows his stuff. They give out their rank at the start of the pod. He's flying this year.

            1. TorresMagic™
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 16 Years
              7 years, 8 months ago

              Just found him, just outside 5k heading for a PB.

          2. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            Jay was on the show as well.

            1. TorresMagic™
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 16 Years
              7 years, 8 months ago

              Jay's everywhere.

              1. FPL Virgin
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 9 Years
                7 years, 8 months ago

                If that was the case, why wasn't he invited back on the scoutcast? Is it because he schooled Andy in the episode?

                Everyone loved it when he was on and was crying out for him to return.

                1. TorresMagic™
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • Has Moderation Rights
                  • 16 Years
                  7 years, 8 months ago

                  He was top 100 and got Scoutcursed?

                  1. FPL Virgin
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 9 Years
                    7 years, 8 months ago

                    We're were promised that he would be back on.

                    He was a breath of fresh air.

                    1. TorresMagic™
                      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                      • Has Moderation Rights
                      • 16 Years
                      7 years, 8 months ago

                      I'm sure he'll be back. Az is only 2 points behind him now 😯

                      1. FPL Virgin
                        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                        • 9 Years
                        7 years, 8 months ago

                        Az has lost a bit of credibility.

                        He gave an epic speech a few weeks back on how stupid it is not to completely back Salah .... and then sells him this week.

                      2. TorresMagic™
                        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                        • Has Moderation Rights
                        • 16 Years
                        7 years, 8 months ago

                        His time machine was broken with an injury to Salah and Pool probably making the semis.
                        At least he didn't say Firmino would start last week. 😉

                2. Yozzer
                  • 8 Years
                  7 years, 8 months ago

                  Because he stole the limelight?

    8. Lawrø
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Big names that nobody has heard of 😆

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        They have a huge Twitter following. Tens of thousands of followers.

        1. Lawrø
          • 13 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Oh, in that case I'll play my FH now

          1. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            Challenge the established thinking, Lawro.

            Just because everyone is saying something is a good idea doesn't mean it is.

    9. Fuchs Mane Kante
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Never heard of these casuals.

  4. Rik Waller
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    The Memes and GIFs will be endless on this one...

    https://twitter.com/vonstrenginho/status/983438673856385024

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Rightly so

    2. Earn your Spurs
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      love it!

  5. Dreaming of glory
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    This look good?

    Alonso > baines
    Sterling > sanchez
    Aubam > vardy

    Allows me to do
    Lukaku (c) > sanchez (c)

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Why Baines may I ask? Not rather a vert?

      1. Phil's Stamps
        • 14 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        Got, not Vert, but certainly not Baines either. Burnley/Leicester?

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

    Any suggestions here...?

    DDG Ryan
    Alonso Mustafi Stephens Lowton Morgan
    Salah Mahrez Son Willian Gross
    Lukaku Auba Barnes

    2FT, 0.0M ITB
    BB34, FH35, TC37

    Please, help...

    1. GE
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Auba and Alonso -> Kane and Christensen/Smalling?

    2. Garth Marenghi
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      I think remove Salah, Stephens. I think you have to use 2ft, if you use just 1, fh35, then in 36 you’ll still only have 1? Not sure. But if you use 2 now it won’t matter.

  7. jimmy.floyd
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Play VVD or Wilson?

    1. GE
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      VVD

  8. GE
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Bailly -> Vertonghen (-4)

    Can see Vertonghen playing both DGW but Bailly only getting one in each..

    I was so close to pick Vertonghen on WC32, should have done that 🙁

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Yeah I only did it to save myself a transfer later. But here I am being forced to get rid of Son because I already have 3 spurs players and need kane 🙂

      1. GE
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        Ouch..I have only Son now

    2. Greenbackbøøg…
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Why would Bailly not play both

      1. GE
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        FA-cup and just back from long term injury and too many CB in United 🙂

    3. Phil's Stamps
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Vertonghen

      Home game against city who still haven't won the league and an away game -I make it they have kept 6 clean sheets in 17 away from home, hardly watertight.

      I had him for 11 games in the middle of the season, average score = 2.7 points per game.

      Do you really want to spend 6 million on that, which could be better invested in midfield?

      The same goes for all spurs' defensive assets, and Bavies is a rotation risk.

  9. Ibracadabra
    • 16 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Any other Christensen owners keeping? Christensen in for Smalling was my last wildcard transfer (after reading that Jones was due back) and have lost out on Smalling 13 points versus Christensen 2 (1 from GW32 and auto sub Lowton 1 point from GW33). I am considering keeping since I read Cahill played poorly.

    1. ILOVEBAPS
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Cahill wasn't great. Partially responsible for West Hams goal.

    2. Phil's Stamps
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Nope, binned him. My Chelsea defensive cover is Courtois (no value in any of the others), my UTD cover Valencia.

  10. Gudjohnsen
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    A.kante,Vardy
    B.Willian,Austin

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Hm :/ B

  11. Team Cruel
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Where do I file an official complaint against FPL? So sick of them stealing points from me every flipping week.

    Kane has sworn on his daughter that he touched it so please return me my 4+3baps*2 = 14 points.

    Groß was robbed an assist so please return me my 3+3baps = 6 points.

    Also please fix the autosubs so that Smalling (7) comes on for Maguire (0).

    Robbed 27 points by the system this GW alone. So sick.

      1. Team Cruel
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        Where do I file an official complaint against stalking mods? So sick of them too!

        1. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Stay casual.

        2. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 16 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Someone flagged it and asked me to post it.

          1. Team Cruel
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            You're lying just like Sir Harold.

            1. TorresMagic™
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 16 Years
              7 years, 8 months ago

              How dare you.

  12. Tronity
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Really torn between Lukaku and Kane. Captains poll is saying Kaku. Safest bet of the two?

    1. Ibracadabra
      • 16 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      better fixtures that's for sure.

      1. Tronity
        • 12 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        Think I’d be happier putting the armband on him too.

    2. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Safe in what way?

      1. Ask Yourself
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        This?

  13. Tazah
    • 7 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    im sorry but hearing that tottenham are appealing for the goal to be taken off eriksen (one of their players still) to kane.... obviously just for kane's inidividual reward is just so so so sad.... bloody hell man, so desperate

    1. Respect My Authoritah
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Makes you wanna captain him a bit more though

    2. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      And people are doubting this golden boot motivation factor. Kane won’t follow history he will write it.

    3. Ron_Swanson
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      its not really such a big deal

  14. Gríma Wormtongue
    • 10 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Who's the best Mid for 5.8 just for the DGW?

    1. Respect My Authoritah
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Young?

  15. Respect My Authoritah
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone notice Sterling's xG for the weekend has changed? It was just under 1.0 before

    1. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 16 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      The G is still 0.

  16. ILOVEBAPS
    • 13 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Better move here?

    a. Auba, Mahrez > Vardy, Sanchez -4
    b. Auba, Chilwell > Vardy, Valencia -4

    Have 3 Lei already hence why one has to go for Vardy.

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      A is interesting

      1. ILOVEBAPS
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        If Salah plays most of the match on Tues I'll lose him for Sanchez instead.

        1. Ask Yourself
          • 9 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Strong plan

    2. Arron Wan Bissaka Nil
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      I like B, cant see Man Utd conceding against WBA and Bournemouth will just be a bonus

      1. ILOVEBAPS
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        I know right?! Wish I knew Jones or Smalling would get both 🙁

    3. Prøfeßör …
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      A is risky - too sideways for me but I can see the temptation. Decent move if there is nothing else on.

      1. ILOVEBAPS
        • 13 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks. I feel I should have a UTD attacker for those games but which one?! Getting Lukaku is harder. Would have to downgrade Gross to a 5.9?

  17. Arron Wan Bissaka Nil
    • 9 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Is it worth a 4pt hit to bring Lingard and Tarkowski/Kiko/Tomkins in for Ward-Prowse and Jones? Wildcarding in 36, so it only matters for the next two weeks

    1. ILOVEBAPS
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      If they're the only issues u have then ok. Lingard could be good with minutes but uncertain.

      1. Arron Wan Bissaka Nil
        • 9 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        This would ensure 11 play in 35 and would leave me with 4 or 5 DGWs this week!

  18. cjhewitt92
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Any of these worth it

    A) Kdb and Wilson to Lingard and Vardy

    B) Kdb and Wilson to cork and Lukaku

    C) Play free hit chip to remove Salah for week. Had from early week so don’t want to sell

    D) Kdb and Ake to Sanchez and Long

    E) Zaha to Arnie

    1. Prøfeßör …
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      A or B (depends on your team) Try helping others if you can and not just asking questions.

    2. Arron Wan Bissaka Nil
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      A

  19. Jambot
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    If the captain poll is supposed to be who you think the best captain is regardless of if you own the player does anyone else think Sanchez is low compared to Lukaku? If I owned both I think I’d captain Sanchez

    1. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      I'd still be on Lukaku but I do think he'd be higher in the poll.

    2. Respect My Authoritah
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Sanchez would have more votes. Prefer Lukaku myself. Kane over all

    3. MadridistaRants
      • 11 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Sanchez should be higher, yes but I'd still go Lukaku. Tends to deliver against so called lesser opposition

  20. MadridistaRants
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Would you bench boost this lot?

    Ryan, Salah, Kiko, Kenedy.

    Rest all have double GW.

    1. Epic Fail
      • 15 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Probably not.

    2. Garth Marenghi
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      No

    3. Prøfeßör …
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      No, better suited for GW 37, but Salah shouldn't be on the bench, DGW or not.

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

      Do you have TC left? If so, when would you use that?

    5. Arron Wan Bissaka Nil
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Naaa

  21. Don Kloppeone
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Split opinions on this atm - appreciate people’s views!

    Got a couple of template pre-BB34 transfer options and a more drastic one. Can you help me decide?!

    A) Auba, Firmino, Son >>> Lukaku, Vardy, Eriksen (-4)

    B) Auba, Firmino, Son > Kane, Pogba, Vardy (-4)

    C) Auba, Firmino, Gros, Alonso > Kane, Lukaku, Mili, Long (-8)

    D) Auba, Firmino, Salah, Son > Kane, Vardy, Sanchez, Mili (-8)

    Current team:
    2FT £0.7itb
    DDG, Ryan
    Vertonghen, Morgan, Lowton, Mustafi, Alonso*
    Salah, Mahrez, Son*, Willian, Gros*
    Auba*, Firmino*, Barnes

    I’ll FH in GW35. No TC left - A), B) or C) lads?!

    Cheers

    1. Arron Wan Bissaka Nil
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      I've personally backed Sir Harold cause I couldn't trust my TC with Lukaku, so I'd go B

      1. Don Kloppeone
        • 8 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        Don’t like C) or D) then?

  22. Gandalf
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 15 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Tricky decision to make:

    De Gea Ryan
    Alonso Bailly Lowton Tarkowski Van
    Eriksen Son Mahrez Willian Gross
    Auba Vardy Barnes

    Need to replace Auba for one of Kane or Lukaku, and 12.9m can be spent.

    Feel like Lukaku the better captain option so should I go with that or get Kane in now to avoid being priced out? Have free hit for GW 35.

  23. Gudjohnsen
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Mahrez or Vardy?

    Also, any nailed 4.2 defenders? Masuaku a good option?

    1. ILOVEBAPS
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      I prefer Mahrez but he's been disappointing last few.

      Masuaku is a good shout

    2. cjhewitt92
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Vardy but he could opposite to Lukaku more goals against big teams

  24. Gnu
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 16 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Hi Prof Bear, missed you earlier....

    1. Prøfeßör …
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Hey Gnu! 🙂 I was shopping at Sainsbury's and saw the message about 20 mins late.

      1. Gnu
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 16 Years
        7 years, 8 months ago

        No worries... I fell asleep. 🙂

        Just wondering what your transfers are seeing as we've nearly got the same team and 2 ft's?

        1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
          • 15 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          5 euro says this is code for some type of international drug smuggling operation

          1. Gnu
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 16 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            Yes, it has been very wet today but tomorrow should be a lot warmer.

          2. Reedy
            • 15 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            The bat has flown the nest. Repeat: the bat has flown the nest.

            1. Gnu
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 16 Years
              7 years, 8 months ago

              You'd make a crap agent Reedy 😆

              1. Adam West - Team Serbia for…
                • 15 Years
                7 years, 8 months ago

                He is 00stupid tbf 😉

              2. Reedy
                • 15 Years
                7 years, 8 months ago

                I'm hurt :')

        2. Prøfeßör …
          • 9 Years
          7 years, 8 months ago

          Very much undecided at the moment. I'd say a big part of it depends on Salah for me. If he makes it for Saturday, I'll likely do Aubameyang to Kane or Lukaku (leaning with Kane but we'll see) and then either Gross to Milivojević / a fodder with a DGW or Son/ Willian to Lingard.

          Vardy is too good value, don't think I can afford to let him go for Kane and Lukaku for a hit, it's a risk going without one but it looks like it's one I'm taking.

          If Salah is out, probably Salah, Aubameyang and Son to Sanchez, Kane and Lingard for a -4. Not ideal keeping Gross but probably the best move for me if Salah is confirmed out.

          What are your thoughts on your team?

          1. Gnu
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 16 Years
            7 years, 8 months ago

            Salah's gone baby, Salah's gone....

            It's either Salah & Auba > Kane & Pogs or
            Those two & Vardy > Kane, Lukaku & Lingard for a hit.

            Looking at a way to keep Vardy and still get Lukaku but reckon it'll be one of the above moves.
            Kane coming back as quick as he did has forced a re-think.

            1. Prøfeßör …
              • 9 Years
              7 years, 8 months ago

              Haha, nice. Yeah, getting rid of Salah could be the correct move. Let's see - time will tell.

              Great moves, can't fault them.

              Agreed, I was set on going without but Kane is Kane. I'll have to think about the options in further detail over the coming days.

              The best of luck, mate! 🙂

              1. Gnu
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 16 Years
                7 years, 8 months ago

                You too. 🙂

  25. GuillermoDickero
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Have absolutely no idea what to do with this team... Advice appreciated - 0ITB

    Seems obvious to try to ship Mariappa and Mustafi but for who?

    DDG, Ryan,
    Alonso, Mustafi, Morgan, Lowton, Mariappa
    Salah, Mahrez, Son, Willian, King
    Kane, Kaku, Barnes

    1. RashFraud
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Mariappa > Masuaku/Ogbonna?
      Mustafi can stay

  26. RashFraud
    • 8 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    A. Bailly > Smalling/Vertonghen
    B. Monreal > Mustafi

    Or both?

  27. DameCorp
    • 11 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    How is this looking for a GW34 bench boost?

    DDG Ryan
    Alonso Vert Morgan Tark Mustafi**
    Salah** Mahrez Willian Gross Lingard
    Kane (c) Vardy Barnes

    Any of these worth a -4?
    A) Mustafi to Smalling
    B) Salah to Eriksen/Alli

    1. RashFraud
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      A without a hit. Otherwise none

  28. JAC THE CAT
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Who would you rather have just for GW 34,

    A, Lingard (WBA, bou)

    B, Arnoutovic (STO)

    1. RashFraud
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      A

    2. Colonel Shoe 肝池
      • 14 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      b

    3. Voodoo
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      A

    4. Garth Marenghi
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      B, especially if it saves a transfer.

    5. ILOVEBAPS
      • 13 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      B

  29. OptimusBlack
    • 12 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Which is better to have ?

    A- Pogba + Kane
    B- Eriksen + Lukaku

    1. RashFraud
      • 8 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      B

    2. JAC THE CAT
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      B

    3. Garth Marenghi
      • 9 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      B

    4. OptimusBlack
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Cheers

  30. Voodoo
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    7 years, 8 months ago

    Play Barnes or Gross this weekend?

    What to play Gross but rival has Barnes and Barnes in better form...

    1. JAC THE CAT
      • 12 Years
      7 years, 8 months ago

      Barnes