Team News

Line-up Lessons – Gameweek 35 – Part Two

Marko Arnautovic retains the lone striker role and continues to profit by netting a tenth goal of the season in West Ham’s defeat at Arsenal. Paul Lambert rolls out a 4-4-2 as Stoke go on the offensive in their bid to beat the drop, while the in-form Salomon Rondon denies Liverpool the points at The Hawthorns.

After assessing the first eight teams yesterday, we turn to part two of Line-up Lessons, checking out the teamsheets and formations from the Gameweek 35 encounters and FA Cup semi-finals, with an eye on what’s to come from the midweek European ties and beyond.

Everton

Starting XI: Pickford; Coleman, Jagielka, Keane, Baines; Schneiderlin (Davies 52), Gueye; Walcott, Rooney, Bolasie (Calvert-Lewin 59); Tosun (Niasse 85). Subs not used: Robles; Martina, Funes Mori, Baningime.

  • What we saw: Sam Allardyce named name the same side that drew 1-1 with Swansea City for the home encounter against Newcastle United. Everton lined up in a 4-3-3, with Wayne Rooney and Idrissa Gueye stationed in central midfield in front of Morgan Schneiderlin. Having started on the right and left respectively, Theo Walcott and Yannick Bolasie switched flanks during the second half.
  • What we learned: Schneiderlin was forced off with a dead leg shortly into the second half, and will be assessed ahead of Saturday’s trip to Huddersfield Town, although the midfielder himself is confident of being available. Tom Davies and Beni Baningime provide the alternative options should they be required. Meanwhile, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is pushing for a recall out wide in place of Bolasie, but other changes appear unlikely as Everton bid to end the season strongly.

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

Newcastle United

Starting XI: Dubravka; Yedlin, Lejeune, Lascelles, Dummett; Ritchie (Murphy 79), Diame, Shelvey (Merino 83), Kenedy; Perez; Slimani (Gayle 63). Subs not used: Darlow, Clark, Hayden, Manquillo.

  • What we saw: Rafa Benitez only made one alteration for the trip to Everton, but it was significant, with Islam Slimani handed his first start in place of Dwight Gayle in the lone striker role in the usual 4-4-1-1 system.
  • What we learned: With the Magpies facing a short turnaround before entertaining West Bromwich Albion on Saturday, Benitez may decide to restore Gayle to the starting line-up in place of Slimani. If the Newcastle boss does decide to introduce some fresh legs elsewhere, Jacob Murphy could be an option out wide, while Mikel Merino provides an alternative in the middle of the park.

Current Status: Very Settled
Risk Areas: Lone Striker

Stoke City

Starting XI: Butland; Johnson (Zouma 59), Shawcross, Martins Indi, Pieters; Shaqiri, Allen, Ndiaye, Bauer (Ireland 69); Diouf (Campbell 75), Crouch. Subs not used: Haugaard, Cameron, Fletcher, Ramadan Sobhi.

  • What we saw: In what was a crucial match for the Potters at home to Burnley, Paul Lambert opted for an attacking 4-4-2 formation, pairing Mame Biram Diouf and Peter Crouch up front. Xherdan Shaqiri (right) and Moritz Bauer (left) started out wide, while Glen Johnson returned from injury to replace Kurt Zouma at right-back.
  • What we learned: The Potters are still four points from safety following their 1-1 draw with Burnley, and also boast an inferior goal difference, while up next is a testing trip to Liverpool in Gameweek 36. Therefore, Lambert faces a tough decision as to whether to stick with the attacking 4-4-2 or to switch to either a 4-4-1-1 or perhaps a 4-3-3 formation at Anfield. Ramadan Sobhi provides a more attacking alternative to Bauer on the left wing, and if the Egyptian does start, Bauer could shift to his natural position at right-back. Johnson’s departure just before the hour-mark may indicate that he continues to be troubled by injury, so Zouma could well be forced to deputise at Anfield. Should Lambert opt to bring in a holding midfielder, Geoff Cameron could return to the starting XI, perhaps given Joe Allen more freedom to join the attack. Youngster Tyrese Campbell is the main alternative up front for the Potters, with Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting yet to return following a groin injury.

Current Status: Slightly Unsettled
Risk Areas: Right-back, left wing, forwards

Swansea City

Starting XI: Fabianski; van der Hoorn, Fernandez (Bartley 67), Mawson; Naughton, King, Ki Sung-yueng (Clucas 65), Carroll, Olsson (Abraham 75); J Ayew, A Ayew. Subs not used: Dyer, Nordfeldt, Routledge, Roberts.

  • What we saw: Carlos Carvalhal reverted to a defensive 5-4-1 system for the trip to Manchester City. The Swans boss handed a recall to Mike van der Hoorn in central defence, with Kyle Naughton moving to his usual position at right-back. Andre Ayew started on the right side of midfield, with Tom Carroll stationed on the opposite flank. Sam Clucas made his return from injury as a second-half substitute, playing on the left wing, allowing Carroll to move into central midfield. Swansea ended the match in more of a 3-4-3, with Tammy Abraham brought on to join Andre Ayew and Jordan Ayew in attack, with Carroll then moving to left wing-back, and Clucas to central midfield.
  • What we learned: Federico Fernandez had to be withdrawn after taking a kick to his knee, but the defender is hopeful he will be available for Saturday’s home clash against Chelsea. Kyle Bartley will be on standby to replace the Argentine in central defence. After getting 25 minutes under his belt, Clucas could return to the starting XI against the Blues, with either Ki Sung-yueng or Carroll likely to drop to the bench. Tammy Abraham will be ineligible to face his parent club, limiting Carvalhal’s options in attack.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Central defenders, central midfield, left wing

Tottenham Hotspur

Starting XI: Vorm; Trippier, Sanchez, Vertonghen, Davies (Lucas Moura 68); Dier, Dembele (Wanyama 78); Eriksen, Alli, Son Heung-min (Lamela 86); Kane. Subs not used: Lloris, Alderweireld, Sissoko, Aurier.

  • What we saw: Mauricio Pochettino stuck with his favoured 4-2-3-1 formation for the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United, keeping faith with cup goalkeeper Michel Vorm at the expense of club captain Hugo Lloris. Dele Alli was deployed in the No 10 role, flanked by Son Heung-min (left) and Christian Eriksen (right). After falling 2-1 behind, the Spurs boss switched to more of a 4-1-4-1 system, bringing on Lucas Moura to play on the right wing. The Brazilian’s introduction saw Jan Vertonghen move to left-back, and Eric Dier to centre-back, leaving Mousa Dembele as the holding midfielder before the Belgian was replaced by Victor Wanyama.
  • What we learned: With a break until Spurs host Watford next Monday, and given that Pochettino’s side need to win with Chelsea still pushing for a top-four finish, he is likely to name his first choice starting XI once again. So Kieran Trippier and Ben Davies could again be favoured in the full-back positions. Lloris will return in goal, while Erik Lamela and Lucas Moura are possible alternatives to Son, although the South Korean is the favourite to get the nod alongside Alli and Eriksen.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Full-backs, flanks

Watford

Starting XI: Karnezis; Mariappa, Cathcart, Kabasele, Holebas; Hughes (Gray 79), Doucoure, Capoue, Pereyra (Richarlison 55); Deeney, Okaka (Femenia 70). Subs not used: Gomes, Janmaat, Britos, Sinclair.

  • What we saw: Having failed to score in three of their previous five matches, Hornets head coach Javi Gracia switched to a 4-4-2 formation for the visit of Crystal Palace. Stefano Okaka was recalled up front, while Will Hughes moved to the right side of midfield. Kiko Femenia and Daryl Janmaat both dropped to the bench, with Adrian Mariappa preferred at right-back, while the fit-again pair Christian Kabasele and Jose Holebas started at centre-back and left-back respectively.
  • What we learned: With Watford facing a trip to Wembley in Gameweek 36, Gracia is expected to revert back to a 4-2-3-1 formation. But the Hornets may well be without captain Troy Deeney, who may miss the rest of the season with a foot injury picked up against the Eagles, according to reports. Okaka could start as the lone striker, then, with Andre Gray the other alternative. Roberto Pereyra will be assessed ahead of the Spurs clash after being forced off with a groin injury last weekend, with Richarlison likely to be on standby to start on the left. Hughes could move back into the No 10 role, with Femenia then the likely starter on the right flank. In defence, Mariappa may again be preferred to Janmaat at right-back given the Hornets were able to keep a clean sheet against Palace. Sebastian Prodl missed out against the Eagles due to illness, but the Austrian could struggle to get straight back into the starting XI unless Gracia considers a move to a three-man defence with wing-backs.

Current Status: Fairly Settled
Risk Areas: Right-back, centre-half, flanks

West Bromwich Albion

Starting XI: Foster: Nyom, Dawson, Hegazi, Gibbs (Burke 76): Phillips, Livermore, Brunt, McClean (Evans 71): Rodriguez (Robson-Kanu 89), Rondon. Subs not used: Yacob, Myhill, Krychowiak, Field.

  • What we saw: Caretaker manager Darren Moore unsurprisingly named the same side that beat Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool’s visit to the Hawthorns, with the Baggies again lining up in a 4-4-2 system. Jonny Evans made his return from injury coming on as a second-half substitute at left-back.
  • What we learned: After another encouraging performance, Moore is likely to stick with a very similar starting XI for Saturday’s trip to Newcastle United. Evans could push for a start in central defence, though, with Craig Dawson moving to right-back in place of Allan Nyom. On-loan forward Daniel Sturridge was ineligible to face his parent club but will be back in contention to face the Magpies. But the form of Salomon Rondon and Jay Rodriguez, combined with his lack of match fitness, mean that he is an unlikely starter.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Right-back, central defenders

West Ham United

Starting XI: Hart, Rice, Ogbonna, Cresswell, Zabaleta, Kouyate, Noble, Masuaku (Carroll 86), Fernandes (Lanzini 60), Joao Mario (Hernandez 60), Arnautovic. Subs not used: Hugill, Adrian, Evra, Cullen.

  • What we saw: David Moyes once again named an unchanged starting XI for the trip to Arsenal, with the Hammers lining up in a 3-4-2-1 system. He resisted the temptation to hand a recall to Manuel Lanzini, although the Argentine was, along with Chicharito, introduced on the hour mark. Lanzini was stationed in a No 10 role behind Chicharito and Marko Arnautovic in a 3-4-1-2 formation. Moyes sent on Andy Carroll as a final roll of the dice, seeing Lanzini (left) and Arnautovic (right) operate out wide in a 4-4-2, while Aaron Cresswell moved to left-back.
  • What we learned: After getting 30 minutes under his belt as a substitute, Lanzini should be ready to return to the starting XI for Sunday’s home clash against Man City. He is likely to replace Edimilson Fernandes in a straight swap, although Joao Mario’s start may also be at risk. Other changes appear unlikely unless James Collins is available again following a hamstring injury. If fit, he would be an option to replace Declan Rice in the three-man defence. Joe Hart made a number of impressive saves at the Emirates but will miss out in Gameweek 36 as he is ineligible to face his parent club Man City with Adrian earning a recall.

Current Status: Settled
Risk Areas: Central defenders, attacking midfield

977 Comments Post a Comment
  1. TheCurseOfRaheem
    • 11 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Still not sure as to how big the FH value is during a blank week. Loads did score well but many (myself included) got a good enough score for a green arrow. Lacazette was the major difference and even then he was close to being a 2 pter.

    1. fkmzcgp
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I agree, got pretty lucky. Not sure I like the FH because I could really use that FT right now 🙂

    2. BIGREDDOG
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Put it this way without the FH you'd have been stuck with Auba rather than Laca like I was.

    3. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      It was easy to deal with GWs around GW35 without any headache...

    4. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      The benefit is in not disrupting your dgw plans and diluting your WC. Also means you don't take hits

      1. Fitzy.
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Until the week after anyway...

        1. TheCurseOfRaheem
          • 11 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          Agreed. My rival who used his FH is now having to take hits this week to get in players he would have got in last week.

  2. fkmzcgp
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Bottomed -

    Which combo will score more for rest of the season?

    A) Sanchez and Barnes (+4)
    B) Jesus and Mahrez

    1. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      B

  3. Rhodes your boat
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Laporte likely to be dropped?

    1. #FPLBhuna
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      negative

    2. Jersey
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      none of their centerbacks feel nailed.

    3. Forza Papac
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Don't think so

    4. Sailboats
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Dropped? Otamendi got dropped for him lol

  4. KLOPPS AND ROBBERS... the s…
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Anyone else using FH in GW 37?

    1. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I had planned to for weeks; created an elaborate a full proof strategy...and then bottled it at the last minute.

      Really wish I'd kept it now.

    2. Bragazeti
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      \o/

  5. semiconductor
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Is that a good team for WC this week and BB next week? What would you change?

    Ederson-Mcarthy
    Smalling-Yedlin-VDH-Chilwell-Dummet
    Salah(Eriksen next week)-Alli-Sterling-Lingard-Carroll
    Auba-Kane-Jesus

    1. Goalosaurus
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Is VDH centre-back? Could lose his place if fernandez comes back from injury, don't know when that'll be though.

      1. Coot
        • 13 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        He's been playing in a three with Fernandez and Mawson.

        1. Goalosaurus
          • 6 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          Didn't know this, thanks.

  6. Gruu
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Who need to go for City mids?
    Mahrez or Willian?

    1. fkmzcgp
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Willian

    2. Stimps
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      The one who is a rotation risk imo

    3. Jersey
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Willian

    4. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Willian. Threw his teddy out of the pram when he got subbed agst Southampton

    5. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Mahrez out

  7. Stimps
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Who'll score more for the DGW

    A) Jesus, Gross, Naughton (-8)
    B) Ayew, Willian, Valencia

    1. Forza Papac
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      B

    2. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      B

  8. #FPLBhuna
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Lloris
    Baines - Klavan - Smalling
    Salah - Arnie - Dsilva - Sane - Kenedy
    Kane(c) - Jesus
    Bench: Fabianski - JAyew - Yoshida - Mustafi

    If Salah is confirmed out by AE this week:

    A) Play JAyew
    B) Salah > Haz (-4)

    Plan to bin Salah for Haz for dgw37 regardless as I'm chasing in ML (will reverse transfer in 38)

    1. fkmzcgp
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Hazard?? Why?

      1. #FPLBhuna
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        why not?

  9. PrettyDick
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Alonso owners:

    What are your plans? Holding him for the DGW or selling? If you are selling, for who then?

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Holding, not enough FTs unfortunately...

    2. Jersey
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      keeping for 37. i think he gets both games.

      1. PrettyDick
        • 6 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        cheers. Think I'll have to do the same even though it is luring to transfer for a spurs defender now..

  10. Where dahoud at
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    I need a 3rd striker iv got jesus and kane

    1. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Really no one that is appealing imo.. Lukaku might be too expensive, Auba less expensive but also less appealing.. maybe another midfielder is the way to go

      1. Where dahoud at
        • 6 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Iv erikson, kennedy mane and lingard who else???

        1. FC Hakkebøf
          • 7 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          Sterling, willian, kdb, hazard, sane etc many good options

    2. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Jordan Ayew

      1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Or Austin

    3. Jersey
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      how can this be answered not knowing your whole team, how much money you can afford, etc.?

  11. Feanor
    • 14 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    We will get the starting lineups before the GW38 deadline? I might save my WC until then.

    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      You might get a few hints but it didn't happen last season

  12. FC Hakkebøf
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Could Mendy be an option for the dgw? Gw36 might come a bit to soon, but as they have already won the league, I find it likely that he will give him time on the pitch in dgw37-sgw38 to get him fit and also give him the option to compete for the french WC squad?

    1. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Not worth the gamble imo

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Prolly not, but he is so fun to watch

  13. Sz21
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Anybody fancying Bednarek of Southampton (4.1m) for Alonso?

    It would mean skipping Vertonghen but then having a load of extra cash. 3.0m to be precise.

    I will be BB'ing in 37 and need to make some serious changes further up the pitch either way with no City and plenty of out of form players atm.

    DDG.
    Lowton, Morgan, Naughton.
    Mahrez, Son, Willian, Salah.
    Kane (c), Barnes, Vardy.
    Fab, Gross, Fernandez, Alonso.
    1ft, 0,0m.

    1. Pierce34
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      He'd be a great enabler but unfortunately Stephens is coming back from suspension so he wouldn't be nailed.

      1. Sz21
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        ahh- then maybe there goes that!

    2. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      When is Stephens back?

  14. Hotdogs for Tea
    • 8 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    If Liverpool reach the final of the CL, which games is Salah likely to play in ? (rough dates give or take a day)

    21-Apr WBA (played)
    25-Apr CL semi
    28-Apr Stoke
    02-May CL semi
    06-May Chelsea
    13-May Brighton
    16-May CL Final

    1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      CL final is 26th May I think?

      1. Hotdogs for Tea
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        yes it is, my mistake, means Chelsea & Brighton are safe fixtures.

        just that Stoke fixture is the tricky one it seems

    2. Pep's Money Laundry
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      He will every game, the stoke game he might not start.

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        This

    3. Adams6
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      CL final 26th May isnt it?

    4. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Could get 65' per game

    5. I Member
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I don't think he'll miss any games, whether they get to the final or not.

    6. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      depends on the result of the Chelsea game, if Pool lose that one then one more slip up and Chelsea can pip them to a CL spot.

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        If liverpool beat stoke, they only need one point more to progress to CL regardless of Chelsea result

        1. bitm2007
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          yes which means that can't afford to slip up against Stoke or Brighton if they loss the Chelsea game.

          1. Hotdogs for Tea
            • 8 Years
            5 years, 11 months ago

            Chelsea will most likely drop some points in their other games

            1. bitm2007
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 9 Years
              5 years, 11 months ago

              true but swa, HUD, new doesn't look bad on paper.

  15. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    For 37 would you rather have:

    A: Smalling and David Silva (have DDG, Sterling and Jesus already)

    B: Alli and Naughton.

    I'm thinking A just wary that united and city may rotate in the double gameweek

    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      B are more nailed. I'd love to get Silva but will he play out the remaining games?

    2. Jersey
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      B

    3. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Just realised I could even extend to Eriksen and van der horn so I think B may actually be better!

  16. #FPLBhuna
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    If Salah is out of weekend action

    A) Play JAyew
    B) Salah > Hazard (-4)

    Plan to bin Salah for Hazard for dgw regardless

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      A

    2. Pep's Money Laundry
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      So if Salah scores against Stoke and Chelsea. Do u think hazard will gain u more points

      1. Team Bobcat
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        City Spurs or ManU mid more attractive

    3. Team Bobcat
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Salah owner dilemmas. Join the club. How is this happening

  17. Scotty B
    • 11 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Who needs Anfield Express when you've got Scotty B...

    Karius
    Trent
    Lovren
    Van Dijk
    Robertson
    Ox
    Hendo
    Milner
    Salah
    Firmino
    Mane

    Full scale attack ⚽

    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Tonight's line up ?

    2. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Wijnaldum? 😕

  18. Spurs over rotating City for the run in?
    TLF
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Just posted this as a scout cast question but curious to hear what you lot think too.....

    There is a lot of focus on getting in City assets which makes sense but with the risk of rotation looming, could a Spurs triple up with the nailed 3 of Eriksen, Alli and Kane not be a viable alternative ? I own Alli and Kane. If Salah doesn't start this week, a move from him to Eriksen looks very tempting.

    1. J0E
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      If Salah is benched this weekend Eriksen - not Sterlng is my top choice too.

      But beware rotation can lurk anywhere, as Alli owners found out the other day.

      1. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks for the response Jonty. Yes I am an Alli owner and suffered that misfortune in 34. I really think Eriksen is as good as any City mid for remainder of the season. I'll look forward to your musings on the scoutcast, lots to consider, cheers.

      2. Pegboy
        • 13 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        We can cope without Alli. We cannot cope without Eriksen. I'd be astounded if he's rested in any games.

        1. Spike ⚽️
          • 12 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          So true mate

        2. Pierce34
          • 8 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          I remember having Eriksen in my bench boost team last year - he ended up being rested for the second match! But yes, I agree he's more essential than Alli.

    2. #FPLBhuna
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      yeah possibly

    3. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Davies, Eriksen, Kane
      Sterling, Jesus and maybe Ederson

      1. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        You not concerned about Davies rotation ? I'm very nervous about the prospect of not buying Jesus but I may just end up with Sterling from City !

        1. Hotdogs for Tea
          • 8 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          not really, Rose is as delicate as a ... mmm .. petal ... and I think will punt on Davies getting some attacking points in Kane's chase for goals

          1. TLF
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            5 years, 11 months ago

            Well we all know what Davies is capable of, could be a great option, good luck.

    4. Pierce34
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      If I were wildcarding now I'd triple up from both teams (not all attack though - one defence from each). As it is, I'm going with Sterling and a Spurs triple up (Vertonghen, Son, Kane).

      1. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        I dont fancy Spurs def but can understand your thinking.

    5. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I'll have Vert, Son + Kane (what I own now, otherwise I'd get in Eriksen) and Sane + Jesus. Might try and squeeze in Sterling too but unlikely.

    6. Team Bobcat
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Spurs assets barr davies whom i own are pretty much nailed. City risk rotation until the end of the srason and liverpool likewise short term. Same can be said of arsenal amd man u....

    7. Goalosaurus
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      On WC I've got Kane, Eriksen, and Son. Worried about rotation but don't think its too bad a roll of the dice.

      I've do have a very cheap def though.

      1. Pegboy
        • 13 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        I wouldn't get Son on WC (spoken as an owner), but it could pay off big style.

    8. Witty Pun: Not good at this…
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Don't like owning Alli, but am happy with Eriksen, will Kane, and Davies is my big risk big reward punt

    9. Point-one short
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I can't do that. I've made my Son, Vertonghen and Kane-shaped bed already.

    10. asquishypotato
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Remember when Eriksen was benched for the last few games? Cost me my mini league, especially when my rival went Dele Ali.

      Tread with caution any player that will be playing in the World Cup.

      1. Pegboy
        • 13 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Ahhhh, not quite sure how I forgot Denmark qualified. Ignore comment above. There is a chance Eriksen is rested once/if CL qualification is guaranteed.

        1. Garth Marenghi
          • 7 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          There’s a month before the world cup starts..Is this really a thing that happens?

          1. asquishypotato
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            5 years, 11 months ago

            Injuries as a potential - imagine how Elneny feels about potentially missing out on the World Cup after being injured in essentially a dead rubber game.

          2. Pegboy
            • 13 Years
            5 years, 11 months ago

            We've played him in every game bar Southampton away (when injured). I'm not saying he's definitely rested, but there's a chance we manage his minutes more (once/if CL secured).

        2. asquishypotato
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          5 years, 11 months ago

          Unfortunately so, I want eriksen but it’s removig Salah and a points hit which seems a bit much.

    11. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      city assets probably a bit more explosive than eriksen and alli. i have eriksen and will get kdb and sterling for gw37

      1. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        KDB more explosive than Eriksen? Not sure about that, KDB tends to be consistent but not necessarily explosive. Stats certainly argue a case for Eriksen. That said Sterling or Sane on their day could be incredibly explosive, I agree.

    12. Hungry Singh
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I think City are playing with so much freedom now, that even with rotation, they're capable of hauls.

      All their opponents are capable of shipping 4 or 5 goals, and they're in the frame of mind and form to do it.

    13. Thiga
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I've owned Eriksen since GW22 and currently have Kane and Son as well. Even with the Spurs triple up, I still feel like I need a City mid so it will probably be Mahrez making way for one.

    14. Balotellitubbies
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      But Spurs are not in their best form. Got Kane and Son and I will probably keep those 2, but I'm a bit reluctant to triple up. Although City players are risks it is equally risky to go without them. Sterling is gonna be in lots of teams, I'm probably going for him and possibly Jesus.

    15. arndff_
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I was about to be priced out, so last night took a massive -8 hit and made these transfers:

      Ryan, Willian, Lukaku to 3.9, Sterling, Jesus.

      Hope I won’t regret this.

      1. Fpl Richie
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Looks good to me

    16. Postman7
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      So much depends on your relative mini-league position (are you chasing others or comfortably ahead etc), but in my mind the safe plays are:
      TOT - Vert, Eriksen & Kane
      MCY - Ederson, Sterling, Silva, KDB, Jesus
      Everyone else in either team is likely to be rotated, or at least runs that risk. With lots still to play for, I'd rather play it safe with say Vertonghen than risk highs/lows with Davies as an example, but each to their own.

    17. Ibracadabra
      • 14 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      City score 3 goals per game; Tottenham don't and have looked sluggish in recent weeks. Already own Kane and outside of Eriksen, less interested in Alli or Son (Lamela/Moura threatening). Sterling can outscore Eriksen with a 0.5m+ savings even in 3 games versus 4.

      City have scored 98 goals this season = 3 goals per game.

      Tottenham 66 goals. = 2 goals per game.

      4 games left = 12 City goals and 8 Tottenham goals if the averages are right.

      1. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        You could well be right there. I think I'll be brining Sterling in regardless. For me it's more about whether or not I bring in another City mid alongside him or Eriksen.

    18. Dybala10
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Owned three Spurs for a while and just brought in two City players for this week. Vertonghen, Son, Kane, Jesus and Sterling.

      Ideally I would have Alli or Eriksen over Son but they are the best options imo. City rotation will happen, but they've proven they can do enough in one game to beat the likes of Willian or Mahrez.

    19. JurgenRodgers
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Eriksen got rested in DGw37 last season..

      Don’t think any player bar goalkeepers are 100% safe

    20. Rash
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      As it stands I have 3 city (sterling Silva Jesus) and son from spurs with view to getting Kane this week.. if salah is confirmed put I'll be tempted with a switch to the great Dane

  19. Fantasydreamer
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    For DGW need some advice

    A - Jesus and a 7.2 mid (b.silva, arnie, Ramsey?)

    Or

    B - sterling and another mid asset 9 or below (Ali, sane or d.silva?)

    1. Pep's Money Laundry
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Ideally u would want Jesus & 2 city midfielders. There will be goals galore in the dgw

      1. Fantasydreamer
        • 6 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Love too but not sure if would be worth the extra hits with rotation risks

  20. Sadio
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    I have bench boost and triple captain left as chips.

    I think TC on a Spurs player this week could be the move.

    Better off in 37?

    1. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Totally depends what your bench will look like each week. If you've got three Burnley/Palace as your cheapies, play it this week and TC in 37. If you can get 4 playing DGW subs in 37, play BB then.

  21. Gearoid
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    No Kane or City assets and Alonso suspended but saving FT this week.

    DDG
    Long Mustafi Cedric
    Salah Son Willian Mahrez Gundmunsson
    Lukaku Firmino

    Bench, Ryan, Murray, Morgan, Alonso

    Will take a hit for Jesus and either Kane/Eriksen in DGW37 with TC.

    GTG?

    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      That's not bad. Willian could be benched after his reaction to being subbed and Lamela could get the nod over Son who was awful agst Man U

  22. Ask Yourself
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    So why aren’t Anfield express releasing the line up then?

    1. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      don't want to give an advantage to Roma

    2. Pep's Money Laundry
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Every Liverpool/football fan knows the lineup tonight. The only question is who starts between milner and wijnaldum

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Milner is a no brainer.. experience, super hard working, totally bossed city's midfield

      2. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Milly gets the start for me, Klopp trusts him in big games

    3. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Dunno - different CL protocols mean they cannot obtain the info maybe?

    4. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Doesn't want to get blamed if they lose. Don't see the big deal as Roma would have plans in place for any kind of lineup

  23. Scheister
    • 11 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    G2G? 0 FT for Sterling or Salah, maybe next week. Cheers!

    DDG
    Vertonghen Christensen Lowton
    Alli Mahrez Willian Lingard
    (K)ane Jesus Barnes

    Ryan, Gross Tarkowski Morgan

    1. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Christensen was dropped in the semi final, could be dropped again?

      1. Scheister
        • 11 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Agreed. Tark and Morgan not terrible options off the bench here...

  24. FC Hakkebøf
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    (DIFFERENT FANTASY GAME - basically same point system)

    Would you rather have Sane or Alli for the remainder of the season? (Already have Kane, Eriksen and Jesus - can't afford Sterling)

    1. QuintonFortune25
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Sane, especially given you have Kane and Erikson but one 1 City

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Yeah your prolly right

      2. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Thanks QF

  25. Witty Pun: Not good at this…
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Cant wait to get off my moral high horse on Friday from looking down at all those pile making exact money transfers now, and then realising I'm 0.1 from my required move...

  26. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Having no free hit to use may have cost me points last week but it is nice to have got in Sterling and Jesus already whilst people struggle to think how to fit them in this week. 🙂 and I saved 0.1 on them both which is incredibly important at this stage of the season obviously....

    1. Witty Pun: Not good at this…
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Not sure if the last part is sarcasm 😛

      1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        I don't know what you are talking about 😉

    2. Ghost Gooner
      • 10 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      If Pep hints at Sterling rotation then you are in trouble 😆

    3. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      non FHers took hits last week to bring in a few players, this week the FHers will have to do the same if they want City players ... its all still a cost of the FH though 🙂

      1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Yeah the hits will even out this week from last week I reckon. I'm actually looking to save a transfer and then do 3 moves for a hit for 37 🙂

  27. Champions united
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    For a hit
    Mahrez to ali can backfire

    1. Champions united
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Sryy
      Its mahrez to sterling

      1. Pep's Money Laundry
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Yes, he could end with 20 points between now end of season

  28. Geezer
    • 13 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    What to do with Bailly?
    A: Keep
    B: Sell

    1. Spike ⚽️
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Sell. There are better options that are guaranteed starts

    2. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I can bench him easily this week, but I'll sell in 37 to raise funds for Jesus.

  29. ZeBestee
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    Kane has played in part, in the last 2-3 games off Son (who was ahead of him as a number 9). Looks like his lack of pace sometimes goes against him, more so if not sharp enough after the injury layoff. This tactic can be repeated for the rest of the season and Son (if he starts both the DGW games) might be the biggest beneficiary. The more i read comments in here and link them to the previous Spurs games i have watched i feel i might just give Sterling/Jesus the TC come DGW37. What do you fellows think?

    1. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Poch has experimented for 10-20 minute periods recently playing Kane #10 behind Son and it's been horrible to watch.

  30. bitm2007
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 11 months ago

    If Pool lose to Stoke at the weekend Chelsea will have their CL fate for next season back in their own hands. So surely Pool have got to field a strong starting lineup this weekend.

    1. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      Big guns on the bench if needed

      1. bitm2007
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        risky

    2. Pierce34
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      I agree, though I think Klopp would expect to beat Stoke even without a full-strength team. A bit like he played West Brom without Firmino and a second-string defence.

    3. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 11 months ago

      mmh cant see stoke winning even with a weakened pool side. anfield express will provide all the answers hopefully 🙂

      1. bitm2007
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 11 months ago

        Pool have first game of GW again, so I will be keeping a close eye on the Anfeild Express twitter feed on Friday.