Scout Notes

Eleven teams guaranteed a Double Gameweek as Palace progress in FA Cup

Crystal Palace’s comfortable 2-0 victory over Doncaster Rovers on Sunday afternoon means that the Eagles will join at least ten other Premier League sides in having one (or more) Double Gameweek in the months ahead.

Five top-flight matches originally pencilled in for Gameweek 31 will have to be rescheduled as a consequence of this weekend’s FA Cup fifth-round ties, while Chelsea are guaranteed a Double Gameweek regardless of their result against Manchester United on Monday evening as their Gameweek 27 fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion remains outstanding.

Just when these postponed Premier League games will be rearranged for remains unconfirmed but Gameweek 32 looks the obvious candidate at this stage.

The 11 sides who will definitely enjoy a Double Gameweek are:

Arsenal
Brighton
Cardiff
Chelsea
Crystal Palace
Manchester City
Manchester United
Southampton
Spurs
Watford
Wolves

Everton will join that contingent if Chelsea beat Manchester United on Monday night, as the Toffees are scheduled to face Maurizio Sarri’s troops in Gameweek 31.

We discussed the Blank Gameweek 31 picture in greater detail in our Scout Notes for Wolves’ victory over Bristol City, while we will analyse possible chip strategies in the coming days ahead.

The remainder of this article will instead focus on Palace’s success at the Keepmoat Stadium.

Doncaster Rovers 0-2 Crystal Palace

  • Goals: Jeffrey Schlupp (£4.4m), Max Meyer (£5.6m)
  • Assists: Luka Milivojevic (£6.2m), Andros Townsend (£5.9m)

Wilfried Zaha (£6.7m) will be free to feature in Gameweek 27 after serving a one-match suspension for improper conduct in Sunday’s victory over Doncaster Rovers.

Crystal Palace’s initial appeal had left Zaha free to play against West Ham United in Gameweek 26 but the Football Association’s subsequent rejection of that appeal left the Ivorian sidelined for the Eagles’ FA Cup fifth-round tie in South Yorkshire.

Zaha has two goals and as many assists in his last five Premier League starts.

Palace didn’t particularly miss their talismanic winger on Sunday as they coasted to a 2-0 win over their League One opponents but, by the same token, the likes of Michy Batshuayi (£6.5m) and Jordan Ayew (£5.7m) failed to impress in his stead.

Ayew struggled in an unfamiliar role on the left of Roy Hodgson’s 4-3-3, while Batshuayi looked rusty on his first start in a Palace shirt.

The Chelsea loanee had a free header blocked in the first half before his heavy touch ruined a one-on-one chance on 72 minutes and there was little evidence to suggest he might oust Christian Benteke (£6.3m) from the Palace starting XI in Gameweek 27, let alone enter the mid-price FPL forward debate this week.

Luka Milivojevic (£6.2m) was perhaps the best Palace player on show at the Keepmoat, setting Jeffrey Schlupp (£4.4m) on his way for the Eagles’ opening goal before “assisting the assister” for his side’s second strike: Max Meyer (£5.6m) nodding in from close range after Andros Townsend (£5.9m) had headed Milivojevic’s excellent chipped pass back across goal.

Milivojevic and Townsend aren’t the most exciting of midfield picks but for those Fantasy bosses looking for security of starts when, for example, compiling a Double Gameweek free-hit side, the pair are reliable sorts: the Palace duo are two of just five FPL midfielders – team-mate James McArthur (£4.8m) being another – who have started in each of the 26 Gameweeks contested this season.

Again thanks mostly to his penalty-taking duties, Milivojevic is well on his way to matching his ten-goal haul of 2017/18 – the Serbia international has seven Premier League strikes to his name already this season.

The Palace set-piece specialist (who it should be said is already on eight yellow cards this season) was again his side’s arch-creator at Doncaster, registering more key passes (five) than anyone on show.

Townsend has a modest seven attacking returns to his name this season (four goals, three assists) but his role on the right-hand side of Hodgson’s 4-3-3 is seemingly his to lose: the former Spurs and Newcastle winger has featured in every single one of Palace’s competitive matches this season, with the EFL Cup second-round tie at Swansea the only game in which he hasn’t started.

Elsewhere on Palace-watch, FPL defender Schlupp scored for the second successive match while playing “out of position” in central midfield.

The return to fitness of Cheikhou Kouyate (£4.7m), who emerged as a second-half substitute on Sunday, may threaten his security of starts, however.

Patrick van Aanholt (£5.4m) was the only one of Palace’s regular back four to be given a run-out, meanwhile, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka (£4.6m) rested and James Tomkins (£4.3m) returning from a calf injury on the bench.

Wayne Hennessey (£4.5m) started ahead of Vicente Guaita (£4.2m) in the Palace goal, with Hodgson suggesting after the match that he will continue to use the Welsh custodian in cup matches – though the budget FPL goalkeeper still faces an FA hearing for an alleged gesture in January.

Hodgson said:

I had no doubts about him playing. He deserves to play and was very good today. He’s played in all the cup matches so far and whatever the draw is I would expect him to play in the next one too.

The charge is what it is. We’ve spoken about that at great length. We are both hoping and confident that charge won’t lead to any particular sanctions.

Hodgson added on the game itself:

I thought both teams tried to play good football. There were some good moves from both sides and we were able, not just us but Doncaster too, to get the ball down and under some control.

They [the Palace players] worked very, very hard. Even the players who didn’t have the best of games worked very, very hard to make certain that we gave nothing away. But I’m fortunate that I’ve come to a club where it’s par for the course that players are like that.

Our priority and our focus still remains the same, that we would like to do well in the cup but we would like even more to stay in the Premier League. That always remains the priority.

Crystal Palace XI (4-3-3): Hennessey; Ward, Kelly, Dann, Van Aanholt; Milivojevic, Schlupp, Meyer; Ayew (Kouyate 60′), Batshuayi (Benteke 75′),
Townsend (McArthur 80′).

637 Comments Post a Comment
  1. anish10
    • 13 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    What’s the general consensus of the WC, FH & BB then?

    1. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      34 32 35

    2. Rocky FPL
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Waiting for the draw and possible DGW 32 confirmation mid week.

    3. Tommy Tynans Left Shin Pad
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      I'm setting my team up from now until GW31

      WC32
      FH33
      BB35
      TC???

      1. Flynny
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Fh 32
        Wildcard 34
        Bb35
        Tc 36 possibly

        1. KUNingas
          • 8 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          This

    4. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Wait until we know the doubles

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

      There isn't one

  2. The Darkest Knight
    • 13 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Using WC in early January is my biggest regret so far this season.

    1. Gegenpress
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Same, but check my post about how to navigate BGWKs and DGWKs without WC

      1. Simmoo
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Do you have a link to that, Gegenpress? I am currently working out the best way to survive without a WC too.

  3. Sz21
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    3 GW 31 players atm.
    Thinking Holebas/Rich->Pereira/Felipe.

    Digne-> TAA the week after.
    Gives me 6 DGW 31 players then with another couple of FT's left.
    What do we think?

    *Fabianski.
    Bednarek, Doherty, AWB.
    Pogba, *Salah, Son, Camarasa.
    *Firmino, Auba, Rashford.
    Hamer, Holebas, Rich, Digne.
    2ft, 1.4m ITB.

    1. KUNingas
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Sounds good

    2. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Sounds good. Personally I’m not convinced by Leicester def or Anderson.

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

        Any alternatives you can think of?

        1. Tommy Tynans Left Shin Pad
          • 12 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Newcastle Def
          Bournemouth mid

  4. Karan14
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Fab
    Robbo • Doherty • Digne
    Salah • Pogba • Son • Jota
    Rashford • Jimènez • Kamara

    (Button / TAA / Awb / Hazard)
    2 Fts

    Digne & Kamara ➡️ Yedlin & Rondon for free?

    Will do Son/Hazard to Sterling in GW28.

    Will have 6-7 players + 3 transfers from GW29 to build for GW31 blank and then FH32.

    Only drawback I see with this strategy is no Auba/Laca for the next 2.

    Appreciate your thoughts! 🙂

    1. KUNingas
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Hazard will have GW31 if Chelsea lose tonight? With the fixtures I would keep him

      1. Karan14
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Yup even I would.

        Although would you sell Hazard if they win tonight?

        1. KUNingas
          • 8 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Well that is trickier question. I sold Hazard couple GWs ago

          1. Karan14
            • 7 Years
            5 years, 1 month ago

            If I sell him this week I can get Auba/Laca upfront but I only want them for the next 2 games.

  5. Flynny
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Having weighted up the fh31 or fh32 conundrum, I'm firmly in the fh32 camp.

    If you fh32 you can pick the cheapest possible bench and hone in on the best possible dgw 11 players with no planning....its going to be possible to have kane kun and auba frontline for example

    If you are using fts to build up to 32 you won't be able to maximise the best of the dgw where there will be more points available that 31.

    I'm happy to use fts to build a team of 8 or 9 decent options for bgw31.

    If you fh in 31 you will be using the
    Chip on Burnley Leicester west ham etc.....so surely the upside is slimmer....

    That's my take.....

    1. KUNingas
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Easy decision, FH in GW32 it is.

    2. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      My biggest problem with FH31 is that I will be carrying Triple Pool against Spurs in DGW32.

      I also have Triple Wolves who don’t have good fixtures between GW30-34 and I don’t to keep them just for the DGW.

      1. Gegenpress
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        It's all about the FH 32

        1. Pocky
          • 14 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Cheers Flynny, that's confirmed it for me.

    3. Geoff
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 11 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      What about WC 32?

  6. OptimusBlack
    • 10 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Which teams that surely play GW 31 ?

    1. KUNingas
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      West Ham vs Huddersfield
      Bournemouth vs Newcastle
      Burnley vs Leicester
      Fulham vs Liverpool

      1. OptimusBlack
        • 10 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Thx Dear

  7. Eleven Hag
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    With Luiz n richarlson in my team and also as a fan praying for a man united win

  8. jindermahal
    • 5 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Anyone here know if arnaoutovic will likely start cf for West Ham this weekend?

    1. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Only Pellegrini

    2. Weak Become Heros
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Id say very likely.

  9. Reckoner.
    • 12 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    I currently have 3 players in my team that will have a fixture in GW 31 (3 x Liverpool).

    Original plan was:

    GW 31 – Use transfers in build up to make a team for this
    GW 32 – Free Hit
    GW 33 – Blank
    GW 34 – Wildcard
    GW 35 – Bench Boost

    Thinking I'll now need to switch the Free Hit to GW 31 and be building a team with the GW 32 double in mind.

    Anyone else going down this route? So:

    GW 31 – Free Hit
    GW 32 – Use transfers in build up to make a team for this
    GW 33 – Blank
    GW 34 – Wildcard
    GW 35 – Bench Boost

    1. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      I have 1 player 2 but a Snod doesn't count and no interest in FH other than 32

    2. Klein
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Whats your plan for bgw33? If you fh 31. Will have team for 32 but 33 will hurt.

      1. Reckoner.
        • 12 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        In the 2nd route I would be using transfers between now and then to build a team with the Double GW32 and Blank GW33 in mind.

    3. KUNingas
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Original plan is better

    4. Buck The Trent
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      I like the first option

    5. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      I've always planned on the 2nd route, and nothing so far has convinced my otherwise - all depends on individual teams though. I'll probably use TC in 32 also

      1. KUNingas
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Who to TC in 32?

        1. SADIO SANÉ
          • 8 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          whoever seems best

      2. Kiwivillan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        If you get your C right that TC like Aguero in 25 it's an extra 19pts. That's great but it was only 4 more than Hazard SGW score that week

        1. SADIO SANÉ
          • 8 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          and? I had Haz but didn't even captain him that week, there will always be a high scoring SGW player doesn't mean you'll captain the right one

    6. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      You might not know the GW 32 doubles until after the FA Cup quarter finals in GW31 ... so not sure how you build a team for DGW32?

    7. Reckoner.
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      2nd route I can obviously put out a good team for GW31 with the Free Hit.

      GW32, after next weeks transfers, I would have 10 DGW players and 3 x Liverpool so feel like I'd be in a good spot for that.

      Then GW 33 currently have 8 players with a game, with transfers building up to that to get a full 11 out.

      Think I've sold myself on the 2nd option tbh.

      1. Reckoner.
        • 12 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Sorry edit, GW 32 currently have a possible 10 DGW players, that will obviously drop.

      2. Hotdogs for Tea
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Who are the DGW players though ? The fixtures haven’t been set yet 😉

        1. Reckoner.
          • 12 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          See above

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

            I don’t see your DGW players above ?
            We simply don’t know which blank fixtures will go in to 32 and 35 respectively ... blanks in GW31 may not go into GW32

            1. Reckoner.
              • 12 Years
              5 years, 1 month ago

              If more doubles get put into GW 35 than 32 then using the Free Hit in GW 31 rather than GW 32 makes even more sense.

              If I use FH in GW 32 it means, at best, I'd have 7 players in GW 31, those players also have to be thought about for GW 33.

              If I use FH in GW 31 I can get a full team out for GW 31 and full team out for GW 32. I can bank 2 transfers going into GW 32 to help get DGW players in for GW 32.

              For me, FH in 31 is the best option. I'm sure for others it isn't.

              1. DOG GOD IT - KEANE 15
                • 10 Years
                5 years, 1 month ago

                If you FH in 31, you won't be able to roll a FT to 32, meaning you would have only 1 FT for 32.

                Just saying

                1. Reckoner.
                  • 12 Years
                  5 years, 1 month ago

                  Thanks for the info, that was one question I needed to ask on here.

              2. Hotdogs for Tea
                • 8 Years
                5 years, 1 month ago

                ok, I can’t explain it any more, good luck 🙂

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

      Plus your GW33 team will be like 4 players 😉

      1. Reckoner.
        • 12 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Currently 8 (2 x keepers though), but would have transfers to get more before then.

    9. Sharkytect
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Exactly the same boat here. Have to be prepared for a bad score in GW33

      1. Reckoner.
        • 12 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        For GW 33 I've currently got:

        Alisson, Robertson, Salah, Kolasnic, Aubameyang, Bednerak

        So 6 with plans to bring in 1 more next week. If I go down the 2nd route I'll be trying to save 2 transfers going into GW32 and using them to get players that have a double in GW32 and a single in GW33 if possible.

        If I work it well I think I could nearly get a full team out for GW 33.

        1. DOG GOD IT - KEANE 15
          • 10 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          FH in GW31 means you can't bring forward a FT. So only 1 free FT for GW32.

          Having said that, your option 2 does have its merits

        2. aborg
          • 6 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          I was already going to do exactly your same tactic.
          Only issue is that we can not carry on an extra FT for GW32 if we free hit GW31 but I can live with that.

          I was thinking to then TC DGW35 but it all depends on the fixtures really.

  10. Buck The Trent
    • 12 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Which team has confirmed matches in gw 33 other than pool vs soton ?

    1. Reckoner.
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Everton, Arsenal, Leicester, Bournmouth, Burnley, Huddersfield

      1. Buck The Trent
        • 12 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Thanks

  11. Sharkytect
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    I thought i was planning ahead to gw31 by getting in Barnes last week. Sure, he got me 11 points, but now i am looking at gw31 and i am still too many transfers away from getting close to a team out. AND i don't have aguero, and want to buy him. So i am forced down the standard route:

    GW 31 : FH
    GW 32 : nothing, possible TC, if no other DGW lined up
    GW 33 : pray for the best
    GW 34 : WC
    GW 35 : BB

    Annoying; thought I'd be able to veer from the norm

    1. aborg
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Actually the norm are FH on GW32, so you are good

  12. FortunesAlwaysHiding
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Is Boruc nailed on in goal for Bournemouth?

  13. Fpl Richie
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Seen lots of people bench-boosting in GW35.
    Is that likely to be the second major dgw?

    1. Tommy Tynans Left Shin Pad
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Correct

  14. pingissimus
    • 5 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    If you have template Kun Jiménez Rashford what are your plans?

    I’m committed to Jiménez and like fixtures and will be keeping Kun for 28 anyway. But the Lingard and Martial injuries put Rashford on the edge for me - the fixtures aren’t super attactive either. My options:

    Arnie ( will he play 5 consecutive fixtures?)
    Rondon (it’s that Newcastle attack)
    Higuain - tempting but not till 29 and that is Rashfords best fixture

    1. b91jh
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      If i were u i would keep rashford until gw29 and bring king/wilson for gw30

      1. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        That’s another option I’ve been looking at. It makes sense to switch into Bournemouth.

        But I think I’m more likely to go for Brooks and/or Fraser from Jota and Camarasa or even Jonny into Clyne.

    2. The 5% Team
      • 5 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      for me Rashford is the one that maybe could go for Rondon this week. His best fixture vs Southampton, he could be rested in that match as is it a few days before the PSG return match

      1. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        That’s the way I’m veering.

        But I don’t really see Rashford being rested unless there’s an injury concern - 4th place must be the priority. Although there could be Kun like substitutions if United go two up in the next run of fixtures.

    3. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Rondon costs 5.7m for a reason. Barnes is underpriced but want neither

  15. KUNingas
    • 8 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    I currently don't have any playing GK in GW31 and GW33. Will use FH in GW32. So which one is better?

    A) Speroni -> Heaton (rotating with Guaita)
    lei, new, CRY, BHA, LEI, bou

    B) Guaita -> Heaton
    TOT, new, CRY, liv, LEI, bou

    1. Buck The Trent
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Heaton or Boruc

      1. KUNingas
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Which one out, Guaita or Speroni?

    2. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Boruc looks a steal for 31 and 33

    3. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Speroni>Boruc

      1. KUNingas
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Thanks. Yeah fixtures looks great for 31 and 33. In above Heaton option, I could have played Heaton (new) versus Guaita (MUN). But true, maybe NEW + BUR is better than LEI + bou.

    4. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      The other option is Schmeichel. Has Fulham and Brighton at home and Huddersfield in 33. That’s 3 very good shots at a cs.

      His worst fixture is Burnley away in 31

      1. KUNingas
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Already have Pereira from Leicester and not so sure about doubling their defence

        1. Kiwivillan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Rather 2 attacking Leicester defenders than any Newcastle

        2. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Fair enough then Heaton makes sense.

          But I’m keeping an eye on Brighton as being a really favourable fixture - their form is shocking.

    5. DA Minnion (Former great)
      • 11 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      If you still have bench boost you need to get rid of Speroni.

      1. KUNingas
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        WC34, BB35

  16. kempc23
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    What is a sensible tactic if I have already used FH and TC? Currently have 10 for 27 and 4 for 31.

    1. Tommy Tynans Left Shin Pad
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Build from now for 31 and WC in 32. BB in 35

  17. Tommy Tynans Left Shin Pad
    • 12 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Nobody is considering the potential blank/light GW in 33, which is why I have this as my strategy (will know more tomorrow I guess)

    ...Build for 31
    WC32
    FH33
    BB35
    TC36-38

    GW33 could be a bit of a mare that's all I'm saying

    1. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      The good 31 players dovetail with 33

      1. Ajax Hamsterdam
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        do they though ?

        1. Kiwivillan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Liverpool Leicester Bournemouth West Ham only teams atm that interest me for 31 and first 3 play 33

          1. potatoace
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 12 Years
            5 years, 1 month ago

            That's only the ones we know of. Come gw33 there will be more players available. He will have pick of the crop , anyone who fh32 will only have 1ft in gw33

      2. Klein
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        This

    2. KUNingas
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Im building up team which can play for both 31 and 33. FH32 and WC34

  18. Scout Picks Community Champion Lottery – Gameweek 27
    Geoff
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 11 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Scout Picks Community Champion Lottery – Gameweek 27

    Once again, one champion representing the community will take on the Scout Picks this week with a chance to win a prize at the end of the season!

    If you want to take part please email your FFS name and FPL ID number to community@fantasyfootballscout.co.uk.

    The champion will be selected at random at 10:00 at least two days before the deadline and then asked to submit their XI by 10:00 the day before the deadline.

    This will require 11 picks, fitting into an 83.5m budget. There is no captain in the picks and the community champion must also stick to a designated FPL formation, and also must not include more than three players from a single team. Again, no chips or captaincy will be applied.

    At the end of the season the champion who has beaten the Scout Picks by the highest margin will receive a £100 Amazon voucher.

    The weekly champion will be revealed in the midweek Scout Squad article, which will outline the Scout’s initial thinking around the choices. Our picks and the champion’s picks will be revealed, as usual, in the Scout Picks article.

    Should the community champion fail to provide an appropriate squad, fitting the budget and formation constraints, a caretaker manager will be appointed to take control of the selection to represent the community.

    Submit now if you’re interested for to be the Community Champion for Gameweek 27.

    Good luck!

  19. DA Minnion (Former great)
    • 11 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    I'm playing this game 8 or 9 years at this stage and still haven't made it to this point with my wildcard in tact. Promise myself every year that the next one will be different.Have all the other chips but still. Maybe next year.

    1. Mo Mané Mo Problems
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Well, until 2015/16 you had to use your wildcard in January.

      1. Kiwivillan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Also this

      2. RedLightning
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        That was only the January Wildcard.
        There was also a Main Wildcard that could be used either early in the season or saved for the Double Game Weeks towards the end.

        Before the January Wildcard was introduced there used to be only a single Wildcard that could be used at any time in the season.
        Now they have both been replaced by the two Half-season Wildcards.

    2. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Highly competitive cash league solved that for me

  20. salazar1963
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    If you have a free transfer after week 31, then FH week 32, how many transfers would you have for week 33?
    Thanks

    1. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      1

      1. salazar1963
        • 6 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Thanks, mate. So don't carry a transfer over from week 31?

        1. Ajax Hamsterdam
          • 9 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          i dont think so no

        2. Kiwivillan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          No

        3. Kiwivillan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          No carry over. Same as WC. No carry over either

    2. DA Minnion (Former great)
      • 11 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      1

    3. BATISTUTA ®
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      If you make that transfer before using the FH it wouldnt go to waste

  21. Ajax Hamsterdam
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    would LOVE it if the 11 teams mentioned above all have their double games in gw32

    1. Poseidon.
      • 5 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Such a weird feeling - I’m Utds biggest fan but kinda hoping Chelsea win tonight for the FPL impact!

      1. XABI 15
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        you must be joking..?

      2. jia you
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        this is what the world is coming to...I blame Twitter 🙁

    2. Tommy Tynans Left Shin Pad
      • 12 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      That's what I'm banking on!

  22. Bavarian
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Who are the players that you are willing to get for GW31?
    Have 6 now (Robertson-TAA-Salah-Pereira-Fabianski-Anderson)

    1. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      You have heaps. Relax

  23. Vobinho
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    How does this strategy sound for a chaser from 400k :

    WC 28 - most of the team will be optimal for 31&33

    Use FTs to eliminate other players in GW 30 in preparation for 31

    FH 32

    GW 31 team should be okay for 33.

    Use GW 33 and 34 to build bench up for BB 35.

    Key is to be able to bench enough GW35 assets in 31 &33 so it doesnt hamper me too much in changing my team for GW35. GW35 might not be much of an issue depending on the draw?

    Thoughts?

    1. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Will you have Sterling and Aguero for 28-30?

      1. Vobinho
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Yes, they will probably be my two transfers just before GW31 to get rid

  24. Carlton_Goal
    • 8 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Hi guys, just wondering where the blanks in GW33 will come from? Is that for the next round of the FA cup? (After the ones being drawn today)

  25. Tshelby
    • 9 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    I'm I right if I say that the best players to invest in for GW 31 and 33 are those from Huddersfield, Bournemouth, Burnley, Leicester and Liverpool? Cause they play in both GW's.
    That if you use your FH in 32 and WC in 34?

    1. Klein
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Yup but how many can you have till gw31?

      1. Tshelby
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Currently : Fab, Anderson, TAA, Robertson, Salah, Billing and Alonso

    2. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      I would count hud out pointless imo

      1. Tshelby
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Players from Bournemouth and Leicester look like the ones I want. All ready have 3 Pool players.

        1. Kiwivillan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Yep 3x Liverpool 2 x Leicester 2 x Bournemouth for 31 looks good

          1. Ajax Hamsterdam
            • 9 Years
            5 years, 1 month ago

            What about w ham ? Home to hud is a great fixture

  26. Twisted Saltergater
    • 14 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    I’ve done a 180 and am preferring planning for BGW31 and 33 with FT’s, FH in DGW32, then bring in DGW’ers for 35 and play BB.

    Yes, it’s risky playing BB without the WC, but at least a DGW gives me an extra chance of someone playing who might otherwise be benched.

    If BGW31 games get moved further out than GW32 then it might be a problem.

    Feel more relaxed now lol.

    1. Twisted Saltergater
      • 14 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      If Chelsea progress it will be a blow losing their GW31 fixture tbh.

    2. Kiwivillan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      It just makes sense. Thought that was your plan earlier?

      1. Twisted Saltergater
        • 14 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        You’ve been on a long shift, mate!

        I was probably 60-40 in favour of FH31 so I could BB in 32, but not sure I’ll be able to maximise 32 doing that.

        I’m looking at GW31 and only fancying Liverpool, Bournemouth, Leicester and maybe West Ham. It’s really not great pickings. Chelsea having a fixture would be perfect.

        1. jia you
          • 7 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Yeah, FH in 31 looks a tough ask to haul points, but the upside is you don't need to fill your team up with Hammers and BOU leading up to it 😉

          1. Twisted Saltergater
            • 14 Years
            5 years, 1 month ago

            I’m only considering Brooks (when fit) and Anderson tbh. Wilson or King would be alright too.

            1. jia you
              • 7 Years
              5 years, 1 month ago

              With no WC, it's tough but not too worried! In fact I might still go all out on City for their next three and screw the logic of planning! Nothing a few hits wont sort out 😉

          2. Twisted Saltergater
            • 14 Years
            5 years, 1 month ago

            I’m quite precious over who I buy so won’t want to bring in dross! Might still go back to FH31 if I can’t let my team’s entry standards slip 😉

            1. jia you
              • 7 Years
              5 years, 1 month ago

              The only player I want to bring in is Maguire/Pereira, I don't want Hammers or BOU players atm really and Rondon is plenty NEW!

  27. Zladan
    • 6 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Over the next few weeks, I can make these xfers to field 7 GW31 players for free.

    Out:
    Bennett
    Bednarek
    Jimenez
    Son

    In:
    TAA
    Periera
    Arnautovic
    Anderson/Fraser

    Leaving me with GW31 team of:
    Clyne TAA Pereira
    Salah Mané Anderson/Fraser
    Arnautovic

    Blankers:
    Pat Ryan
    AWB Digne
    Pogba Camarasa
    Aguero Rashford

    I could then take a few hits, maybe get Boruc, the other of Anderson/Fraser, Vardy/King/Wilson.

    Will have to weigh up the cost benefit of those 3 additional hit xfers.

    I’m not sure there are even players in GW31 that I want beyond those I have/I mentioned as possible hits.

    But means I can optimise my chips:
    GW32: FH
    GW34: WC
    GW35: BB

    TBD: TC

    1. KUNingas
      • 8 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Looks good!

  28. jia you
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Just a few quick questions:
    1. When should I use my FH chip?
    2. When should I use my TC chip?
    3. When should I use my BB chip?
    4. When should I use my WC?
    5. List the confirmed fixtures for BGW31 and BGW33?
    6. Who should I transfer in between now and GW31?
    p.s. my time is limited, am not on twitter, and I fall asleep during the SC so your answers are appreciated

    1. Mo Mané Mo Problems
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      All my spoons are in the dishwasher.

    2. jia you
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      sry forgot:
      7. Link to Mark's team?
      8, Link to VR's team?
      9. Link to FPL Virgin's team?
      Cheers 😉

    3. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      I also have all my chips and to be honest there s no right or wrong answers. It mainly depends of the players you currently have and of when the rescheduled games from gw31 will happen .

    4. Twisted Saltergater
      • 14 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      😆

      This is the fun part of FPL, working out the best strategy for your team. Not sure why some (definitely not you) prefer to be told what to do.

      1. jia you
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        🙂

    5. Zladan
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      Looking at your team, you have 3 LFC + Rondon for GW31 (that’s more than most).

      Fixtures are not great in GW31 (unless Chelsea v Everton is on).

      You could lose your Spurs assets easily enough given their fixtures - there’s up to 3 more slots - Pereira/Clyne, Anderson/Maddison/Fraser are options for those slots.

      Shaw could be switched out to Clyne/Periera.

      Rashford could become Arnie/Vardy(if Spurs out leaves you with funds to upgrade).

      Chelsea v Everton gives you plenty of options though. So keep eye out tonight - Haz/Hig/Alonso/Digne/Rich.

      You could easily get up to 8 players for free without damaging GW scores between 27-30 (mainly looking at Leicester outperforming Spurs over next 3).

      Then stick with the FH32, WC34, BB35 tactic. Use the TC wherever you feel best thereafter.

      1. Twisted Saltergater
        • 14 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Jia was being sarcastic, but bless you for giving him such great advice. +1

        1. Zladan
          • 6 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Haha well it’s good to put yourself in someone else’s scenario to see where you could go. Gives you an idea of what others will be doing.

      2. jia you
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        My post was tongue-in-cheek mate yet your efforts are much appreciated with some sound advice there! (have only FH chip left btw)

        1. Zladan
          • 6 Years
          5 years, 1 month ago

          Good luck over the next few weeks then! When do you intend on FHing?

          BGW to get a team out and use xfers on DGWers instead, or maximise a DGW with a FH?

          1. jia you
            • 7 Years
            5 years, 1 month ago

            Thanks mate, haven't decided yet but I don't see a lot of upside in using FH in 31 as you'd really have to get lucky and nail it with the likes of triple WHU but am still open to it atm.

            1. Zladan
              • 6 Years
              5 years, 1 month ago

              Yeah I wouldn’t recommend use xfers on BGW31&33 players and use FH to maximise a DGW when your competition will field XI or XV DGWers.

              1. Zladan
                • 6 Years
                5 years, 1 month ago

                I would* recommend...

              2. jia you
                • 7 Years
                5 years, 1 month ago

                Yeah, you're probably right, still it's a tough one as I want to load up on City for their next three fixtures also...caught in two minds atm

  29. Emiliano Sala
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    Lose shaw or matip first?
    Will buy chilwell this week and TAA later

  30. #FPLBhuna
    • 7 Years
    5 years, 1 month ago

    so what's the best chip strategy?

    current team

    ederson - fab
    robertson - pva - doherty - awb - bednarek
    salah - mane - sterling - siggy - pogba
    rash - ings - jiminez

    1. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      I m always willing to help when I can but are you not asking a bit much ? 🙂

      1. Flynny
        • 9 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        It doesn't look like there is a best strategy. Just pick one of the options and stick to it.

        Most seem to be wildcard 34 and BB35....

        I'm free hitting 32.....others in 31.

        No one is right. No one is wrong.

      2. #FPLBhuna
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        why even waste your time commenting? 🙂

    2. Zladan
      • 6 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      What’s the minimum players you would accept on a BGW?

      Which players who play in GW31 would you want in your team between now and then?

      Which players are you willing to lose from your current squad?

    3. jia you
      • 7 Years
      5 years, 1 month ago

      It seems to me that everybody on here is confused as hell trying to figure out their own team's strategy let alone working out yours 😉

      1. Pep Pig
        • 7 Years
        5 years, 1 month ago

        Haha exactly this mate 😀