Pre-Season

The midfield bench fodder options available in FPL

Our analysis of the Fantasy Premier League price list will conclude with a look at budget midfielders.

While we may have struggled to so far pick out many gems among the cut-price defenders and forwards, the sheer weight of numbers among similarly priced midfielders – there are currently 119 such players priced between £4.5m and £5.5m inclusive at the time of writing – suggests there may be more joy to be had in the middle of the park.

With sub-£6.0m midfielders representing more than 25% of all FPL players, we will split this analysis into three separate articles.

This first piece will look at players available for £4.5m, the second focusing on £5.0m midfielders and a final feature to follow on those available at £5.5m.

The £4.5m Options

There are, at the time of writing, 35 FPL midfielders available for £4.5m.

The primary function of a £4.5m midfielder is to be an emergency option on our benches, to be ready to come in for a two-point (or better) return when rotation, injury and/or suspension bites hard.

The first requirement of such a player is that he is a reliable starter.

That immediately rules out a large number of Fantasy assets, although pre-season is yet to start in earnest and we may well see a surprise name emerge from this bargain bin of players.

Possible Starters

Leander Dendoncker was benched only once from Gameweek 22 to 38.

There aren’t too many players at £4.5m who can guarantee us a game.

One of the most popular options in FPL right now is Leander Dendoncker, who currently sits in 9.5% of squads.

The Belgium international had to bide his time to become a regular starter under Nuno Espirito Santo, not making the matchday squad until Gameweek 10 and failing to make a single start in the first half of the season.

Dendoncker’s debut finally came in Gameweek 20 and he went on to start all bar one of Wolves’ final 17 league fixtures.

The central midfielder has scored twice in 2019 and, after his full debut, only six players in his position went on to register more big chances – all of them more expensive in FPL.

Wolves’ participation in the Europa League may lead to some rotation but Santo’s squad is fairly small, so Dendoncker should still get plenty of league starts.

Isaac Hayden is the only £4.5m-rated FPL midfielder who features in more FPL squads at the time being, although the Newcastle midfielder – who started the Magpies’ final 20 games – is seeking a move away from the north-east for personal reasons and his whereabouts next season are still to be confirmed.

Dale Stephens made 29 starts for Brighton and Hove Albion last season, meanwhile, registering two attacking returns.

A regular under Chris Hughton, we will have to monitor the Seagulls in pre-season to see if he features prominently in new boss Graham Potter’s plans.

Matteo Guendouzi offers semi-regular starts but that, arguably, isn’t good enough when we are also concerned about rotation to our heavy hitters.

The French midfielder made 23 starts last season but was named as a substitute on a further 14 occasions, coming on ten times.

Oriol Romeu is perhaps up there with Dendoncker in terms of first-team prospects, having started 21 of the 23 matches that Ralph Hasenhuttl oversaw.

The one-time Chelsea midfield spoiler has scored exactly one goal in each of the last four seasons, which is arguably perfect for those who don’t want the anguish of seeing their third-choice substitute stuck on the bench after a double-digit haul.

We may be able to add Tom Trybull to the mix, with the Norwich defensive midfielder a regular starter in the second half of the season at the expense of fellow £4.5m asset Alex Tettey.

The Rest

Grady Diangana made six starts and 11 substitute appearances last season.

Nampalys Mendy made 23 starts last season but not one under Brendan Rodgers.

Aside from those already mentioned, Morgan Schneiderlin was one of only two other £4.5m midfielders who reached double figures for Premier League starts (ten) but even he looks likely to be a backup again this season.

Grady Diangana was briefly a budget midfielder to monitor last season but West Ham’s plethora of attacking options may again restrict his chances, while the future of anchormen Pedro Obiang (who made 12 starts for the Hammers) and Carlos Sanchez is in some doubt.

Moritz Leitner was peripheral in the season run-in for Norwich after being an ever-present in the first 18 matches (the Canaries being well stocked in central midfield), while youngster Todd Cantwell may well be sent out on loan by the Championship winners.

Henri Lansbury, Birkir Bjarnason and the ‘out of position’ Keinan Davis look unlikely to be heavily involved at Villa, meanwhile.

The likes of Mohamed Elneny, Danny Drinkwater, Matty James and James McCarthy would appear to be backup options or surplus to requirements at their respective clubs, with only Arsenal’s Egyptian making any league starts (five) last season.

Youngsters such as Ethan Ampadu at Chelsea, Luke Dreher at Crystal Palace, Tahith Chong and James Garner at Manchester United, and Callum Slattery and Tyreke Johnson at Southampton will be hoping for breakthrough seasons at their respective clubs but remain only prospects for the future at present. Only Slattery of this group made a league start last season.

Brighton’s Beram Kayal will have his fingers crossed for more game-time under new boss Potter, while defensive midfielder Hamza Choudhury is one to monitor (for starts, if not attacking returns) as he continues his development under Brendan Rodgers.

Daniel Amartey is the other Leicester midfield option at £4.5m but it is difficult to see where the some-time right-back fits into Rodgers’ system when he returns from an ankle injury.

Oliver Skipp made just two starts at Spurs last season, while Domingos Quina and Nathaniel Chalobah – who were in Javi Gracia’s starting XI on just three occasions each – will likely be backup options again in central midfield.

Rafael Camacho has left Liverpool on a permanent deal while Luke Amos has joined QPR on loan from Spurs.

It should be stressed that the above information is how we see the picture in early July and there is plenty that could happen between now and Gameweek 1.

We’ll keep you up to speed on all the developments in pre-season and shine a light on any names from this price tier should they look like threatening some league starts.

1,267 Comments Post a Comment
  1. All de Gea no iDier
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Disappointing that Hayden is wanting away from the Toons. He would seem to be the best (of two) options to fill that 4.5 midfield spot.

    1. Gregor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Could be an even better option somewhere else though.

      1. Legomané
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Hopefully a Camarasa figure will emerge, without the inconvenient independent medical squad

      2. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Exactly this.

    2. No Salah
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Who’s the other 4.5 option?

      1. Gregor
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        As below.

      2. All de Gea no iDier
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Dendoncker is the only other one I would consider.

  2. Legomané
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Leander FTW!

    1. Gregor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Totes.

    2. Piggs Boson
      • 12 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      FPL Legend in the making. Dendoncker comes on with a goal and 3 baps after Salah doesn't make the GW1 squad 🙂

  3. pokern1nja09
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Do we think Pérez will be a nailed on starter straight away?

    1. Gregor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Hope so.

    2. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Probs

      But it’d make it a super offensive formation squeezing them all in. Would BRod hold steady with it in tough away fixtures? Rotation?

      I think he would but feels chancy. Leaning towards Vardy.

      1. Vobinho
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I don't think their formation would change much with regard to Perez

        Ndidi, Choudhury & Tielemans have the dynamic to change from defensive to attacking midfield with different strategies, with Perez, Maddison & Vardy nailed on for the attacking slots.

        1. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Agree I think - but if you’re looking for 100% nailed there’s just enough doubt right now to make me hold back

    3. Modest Bob
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      As a current top 100 k player, i think he is nailed to start.

      1. The 5% Team
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        🙂

  4. Fernando Torres
    • 12 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone considering Mendy for City?

    1. Dannyb
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Considered it but not from the off. Will wait and see how it plans out.

    2. Legomané
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Think I read somewhere that Mendy won't start the season again. With Zinchenko excelling at the end of last season and Angelino arriving, Mendy pick is risky to say the least. I'm hopeful if City acquire Cancelo that he'll be priced kindly at 6.0 max - suspect he'll userp Walker pretty quickly.

    3. Piggs Boson
      • 12 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I've seen some with Mendy and some with Zinchenko 😀

      Whoever nails the LB position at City will be an FPL goldmine. My worry is that no one nails that position, and we see rotation 😕

    4. Andy'81
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      He's got a bigger double OO problem then SPECTRE with Citeh having both Zinchenko and Angelino now, you'd really have to see preseason line ups before jumping into that melee.

    5. Conor1
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      He was class in the few few weeks and, if he can rediscover that form, I’m getting him in.

  5. Herman Toothrot
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Somebody talk me out of 523.

    Ryan
    Laporte // VVD // 5.5 // TAA // Digne
    Salah // Sterling
    Deulofeu // Vardy // King

    4.0 // Dendonker // Hayden* (As per article above) // Stephens

    1. The Spion Kloppite
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Go 3-4-3

    2. Dannyb
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Solid team, cant really talk you out of it tbh.

    3. Legomané
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      My greatest mistake at the outset of every season is setting up with an inflexible team structure. 5 at the back would take that "error" to new levels 🙂

      1. Herman Toothrot
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I'm in the same boat. I'm hoping Zinchenko nails his spot so I can take the 1m and invest it onto the bench.

        1. Legomané
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Zinchenko or Ederson for me right now.

      2. Eat my goal!
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        What structure are you heading towards

        I’m currently on

        4.5 4.5
        7 7 6 5 4
        12.5 12.5 9.5 6 4.5
        6.5 6.5 4.5

        I do debate the lack of investment up front but also think the options are greater in midfield and want to stay away from premium forwards

        1. Big boy Bowen
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          2 x 12.5 mids? Save 0.5! 😉

          1. Eat my goal!
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Oops 12 Sterling

            1. Big boy Bowen
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              The 6m mid will be your hardest call

              1. Eat my goal!
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Currently grealish, could be yarmolenko

                An extra .5 definitely helps that spot significantly

        2. Legomané
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Undecided, but likely 442, with Salah + 1 of Rahz or Mané the only 2 premiums.

          1. Eat my goal!
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Yeah I’ve stretched for Kdb whom could be any easy switch to son but equally could drop to siggy and boost elsewhere

    4. Big boy Bowen
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Looks decent.
      Coleman, Ritchie or Zinchenko for the 5.5 spot I assume?

    5. Zladan
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I think finding funds to go Siggy over Vardy/Deu would be better. That is what I keep coming round to.

    6. Cauthon91
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Have you considered Ings or DCL instead of Deulofeu?

  6. Rasping Drive
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    I was just about to ask whether Romeu is a valid option for that 4.5 bench fodder spot. And then all of a sudden, like Mr. Benn’s shopkeeper, a FFS article appears.

    I doff my cap to you, kind sirs!

    1. Legomané
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Personally I'd look elsewhere. Romeu is a card magnet (11 yellows each of the last 3 seasons, Dendonck just the one) and zero goal threat. Comparison tool is enlightening for these options.

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

        He's not too bad for chances created though. Could get the odd assist.

        1. Legomané
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          *Has never assisted in PL, 4 seasons

      2. Rasping Drive
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        You could be right, although what with everyone going for the Donkey on here, he’s such a boring pick!

        I am not too worried about the YC thing since I rarely expect him to come on.

        1. Legomané
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          It's true, though I take solace from the fact I put in Le Donk before reading everyone else had too

  7. Fernando Torres
    • 12 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A) King + Alli/Bilva
    B) Wilson + Zaha/Fanderson

    1. Gregor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      King and Bilva.

    2. KunDogan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      King and Zaha 🙂

  8. Big boy Bowen
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Which combo please?

    A) Ederson | Digne | Dendoncker
    B) Ryan | Coleman | Walker/Mendy
    C) Ryan | Digne | Zinchenko

    All would be in the XI.

    Thanks

    1. Big boy Bowen
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Or indeed:

      D) Ederson | Coleman | 4.5 def

    2. el polako
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Rock paper scissors on who needs to change his gravatar ? 😉

      1. Big boy Bowen
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Haha!!..

        3
        2
        1

        PAPER!

        1. el polako
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          🙂

          Its a draw.

    3. Zladan
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      C is what I’m on.

      It all depends on whether Zinch keeps his spot.

      1. Big boy Bowen
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Yes, my thinking A or C dependent on that.
        I do definitely want a relatively nailed route into the City defense

        1. Zladan
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I avoided City defence last year after Mendy got injured and somewhat regret that. It was a banker for clean sheets.

          A clean sheet for a defender is worth the same as a goal for a striker. I feel a nailed City defender will get more clean sheets than all but maybe 3 forwards get goals this year.

          The cheaper the better for me. Mendy for me would be ideal for his attacking threat. It’s levels above that of TAA and Robbo. But I think Zinchenko nailed his spot after winning every single game he played last year.

          1. Big boy Bowen
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Here's hoping he is.

            Pre season will help me decide between A and C.
            C would be preferable as it means not starting Dendoncker but if I can't be sure re Zinchenko then it will have to be A.

    4. jason_ni
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      B for me

    5. DantheManinaPan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Definitely not A.

      Personally would get Ryan + Digne + Coleman

    6. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      C

  9. El Matador
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Thinking of having Mane and Robertson due to their combined points rather than Salah and Walker?

    Would mean a double up on Liverpool defence with TAA.

    1. Modest Bob
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      As a top 100k ranked player, i suggest you stick with Salah.

      1. Wally banter
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        what's with your name 😀

    2. Optimus.
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Have you finally gotten over the pain of the CL final result? 😉

      1. El Matador
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Win the league

  10. The Overthinker
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Vvd vs Robertson discussion thread. Would love what people think about this

    1. Zladan
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      For me TAA was the essential LFC defender, points per game, set pieces, assist, attacking play in general... essential?

      It was a matter for me of which of VVD & Robbo to combine.

      When prices were first revealed, I think I was set on Robbo and didn’t even question it. But the 0.5m saving goes a long way when they are not even far away from each other on points. VVD may have had a few fluffy assists last year, but I feel he could improve his goals tally this year. He won a lot of headers and I can see him banging a few in this year.

      Robbo obviously has the threat from assists and he should hit 7+ again this year, but I just don’t think he is worth 0.5m more than VVD.

      To conclude, TAA & VVD are the pair for me.

      1. Big boy Bowen
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I prefer Robbo to TAA just, on the basis of him being that bit more nailed.

      2. The Overthinker
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        ATM i am with TAA and vvd. Vvd has that bonus potential too.

        Good point re that .5 difference. Yeah there will be time when Robertson outscores VVD.

      3. The Overthinker
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        That being said, how about having all the 3 for first few weeks? 😀

        1. Zladan
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I still think Salah is the one. Every goal he scores is worth more than a clean sheet for them. Also, I’m not a fan of putting all my eggs in one basket. It can get very right or very wrong.

          That more points for a goal v cs is debatable too though, as Salah seems to miss out on bps.

          1. pingissimus
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Fair call of course.

            I’m headed to TAA Robbo with the thought of captaining them occasionally. Worked last season when Mo TC hit a hattie.

            Won’t work all the time but it showed potential - think the trick will be getting the right premiums in support using that extra cash.

    2. Eat my goal!
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      So close isn’t it .5 extra could go a long way

      I think TAA leads the bill but thereafter it’s anybody’s

  11. The Mighty Hippo
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Any Hammers fans on? How likely is Yarmolenko to secure a regular starting place for West Ham this season. He looked a great option last year until he was injured and looks underpriced if he has a chance of being a permanent starter.

  12. JohannaAdams10
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Who gets more points
    A or B?

    A) Salah and Brooks
    B) Mane and Fraser

    1. Zladan
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      A

    2. FPL_Gyarados
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I have A

  13. Eat my goal!
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Who’s AV number 1, Nyland?

    Is he worth considering — good fixtures

  14. Party time
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Mané is so good at penalties in Afcon

      1. The 5% Team
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        haha poor Hakim...get some rest now and come back for another great year at Ajax please

      2. Zladan
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Did he miss another one?

        1. Party time
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Yes... Last night

            1. Zladan
              • 6 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              At least we know Salah will be staying on them then when Milner isn’t on the pitch.

      3. OLLY G
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Is two players on your bench who may well never play a bridge too far?

        1. The 5% Team
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          imo you only need one playing bench player

        2. Snevitz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I'd feel much better having two but it depends how nailed the players in your start 11 are.

          1. FPL_Gyarados
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            I feel the same. I've 2 players as backup.

      4. Warby84
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Struggling for a 5m keeper between

        Foster
        Fabianski
        Leno

        Currently on Foster

      5. Strchld
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        How is this looking?

        Ryan
        TAA - Robbo - Coleman - Digne
        Salah - KdB - Bilva - Siggy
        Deulofeu - King

        (Button - Perez - NKetiah - Kelly)

        Not sure having 2 Everton defenders, Coleman could be Laporte/Zinchenko.
        Also not sure about Bilva, lets see how friendlies goes.

        1. Warby84
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I have the same strikers and mdf of Salah Sterling Siggy Zaha.. Van Aanholt In for Coleman.. I like your team

          1. Strchld
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Really think I have to get one MCI def. Probably in for Coleman.

            We have still 5 weeks to go, everything could change.

        2. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Everton and Liverpool do dovetail of course but too rich for me.

          Problem with Bilva is that neither Kun nor Jesus will be about. Friendlies will be only a very rough guide with City attack. Sterling might be central etc

      6. SmithyJ
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Will it be Mendy or Zinchenko starting lb?

        1. The 5% Team
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          let's hope Angelino has an amazing pre-season to make it even more interesting

          1. Zladan
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            That’s a headache we don’t need. Pep wants it though.

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

        First draft:

        Be nice lads

        Alison button
        Robbo Coleman walker AWB Kelly
        Richarlison Sterling Mane dendonker brooks
        King Jota Deulofeu

      8. fusen
        • 12 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I'm surprised how few people have TAA and Robbo in the same squad.

        1. OldBenKenobi
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          😆

        2. Another Hoops
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I think it's a budget thing. That 0.5 saved in Virgil makes a difference.

          1. FPL_Gyarados
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Agreed.

      9. Kobayashy
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Why is everyone going for Siggy over Richarlison? I know Rich is involved with Copa America, but should have plenty of rest before the start of the season. Siggy may have the set pieces, but Richarlison seems far more explosive.

        1. Coaly
          • 11 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Siggy gets more points

          1. Kobayashy
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Slightly bland way to look at it. Richarlison has shown great progression last season settling into a new Everton team, and his potential is higher than Sigurdson's.

            1. OldBenKenobi
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Maybe bland but it’s true

              1. Kobayashy
                • 4 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Richarlison went from 5 goals in his Premier League debut, to 13 last season just 30 behind Siggy's best ever tally. I'm not swayed either way, but people are really underrating his rate of progression.

            2. Rasping Drive
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 14 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Two seasons in a row he has been great at the start of the season only to fade away. It makes sense to go with Rich at the start in the belief that lightening will strike thrice.

        2. Another Hoops
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          I'm thinking about going with both. Those fixtures

          1. Kobayashy
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Slightly pricey at 8m, but could pay off big time. Especially if you want to go all in with Digne.

        3. The 5% Team
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Wasn't Richarlison sick during Copa and sent home?

          1. Kobayashy
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            No, I think he's all fine now (saw a video of him making a speech about it to the Brazil team the other day).

      10. maurorodi00
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        doherty or mendy?

        1. Another Hoops
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Neither. Doherty is a hero but Europa League could hurt him. Mendy provides too much doubt. Will he or won't he start.

      11. Coaly
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        a) Laporte King
        b) Zinchenko Jiminez

        1. Big boy Bowen
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          A

        2. Another Hoops
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          A pal but wait for pre-season because if Zinchenko is nailed then 5.5 defensive player is an amazing option.

          I use the word nailed loosely when it comes to citys left back because if Delph can play there so can anyone Pep choose.

      12. No Professionals
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Fairly settle on this at the moment. Although considering putting VVD and Coleman in to upgrade Jorginho.

        Any feedback?

        Ederson
        TAA Robertson Digne Smith
        Salah KDB Sigurdsson Jorginho
        Kane King

        Bench is fodder

        1. Another Hoops
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Decent and yes I think upgrading Jorginho is a shout. But not many 6 mil options. Maybe Pererya but he had a poor end to 18/19

          1. No Professionals
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Thanks

            Yeah that's what makes me think just go Jorginho, hope for 3 pointers and the odd penalty.

        2. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Nice

          I’ve been in Kane since the beginning but now seriously thing Vardy with all that support behind him - at least in 1 and 2. That extra cash goes a long way.

          This might mean TAA captain!! You might baulk at yhat

          1. No Professionals
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Yeah that is the only major change i am considering.

            Kane, KDB and digne to vardy, Sterling and Coleman.

            1. pingissimus
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Similar thinking

              I really want KdB but it’s tricky to fit him and Vardy in the same set up. Potentially holding back on KdB until he becomes a known quantity with fitness etc that’s a route into early Vardy

              1. No Professionals
                • 6 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                My concern is that Salah might not be a great gw1 captain option with minutes likely to be limited. In which case kane is a great option.

                The above 3 way move might be a good option after gw3 (mini wildcard) but would need to keep a bit in the bank to protect against price rises.

                1. pingissimus
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  Mo is not on my radar - the key for me is all 3 will miss preseason. That’s enough to make me steer clear early.

                  But I’m also modelling how I get him in by GW5 say. All very hypothetical of course but that’s the most likely big change in my set up. Most other changes shouldn’t require surgery

      13. Another Hoops
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Morning.

        I heard somewhere there is a cheap defensive combo that you can rotate that doesn't play the top 6 for the whole season.

        I've had a look but cant find the answer anywhere. I believe one team could be Watford does anyone know who the other team is?

        1. Big boy Bowen
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Newcastle I think

          1. Another Hoops
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Thank you. Will look now.

      14. The Royal Robin
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Which way are you going?

        A) Sterling Salah
        B) Salah Kane
        C) Sterling Kane

        1. Big boy Bowen
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          D) Salah, KdB, Kane

          1. The Royal Robin
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Fair enough.

          2. DantheManinaPan
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            so B

            1. Big boy Bowen
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Yes but I'm presuming he doesn't have another premium mid

          3. Legohair
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            This

        2. THFC4LIFE
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          B at the minute

        3. Another Hoops
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Mate I'm on Salah Kane but going without Sterling after gw3 is a scary thought.

          1. The Royal Robin
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            This is the thing. I've had drafts aplenty but the ones without Sterling haven't looked right.

            1. Another Hoops
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              For me the ones with Sterling haven't looked right

              1. The Royal Robin
                • 8 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                I just don't trust Kane. His record in August is obviously a factor but then his ankles, and they play City GW2.

                1. Another Hoops
                  • 8 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  Honestly I'm tired of the whole August argument. End of the day he has 2 nice home fixtures and could score past city. I might even do the hokey cokey with Auba gw2.

                  I do prefer Sterling over the whole season but for the first 3 I'm never going to captain him where as Kane I might.

                  1. Kobayashy
                    • 4 Years
                    4 years, 8 months ago

                    Agree - the only slight concern is Son's absence, but no way I'm starting without him.

                  2. Wild Rover
                    • 13 Years
                    4 years, 8 months ago

                    People like the theory to justify not having him and so conveniently ignore the fact he has in fact scored twice in August now

                    1. THFC4LIFE
                      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                      • 7 Years
                      4 years, 8 months ago

                      And the fact he’s going to have a rest and full pre season

            2. Zladan
              • 6 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              I don’t feel comfortable going without Sterling.

          2. THFC4LIFE
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Ye I know it’s a tough choice, if any cheaper forward options become available then I could be swayed to swap Kane for Sterling

            1. The Royal Robin
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              I think Deulofeu is a bargain at 6.5m.

              1. THFC4LIFE
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Yep I’ve got him, King and Kane atm

        4. Moore FPL
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          A

      15. Moore FPL
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Liking the 532 atm...

        Fab (4.0)
        Robbo Trent Laporte Digne Coleman
        Salah Sterling Siggy (4.5) (4.5)
        King Delofeu (4.5)

        1. No Professionals
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Looks good. I just feel that the structure is really inflexible.

          1. Moore FPL
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            True but I think it could be the best structure this season.
            I had 442 until recently but I just see better value in the 5th def than 4th mid for 7m'ish

        2. Another Hoops
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Looks good mate. VAR scares me in terms of clean sheets but can't argue with that team.

          1. Wild Rover
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            VAR could likely rule out a goal more than allow one which wouldn't have been given

        3. Kobayashy
          • 4 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          It seems good on paper, but I'd be concerned any time Liverpool and Everton both concede in the same GW, and what that will do to your rank. The reverse is true of course, and there's always the attacking returns to consider, but it's a slightly awkward structure.

          1. The Head-Ake
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            This.

            1. Moore FPL
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              This is true but Liverpool defence should be good again and Everton's was really good at the end of the season

            2. DantheManinaPan
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 10 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Who cares about whether you get a red arrow one week if over the season you're much better off

              1. Kobayashy
                • 4 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                If everyone looked at it that way you'd be right, but no one does. Everyone loves to tinker, and red arrows need to be addressed. Ironically, sometimes the thing you need to do to succeed in FPL is nothing at all.

        4. Moore FPL
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Made some further tweaks and even more money at the back :-O

          Ederson (4.0)
          Robbo VVD Laporte Digne Coleman
          Salah Sterling Fraser (4.5) (4.5)
          King Delofeu (4.5)

      16. Beanfield
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Fisrt FPL season for long time Sky player

        Ederson
        Laporte Robertson VanDijk Coleman Dawson
        Salah DeBruyne Sigurdsson
        King Deeney

        Button Wesley Mcneil Dendoncker

        ?

      17. martyhan
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Thoughts on this please

        Lloris
        Vvd robbo Coleman Laporte
        Townsend kdb salah Perez
        King Kane

        Subs button dendoncker Kelly Wickham

        1. The 5% Team
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Like it a lot

      18. TATTOOED_2
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Drafting my side this year is proving more of a headache than I can remember previous years being.
        At the moment I’m on
        Ryan/Button
        Laporte, TAA, Digne, Kelley (Aaron’s)
        Salah, Sterling, Siggy, Dendoncker (Hayden)
        King, Kane (Greenwood)

        Really unhappy with it though. If i lose Kane then I can improve elsewhere but not sure if I’m willing to take the risk.

        Going Aguero-less always bothers me too

        1. No Professionals
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Pretty good considering you have Salah, sterling and kane. I would make Sigurdsson Zaha and boost Kelly (who might not play).

          1. TATTOOED_2
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            What’s putting me off Zaha is AFCON. I like that Siggy will be rested and has a great run of fixtures

        2. The Head-Ake
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Digne to Coleman and upgrade one of Kelly or Aarons?

          1. TATTOOED_2
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Digne to Coleman is a definite possibility