Scout Notes

Two-goal Wilson catches the eye in pre-season opener

Our pre-season coverage continues with a recap of four fixtures that were held on Tuesday.

The headline FPL talking points, team news and goalscorers are documented in the article below, while the pre-season minutes spreadsheet has also been updated and can be viewed by clicking here.

Bournemouth 3-2 Wimbledon

  • Goals: Callum Wilson (£8.0m) x2, Ryan Fraser (£7.5m)
  • Assists: David Brooks (£6.5m), Dominic Solanke (£5.5m), Nathan Ake (£5.0m)

Callum Wilson (£8.0m) and Ryan Fraser (£7.5m) served a timely reminder of their Fantasy potential as Bournemouth began their pre-season with a 3-2 win over Wimbledon in La Manga.

Both players were the subject of £2.0m price hikes in Fantasy Premier League this summer but remain tempting options at the top-end of the mid-price bracket, particularly given that the Cherries enjoy some appealing fixtures in the opening few months of 2019/20.

It was almost inevitable, with much talk about the feasibility of “covering” Wilson and Fraser with the cheaper Joshua King and David Brooks (£6.5m), that the more expensive Bournemouth assets would strike the first blow in pre-season and give us more food for thought.

The lively Wilson first narrowly failed to find the back of the net after rounding Nik Tzanev but went one better in a carbon-copy incident soon after, collecting Brooks’ pass and sidestepping the Wimbledon goalkeeper before walking the ball into an unguarded net.

Wilson’s second goal was a superb strike, with the England striker collecting a Dominic Solanke (£5.5m) flick and driving forward to curl a dipping shot beyond Tzanev.

The predatory Wilson, who repeatedly got into the “big chance” territories we are used to seeing him in, had the opportunity to complete his hat-trick but could only volley over a Lloyd Kelly (£4.5m) cross.

Eddie Howe said after full-time:

I think it’s important, even though it’s pre-season, that the strikers score and attacking players create, so really good for Callum to get his two goals. I think he’ll be delighted with that.

So it’s a good start for him and the team in the first half, we looked strong and played some good stuff at times.

There were 11 changed at the interval as the likes of King, Fraser and Nathan Ake (£5.0m) took to the field, along with budget FPL defensive option Diego Rico (£4.0m) and debutant full-back Jack Stacey (£4.5m).

King was unable to pose the same threat that Wilson managed but Fraser caught the eye, first missing the target after some neat interplay with Jordon Ibe (£5.0m) and then latching onto a long ball from Ake to seal the Cherries’ victory.

Solanke was heavily involved in the first half and looked decent alongside Wilson, while Kelly – who didn’t bank one assist last season – showed plenty of attacking intent going forward from left-back.

Sloppiness was to be expected after a two-month summer break and there were the usual defensive frailties, with Wimbledon scoring twice from the spot – one penalty being given after some iffy control and a subsequent foul from Dan Gosling (£5.0m).

Bournemouth first-half XI (4-4-2): Ramsdale; Smith, Mepham, Simpson, Kelly; Brooks, Ofoborh, Arter, Dobre; Solanke, Wilson

Bournemouth second-half XI (4-4-2): Begovic, Stacey, Cordner, Ake, Rico, Ibe, Gosling, Butcher, Fraser, King, Surridge

Colorado Rapids 0-3 Arsenal

  • Goals: Bukayo Saka, James Olayinka, Gabriel Martinelli
  • Assists: Eddie Nketiah (£4.5m), Dominic Thompson

Arsenal got their pre-season off to a winning start but there was little interest for Fantasy managers in the Gunners’ 3-0 win over Colorado Rapids.

Of the Arsenal players priced up by Fantasy Premier League, only Carl Jenkinson (£4.5m) and Eddie Nketiah (£4.5m) – neither of whom are first-team regulars – started in the early hours of Tuesday morning, although the visiting bench was a star-studded one.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (£11.0m), Mesut Ozil (£7.5m) and Alexandre Lacazette (£9.5m) all made 12-minute cameos at the end of the match, with Arsenal’s strike duo both having presentable chances to extend their side’s lead late on – Lacazette missing an opportunity created by fellow substitute Sead Kolasinac (£5.5m).

Nketiah set up the excellent Bakayo Saka for the Gunners’ opener before
James Olayinka scored a screamer from distance after collecting a loose pass in central midfield.

Summer signing Gabriel Martinelli, up there with winger Saka as a man-of-the-match candidate, converted a cross from left-back Dominic Thompson to finish off the scoring.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan (£7.0m), Ainsley Maitland-Niles (£5.0m), Bernd Leno (£5.0m) and Sokratis (£5.0m) were among the unused substitutes.

According to Unai Emery, we will see more senior players in action against Bayern Munich on Thursday morning:

Wednesday [US time] we will continue with some players who haven’t played yet, like Sokratis, Mkhitaryan, Xhaka and Reiss Nelson. Other players played less minutes. Our preparation here is very important for these matches, Bayern Munich, Fiorentina and Real Madrid. The group is working very well.

Arsenal XI (4-2-3-1): Macey, Jenkinson, Chambers (Mustafi 62′), Medley, Thompson (Kolasinac 64′), Olayinka (Willock 62′), Burton, Martinelli (Ozil 78′), John-Jules (Aubameyang 78′), Saka, Nketiah (Lacazette 78′).

Burnley 8-0 Accrington Stanley
Burnley 2-3 Tranmere Rovers

  • Goals: Chris Wood (£6.5m) x3, Jay Rodriguez (£6.0m) x2, Dwight McNeil (£6.0m), Erik Pieters (£4.5m), Jimmy Dunne; Matej Vydra (£5.5m) x2
  • Assists: Ashley Westwood x3, Vydra, (others unknown); Dunne, Aaron Lennon (£5.0m)

Chris Wood (£6.5m) scored a hat-trick and Jay Rodriguez (£6.0m) notched a brace as Burnley played two simultaneous training ground friendlies with Football League opponents on Tuesday.

With the two matches being played behind closed doors and no footage of the kickabouts existing, the Burnley website’s report is the only account of the games we have.

Most of the players involved were handed 90-minute run-outs, although Burnley’s four goalkeepers – including Tom Heaton (£4.5m), whose future is in doubt – were given a half each.

The two different starting XIs swapped opponents at half-time, just to confuse matters.

Wood and Rodriguez bagged all of their goals in the same half against Accrington, with Dwight McNeil (£6.0m) also on target against Stanley in the opening 45 minutes.

Ashley Westwood (£5.5m), supplier of eight goals last season, notched a hat-trick of assists, with one coming from a corner that Wood headed in.

Over on the other pitch, Matej Vydra (£5.5m) scored twice against Tranmere.

Full-backs Erik Pieters (£4.5m) and Jimmy Dunne added to the rout of Accrington after the switcharound as Burnley ran out 8-0 victors.

Steven Defour (£5.5m) still wasn’t fit enough to feature while there was no Charlie Taylor (£4.5m) either, who missed out with a “niggle” in Friday’s friendly with Fulham.

There was no reason given for the absences of Ashley Barnes (£6.5m) and Phil Bardsley (£4.5m), meanwhile.

There was an hour of action for former Burnley midfielder David Jones as he continues to train with the club, although Sean Dyche has said no deal is in the offing for the 34-year-old.

The Clarets’ first public friendlies take place this Saturday as Dyche again splits his squad for games against League Two sides Crewe and Port Vale.

Burnley v Accrington

First half (4-4-2): Legzdins, Koiki, Long, Mee, Lowton, Gudmundsson, Westwood, Jones, McNeil, Rodriguez, Wood.

Second half (4-4-1-1): Pope, Dunne, Tarkowski, Gibson, Pieters, Lennon, Cork, Benson, Brady, Hendrick, Vydra.

Burnley v Tranmere

First half (4-4-1-1): Hart, Dunne, Tarkowski, Gibson, Pieters, Lennon, Cork, Benson, Brady, Hendrick, Vydra.

Second half (4-4-2): Heaton, Koiki, Long, Mee, Lowton, McNeil, Westwood, Jones (N’Guessan 65), Gudmundsson, Rodriguez, Wood.

Barnet 6-2 Crystal Palace

  • Goals: David Boateng, Connor Wickham (£4.5m)
  • Assists: Alexander Sorloth, Ryan Inniss

A weak Crystal Palace side, made up of second-string players and academy products, succumbed to a chastening 6-2 defeat at Barnet on Tuesday.

There wasn’t a single regular first-team player on show at the Hive, although the likes of Jairo Riedewald, Alexander Sorloth, Connor Wickham (£4.5m) and Luke Dreher (£4.5m) were involved.

Sorloth and Wickham led the line for the Eagles and both players were involved in their side’s goals as Palace raced into a 2-0 lead.

Sorloth laid the ball off to David Boateng for the visitors’ opener, while Wickham got a boot onto the end of a flick-on from a Palace corner before the game had reached the ten-minute mark.

Barnet had levelled the game up by half-time and scored four unanswered goals in the second half.

Crystal Palace XI (4-4-2): Henderson, D.Boateng, Inniss, Woods, Riedewald, Dreher (M.Boateng 84), McGregor, Flanagan (Hobbs 79), Daly, Wickham (Lokilo 79), Sorloth.

1,042 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Albrightondknight
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Twice I have noticed this happen.
    Tinkering around making transfers.
    Before doing so I had C and VC selected. I don't even change these 2 go back to my team after transfers and only a C selected. NO VC selection. I can't remember FPL site doing this in previous seasons. Could me a mess if you don't notice this and C does not play.
    Anyone else noticed this and is this the same functionality as per previous seasons?
    Selecting VC again and all is ok - just saying.

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

      Could easily go unnoticed with last minute transfers.

    2. Bad Kompany
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Has never happened to me although I’ve only confirmed any changes one time so far this season

  2. Bad Kompany
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Bottomed. Repost.

    Is Dilva nailed?

    If so he seems to be going under the radar. Better xg and xa per 90 mins than bilva and is cheaper

    1. NED KELLY
      • 12 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      No

      1. Bad Kompany
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers! Is it more likely bilva slides in from the wing and sane or mahrez comes in or is it gundogan or Rodri?

        1. NED KELLY
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Yeah it's hard with city there squad is so good.. I'd say leporte sterling and a fit KDB are the most nailed like

          1. Bad Kompany
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Cheers! Agree with you on those being the most nailed. Kun will also be up there unless Gabriel jesus finds form.

            Would you prefer Bilva or Dilva? Or do you think Fraser is a better option than either of them

            1. NED KELLY
              • 12 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              I think Dilva will play the most out the 2.. but yes I'd go with Fraser just to avoid that pep rotation it's a killer

              1. Bad Kompany
                • 6 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Cheers mate!

                1. NED KELLY
                  • 12 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  Good luck Dilva brace incoming v westham now lol

                  1. Bad Kompany
                    • 6 Years
                    4 years, 8 months ago

                    Lol. Wouldn’t be surprised. Have been on Fraser the past couple of days so think I’ll just stay with him, at least for now

              2. NED KELLY
                • 12 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Bilva will play the most no Dilva I ment sorry

            2. NED KELLY
              • 12 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Its the keeper an sterling for me

    2. NED KELLY
      • 12 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      I think only keeper nailed at city

      1. Bad Kompany
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Maybe nailed was the wrong word. Just asking if he’s likely to be playing most games. Like does he start 4 in every 5

        1. NED KELLY
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Even that's pushing it I think mate

        2. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          In his last year, the plan is to phase him out, so he'll play fewer minutes. My hunch is Foden will play a lot more although it could be someone else.

  3. Ninjaa
    • 13 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Who is going to be Spurs right back this season?

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

      A rotation most likely. Think they are set to start with kwp but with foyth and aurier there and also poch’s history of rotating fullbacks, I expect more of the same. Vert or lloris are the options I say

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

        Go Foyth and prosper?

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

          For Foyth sake!

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      With Spuds defence, esp RB, I'd want to see how they line up GW1, wait out GW2 away to City. GW3 Foyth is back and could be RB. So it's safer to go in for a Spuds RB GW4, not before.

    3. Ole's at the wheel
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Apparently they’re putting Foyth at right back this season, quite some talk about it withing spurs community too, but then theres KWP and Aurier too. KwP I'd like to see given the chance but doubt it tbh

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

        Forth is an Argentina international so he should be able to play there.

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

    Prefer A or B here?

    A VVD Digne
    B TAA Coleman

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

      Both trent and Digne are must haves for me. Gun to th head Id say B

    2. Bad Kompany
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      B but just by hairs

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

      B

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

      A)

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

    Would like some thoughts on this - more interested in how the money is spread that personal preferences on individuals in certain spots - obviously 541.
    Looking to smash it early doors.
    Also the only 3 spots that I plan changing in short term would be Wilson Moura and maybe King. Walker Peters is obviously only a maybe right now.

    The Moura and Wilson spots most likely to see early change.
    They can be something like
    Son/KDB + El Ghazi
    Or
    Siggy/ Richarlson + Willian

    Fab

    Robbo TAA Laporte Azpi Walker-Peters

    Salah Sterling Moura Fraser

    King

    4.0 dendocker greenwood wickham

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

      Is starting with no Everton at all a really bad idea?

      1. Ninjaa
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Yes 1 defender 1 attacker a must imo

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

          I could find .5 for Walker-Peters to Coleman but probably only sacrifice is Fab I really don't know if I want to that.
          Siggy or Rich can possible be in quick if looking like I need them.

      2. Bad Kompany
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I currently have none. No gueye for first game or 2 and no good striker. Also siggy and rich are long term players as they do almost as well against the top 6 and are harder to predict

        1. NED KELLY
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Gueye linked with move away aswell think Delph is his replacement

          1. Bad Kompany
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Yup. He’s linked to psg again. Last year they conceded 13 goals in the few games he was out. This is why I’m avoiding them

          2. Kiwivillan
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Delph has history of injuries. They would be made if he was starting replacement for Gueye

      3. Ole's at the wheel
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Not at all. All these saying must have are just bandwagoning the template bandwagon. If I have to chose I'd say Siggy if u can afford him or Digne 2nd. But there are many better options especially looking at Gueye leaving most likely will have a big impact imagine the transfers out after a week or two with all these teams having digne and Coleman price fall is imminent. Would u risk it for a chocolate biscuit?

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

      Think it looks like an early WC team but should score well for the first two gws. I like it.

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

        Fair point I hope not on the WC as fixtures swing around 9-11 would like WC for then.
        Even GW 6 has a few teams with generally good fixtures that have bad fixtures that week

        Reason you think early WC will happen so I can try to address?
        Formation?
        Lack of decent bench?
        Not nailed players?
        Anything else?

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

          Several reasons. Formation is one of them. Moura. KWP. Double bmouth against city gw3 (i have this too). A little bit too many transfers waiting to happen.

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

            Cheers.
            If I am wrong on formation I will be on here saying so.
            There are disadvantages. One no show and I am down to 10 players.
            Also two bench 4.0 defenders saves 1.0 or even two 4.5 gives a playing bench.
            Moura is a total one week punt as it stands. I will probably keep one BOU player through City game as fixtures ok again after that. Thanks for feedback appreciate it.
            I always try not to WC early but the temptation is strong to do it. Will try to resist this year and hope I am not forced into it.
            KWP is very temporary at present just enables or things I can afford otherwise. Could well be any 5.0

    3. Bad Kompany
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Do you mean Fraser? Looks pretty good. Watch to see if Christensen becomes first choice as he could save you 1 over azpi. How much is kwp?

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

        Yes meant Fraser spot. Sorry
        KWP only 5.0
        Trippier gone rumours Aurier might go to but Foyth could be a problem and with a very poor bench I need really nailed.
        Christensen looks cheap if Rudiger out but CS drops when he plays from what I can see so don't know if I would go there but an option for sure. Thanks.

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

          With Spuds defence, I'd want to see how they line up GW1, wait out GW2 away to City. GW3 Foyth is back and could be RB. So it's safer to go in for a Spuds RB GW4, not before.

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

            Thanks I know Foyth is a danger. WP is very provisional right now.

  6. Kiwivillan
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone going for Jota Jota double? Villa Jota looked impressive in first half pre season friendly

    1. Bad Kompany
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      At first i thought you meant jota jimmy double up

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

      Jota Wolves. Position change in FPL won't help. Neither will fixtures and Europa hurts all these teams every year. I don't think so.

      Jota Villa for assist only it looks like. Could be ok especially from GW 2 nice run of fixtures but I might punt on El Ghazi and save .5

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

        Jota wolves I'm inclined to agree on both counts. I don't like position change or extra games in Europe

        Jota Villa is capable of much more than assists

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

          K only watched one or two preseason highlights - need to watch more.

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

            He played half our first pre season game today lol. Judge him on Brentford form under same manager not wasted at Birmingham City

      2. Ole's at the wheel
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        El Ghazi +++

  7. Differential C (Mark)
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    How's this?

    Pope
    TAA VanDijk Zinchenko Coleman
    Salah Sterling DeBruyne Perez Moura
    Adams

    Button Donkey Kelly Greenwood

    Triple City and Pool.
    Perez, if he plays in the frontline with Vardy, he will be a steal, thought Tielemans was the 6.5 LEI man, but watching the highlights, boy does Ayoze play advanced!
    Moura comes in, with Son suspended from the first 3 games of the season. Coleman as Everton defensive cover, plus is attacking enough (admitted not Digne, but still).

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

      Adams sole striker. Delete start again

      1. Differential C (Mark)
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        But, but . . . that midfield and defence though haha.

      2. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Right. Looking great until get to the front. The Sal/Ster/KdB trio unbalances you. One needs to go to get in either one decent forward or better, 2 average forwards.

        1. Differential C (Mark)
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          A fair assessment. back to tinkering then. Cheers, mate.

          1. Differential C (Mark)
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Take two.

            Pope
            TAA VanDijk Zinchenko Coleman
            Salah Sterling Sigurdsson Perez
            Vardy Adams

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

              Yes, that's the ticket! Good to go, that.

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

      Looks different but good. Dont like the formation though.

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

        4-4-2? Hardly radical.

        1. Differential C (Mark)
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          My original formation of 4-5-1, probably what he meant.

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

            Yes sir.

  8. The Big Fella
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    If Neymar went to United, how much do you think he would be in FPL?

    1. Differential C (Mark)
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      12.0, anything below is a steal.

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

        I wouldn't have him, not that it'll happen anyway. How do they afford his AND Alexis' wages? Gonna chuck Bale in there too?

        1. The Big Fella
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Why wouldn't you? Whatever you think of him as a person, he will get FPL points

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

            At the expense of Salah or Sterling? Not a chance. It helps to be in a team that wins. Neymar would put stress on the United team and they'd do worse over the season.

            1. The Big Fella
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 8 months ago

              Perhaps but his ownership would be high so when he did score, you'd drop in the rankings. United need some creativity in midfield if Pogba goals. Where will the magic come from? That said, Madrid want to sell Rodriguez. Maybe they could buy Neymar and James.

              1. The Big Fella
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                Goals = goes

              2. Andy_Social
                • 11 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                I'm not intimidated by ownership - that's sheep thinking. Look at everyone on the Ryan bandwagon - huge mistake.
                Would you drop Rashford to fit in Neymar? They just brought in James - is his career to be set back? Good clubs have a buying strategy, they don't just grab players opportunistically without regard to the team or tactics.

      2. Helia
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I’d rather Rashford for 8.5

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

      I know FPL is meant to be mind over heart like the need to own players from rival teams etc
      But could you really bring yourself to own him in FPL.
      Living in a country right now where it might be a sixth sport and his antics certainly don't help promote the game.

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

        His antics, his massive entourage of parasites, his media circus. It's a headache to any team that has him. But particularly in United's case, the egos of Pogba and Sanchez are one too many; the biggest one in the game added to that would break the squad. Zlatan has a huge ego but he was a positive force - Neymar is anything but.

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

        Yeah no problem. It is a game on the internet. He would score points. No issues at all.

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

    How we expecting Brighton to line up this season? I'm interested to know if Andone cracks into their starting lineup consistently this season as the prospects of goals looks likely with the change of style they look to play under Potter. Groß definitely slipping under the radar so far this preseason looking like a very nice unique. Finding it hard to back them for clean sheets however.

    1. Differential C (Mark)
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      From the Brighton attack, I'd take the wingers. Potter's winger are who are going to bang in the points imo.

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Never manager, new playing style - gonna have to monitor pre-season closely. Too early to say yet. Andone was utter pants last season, but was that him or the poor service? Their attacking players are ones to watch; I would strenuously avoid their defence, hence my 'hostility' to the unthinking massive Ryanwagon.

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

        *New

  10. Differential C (Mark)
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Arsenal XI vs Munich. Looks very "first choice XI", doesn't it?

    Leno
    AMN Sokratis Mustafi Monreal
    Willock Xhaka
    Ozil Mkhi
    Auba Laca

    No idea what the formation is, but surely its probably Torreira for Willock, and that's the first team, right? Bellerin (if he's fit) for AMN, and TIerney for Monreal when he comes in.

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

      Hmm, that is strong. not going near them though. In my current predictions for this season, the top 5 are the usual suspects but I've got Arse down in 10th!

      1. Differential C (Mark)
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        I'm locking them in for a very undeserved 6th. Auba and Laca will win them some points they do not deserve.

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

          They will, but that defence!

          1. Differential C (Mark)
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            If they get Saliba, and Holding gets back . . .

            Unpopular opinion, Holding is actually really good, miles better than Sokartis and Mustafi.. Pair him with Saliba, and that is a strong CB partnership.

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

              Saliba's 18, isn't he? Putting all your hopes on an 18 year old, however promising, and guided by Holding doesn't sound wise to me.

              1. Differential C (Mark)
                • 8 Years
                4 years, 8 months ago

                He is young, and perhaps it would be very pemature to throw him on to the deep end.
                What can Arsenal do, though, when all the senior CBs are, umm, how should I say this, difficult to put up with? Their stuck between a rock and a hard place.

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

                  Well yes, and together with the stingy owner, Emery's not in a great place. That's why i'm tipping them to sink to mid-table.

                2. Ole's at the wheel
                  • 9 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  Saliba would go back on loan straightaway anyway. Spurs were after him wouldve made bench at max.

      2. Helia
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Down to 10th seems abit harsh. But I do agree that they won’t be top 5. I fancy someone out of the usual suspects to slide into that 5th spot actually.

        1. Differential C (Mark)
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Leicester, Wolves or Everton, probably.

        2. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          10th does seem extreme, until you break it down. Everton and Leicester look far more together. Wolves have a decent squad. That's 8. I'm looking at West Ham's activity in the transfer market and tipping them to finish a point ahead of Arsenal.

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

      Mkhi and one of Aub or Laca usually out on the opposing wing with Ozil playing in the number 10 seems to be our most effective way going forward. Its a shame they get so heavily rotated when Europa ect kicks in.

      1. Differential C (Mark)
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Like a 4-2-3-1?

        Leno
        Bellerin Saliba Holding Tierney
        Xhaka Torreira
        Ozil
        Mkhitaryan Aubameyang
        Lacazette

        Martinelli will give depth on the wing. Need to integrate Nelson and ESR, perhaps game time in Europe?

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

          4-2-3-1 seems to be the go, a shame Ozil plays so passively.

          Emery usually goes the safer option of playing one of Laca or Aubama in other competitions and lets the other play the Prem. Can just never pick which one he rotates.

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

      Bit off topic this but Arsenal is the team with most players that i dont like in the Premier League. Özil i absolutely hate. Those defenders... what a joke. koscielny was good but he doesnt want to stay. Maybe i just hate arsenal. Like Auba, Laca and Mkhi though.

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

    Bayern really sent out the children.

    1. Differential C (Mark)
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Bayern vs Arsenal, surely you know the outcome.
      The 10-2 be very one sided.

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Really? Give the Gunners a false sense of achievement?

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

        Ozil is actually trying...

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

    I cant sleep ;(

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

      Throw the mobile/tablet whatever you have away for half an hour.
      I think you can sleep then 😉

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

      That latest scout video had me off to sleepy sleepy land in 5-10 minutes last night. It will do me for a few nights of early sleeps 🙂

  13. mpalmercity76
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Morning RMT please

    Leno
    Robertson / Digne / Maguire
    Fraser / Zaha / Perez / Salah
    Kane / Vardy / King

    My lack of City is a concern. Am 50/50 about getting Aguero for Kane and downsizing Zaha for Moutinho etc.

    Thoughts please

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

      That makes sense as Zaha may well not be ready for GW1 anyway.
      Would still look decent. Leno I don't think so even will good early fixtures.

  14. bennyp
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone taking players from the promoted teams? If so, who?

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

      I always think it better to wait and see, and none of them have enticing opening fixtures anyway. You see a few discussions of Blades and Villain assets, almost nothing of Canaries.

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

        Pukki looks very good based on last season, but Norwich has woeful fixtures.
        I'm eyeing a few Shef Utd players. Norwood & O'Connell at the moment.

        Have yet to be convinced on any Villa player.

        1. the dom 1
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 8 months ago

          Grealish from Villa is on my Radar!

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

      Thinking about Henderson if he join blades

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Is this a thing?!

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

          ^^^ Yeh wtf???

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

          😕
          I will get Henderson 4.5m GK if he joins S. United from Manchester United on loan !!
          Is it fine now 😀

    3. Ini
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Highly unlikely to start with any but will be watching. Here are a few I intend to watch: Fleck, Sharpe, McGoldrick from SU. Aarons and Hernandez from
      Norwich. I may start with Mings from Villa, I’ll be keeping an eye on Wesley too

  15. The Big Fella
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Who do you think would make the best captain at City? KDB said he would like it. I can't think of anybody less inspiring (personality wise). I don't see how Kane has managed it either. They will miss Kompany I think.

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

      They don't have a Toure or Kompany figure now, so no obvious candidates. I wonder if Raheem has matured enough to warrant it.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        You know what, I was wondering the exact same thing. I thought the documentary was shite but I think Raz came out really well on it.

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

      I think Bernardino Silva would make a great ©
      Perfect personality. Calm,Composed, Silent Aggression, brilliant contribution to the team.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        But captain isn't the MVP or the best player, it is how they are in the dressing room, how they read the game, how they can motivate/bully the team when needed and knowing which is needed when. I don't know enough about Bilva to say if he is those things. He comes across as very reserved and could easily be ignored.

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

          Yeh, I don't have any insights, but the way Raheem stands up for people in the media indicates he's got leadership quality, for me.

          1. The Big Fella
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            ^ this

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

          You should see his intensity on the field.
          Phenomenal.
          I think I'd © him if it was upto me.
          But i can see Dilva/Kun getting it because of age/stature in the team/most experienced City players atm

          1. The Big Fella
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 8 months ago

            Intensity on the field?! Kane runs about a lot too and he also breathes through his mouth. Not a captain for me. Dilva's last season and Kun can barely speak English. My flatmate in Brazil used to be a translator in Manchester and translated for Ronaldo (he mentions him in an interview I saw) and also did some for Tevez and Aguero. He said Aguero is one of the most stupid people he has ever met.

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

              hahahaha 🙂

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

                To be completely fair, he is named after a cartoon character.

                1. The Big Fella
                  • 7 Years
                  4 years, 8 months ago

                  That explains a lot. I still love him though. This will be my first ever season where I don't start without him.

    3. the dom 1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      what about Kun or Dsilva?

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

        Dilva's in his last year before retiring. Bilva's a possibility.

    4. Dont_Win_Friends_With_Salah…
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      A captain doesn't have to be the loudest, but the one that has the respect of the squad. Kane has achieved that by leading by example and being a model professional. I'd imagine Sterling would make a very good captain

  16. the dom 1
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Whats everyone's take on Greenwood from United?

    Whats the chances of him being in the starting XI?

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

      Great chance as Lukaku is actively looking for a move away.
      But I'm not ready to give a Striker spot to him as I'm already having problem in picking up all 6.5m Strikers i like

      1. the dom 1
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Having the same issues with the 6.5 strikers myself lad lol

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      He's nailed into my squad as a 4.5 alongside Dendonker. Despite Ole getting carried about giving his kids morale boosts, I don't expect him to be a starter, but he'll come on after 70 mins.

      1. the dom 1
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Thats my thoughts too, cameo's off the bench.

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

    Wolves are only one season away from the last time they had to play twice a week (Championship). Does this give them a better chance than Burnley (had) to maintain last season's heroics

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

      I don’t think so. Midweek games even affects some of the the top teams.

  18. TorresMagic™
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 14 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    1-0 Arsenal

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

      #emeryin

      1. Differential C (Mark)
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        #WeCareDoYou is the It AFC hashtag at the moment.

  19. Nigawan
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    RMT guys 😀

    Ederson
    Digne - VVD - TAA
    Richarlison - Salah (c) - L.Moura - Dendoncker - Tielemans
    Aguero - King

    Bench : Button - Kelly - Greenwood - El Mohamady

    1 ) TAA or Robertson
    2) Richarlison or Siggy

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

      Close.
      Moura's effectively good for GW1 only.
      Donkers is good for the bench.
      Richarlison - well, okay.

      I'd find a cheaper replacement for Moura and upgrade someone to be a more effective starter.

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

        wanted to have a spurs cover thats why i picked Lucas .. HAHAH. who else should i consider with the price tag and who should i upgrade?

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

          With Spuds, just look past GW1. GW2 is City away, then Son's back.
          Plenty midfield options at 7.5,7,6.5m.

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

      Nice to see a team with Aguero. Moura is too short term for my liking so I’d find someone else or downgrade and upgrade elsewhere. Dendon shouldn’t really be a starter I think.

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

        Re: Dendonker. I meant a starter on an FPL team.

  20. Differential C (Mark)
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Arsenla have broken the dead lock.

    G: OG
    A: Aubameyang

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

      Yay, Ole Gunnar still got it!

  21. Wally711
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Will Kelly play? And will Jimenez be ready for Gw 1?

    Thanks in advance

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

      No one knows for now, is the simple answer.

  22. Ninjaa
    • 13 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts please chaps. Draft #3

    Ryan Heaton
    Robertson Laporte Digne Kelly Stearman
    Sterling Salah Siggy Fraser Dendonker
    King Delefou DCL

    1. Lucky Z
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      Too many so so and worse options

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

      It's a template 3-4-3 system.

      What else do you need to know?

      1. Ninjaa
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Front 3 strong enough to start the season with?

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

          Not for me, and your deadwood on the bench will limit your ability to make transfers. It's got panic WC all over it.

  23. Differential C (Mark)
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Emi Martinez is actually a decent goalkeeper. Would do a job at a few PL clubs.
    Kind of like Fabianski/Foster, some of these goalies need to move to "lesser" teams from the top six.

  24. Manumana
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Hows this coming along ? Thx a lot

    Pope
    Robbo VVD Digne Coleman
    Salah Sterling Fraser Perez
    Wilson DCL

    Nyland Dunk Dendonker Greenwood

    Thanks

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

      No City defender?

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

        Will prob swap Coleman to a city def when i get to see who is favoured

  25. Lucky Z
    • 6 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Ryan [Button]
    TAA Robertson Laporte Digne [Kelly]
    Sterling Siggy Fraser Maddison [Den]
    Firmino Wilson [4.5]

    A bit different. Thoughts?

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

      Better and cheaper striker options than Bobby F.

      Neither Salah or Mane is just begging for an early WC.

      1. Lucky Z
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        But we have more options in MF than FW. Yes, it could be 2 FTs to do something like you mentioned or WC. Nobody knows.

      2. Lucky Z
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Who are the options, btw? 🙂

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

          Vardy, King, Ings, Wood, Haller, Jimenez, Jota.

          You have Wilson, who in my opinion is the best value premium striker in the game, so you can afford to go light with your second striker and upgrade to get Salah or Mané.

          That Norwich game, without one of those two, could be pretty uncomfortable viewing....

  26. kw4bct
    • 11 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    RATE MY DRAFT PLS
    Pickford (button)
    Trip Rob VVD Coleman (Lundstrom)
    Bilva Sig Salah Zaha (Hayden
    Kane King (Greenwood)

    A. Bilva and greenword
    B. Kanye and delafou

    A or B

    Any straight swaps recommendations would be great.

    1. Lucky Z
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      My first suggestion is to replace Trippier as far as points in La Liga are not added in FPL.

      1. kw4bct
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Ah he's joining Athletico Madrid. Thanks @luckyz
        Any recommendation on a replacement?

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

      Just out of interest, why, if you have Pickford, do you have Button instead of Stek?

      I understand that takes up 3 Everton spaces so you can’t have Siggy or Coleman, but to me the whole point of getting Pickford is so that you can handcuff him with Stek at £4m and that way you always guaranteed to have a playing keeper.

      Maybe that’s just me, but I like the security of knowing that if my starting keeper injures himself in the warm up and I have no time to replace him as that weeks deadline has already gone, I automatically have his replacement come off my bench and get me points. No effing about having to transfer in a new keeper!

      Otherwise, why not just get Lloris instead, who costs the same as Pickford on a better team?

      As for Tripps, I’d be looking to downgrade someone to get Laporte in that defence. Or Zinchenko if you want to gamble on a straight 5.5 replacement.

      I am struggling to work out who Kanye is so can’t help you on that one.

      1. kw4bct
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks Nomar, but I'm relying on Pickford to start every game.
        As you mentioned, that means getting rid of an Everton player which is out of the question with their kind fixtures.
        With Tripper on the way out, I'm staying away from any Tottenham defenders.
        Laporte's a great shout, but that means downgrading 1 of my 11, which is a real struggle for me atm.

        A. Pickford, Coleman, Bsilva
        OR
        B. Ederson, Laporte, Perez/Brooks

        A or B.

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

          B with Brooks.

  27. Roy Rovers
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Still switching between A & B....which way would you go?
    A)
    Pope Button
    TAA. VVD. Laporte. Coleman. Kelly
    Salah. KDB. Perez. Jorginho Dendonker
    Kane. King. Deulofeu.

    B)
    Ederson Button
    TAA. Walker. Coleman. Cathcart. Diop
    Salah. KDB. Pérez. Jorginho Dendonker
    Kane. King. Giroud.

    1. Dont_Win_Friends_With_Salah…
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      A I think

  28. SpaceCadet
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Better option?

    a. cathcart brooks 3-4-3
    b. vvd dendo 4-3-3

    1. Lucky Z
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      B

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 8 months ago

      VVD will outscore the other 3 combined. B

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

        Exactly this.

  29. aapoman
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    Would you rather have:
    A. 5.0 mid + 4.5 def + 4.0 def.
    B. 4.5 mid + 4.5 def + 4.5 def

    In both cases I'd have to play 1 player every week

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

      Depends who it is, but right now there are no certain 4m starters, so B

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

        Currently on Norwood, Dunk and Kelly. But someones like Dendoncker, Dunk and Diop would offer more flexibility . Would allow me to play 442 or 352 depending on the fixtures these 3 have

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

          If you're playing a back 4 with a cheap 4th defender, you need a pair to rotate. You don't want your 4.5 def pulverised by City or Liverpool.

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

            That’s pretty much going to happen to most of them anyway, I expect.

            I think, if it’s a back four, you need 4 premiums (2 Liv, 1 City and 1Eve) and one £4.0m def as filler fodder.

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

              The backbone for me is
              Ederson
              TAA Robbo Digne

              For the 4th and 5th defender I could see a viable option to have two 4.5s. This way the bench also isn't too weak with 2 players likely to get on average 2 points if one of my starters is benched.

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

                Yes, you can do that too.

  30. DimitarB
    • 4 Years
    4 years, 8 months ago

    A) Laporte + KDB
    B) Ake + Sterling

    Which one?

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

      A

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

        ......Unless you have Ederson, in which case B.