Scout Notes

Kane blanks again as Spurs struggle against stubborn Newcastle side

Tottenham 0-1 Newcastle

Goals: Joelinton (£5.9m)

Assists: Christian Atsu (£5.4m)

Bonus Points: Joelinton x3, Fabian Schär x2 (£5.0m), Paul Dummett x1 (£4.5m)

Harry Kane (£11.1m) blanked for the second match in a row as Spurs were stunned by a 1-0 home defeat to Newcastle.

There was significant interest in the forward ahead of Gameweek 3, as he won the Fantasy Football Scout captaincy poll and was signed by over 300,000 managers.

However, Spurs were decidedly below par creating very few chances against a stubborn Newcastle outfit.

“We created some chances. Not too many, not enough to be honest. That is why we’re very disappointed with the performance and the result but we cannot justify our performance. We should be playing better, more desire, more capacity to be more aggressive in this type of game, because 80 per cent of possession is too much for only a few shots on target.” – Mauricio Pochettino

It is that element of Sunday’s defeat that will be of the greatest concern for Kane owners. His team looked devoid of ideas going forward and the striker himself barely had a sniff of action in front of goal.

His best chance of the match came late in the game when a ball flashed across the six-yard box that he could only snatch at and watch it trickle through his legs.

Some would also argue Kane was unfortunate not to win a penalty in the second half too as he fell to the ground in a potential coming-together with Jamaal Lascelles (£4.5m).

Kane and Spurs were denied by a penalty by VAR late in the game

After a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, it was adjudged he had not been fouled but the incident has caused plenty of debate in the football world since Sunday afternoon.

Concern over Kane’s potential for the match first arose when the team-sheet was revealed on Sunday afternoon.

Mauricio Pochettino lined Spurs up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with the returning Son Heung-min (£9.5m) and Lucas Moura (£7.5m) on the flanks of attacking midfield, Erik Lamela (£6.0m) at number 10 and Kane up-front.

The Spurs manager had, for the second home match in a row, decided to leave Christian Eriksen (£8.9m) on the bench, which, as expected, robbed Spurs of any creativity in midfield. Not surprisingly, he came in for severe criticism for that decision after the game.

“No, I cannot pick more than 11 players. A decision like that when you have plenty of players, but I understand a question like that. Should the result be 3-0 or 4-0 you’re not going to ask me that question but of course, I accept it. The players who are out are always good when you don’t win.” – Mauricio Pochettino

“Of course. I talk before that when you lose the game always the player that no play was the best. I accept that. With Christian, we win and without him, we lose. I accept that this situation is like this. If should be the result is 3-0 for us, we’d be talking about different things.” – Mauricio Pochettino

With Tanguy Ndombele (£6.1m) missing with injury, there was no drive in that area of the pitch either. The lack of creativity and energy in midfield appeared to be the reason why Kane had to drop deeper, and often to the left-flank.

Kane was forced to operate as the supplier of creativity for much of Spurs’ defeat to Newcastle

From these positions, he was supplying crosses to the more advanced Son and Moura, although he was unable to fulfil this role as well as Eriksen could have. Meanwhile, those two forward players lacked the ruthlessness to put any of their chances away.

Moura was especially wasteful, blazing a back-post chance wide from close range and spurning a chance to score a golden chance in the second half after an impressive Moussa Sissoko (£5.0m) cross.

Crucially, it also meant that Kane was hardly ever in the penalty box to get on the end of Spurs’ supply lines.

Kane’s first clearcut chance did not come until the second minute of the second half. He received the ball from a Moura knockdown but was ruled offside anyway.

It must also be said that Son did not pass the eye test either on his immediate return to the side from suspension.

That was bad news for the 85,000 managers who took a risk on bringing him straight into their sides for Gameweek 3.

It was not a memorable return to action for Son Heung-min

The South Korean international did not offer any of his trademark energy or guile that he displayed with such regularity last season.

In the 32nd minute, Son received a Kyle Walker-Peters (£5.0m) cross at the back-post, his fierce effort stinging Martin Dúbravka’s palms.

Other than that, it seemed clear that Son may have to take some time to settle back into the side, having not made a competitive appearance for Spurs since April.

New signing Giovani Lo Celso (£7.4m) did not add much when he came on either. The Argentinian replaced compatriot Lamela in 62nd minute but barely had a touch of the ball. At this point, Eriksen had taken to the field and all Spurs’ work was going through him, although still not producing any results.

In the 70th minute, Lo Celso had an opportunity to shoot but blasted well wide.

As for whether we should be concerned about Spurs attacking players ahead of the trip to Arsenal next week, it is probably worth holding on to them.

Spurs might have more to offer against Arsenal if Eriksen gets into the team

Spurs have now struggled to impress with Eriksen on the bench this season, labouring in the first hour of Gameweek 1 and against Newcastle.

Surely, at this point, regardless of transfer speculation, it is clear to Pochettino that the Danish international is an integral part of his team, capable of getting the best out of his other attacking assets. Owners of Spurs assets will be hoping that whatever is stopping the manager starting Eriksen abates by Gameweek 4.

“(Asked if Eriksen has played his last game for Spurs) I don’t know. I don’t know. Why you ask me? Maybe you know something. It’s so difficult, the situation. We cannot blame one party or another. That is the situation, the circumstances. We arrive today with different players and different situations in the squad but I don’t want to justify our performance because of that. I want to make clear the point. When you play football and are on the pitch you don’t think about these situations.” – Mauricio Pochettino

Should Eriksen come back into the side for the north London derby, it is hard to predict that they will not score, especially given well-documented criticism of Arsenal’s defence.

Spurs were, of course, not helped in Gameweek 3 by the compact nature of Newcastle’s set-up. Steve Bruce went with the 5-4-1 formation, ensuring that there were ten men behind the ball at all times.

Bruce was praised for Newcastle’s display at full-time

There was particular praise for Paul Dummett (£4.5m) and Fabian Schär (£5.0m) as the Magpies defended for their lives at Spurs.

There was very little space in which to work in Newcastle’s penalty box, which is sure to be another factor that contributed to Spurs’ first blank of the season.

“The only way you can respond to (criticism) is by your team putting in a performance like that where the discipline, the shape, the organisation was there for everybody to see.” – Steve Bruce

It is unlikely that Arsenal will defend in quite the same way in Gameweek 4. As the home team, and one with a potent attack, they are likely to venture forward a lot more, and, therefore, leave a lot more space for Spurs to work in.

As much as Newcastle’s defensive players will take credit for this result, there were a number of impressive displays from their attacking assets.

Despite sitting deep for much of the game, the Magpies still managed seven shots in Spurs’ penalty area, just one fewer than their illustrious hosts managed. That may be of encouragement to those holding Arsenal attacking assets ahead of the north London derby. Spurs could also be without Walker-Peters for Gameweek 4 as he came off around the hour-mark with a suspected hamstring problem, Sissoko dropping into the full-back position.

Sean Longstaff (£5.0m) was the first to show real danger on the counter for Newcastle, firing a fierce effort at Hugo Lloris (£5.5m) in the 23rd minute and forcing an incredible save to tip it over the bar.

Newcastle celebrate Joelinton’s first-half goal against Spurs

Their only goal of the game was a well-worked one, although Spurs defenders’ probably should have done better.

Substitute Christian Atsu (£5.4m) picked up the ball in a central midfield area and curled a pass into Joelinton (£5.9m), just over the top of Davinson Sánchez‘s (£5.5m) head. With yards of space between him and Danny Rose (£5.5m), the Brazilian rattled home a powerful finish from inside the penalty area.

“(Joelinton) has only been here a month and I thought we could play to his strengths better. We can be pretty direct with him but he can use both feet. You want to get off the mark for big money as a centre forward. He missed vs Norwich but I’m delighted for him” – Steve Bruce

There were one or two injury worries for Bruce after the game as three players had to be substituted.

One of them was Joelinton, although the manager did not indicate there was any real problem other than fatigue after a long period of playing lone striker in a 5-4-1 system.

Joelinton was in pain at the end of the game but Bruce insisted there was no injury

There is more concern over midfielder Allan Saint-Maximin (£5.5m) who came off after 17 minutes with a hamstring issue, and Jamaal Lascelles (£5.0m) who was forced off after a knock to his calf. Of the two, Bruce was less positive about Saint-Maximin.

“Saint-Maximin has had a recurrence of his hamstring problem, which is a nightmare for us but the others we don’t think are too serious. Joelinton ran himself into the ground and Jamaal Lascelles hurt his calf, but we’re hopeful on those.” – Steve Bruce

Members Analysis

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Tottenham Hotspur XI (4-2-3-1): Lloris; Rose (B Davies 88′), D Sánchez, Alderweireld, Walker-Peters (Eriksen 62′); Winks, Sissoko; Son, Lamela (Lo Celso 62′), Moura; Kane.

Newcastle United XI (5-4-1): Dúbravka; Ritchie, Dummett, Lascelles (Fernandez 82′), Schär, Krafth; Saint-Maximin (Atsu 17′), S Longstaff, Hayden, Almirón; Joelinton (Muto 88′).

Lessons learned from Gameweek 3

1,062 Comments Post a Comment
  1. shearer9
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Best 5.5 or less Shaw replacement?

    1. thepeen555
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      You had shaw?

      1. shearer9
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Yeah. Still top 22k not too bad eh.

  2. abaalan
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Heaton / Pope
    VVD / Zinchenko / Digne / (KWP / Montoya)
    Sterling / Salah / Trossard / Mount / Dendoncker
    Kane / Pukki / (Wickham)

    Got 1 FT, 0.1 ITB - anyone worth transferring? Keep Kane? Keep kwp?

  3. Fantasy Freæk's Flying Circus
    BigManBakar
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Greetings everyone, welcome to the latest edition of The Review. Here I am penning my thoughts on how the Premier League drama in GW 3 unfolded:

    1)Salah and Sterling sit top of the charts for big chances of all players in the league over the first 3 games, reaffirming their status as modern day FPL royalty. Hence, it comes as no surprise that the pair of them also have the best xGi (expected goal involvement) for players to have started each of the 3 games so far. The icing on the cake is that with both of them categorized as midfielders, they get extra points per goal and clean sheet and hence in my opinion, are the go-to captain choices in the game.

    2) Burnley are ranked joint top for least big chances conceded since the season has started. The Clarets have also conceded the 3rd highest number of shots from outside the box in the given period, which bodes well for Nick Pope meaning that he has to face considerably easier shots to save. What also helps the Burnley keeper is that he has the best minute to baseline bps ratio of all Burnley defenders - his reading stands at 5. Compare that to the next best of Pieters’ 6.8 and it tells me that Pope will inevitably always end up getting bonus points whenever Burnley are to keep a clean sheet.

    3) Since the season has started, West Ham rank worst for shots inside the box conceded, big chances conceded and xGc (expected goals conceded). With the Norwich attack in form and Pukki still ranked top for shots inside the box and shots on target, the Finnish international looks all set to notch once again when his side comes up against the Irons.

    4) In the Liverpool-Arsenal game, Trent Alexander Arnold recorded 59 touches in the final third, 6 chances created (including 1 big chance created) and 3 shots inside the box. This makes Trent second only to Kevin De Bruyne for chances created and big chances created since the season began. These stats are unheard of coming from a FPL defender - what this tells me is that a gigantic haul is not far away once Liverpool sort their defence out and start keeping clean sheets. Surprisingly, Oleksandr Zinchenko created 5 chances in Man City’s game vs Bournemouth, and that makes him second only to Trent in defenders for chances created since the season began.

    5) A lot has been said and written about John Lundstram ever since the season began. So far, he has recorded the most big chances of all defenders and has a better xGi (expected goal involvement) than the likes of Kane, De Bruyne and Aubameyang - as hilarious as that sounds! The hype surrounding Lundstram has meant that his defensive colleagues have been overlooked - they are posting stats which deserve attention in their own right. George Baldock sits second for defenders for most touches in the final third while Jack O’Connell is second for defenders for shots inside the box.

    6) Ryan Fraser was a very popular bandwagon in pre-season but the Scottish international has failed to live up to the expectations so far. His form hasn’t hit the heights of last season - and that is reflected in his numbers. Over the season, he has accumulated just 3 chances created, 2 shots inside the box and 4 penalty area touches. Bournemouth need more from him if they are to get back to their free flowing best.

    7) The game that statistically caught my eye the most this weekend was the Watford-West Ham game. Chances were aplenty for either side, with both sets of attackers racking up their stats. The forgotten man, Gerard Deulofeu recorded 6 shots inside the box including 1 big chance while his counterpart Sebastien Haller racked up 4 shots inside the box with 2 big chances. Felipe Anderson and Manuel Lanzini were at their creative best - Felipe Anderson now stands second after De Bruyne in midfielders for big chances created while Lanzini is ranked second in midfielders for chances created. Haller and Anderson in particular had very impressive xGi (expected goal involvement) and will surely be amongst the points with favorable fixtures to follow.

    8) A team which was expected to be a great source of attacking points to FPL managers was Leicester City, so it comes as a huge surprise to me that so far, they stand second worst for xG (expected goals scored). Further introspection of the data suggests that the Foxes have been overly reliant on Maddison for creativity, with no one in the Leicester team other than Maddison creating more than 4 chances or accumulating 3 shots inside the box over 3 games. The lack of fluidity in attack may be as a result of the new signings taking their time to settle in. The likes of Tielemans and Perez need to be more involved if Leicester are to score more freely.

    At the end I’d like to thank all the regular readers of my articles, your feedback has been hugely encouraging and I feel overwhelmed by your support. And to the new readers, welcome aboard! 🙂

    1. el polako
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      This stuff I vote up before reading.
      Good work !

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        That means a lot mate, thank you! 🙂

    2. Je suis le chat
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Thanks Freaky, I like looking at the season in 3 gw chunks. Holding Pope and will continue to play Lundy. Just need to find a few Bob for a better 4th mid.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        No problem at all, good luck with your team! 🙂

    3. doublyG
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Thanks for this. Great write up!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thank you for the feedback bro! 🙂

    4. Amey
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Awesome
      I've become a fan of these articles.
      Have Pope,Taa, Zinchenko,Pukki,Haller,Cantwell, Lundstram so loved it by some of selfish point of view too 😉

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Hehehe. I am truly humbled by support man, thank you! 🙂

        1. BigManBakar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          your support*

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

      Top class post fella

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Cheers buddy, thank you! 🙂

    6. Freaki
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Will Newcastle keep a clean sheet vs Watford do you think?

      1. Hairy Potter
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        As a Newcastle fan, I'm not hopeful, but we'll see.

      2. Pipermaru
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Won't be surprised if PL trolls us and Watford actually beat Newcastle against all odds, just like Newcastle beat Spurs.

      3. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I doubt it. Watford's attacking stats are pretty decent.

    7. Eat my goal!
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great read!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks man, appreciate the feedback! 🙂

    8. Corgz Dark side of the Loon
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Excellent work and a few surprises ………...taking a view every three weeks is also a sensible way to view the team as a whole...…...well done mate.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        No problem at all, I'm very happy that you found it to be useful. 🙂

    9. shearer9
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Zinc sorted as my Shaw replacement then, thanks!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        No problem, good luck! Unlucky with Shaw there 🙁

    10. Point-one short
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great article

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks bro, humbled! 🙂

    11. FOO FIGHTER
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Lessons from this post.

      Salah and TAA going to haul this season 🙂

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Hahaha. And water is wet. 😉

    12. Camzy
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Lundstram really is a sight to behold. The fact that Im considering starting my 4.0 bench fodder away at Chelsea because of his attacking returns is a sentence I'd never think I'd be typing.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        He's an absolute Godsend. I have no idea what made FPL categorize him as a defender.

        1. cylus11 ( Manager) - Russia…
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Are you all going to start him away to CHE

          1. Kiwivillan
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Leaky Chelsea?

          2. BigManBakar
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            I don't think so - that's probably a bit extreme 😉

    13. Fat Ron
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Top read this!!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Cheers Don, I'm happy that you liked it! 🙂

    14. Homer21
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great stuff, an interesting read

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Cheers buddy, thanks for taking the time out to read! 🙂

    15. TheHungryMøn ⭐
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      You rock bro.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Cheers, as always THM. 🙂

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

      As always thanks for taking the time to compile and share this.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thank you for the support TLF, means a lot! 🙂

    17. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Super duper!!! 😀

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Cheers Doos, hope you've been well! 🙂

    18. Greasy Grealish Gang
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great article, thanks for sharing!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        No problem at all, cheers for your kind words. 🙂

    19. Jazz!
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Brilliant post as always TFF. Love these pieces. Short, snappy and informative all at once. Keep it up!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thank you for your generous compliments man! 🙂

    20. Lord Heskey
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Very helpful, thanks

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        My pleasure. Glad you liked it! 🙂

    21. AzzaroMax99
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks mate! 🙂

    22. NestorC
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great work again. Cheers mate.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks for taking the time to read these and for posting your feedback frequently mate! 🙂

    23. Sloopy
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Thanks! love your articles!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Humbled! I will try and keep doing my best. 🙂

    24. FP Elephant
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Quality read as always. Thanks!

      Hoping West Ham's attack puts more in the net than Pukki and Cantwell this weekend...

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        No problem mate. Cheers for your support, as always!

        As FPL managers most of us will be hoping (and expecting!) an absolute goal fest... Cue 0-0...

    25. HVT
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great stuff mate, care to pick between,
      Tammy/Barnes/Haller?

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thank you HVT, good to hear from you! As you can see from the article, I'm very high on Haller so him for me. I like Barnes too though!

      2. Tommy Smith
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I agree Haller looked good. I am monitoring him. Just remember he won't be playing that Watford defence every week, although Norwich next week is a good start.

        1. BigManBakar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Indeed. 🙂

    26. Polar_Bear
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great read every time

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks very much PB, glad to have you on board as an avid reader. 🙂

    27. BigManBakar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Thank you for the tremendous feedback guys, I am truly humbled and a special thanks to Geoff as well for not restricting this to members only! 😀

      1. Tsparkes10
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Quite new so not seen you and your posts before but the fact that you're literally replying to every comment is what this place is about. Will defo read all your posts... Great post and great response, love to see it. Wish this was the vibe most of the time 🙂

        1. BigManBakar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Good to see you mate! As a writer, I feel I owe it to the readers who take their time out to read the article and then to post such gracious feedback - that's the least I could do! 🙂

          1. Tsparkes10
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Class act that, shame there ain't more of you hahaha. How you doing so far?

            1. BigManBakar
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 10 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              Thanks! 🙂

              Start has been okayish - not great but I think it's far too early to worry about it. Plenty of time to catch up. 🙂

    28. NATSTER
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Lovely analysis and summary. Thanks for sharing.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        No problem at all mate, hope you've been well! Nice to see someone familiar around! 🙂

    29. tmduc
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      GREAT REVIEWS!

      P/S: Should we Triple Captain Sterling against Brighton (H) GW5 or Watford (H) in GW6?

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I'm overwhelmed, thank you! 🙂

        I think it's probably far too early for that, as much as I think Sterling will do well I like having the security of two fixtures rather than one - best to wait for the double gameweek. 🙂

    30. The Overthinker
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Brilliant

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thanks very much mate! 🙂

    31. jia you
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Great read, have a well deserved upvote!
      Zinchy did catch my eye in creating some chances in that game so your detail above confirms my eye test notes! Going to chance going with him over Laporte on WC I think as that 1.0 can do a lot!
      Cheers & GL

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thank you for your generous feedback man, and good luck with your wildcard! 🙂

    32. Miniboss
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      I follow you on twitter as well, but wanted to thank you again. Top stuff!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I am humbled by your constant support man, thank you! 🙂

        1. Rostah
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          What's your twitter handle? Must go give you a follow, top stuff

    33. Tommy Smith
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      You are most generous with your perceptive insights. Thank you.

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I'm moved by your lovely feedback man, the pleasure is all mine. 🙂

    34. Siggy in the Middle
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Brilliant post. Cheers!

      1. BigManBakar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        No problem at all mate, I'm glad you liked it. 🙂

    35. The Overthinker
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Is this the most upvoted HT?

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

    Double Lpool defense maybe not looking as great for the season as anticipated? Or wait and see?

    1. el polako
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      I'm keeping for next 2, if no improvement will sell VVD for Laporte and keep TAA.

    2. CornerTakenQuicklyOrigi
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      A couple of nice fixtures coming. Perhaps wait and see what happens away to Burnley, then it's the International break. Make your move then (either way).

    3. Je suis le chat
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Hold for next 2, then bin 1. Might keep TAA and say adiós to Virgil.

    4. Miniboss
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      I hold but mainly because I have other fires to put out. Will probably downgrade Robbo after GW5.

  5. CornerTakenQuicklyOrigi
    • 4 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    I have 6.2m to fill a sizeable Luke Shaw shaped gap.

    VVD Digne Zinchenko *ShawShapedGap* Lundstram

    Who's the best choice out there?

    1. Ze_Austin
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Rico

      Pump the money forward

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

        I'll be tempted if rest of the team solid.

        1. CornerTakenQuicklyOrigi
          • 4 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Salah Sterling KDB Martial Mount
          Pukki

          I'm just going to assume Martial will be A OK. Life is easier that way.

      2. CornerTakenQuicklyOrigi
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I can just afford Shaw > Kelly/Rico and Greenwood/Wickham > Barnes. Think Emerson and possibly using the 0.7m to upgrade VVD > TAA next week (or use elsewhere) is what I'm leaning towards. The above move was my original plan though...

        1. Ze_Austin
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Barnes will clearly outscore Emerson based on performances and stats so far, so I'm not sure why this is confusing

          You'll also have a template 3-5-2 without a wildcard if you do that

          1. CornerTakenQuicklyOrigi
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            It was my original thought... It was just an Emerson (and as some would call 'team balance') based hunch. Rico over Kelly? Can afford either.

  6. Hits from the Bong
    • 5 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Ceballos looks like he’s rising, what a bargain. Better be quick everyone

    1. lugs
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      if he keeps on playing as a number 10, he's ridiculous value in that Arsenal attack

    2. thepeen555
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Didn’t watch at the weekend did he play well?

      1. Tommy Smith
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        He did not seem to be heavily involved

  7. Ginkapo FPL
    • 12 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    No Pochettino. We wanted to know where Eriksen was before the game started.

  8. shearer9
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Is Shaw -> Young crazy? He looked lively versus Palace. 7th among defenders for creativity and he's played 56 minutes this season.

    1. lugs
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Utd probably wont keep a clean sheet vs Southampton, i'd rather a City defender instead

    2. CornerTakenQuicklyOrigi
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      I'm most tempted by Emerson. AWB vs Young is tough to call though. I actually have 6.2m to find a replacement (see my post a few posts above ere)... will keep the 0.5m+ to possibly upgrade VVD to TAA.

      1. shearer9
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Yeah won't get cleanies but perhaps some attacking returns. I'm thinking of getting Zinc, as you've done, thoughts?

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

      Rather have Emerson myself. Looked far more exciting.

      1. shearer9
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Hmm Chelsea are leaking goals though, whereas City will surely pick up a couple cleanies short term. Might improve when Rudiger returns, but it's not certain.

        1. shearer9
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          When I City I'm referring to Zinchenko btw

          1. CornerTakenQuicklyOrigi
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            I would like to imagine most already own City defensive cover (likely along with Sterling and KDB). Which is why I'm currently on Emerson. Agree with everything you've said though.

          2. SweepaKeepa
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Be brave... go Cancelo.

  9. screamer73
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Bottomed
    Barnes or Abraham to partner Pukki and Haller?

    1. Hog Roast Junkie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Barnes

  10. I Member
    • 8 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Barnes shouldn't rise twice this week right?

    1. Je suis le chat
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      I'm sure his wife will expect at least that!

  11. Je suis le chat
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 7 months ago

    Anyone else get the feeling Pool will win the epl this season, so finding the right 3rd asset to accompany Mo and Trent will he key.

    1. Poseidon.
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 7 months ago

      Still between City and Utd for me though Liverpool are doing really good.

      1. How Mina You
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        United! Aw, bless.

      2. Greasy Grealish Gang
        • 4 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        United will probably fight for 4th or 5th place at best though.

    2. MTPockets
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Having watched some liv and mci, no

        1. Je suis le chat
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          VAR might win Pool the league. Pool may even hit 100 points, most teams will part like the Red sea.

          1. MTPockets
              4 years, 7 months ago

              They could win, but City's play and squad options suggest it will be tough

        2. Amey
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Yeah someone like Hendo or bobby main

          1. Je suis le chat
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Maybe Origi? Bobby might be part his sell by date. Slow like Cha Adam. Wonder could they ever chance signing Eriksen, he'd be a great puppet master.

        3. Concrete
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          No
          December fixture pile up will be their downfall

        4. shearer9
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Yeah, that's why Robertson is a season keeper.

      • JustPark
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Can't decide between Barnes and Haller.
        One is cheaper than the other.
        One has been scoring since opening day.
        One has Pool next but Pukki scored at Anfield..

        Could get Barnes for King for free.
        Need a hit for Haller though, ditching Perez for Mount.

        Decision, decision.

        1. Corgz Dark side of the Loon
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Have you seen King upcoming fixtures......I would be tempted to hold...….

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

            Could get Mount in for Perez still.

        2. Eat my goal!
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Big decision- I’m stuck on this

          Barnes showing great form - good fixtures

          Haller slightly unknown quality in the prem but passes the eye test, question marks over West Ham performances for me

      • Water_Pink
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Well done ffs bw lovers
        You have done it again
        Sick of everyone jumping ship after when if someone doesn’t score in a game
        You think kane should be scoring every game and because he didn’t you all get him out.
        Now his price is dropping tonight ! It’s only Monday . And the same for Mané . You can’t keep getting the players who last scored , they may not score the following week!!!
        Start believing in your players more than a game .

        1. el polako
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Modern world in a nutshell - short attentuon span & need for instant results.

          Having said that dont blame those rage selling Kane - I would have done the same.

          1. Water_Pink
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Kane is a good example
            I guarantee what people will do
            Kane > Haller
            Dendonker > MOUNT
            I get he didn’t score
            But loves to score against a shaker arsenal defence . Then good fixtures .

        2. Ajax Hamsterdam
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Chill 🙂

        3. How Mina You
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Do you really think that FFS readers are solely responsible for the price swings?

          1. Water_Pink
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Majority of it
            I want you to look through a couple of pages on this site
            And see the same transfers and same template team

            1. Corgz Dark side of the Loon
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              I found it easier by not picking Kane or Dendonker in the first place...…….

            2. How Mina You
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              I assure you that as much as you might think FFS has a role to play in the price changes, it represents a minority of FPL addicts. The fact that there are over 6 million active teams should be an indicator that FFS doesn’t be play a major part. The articles and regular posters merely provide advice, which people are free to take or reject.

        4. RubeRx
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Spurs had 80% possession which is unheard of

          yet his first and only shot came in stoppage time in which he sailed from 6 yds out

          See hot topics

          1. Hairy Potter
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Yeah, Man City only managed 77% possession when Newcastle beat them last season.

        5. Je suis le chat
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Both are 11 mill plus, it's a bear market!

        6. No Professionals
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          It's not about the blank, it's about the nature of the blank.

          Spurs are awful, not creating for him.

        7. SweepaKeepa
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Not guilty, Guv. Made only one transfer so far.

      • N00B
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Will Barnes rise tonight? I have exact money for one of those moves:

        A) Barnes in for Jota
        B) Mount in for Trossard

      • Sid07
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Thoughts on
        Moura + jota to mount + Haller (-4)

        1. howsonisnow
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          I’m planning something similar.

      • Ajax Hamsterdam
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Is ward nailed for palace ? Thanks

      • LordEllison
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        1ft and 0.0 itb not sure what to do

        Pope Button
        AWB VVD Digne Zinchenko Lundstram
        Salah Sterling KDB Perez Dendoncker
        Wilson Wood Greenwood

        Any ideas? Was thinking Wilson and Wood to Haller and Pukki maybe
        Thanks!

      • Bullhorn_11
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I tried to be patient and prioritize Perez & Jota transfers out but after Spurs game my team looks bad.

        Pope
        VVD, Laporte,Kelly
        Salah,Sterling,Moura,Perez,Candwell
        Kane,Jota

        Button, Greenwood, Maitland Nails, Montoya

        A) WC
        B) save - last chance for Perez & Jota & Spurs
        C) hit or two start team reorganization

        What donyou think guys?

      • windowview
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        If I've already done -4 and decide to WC now, will I still lose those points?

        1. Lloyd Xmas
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          No.

      • Wensink
        • 6 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Not one to take hits BUT considering Trossard>KDB and TAA>Mings. Worth the -4 hit?

        Currently sit 73K overall. Current squad:
        Heaton, Pope
        Wan-Bissaka, Montoya, Lundstram, TAA, Kelly
        Martial, Salah, Sterling, Dendoncker, Trossard
        Pukki, Kane, Greenwood

      • Ze_Austin
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Fun fact: Norwich has not faced any of the statistically easiest defences in the league yet

        They face their first easy defence in GW4

        On the contrary, Salah and Sterling face their toughest defences yet in GW4

        I'm trusting Doosra's table on this: https://members.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/public-stats-tables/view/6810/

        1. mookie
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Are you saying there's going to be another Pukki party and there are VIP seats available?

          1. Ze_Austin
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Rolling out the red carpet with a (C) locked in since I saw the WHM vs WAT game

            1. Cok3y5murf
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              I already had the VC on Pukki. Now you're tempting me. I agree West Ham have the worst stats. But it's still Man City and at home and Brighton's stats vs Soton last week are quite bad.

            2. Cok3y5murf
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              Although Brighton had a red card.

              1. Greasy Grealish Gang
                • 4 Years
                4 years, 7 months ago

                I saw the match and wasn't impressed by Soton at all. Brighton were the better side but that donkey took a red card and another offside goal because of Dunk. That being said, I still believe City will score 3 or 4 goals.

        2. Piggs Boson
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Any side that has played Norwich is going to have bad defensive stats. It's hard to gauge how good a defence really is at this stage as the strength of the opposition they face skews the numbers.

          1. Ze_Austin
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            You're getting to my point. Even after facing Norwich, no defence has been as bad as West Ham, Watford, Bournemouth and AVL... With West Ham topping the charts for almost every wrong defensive stat to have against Pukki. You might be tempted to attribute this to the City game, but try taking their defensive stats vs Watford and your mind will be blown

        3. Hairy Potter
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Well Norwich scored 3 against Newcastle, that's 3 times more than Arsenal and Spurs combined.

        4. Je suis le chat
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Love to see his algorithms! West Ham are so attacking Norwich might go into their shell. Hope not, as I need a Pukki and Pope haul.

          1. Ze_Austin
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            After swallowing an unhealthy number of goals from Liverpool, the Norwich coach still insisted that his side will keep playing offensive football only

            Chelsea battered them with chances and shots, and they kept playing offensive football

            They won their first EPL game by literally outscoring the opponents. Lost the next one PROUDLY at home because they scored twice

            I see absolutely no reason for them to go into their shell against West Ham

      • Art Vandelay
        • 13 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        I currently have Sterling KDB and Kane as my "big hitters"

        Looking to ditch Kane so..

        Kane > Aguero and try to cash in on City's next two fixtures with the triple up.

        Kane + Trossard > Salah + 6.0 Forward (Wesley?!)

        Cheers

        1. Ze_Austin
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Salah over Aguero all day, every day. Even if Salah blanks twice in the next 2 GWs. How you work that in is up to you, but I'd suggest spending a bit more on the forward, even if it takes a hit. 6.5 to 7.4 looking prime for points

          1. Art Vandelay
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Cheers, good advice.

            Salah is a -4 move already sand not keen on a -8. Maybe wait a week and see if Kane/Spurs can kick into life in the NLD.

        2. Je suis le chat
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Mo is essential. Will get 300 pointsish.

      • JamTart
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 7 months ago

        Is Perez and Jota to Mount and Barnes for a -4 stupid?

        Gives me the team I'd want for the next few GWs and allow me to hold my WC till second int break or later for when fixtures turn and form players switch.

        My only worry is that a WC first int break can be good for team value building too.

        1. Pinturicchio10
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Far from stupid

          • Hitmonlee
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            I’d do it!

          • Je suis le chat
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Perez to Mount is a given. Not sure on the second transfer.

            1. JamTart
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              Exactly my worry. Barnes could rise twice though and then those fixtures!

              1. Je suis le chat
                • 10 Years
                4 years, 7 months ago

                Jota is a great player, pity he's too much Europa action.

                1. JamTart
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 7 months ago

                  I'm just sick of it really. Feels like it's never going to come good for now.

          • JamTart
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Cheers guys

          • dezille
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Both have okay fixtures next gw so perhaps hold FT and reassess during the break?

        2. Starlydon
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Who to replace Barkley with???
          Have 6.1m to spend but can't settle on one player I like?

          1. Lav
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            McGinn

          2. How Mina You
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            His replacement - Mount. Or Ceballos.

          3. Indio
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 12 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            McGinn a good shout, or maybe Cantwell and change if you don't already have the Norwich man and want to make upgrades elsewhere?

            Or you could find the extra 0.1 for Mount, but guessing that would entail a hit?

          4. Starlydon
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            I like look of mcginn but have been priced out of mount. It would mean a hit to get him so not leaning towards that!!

            Floating between buendia, can't walk, McGinnis at the moment. Already have pukki so worried double Norwich might not be great?

        3. Ajax Hamsterdam
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Hope Brighton can hold the city rollercoaster only have kdb for city attack ...

          1. Andy'81
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            They'll do well to only concede two the way Citeh have looked.

        4. shearer9
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          How accurate has FPL stats been this season? Tempted to pull the trigger on Zinchenko now.

          1. Poseidon.
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            He could start maybe even another couple yet. I’d just hold until he’s actually dropped

            1. shearer9
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              I'm talking about getting him in haha

          2. Point-one short
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Inaccurate gw1 but prettymuch bang on the money now

        5. Lav
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Ayoze Pere replacements? Currently thinking Mount.

          1. Camzy
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Mount for me too. Stats say it's the best move.

        6. No_Mo_Salah?
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          So... still no Pukki in my team and looks like I will miss another price rise unless I WC or shift one of Kane or Vardy... Shall I take the rise on the chin and save wc for a later date or bite the bullet now?

          1. thepeen555
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Well I think he (Pukki) will score a couple in the next match if that helps at all lol

          2. Camzy
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            No use crying over spilt milk. Get him in now.

        7. Ajax Hamsterdam
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Surely Kane won't blank a third time.in a row ?

        8. MysticMac17
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 7 months ago

          Tear it to pieces. Pepe is my punt! I really liked the look of him at the weekend

          Ederson
          Laporte TAA Robbo Digne
          Sterling Pepe Lanzini Mount
          Pukki Haller

          Subs: 4.0 keeper, Barnes, Cantwell, Lundstram

          1. Lav
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            No Salah

          2. Freaki
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            Pool attacker is needed 100%

          3. Indio
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 12 Years
            4 years, 7 months ago

            That's a really nice team - weirdly balanced despite all the cash in DEF! Is it a WC?

            1. MysticMac17
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 7 months ago

              Yeah I'm on WC this week

              1. Indio
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 12 Years
                4 years, 7 months ago

                Like it. Good luck.