Scout Reports

What FPL managers can expect from Watford boss Quique Sanchez Flores

The first managerial casualty of the 2019/20 Premier League season came on Saturday, as bottom-of-the-table Watford parted ways with Javi Gracia.

Gracia’s dismissal was swiftly followed by the appointment of Quique Sanchez Flores as head coach, with the 54-year-old Spaniard rejoining the club he had left in May 2016.

Upon his unveiling, Gracia said:

It was a very easy decision [to rejoin]. I’ve been a coach for 16 years and the time I spent in Watford, I was really happy. It was a good experience and this experience was amazing. I loved the way the fans love football in England, the way they support and the way they respect rules in England and everything. The moment I left I was waiting for the moment to come back to England. I feel Watford is my home.

In this article, we look back at Flores’ previous spell at Vicarage Road and analyse his managerial style to see what Fantasy managers can expect from the Hornets’ returning head coach.

Long-time site user Bøwstring The Carp has beaten us to the punch with a study of Flores and we can wholeheartedly recommend his excellent Community piece, which can be read here.

What Has Flores Said About His Managerial Style?

Speaking to the club website following his appointment, Flores said of his defence-first policy:

It’s important. Defence is the most important thing in all the collective sports. Defence is the key for everything. If you want to attack well it is necessary to defend well.

I follow a lot NBA and when Toronto Raptors won the NBA, some journalist goes to the coach and asked what is the key. He said the key was the passion and the defence. This is the base for everything. It could be good for Watford.

Talking about his goals for the season:

The priority is results. We know the schedule is really bad now, but everything is possible with a positive mentality of the players, with the fans supporting us, with the passion, everything is possible.

We need to be realistic. Now we are bottom, but the first mentality is we don’t want to go back. We don’t want relegation. We need to put the team in the condition to keep growing. We need to be humble and the first thing is to save the situation, establish the team in a different position. Once we are established in a different position, we can talk about the next goal for this year.

Flores’ comments, then, suggest that he will be placing a lot of emphasis on improving Watford’s main Achilles heel for much of 2019: their defence.

The Hornets are without a league clean sheet since February, a barren run that stretches back 16 top-flight matches.

No other Premier League club has conceded as many ‘big chances’ (70) as Watford this calendar year.

Asked about the wealth of attacking options he now has at his disposal in relation to his defensive mindset, Sanchez said:

We have young players, very fast in attack. This is interesting. We have more than we had four years ago. We had two main, Deeney and Ighalo, but… now we have more and we have different qualities and skills. We need to guess how they are working together and need to know as soon as possible how they mix in the match.

Which Players Has Flores Worked With at Watford Before?

Flores’ one season in charge of the Hornets came in 2015/16, when he steered Watford to a 13th-place finish in their first season back in the top flight.

Six of the squad he worked with in that campaign remain at the club: Heurelho Gomes (£4.5m), Sebastian Prodl (£4.0m), Jose Holebas (£4.8m), Craig Cathcart (£4.4m), Etienne Capoue (£4.9m) and Troy Deeney (£6.3m).

Gomes, Cathcart, Capoue and Deeney were regulars under their returning boss, with each starting at least 33 Premier League games in that campaign.

Prodl began the season as a first-choice at centre-back, making nine successive starting XIs at the beginning of the campaign, but was then in and out of the side for the remainder of 2015/16 and didn’t string together more than two consecutive starts beyond this point.

Holebas was not favoured by Flores for much of the season, making only 11 starts in the top flight.

Interestingly, Deeney’s best single-season goal haul in the Premier League came under Flores: the Watford club captain, who is currently out for two months with a knee injury, scored on 13 occasions in 38 appearances.

Strike partner Odion Ighalo notched 15 goals in that campaign.

What Formation Did Flores Use at Watford?

On the face of it, there aren’t too many dissimilarities with Gracia’s set-up over the past year.

Flores favoured a back four for pretty much his entire season in charge of the Hornets, either using a standard 4-4-2 or tweaking the system slightly to a 4-3-1-2.

Capoue was, as he is now, one of the two combative players in the double-pivot, while Cathcart was a near-permanent fixture in a two-man central defence.

Deeney played with Gerard Deulofeu (£6.3m) alongside him for much of last season but Flores favoured another physical forward alongside the club captain in his tenure, in the form of Ighalo – although the Nigerian was no slouch on the ball.

Holebas and the pacy Ikechi Anya were occasionally deployed at left-back but Flores settled on a physical full-back pairing of Allan Nyom and Nathan Ake for much of the second half of the campaign, which perhaps opens up the possibility of the Craig Dawson (£4.9m) being moved over to right-back – as he was at West Brom under Tony Pulis – should Flores opt to ditch the attack-minded Daryl Janmaat/Kiko Femenia (£4.4m) in favour of a more defensively sound option.

Almen Abdi, a central midfielder by trade, was shunted out to the right flank for much of the 2015/16 season, with Flores deprived of too many natural wingers in his newly promoted squad.

Whether the pragmatic Flores would have opted for a flair player out wide had more been available is another question, though: Nordin Amrabat was brought in during the January transfer window but was handed only four starts and was used mostly as an impact substitute.

With the likes of Ismaila Sarr (£6.4m) and Roberto Pereyra (£5.8m) now at his disposal, it will be interesting to see how much trust Flores places in attack-minded assets who are perhaps not renowned for their defensive aptitude.

This excellent video from The Coaches Voice sees Flores talking through his tactics in the 3-0 win over Liverpool in December 2015:

Watford: 2015/16 v 2018/19 – Basic Stats

SeasonPWDLFAPTSCS
2015/16381291740504511
2018/1938148165259507

Comparing Watford’s record under Flores in 2015/16 to Gracia’s last full season in charge perhaps sums up the two managers.

Flores’ approach garnered four more clean sheets and saw nine fewer goals conceded but that came at the expense of productivity at the other end of the pitch.

Of the 40 goals that the Hornets recorded in 2015/16, 28 were scored by Ighalo and Deeney. Not one other Watford player scored more than two league goals that season.

Watford: 2015/16 v 2018/19 – Underlying Stats

For the below comparisons, we will detail where Watford ranked among Premier League clubs for key underlying stats (1st being the best possible figure, 20th the worst).

Defensive
SeasonShots concededShots in the box concededShots on target concededBig chances concededChances from set plays conceded
2015/1610th10th13th=14th7th=
2018/199th12th14th19th15th=
Attacking
SeasonShotsShots in the boxShots on targetBig chancesChances from set plays
2015/1612th13th=15th13th17th
2018/1916th12th12th8th18th

Again, the key numbers (shots in the box, efforts on target and big chances) suggest Watford were more solid defensively under Flores but less of an attacking threat.

The Hornets created 51 big chances in 2015/16 compared to 81 last season but they conceded 32 fewer gilt-edged chances under Flores (66) than they did in Gracia’s final full season in charge (98).

Flores’ other managerial work

Since his departure from Watford, Flores has spent almost two years at Espanyol and then seven months at Chinese club Shanghai Greenland Shenhua FC.

Espanyol kept 11 clean sheets in 2016/17 and had banked nine shut-outs when Flores was dismissed ahead of Gameweek 34 of the following campaign.

That last season in charge of the La Liga club saw Espanyol really struggle for goals, scoring just 26 in the 33 matches that Flores oversaw.

Flores used a 4-4-2 for a large chunk of his time in Spain but we also saw a 4-2-3-1 used on several occasions: a system Flores had a reputation of playing before he first arrived in the Premier League in June 2015.

The Watford boss didn’t have much time to settle in China, lasting just 17 league and cup games before departing.

Flores lost nine of his 15 league games in charge, experimenting with wing-back systems and back fours before his departure in July of this year.

Final Thoughts

Watford sit bottom of our Season Ticker for both attack and defence over the next five Gameweeks, which perhaps gives Fantasy managers a nice audition period before the fixtures turn favourable in Gameweek 10.

We’ll be paying particular attention to what effect Flores can have on the Hornets’ porous backline, not just in relation to Watford’s own budget defensive assets (all of whom now cost less than £5.0m in FPL) but also how any improvement might affect Manchester City and Spurs’ attacking options in Gameweeks 6 and 9.

Flores’ reputation for pragmatic football would perhaps not bode well for Watford’s offensive assets but Deeney proved in 2015/16 that individual FPL players can still prosper in the Spaniard’s set-up, regardless of the approach.

Goals haven’t flowed from midfield in the past under Watford’s new head coach, so we will be keeping an eye on the underlying stats over the coming weeks to see if Pereyra et al are suffering in that regard: regular wide midfielders Abdi and Jose Manuel Jurado had just one big chance between them in the whole of 2015/16.

Flores has, arguably, a more talented squad at his disposal than he did in 2015/16, however, so will perhaps show a tad more ambition with his tactics.



939 Comments Post a Comment
  1. milanista10
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    4 years, 6 months ago

    No Pool defense:
    A) AWB to Matip for free
    B) Save transfer and do AWB & Lanzini to TAA & Cantwell next week

    A or B lads?

    1. All For One
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      B

    2. Miguel Sanchez
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      b

    3. Jolly Good
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Is Matip now the most likely starter over Gomez? 5.4 is good value for Liverpool defence if he plays most games....

      1. All For One
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Looks that way has played well and just extended his contract by 1 year, but you never know I expect Gomez to start soon.

    4. Ask Yourself
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      B for a hit now? TAA will haul I think

      1. milanista10
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        He might, but Lanzini vs Villa is miles better than Cantwell vs City so I decided to avoid the -4.
        However, Matip could be a nice cheap way into the Pool defense..

    5. Murder On Zidanesfloor
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      I wouldn't remove Lanzini so A

    6. Energetics
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      B

    7. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      B

      Have similar issue with AWB and Matip. Not convinced he’s worth it. TAA is though for sure with Cantwell as makeweight. Next week looks good. I may wait until 7 for my move.

  2. Miguel Sanchez
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 6 months ago

    Thoughts on what to do here if one or both or Emerson and Trossard are out?

    Pope
    TAA Digne Emerson* Montoya
    Salah Sterling Mount Trossard*
    Aguero (c) Pukki

    Woodman Dendocker Greenwood Rico 1FT 0.3 ITB

    1. Rocky FPL
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      If both are injured, I would do Emerson to Ota and play Donkey for this week ahead of Trossard and reassess.

      1. Energetics
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        This

    2. Cojones of Destiny
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      keep tross, emerson -> ota, think kun disbalances your team in a long run

      1. Miguel Sanchez
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Will keep Kun and captain for two more GWs and then will probably downgrade and redistribute funds

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

      Matip + Mount in for a hit?

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

        Ota*

      2. Miguel Sanchez
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Got Mount

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

    Free transfer:

    AWB >> Otamendi ?

    I don't have a Man City defender.

    Current defence: TAA - Digne - AWB - Lundstram - Kelly

    Thanks guys.

    1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Yeah do it

    2. Rocky FPL
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      I would do it if there no other fires to put out.

    3. Cojones of Destiny
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      if planning to play 442 then yeah sure

      1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        If its 343 or 352 I would still do it. Lundy is not regular starter material and Kelly not nailed

  4. John Colby (Capt)
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    4 years, 6 months ago

    As a worried non-Martial owner I'm shocked that there's so much talk about selling him? A midfielder who guaranteed to play up front and cheaper than Rashford - he's a candidate for my wildcard side.

    1. Eze Really?
      • 9 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Agreed

    2. Better off with a pin and a…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      I still think he's a good pick if he can stay fit.

    3. Jolly Good
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Bang on... worried about not picking him on my WC

    4. The_Fish
      • 5 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      If he didn't get injured there'd be a lot less talk about it.

      I'm tempted to sell next week to KDB.

  5. Ask Yourself
    • 7 Years
    4 years, 6 months ago

    Pep going to be fuming when Aguero is kept on for 90 mins in kompany’s testimonial despite winning comfortably

    1. Party time
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Pep is the one in charge of Team Kompany 😉

        1. Party time
            4 years, 6 months ago

            and even if he plays 90 mins. A testimonial match can not be compared to a competitive match. It is just there for fun & laughter

            1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Yeah but he cant really be fuming at his own decision anyway lol

              1. Party time
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Hahaha... Exactly!

          • Murder On Zidanesfloor
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Well, Pep is the manager, he can take him off anytime he wants

          • Boxwoods
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Decent haul, this.

        2. simong1
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Good to go for this GW? Have 1FT (0ITB) but thinking of saving it til next wk to replace Jota & AWB together.

          Pope
          VVD - Digne - Zinchenko - Lundstram
          Sterling (c) - KDB - Salah - Martial
          Pukki - Jota

          Bench: Button - AWB - Dendocker - Greenwood

          1. JollyGoodYellows
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Looks good and love that midfield!

        3. Zaruto
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Need some pro advises in here:
          Out: Emerson + Cantwell
          In: Lundstrom + Iwobi
          (-4 points)

          Yes or no?
          Cheers

          1. Miguel Sanchez
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            No

          2. JollyGoodYellows
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            No I'd keep both. Emerson could be a good differential.

          3. Better off with a pin and a…
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Those moves aren't worth a -4. Play Lundstram if Emerson is out and re-assess next week.

            1. Better off with a pin and a…
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 11 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Sorry I mis-read that, but still don't think it's worth a -4; who comes in for you if Emerson is injured?

              1. Zaruto
                • 6 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Well, Kelly ...

          4. Rocky FPL
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            No

          5. Lingard’s Shin Guards
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Nope

          6. Fulchester's New Centr…
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Another no

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

            Thanks guys, It’s a no!!

        4. JollyGoodYellows
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Thoughts on this: VVD + Bilva (-4) > Maitland Niles + KDB??

          1. Rocky FPL
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Do you have TAA?
            There are Better options than Niles surely.

            1. JollyGoodYellows
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Yeah have TAA. Who else for 5.1 or less?

              1. Rocky FPL
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 6 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Burnley defenders looks good for cleansheets,
                If you have Pope and don't want double up, Mings maybe, good fixtures, can switch him to Soyuncu after next 2.

          2. Miguel Sanchez
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            It's a no from me

          3. Murder On Zidanesfloor
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Not at all

        5. Dacra
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          How does this WC team look? Is 2x non playin bench too much?

          Pope (4.0)
          TAA - Digne - Otamendi (Lundstram, Rico)
          Salah - Sterling - KdB - James - Mount
          Pukki - Haller (Greenwood)

          0 cash left

          1. Fulchester's New Centr…
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            In the long run probbaly, but Greenwood is a semi-player rather than a true non-player

          2. Jolly Good
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            That’s my team except I have Robbo + Cantwell for James + Mount

          3. Kaiser123
            • 4 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Same team for me. I have Zinc instead of Ota. I really want Haller somehow, but.don’t how to get him.

            1. Kaiser123
              • 4 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Should of said I have Barnes instead

        6. Christina.
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Auba.

          Cant wait.

          1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Wait how many premiums do you have?

            1. Christina.
              • 14 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              😆

              1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                So you have Sterling, Auba, Kun and Mane?

                1. Christina.
                  • 14 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  correct

                  1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                    • 5 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    So no KDB I'm assuming? (I hope)

                    1. Christina.
                      • 14 Years
                      4 years, 6 months ago

                      no. not yet.

                      1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                        • 5 Years
                        4 years, 6 months ago

                        And no TAA as well correct?

                        1. Christina.
                          • 14 Years
                          4 years, 6 months ago

                          I have him. 😉

                          Heaton
                          TAA Lundy Dunk
                          Sterling Mane Mcginn Cantwell
                          Auba Pukki Kun

                          Donkey Kelly Soy

                          1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                            • 5 Years
                            4 years, 6 months ago

                            Aah. Solid team that. We play the game with very different philosophies, this is what I have currently

                            Pope
                            TAA Otamendi Coleman Lundy
                            Sterling Mane KDB Son
                            Haller Pukki

                            Cantwell Kelly Greenwood

                            1. Christina.
                              • 14 Years
                              4 years, 6 months ago

                              Nice. I've been lucky so far and accept that I need to get KdB soon and prob lose Kun. In the process I need to try and get Digne/Ota I think.

                              Waiting to see how long I can push my luck.

        7. FOO FIGHTER
          • 4 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          So GW5 I expect KDB to hit 10.0m and continue to rocket after that. Points to price he will be the most valuable player to have from here on in.

          Watch this space!

          1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Points to price I think TAA will be highest by far.

            1. FOO FIGHTER
              • 4 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Good shout. I will have both 🙂

              1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Yeah both fantastic picks.

            2. Murder On Zidanesfloor
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              If TAA gets 200 its 29 points per million and I think it's quite realistic that he gets 200.

              It KDB matches that, even for those that bought him for 9.5, he would have to get 280 points. Unrealistic

              1. Better off with a pin and a…
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 11 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Pukki could beat that (using his original price, anyway) if he can keep it up.

                1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  I think he could as well, think he will be on pens too now that he scored 2 over the IB.

                  1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                    • 5 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    But my money would still be on TAA. Pukki needs to keep up a higher level that jimmy last season and that's uncertain

                    1. Better off with a pin and a…
                      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                      • 11 Years
                      4 years, 6 months ago

                      Agree. I think that's the more likely outcome.The other cheeky one is Lundstram who would only need 120 to be at 30 ppm!

                      1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                        • 5 Years
                        4 years, 6 months ago

                        120 for him would be huge but good shout

              2. pingissimus
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Cantwell on course 🙂

              3. FOO FIGHTER
                • 4 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                I am looking at KDB's average of 9 points so far per game. Consistency is key and reckon he will be Mister consistency this season.

                1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Hahah 9 points per game would make him the all time highest scorer in an FPL season. Dont take that average mate he will blank some weeks

                  1. FOO FIGHTER
                    • 4 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    I did not say he would get average of 9 points but will be the most consistent points scorer. That makes him very valuable.

                    1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                      • 5 Years
                      4 years, 6 months ago

                      Consistent, yes. Highest points for price (like you said), No.

          2. Pompel
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            The £9.5-11m players a bit of difficult spot - they really need to score well above 200 points over season to provide value, as you won't captain them. I think Auba and Kane may fail to provide that value, whereas KDB might

            1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Yeah Son and Pepe have good potential as well

            2. pingissimus
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Perfectly sensible to captain Vardy and KdB to name just two.

              1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Yeah I did pretty well captaining Son last season a few times

            3. Cruyff's Eleven
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              I'm seriously considering captaining KDB this week

          3. pingissimus
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            On value I’d throw in Vardy

            A 200 point plus season is more than possible. Given he’s 8.9 currently he could well beat KdB for value if you bought him at 9.8

            1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              I dont think KDB is a contender here. 25 points per mil at best and that also 240 which is amazing

              1. FOO FIGHTER
                • 4 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Do not just look at the overall point figure. Incoming hauls like he had in is his latest INT which he is quite capale of considering his consistent form so far could set him apart...

                1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Would need an extraordinary season for him to be highest points per million. He would need around 280-300 to be a contender

                  even if he produces his best, he is the one scoring hattricks, it's mostly a assist haul plus the occasional goal. I dont see it happening

                  1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                    • 5 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    Not the one scoring hattricks*

              2. pingissimus
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                I’d agree. The mid range players will top the value charts overall unless something exceptional happens.

                In my head I make a distinction between 7.5 or so down and up. In the lower category it’s almost bound to be a combination of premium defenders and perhaps a Pukki figure.

                In the higher category I’m thinking KdB and Vardy could be the choices on value alone.30-40 points fewer than the super premiums but starting at 3 mill or so less.

                1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Yeah but you cant possibly think that KDB can will the points for price race. Do you?

                  1. pingissimus
                    • 5 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    At the premium (7.5/8.0 plus) level yes.

                    I see it as perfectly plausible he’ll be within 20 points or so of Sterling at the season’s end. That would put him very close at the very least. If he stays fit 9.5 (got him at 9.6) was a gift.

                    1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                      • 5 Years
                      4 years, 6 months ago

                      At the premium level a fit KDB is hard to beat. I was asking for the whole game.

                      Would be hard to Beat TAA, Cantwell, Pukki and Lundstram looking at original price

                      1. pingissimus
                        • 5 Years
                        4 years, 6 months ago

                        We agree pretty much then.

                        If any of the 5.5 City boys last the course they could be in with a shout on value I suppose.

                  2. FOO FIGHTER
                    • 4 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    KDB is not a player you will be captaining though, well not me.

                    That is why I like his price and know his consistency will get 200+ when looking at his average and form so far. He is not a fly by night.

                    Value...

        8. jimmyabs1987
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Do I..

          a) remove Son and Greenwood > Mount and Haller (giving me two playing options).
          b) Keep Son and Greenwood

          I have Firmino and Pukki as other 2 strikers and like idea of Haller, Pukki, Firmino up top BUT Son has great fixtures and have Martial and Trossard and when both fit my midfield will be a good strong 5.

          So team A:

          Sterling, KDB, Trossard, Martial, Son
          Pukki, Firmino (Greenwood)

          OR

          Team B:

          Sterling, KDB, Troasard, Mount, Martial
          Firmino, Haller, Pukki

          Thanks

          1. Fulchester's New Centr…
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Spurs looking a bit lackluster. A.

            1. Fulchester's New Centr…
              • 6 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              I mean option (a) not team A.

          2. Better off with a pin and a…
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Feels close to me. I'd say it comes down to how much you trust Spurs to pick up form and whether one or both of Trossard and Martial are injured. Would it be for a hit?

            1. jimmyabs1987
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 6 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              yes for a -4

          3. The Ejiptian King
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I'd keep Son, he's an amazing differential atm and they have good fixtures.

          4. Camzy
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            A. Put more money on the field.

            1. Camzy
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              So team A. Keep Son.

        9. Eze Really?
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Zero need to use a tfr?
          Pope Button
          TAA Digne Rose Soyoncu Lund
          Mane KDB Sterling Mcginn Cantwell
          Puki Firmino Greenwood

          Next Week: Somehow to move out Rose and get in Son.

          1. Lingard’s Shin Guards
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Looking good

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              TNKS

          2. Pompel
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I have similar team, and fear no Salah or Agüero for armband this GW. Consider upgrading Mané to Salah.

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              I have made my bed and willing to run without them.

          3. pingissimus
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Nice set up - hold.

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Agreed

          4. maratus
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Great team, save defo.
            WC already used?

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Yep GW3 have .6 itb for little changes. Moving a pool asset out in the next couple of weeks. I like Mcginn to Iwobi too

          5. Pompel
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Who's your captain , btw?

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Mane and to be honest I would probably want him over everyone this week.
              Hoping Salah supplies a few assists. (Smile)

        10. Harvey Spector
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          If pep says Jesus is injured then Aguero (c), if not then Salah (c)

          1. Miguel Sanchez
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            OK - am going Aguero regardless of Jesus injury status. Norwich are garbage at the back.

          2. avfc82
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 14 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Jesus has been pictured in first team training this week, so it looks like he should be okay.

        11. John Colby (Capt)
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          I'm going Pepe over Auba - anyone disagree?

          1. maratus
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Auba over Pepe for sure.

            1. Camzy
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Get back to me in two weeks. One is a midfielder who costs 1.5m less. They're playing right now in the same position (wide forward). As long as Pepe isn't a completely rubbish player (and his stats in France suggest he is not), he will be better value than Aubameyang.

              1. John Colby (Capt)
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 12 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                That's how I see it too Camzy

          2. Christina.
            • 14 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I own Auba.

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Your favorite?

          3. Camzy
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            So am I but I planned for it.

            1. John Colby (Capt)
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 12 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Personally the worry over whether Laca plays - meaning Auba could be on the flank makes this an easier decision to make and I'm saving 1.5m. 12 shots on target in the opening 4 game weeks - it's Pepe for me and more £ to invest elsewhere.

          4. Jonesfromthere
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I'd go Auba, Gooner btw.

          5. Pompel
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Depends how many big other hitters you have. If only two, then Auba, if already got three, then Pepé

          6. Murder On Zidanesfloor
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Aubae the clear choice for me there

            1. John Colby (Capt)
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 12 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Yeah I've 3 big hitters (Mane and Sterling) so Pepe fits the budget nicely. But are you Auba owners not worried that his prospects are dented somewhat if Laca starts up front?

              1. Jonesfromthere
                • 11 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Golden boot says he did alright from mostly playing out-wide last season.

                1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  And he wasnt even completely nailed last season. He came off the bench a fair few times. More nailed and plays for a better attack with guys like pepe and ceballos

                2. Eze Really?
                  • 9 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  This

        12. Longlatini
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Mane or Sterling (c)?

          Mane at home and fully rested, great home record. Newcastle likely to park the bus though and showed vs Spurs they can keep it tight. But it’s Liverpool at home...

          Sterling played a lot of minutes for England, ran his little socks off last night, could be rotated before UCL kicks off mid week. However if he does start he could easily go crazy against a Norwich team that could concede 5 or 6 quite easily.

          Tl:dr Mane or Sterling (c) I haven’t got the foggiest!

          1. Miguel Sanchez
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Mané

          2. Jonesfromthere
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            One of the hardest captaincy conundrums in a while. I'm on Raz but not convinced.

            1. Longlatini
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 6 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Early captaincy as well, I know it’s not logical but always feels kind of wrong

          3. Weak Become Heros
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Sterling because of the flames that he currently represents.

            1. Longlatini
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 6 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Definitely on fire but hopefully not burned out

              1. Weak Become Heros
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                You do realise we are only 4 domestic games into this season.

                1. Longlatini
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 6 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Indeed

              2. Pompel
                • 10 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Flash in the pan, yeah

          4. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Mane if you want to pick a certain starter

          5. Murder On Zidanesfloor
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Same conundrum for me. Hardest till now this season and I am sure I will pick the wrong one in the end lol

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Sometimes we all think too much. I was banging heads with someone on the site who insisted Sterling due his great performance GW1, easy Norwich. I see easy Home game vs Newcastle, Nailed no rotation mane and a possibility Sterling gets rested.
              Nobody can be sure but Sterling rested and a cameo can kill you. Mane safe bet.

              1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Thanks man I on Mane as well now. Wish the deadline was tonight hahah

                But I think I will stick 🙂

                1. Eze Really?
                  • 9 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Good call IMO. Leave the site to avoid being brainwashed. (Smile)

          6. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Mane for me. Too risky for Sterling to get a rest.

        13. Weak Become Heros
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          KDB getting hard to ignore isnt he?

          Laporte, Mount, Pukki out
          Lowton, KDB, Ayew in

          1. maratus
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Pukki out seems awful transfer, you must have some other route to go for KDB.

            1. Weak Become Heros
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              I know, its either him or Haller out. Its the only way if I want to keep TAA, Salah, Sterling & Aguero.

              1. KujaliaFC
                • 11 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                I think Haller is a better pick than Pukki. He's a better striker playing for a better team.

                1. Weak Become Heros
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 5 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Agreed mate.

          2. Longlatini
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Needs another way I think

          3. Murder On Zidanesfloor
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            If you want SSA, Kdb is not feasible

            1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              You have selected the big hitter route, now.probably best to stick to it till you WC

              1. Weak Become Heros
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Used last week, effectively mind. Gulp!

          4. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            You need 3.2 mil. Laporte can give you 2 mil. find 1.5 and leave Pukki IMO

            1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              I can picture this team. Dont think there would be any other route to get that 1.5 other than Haller and Pukki.
              TAA, Salah, Sterling, Kun and Cantwell, lundstram, maybe mginn/mount and other budget options

              1. Weak Become Heros
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Current team:

                Pope
                Laporte TAA Lund Kelly Rico
                Salah Sterling Mount Cant Donks
                Aguero Haller Pukki

            2. Weak Become Heros
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Haller out is the other option but I think he’ll do better than Pukki.

        14. learnedlizard
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          looks like im the only one with no kdb in my team lol

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

            one in this site*

          2. Christina.
            • 14 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            as long as you have kun

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

              i do!

              1. Gregor
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • Has Moderation Rights
                • 14 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                I’d rather have Kün this week, I don’t have bloody either!

                1. Olivier Bernards watch
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 10 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  me neither

          3. Jonesfromthere
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Best midfielder in the world at a very modest price. Get on board.

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

              gonna soon jump on the train i hope he doesnt explode this gw

            2. Krionos
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              He's the best player in the Premier league IMO.

              1. Murder On Zidanesfloor
                • 5 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                EA sports agrees

        15. Lingard’s Shin Guards
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Gtg here?

          Pope
          TAA Pieters Montoya Lundstrum
          Sterling Mane KDB Mount
          Aguero (c) Pukki

          Button Cantwell Soyuncu Wickham (0ft 0m itb)

          1. Miguel Sanchez
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            very nice - good luck

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

            im on (k)un as well. goodluck

          3. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Pieters Soyuncu Montoya Lund can be a good call. I would maybe upgrade 1 of them. probably Pieters as you have Pope.

        16. MrCloppity
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Is it too much of a risk going without Sterling and Salah?
          Pope
          TAA Digne Zinchenko
          Maddison KDB Mane Mcginn
          Haller Agüero Barnes
          Bench: Button, Cantwell, Rico, Lundstram

          1. xHaTr
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Going without one is risky. Going without both is insanity

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

            Yes

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

            yep

          4. TokyoRisingSun
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Yes. You need at least one for player ownership reasons if nothing else. If they do well your rank will be seriously hurt.

          5. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I am considering KDB Son and Pepe. Expensive so one has to go. Probably Mane, keeping Sterling and leaving Kun out. Could hurt me but only considering next week.

          6. Cok3y5murf
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            No.

        17. Viper
          • 14 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Trossard & Jota - > Ceballos & Barnes, no hit.

          Look ok?

          1. Jonesfromthere
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            lovely tbh.

          2. Lingard’s Shin Guards
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I like it

        18. Cruyff's Eleven
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          KDB (C) ?

          1. Jonesfromthere
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I'd take him over Mane, but still prefer Sterling.

        19. Athletic Nasherbo
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Took a -4 to get Trent + Haller. All set for the gameweek?

          Ryan
          TAA Digne Dunk Lundstram
          Sterling(C) Mane KdB Anderson
          Haller Pukki

          Button Mount Soyuncu Wickham

          1. Jonesfromthere
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Looks alrght, try and get rid of anderson at some point.

            1. Athletic Nasherbo
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Looks good imo- points should come his way soon.

        20. KanyeWest
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Assuming no other coverage from WHU and Chelsea, would you rather

          (a) Haller
          (b) Abraham

          1. Fulchester's New Centr…
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            a

          2. AuFeld
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Haller. No CL and he doesn't have anyone to compete for his position.

          3. Pompel
            • 10 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            WHU and coverage should never be mentioned in same sentence 😉

            .. but Haller , surely

            1. Eze Really?
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              This site makes me think of Haller and overseas stats plus last 2 games are an argument. But I go back in history and my 1st season choices have been poor. I will probably have to eat my words.

        21. Kizza_10
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Which option do you guys prefer ?

          A. Barnes & Haller & Dendoncker (sub)

          B. Barnes & Abraham & Cantwell (sub) (already own Mount)

          1. Fulchester's New Centr…
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            a

          2. TokyoRisingSun
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Option A. If I was on a wildcard I would go for Guendouzi over Dendoncker though.

          3. Offs!de
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            A

        22. CelticBhoy1
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Im on a wildcard

          Adrian for the interim period or Pope?

          1. Gregor
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 14 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Pope.

          2. Lingard’s Shin Guards
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Pope

          3. Fulchester's New Centr…
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Pope

          4. Miguel Sanchez
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Pope

          5. Krionos
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Adrian. Just kidding, Pope.

          6. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Someone connected to the church.

            1. Pompel
              • 10 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Jesus? He's soon to return

              1. Eze Really?
                • 9 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Smile. Does he play in goal or just walks on awater?

                1. Pompel
                  • 10 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  Jesus saves - hallelujah!

                  1. Eze Really?
                    • 9 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    Cute!

        23. MANGE TOUT RODNEY
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Ah the comfort of a cheap Burnley defender.

        24. chelseabrad
          • 9 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Heaton Button
          TAA VVD Digne Zinchenko Rico
          Salah Sterling Siggy Martial Dendoncker
          Jota Pukki Greenwood

          2FT with 0 ITB.

          Looking at Siggy, Martial and Jota to D.Silva, Tielemans & Barnes for a -4, but does anyone have any better ideas?

          1. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Iwobi?

        25. Offs!de
          • 11 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          If Martial & Trossard are out --
          Then Martial + Trossard to KDB & Guendouzi for a HIT
          Y / N

        26. samaael
          • 13 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Lucas moura has to go ?

          1. Offs!de
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Lo Celso is out, so observe

          2. Ask Yourself
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Competing with son now for second striker spot. Until poch changes his system then you can’t justify owning him

          3. Shatner's Bassoon
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            I got rid for KDB... I reckon Poch will use Moura a lot in the CL. Emergence of an in-form Lamela means that along with Alli, Son, Eriksen + even Sissoko/Sessegnon in attacking positions it's just too much of a lottery.

            Depends who you're eyeing up as the replacement though.