Scout Squad

The Scout Squad picks for FPL Gameweek 5

We have submitted our Scout Squad selections for the much-anticipated Gameweek 5.

In this regular piece, our four members of staff – editorial’s Paul, David, and Neale as well as community manager Geoff – each send in an 18-man squad of Fantasy assets (with the focus on the coming Gameweek) and elaborate on their notable inclusions/omissions.

The 72 nominations listed below will then be narrowed down to a squad of 14 (with the starting XI not exceeding a total cost of £83m) ahead of the Gameweek 5 deadline at 11:30 BST on Saturday morning.

As we discussed last week, we are making some slight tweaks to the way we do Scout Squad and Scout Picks this season.

We have placed stricter regulations on our panelists: there are requirements for at least one £4.5m goalkeeper, at least one £4.5m or cheaper defender, at least one midfielder priced £6.0m or below and at least one forward priced at £7.0m or lower.

As was the case last year, each panelist is restricted to no more than three players from the same team.

We have also be added a captaincy to the Scout Picks this season, with details explained on Friday.


 DavidNealePaulGeoff
GKDean HendersonHugo LlorisHugo LlorisHugo Lloris
 Nick PopeNick PopeDean HendersonDean Henderson
 Kepa ArrizabalagaDean HendersonNick PopeNick Pope
DFTrent Alexander-ArnoldVirgil van DijkTrent Alexander-ArnoldTrent Alexander-Arnold
 Andrew RobertsonTrent Alexander-ArnoldAndrew RobertsonAndrew Robertson
 Oleksandr ZinchenkoJohn LundstramOleksandr ZinchenkoNicolas Otamendi
 Lucas DigneAaron Wan-BissakaLucas DigneLucas Digne
 John LundstramJames TarkowskiJohn LundstramJohn Lundstram
MFRaheem SterlingMohamed SalahMohamed SalahMohamed Salah
 Mohamed SalahRaheem SterlingRaheem SterlingRaheem Sterling
 Daniel JamesDavid SilvaChristian EriksenChristian Eriksen
 Mason MountMason MountRicharlisonGylfi Sigurdsson
 Nicolas PépéJohn McGinnJohn McGinnJohn McGinn
FWSergio AgueroSergio AgueroSergio AgueroSergio Aguero
 Ashley BarnesDiogo JotaRaúl JiménezSébastien Haller
 Sébastien HallerAlexandre LacazetteSébastien HallerRaúl Jiménez
 Jamie VardySébastien HallerAshley BarnesWesley
 Pierre-Emerick AubameyangAshley BarnesWesleyAshley Barnes

Most popular picks: Dean Henderson, Nick Pope, Trent Alexander-Arnold, John Lundstram, Raheem Sterling, Mohamed Salah, Sergio Aguero, Ashley Barnes, Sebastien Haller (four), Hugo Lloris, Lucas Digne, Andrew Robertson, John McGinn (three)

DAVID SAID…

Selecting a goalkeeper for the Scout Squad seems to get harder and harder each week.

For Gameweek 5, I’ve gone with Dean Henderson as the marginally best option ahead of Southampton’s visit to Sheffield United.

The Blades’ goalkeeper has got a good record for saves and his side has largely kept things tight so far this season.

In defence, I’ve gone with a double-up on Liverpool options in their most favourable fixture for some time.

Newcastle come to Anfield with very few goals to their name so far in 2019/20 (three), while we saw glimpses of the Reds returning to their best at the back against Burnley last time out.

I’m not completely convinced Manchester City will keep a clean sheet at Norwich but if they are to do so, Oleksandr Zinchenko has shown in recent weeks that he is a good option.

The same games for Lucas Digne as I think Bournemouth’s attack will cause Everton some problems, but the left-back has enough offensive potential to make up for it.

John Lundstram completes my defensive submissions given his clean sheet potential and creativity so far this season as a central midfielder.

In midfield, I’ve gone with Raheem Sterling as the best option, despite his poor showing against Brighton. He showed just how much of a world-class option he is on international duty and ultimately, I think he’s got the much better fixture than Mohamed Salah this week.

While Newcastle demonstrated the ability to frustrate with banks of bodies behind the ball in their Gameweek 3 win over Spurs, Norwich are yet to show any defensive know-how this season and have by far the worst record at the back so far.

Daniel James has impressed me with his penalty box presence and other goal threat underlying statistics, while Mason Mount looks like Chelsea’s most likely to score points in midfield.

If I was Wildcarding this week, I’d go Kevin de Bruyne over Sergio Aguero, but as we are only selecting for one Gameweek with the Scout Squad, I’ve gone with the Argentinian in my selection.

Despite limited minutes this season (which is part of my concern long-term), Aguero is level with Salah for shots in the box and just one behind Sterling for shots on target. Given how poor Norwich’s defence is, I’d expect him to rack up the points here.

Ashley Barnes is also a great inclusion ahead of a trip to Brighton based on his eight shots on target thus far this season, only Teemu Pukki has more.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nicolas Pépé are included as my outside bets as I think the change of management at Watford has occurred too late for them to prevent Arsenal scoring big at Vicarage Road.

NEALE SAID…

I was talked out of a Manchester City attacking triple-up when it came to the Scout Picks last week but I’m not wasting a City slot on a defender in Gameweek 5, particularly with Aymeric Laporte sidelined and with Norwich unlikely to curb their attacking instincts too much when Pep Guardiola’s side visit Carrow Road.

Kevin De Bruyne was irresistible on Monday night and I own the Belgian midfielder myself in FPL but I’m a mite concerned that he could be handed a well-earned breather over the coming week (hopefully in the Champions League), so for that reason alone I’ve gone with the rested David Silva along with the obligatory duo of Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero – ‘El Mago’ has the same xA as De Bruyne this season and is the only fit attacking midfielder on City’s books who didn’t represent their country over the international break.

Liverpool look the likeliest source of a clean sheet this weekend and I’ve opted for Virgil van Dijk alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Newcastle’s vulnerability to set-piece situations and headed chances (they were bottom of the table for both in 2018/19) the logic behind that double-up. The two defenders, indeed, combined for a goal at St. James’ Park in May.

Outside of Liverpool, I struggled for defenders this week.

John Lundstram is the obvious budget pick given that a well-organised Sheffield United defence are up against Nathan Redmond-less Southampton, who have scored from just one of their nine big chances this season. Che Adams, meanwhile, has yet to register a shot on target.

Manchester United’s defence hasn’t been that bad this season: they have the second-best xGC in the division and no side has conceded fewer big chances.

Should he be fit and up against James Maddison (as I suspect might happen), Aaron Wan-Bissaka should get plenty of tackles in to aid his cause on the Bonus Point System. Stop Maddison and Leicester’s creativity suffers, so I’m taking a leap of faith with the United right-back given his history of nullifying in-form wide midfielders.

Burnley have coped very well against wing-back systems this season (a clean sheet against Southampton and only a last-gasp penalty conceded against Wolves) so I’ll root for one of the save-accumulating Nick Pope or the goal-threatening James Tarkowski against a potentially Trossard-less Brighton in the Scout Picks – two players we discussed at length in this week’s Scoutcast.

I’m hoping Mason Mount gets a run-out on the left flank this weekend, as he’ll be up against Adama Traore at Molineux – the pacy wing-back is excellent going forward but leaves a lot to be desired defensively, while Wolves will also be without the suspended Willy Boly.

Chelsea’s defensive problems are well-documented and I can see goals in this fixture, with a relatively rested Diogo Jota (no start in his last three games for club and country) capable of wreaking havoc in the visitors’ backline with his driving runs.

Alexandre Lacazette should be fit for Sunday’s trip to Watford and, as the central striker in Arsenal’s attack, I’m backing the Frenchman over Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in my Scout Squad: Lacazette had six shots to Aubameyang’s one while both players were on the field in the north London derby and has the best minutes-per-chance average among FPL forwards who have played more than 100 minutes this season.

PAUL SAID…

Pinpointing the best options among the Liverpool and Man City contingents could be decisive as both have very favourable Gameweek 5 fixtures.

I’m backing both sides at both ends of the pitch, with Oleksandr Zinchenko’s attacking potential a big factor in his selection.

The City left-back has been far more creative on his travels in the opening four matches.

Away from home, his six key passes ranks top among FPL defenders, compared with his single chance created at the Etihad Stadium.

The influence of Christian Eriksen could be vital if Spurs are to break down a stubborn Crystal Palace side.

Despite starting only two of the first four Gameweeks, the Dane’s five shots on target and eight chances created both rank top for Spurs.

Added to his appeal is Eriksen’s goal and assist in a 2-0 home win over the Eagles last season.

I’m backing Raul Jimenez to extend his return to form at home to Chelsea.

The Wolves striker has scored in each of the last two Gameweeks and has a decent record against his visitors, netting in both their meetings last season.

Despite a collective lack of faith that has earned him over 618,000 transfers out, Jimenez is level with Roberto Firmino, for example, for both shots on target (five) and expected goals (1.79).

Goals look on the agenda at Villa Park on Monday evening.

Both Aston Villa and West Ham have conceded 46 shots inside the box – only Norwich, with 47, have been less resilient.

Sebastien Haller seems the attacker most likely to profit, though the hosts’ frontman Wesley is a decent cut-price differential with ownership under 2%.

The Brazilian bagged a goal and maximum bonus in his last home fixture and has fired seven shots in the box, more than any team-mate.

GEOFF SAID…

Hugo Lloris has a good chance at his first clean sheet against Crystal Palace, who failed to score in Gameweek 1 against Everton and Gameweek 2 against Sheffield United. 

With that clean sheet against Crystal Palace in Gameweek 2, Dean Henderson has a 50% clean sheet return rate at home, and hosts Southampton who have failed to score in 50% of their away games.

Nick Pope is my third pick despite failing to keep a clean sheet in the last three matches. He did, however, play teams from last season’s top seven over that period, keeping a clean sheet against Southampton on opening weekend.

I’m going with a Liverpool defensive double up at home to Newcastle, opting for the attacking threat of Alexander-Arnold and Andrew Robertson

While Zinchenko looks a good option I’m banking on attacking threat from Nicolás Otamendi, after Laporte’s injury.

Lucas Digne already has two clean sheets this season and I predict that will continue away to Bournemouth. John Lundstram rounds out my defence as a nice OOP budget option at home to Southampton.

Mohamed Salah and Raheem Sterling shouldn’t surprise anyone at the top of my list. Fellow Scout Paul has convinced me of the merits of both Christian Eriksen and Gylfi Sigurdsson this week: a look at Eriksen’s shots on target and chances created, and Sigurdsson’s key passes and shots on target, is quite convincing. 

John McGinn has attacking returns in two out of four Gameweeks, and West Ham have already conceded nine times this season.

Up-front, I’m counting on a Sergio Aguero start, with Norwich’s injury problem growing by the week. With three goals in the last two matches, Sébastien Haller claims my second slot. Three strikers with good fixtures round out my picks: Raúl JiménezWesley Moraes, and Ashley Barnes.

1,243 Comments Post a Comment
  1. JabbaWookiee
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 6 months ago

    Morning all. Which pair for my wildcard?

    A) Tarkowski & McGinn
    B) Lowton & D James

    1. Respect My Authoritah
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Probably B

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

      B

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

      b

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

      Cheers all

  2. Respect My Authoritah
    • 10 Years
    4 years, 6 months ago

    Would you:

    A) Play Cantwell v City and bench the injured Trossard
    B) Sell Trossard for -4 and bench Cantwell

    1. Blue&White85
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Probably A. Who would you sell Trossard for?

      1. Respect My Authoritah
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        No idea tbh, which is partly why I'm leaning towards A. Cheers 🙂

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

      A There's a chance Cantwell will get you a cheeky assist in a 1-8 defeat.

      1. Respect My Authoritah
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Cheers

  3. ShaunGoater123
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    4 years, 6 months ago

    already done 1 transfer, GTG now? or anything for a -4?

    Heaton
    Digne / VVD / Montoya / Otamendi
    Salah / Sterling (C) / Mount / Lanzini
    Kane / Pukki

    Button / Greenwood / Rico / Dendonker

    1.2 ITB

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

      Kane to Kun looks worth it to me over the next 2

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

      This

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

    Who fancies Rico to start this weekend?

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

      Hope he does just to boost TV but almost as happy to play ten if it comes down to my 3rd bench spot 🙂

      (Not a fan of Bournemouth defence at best of times - still less when almost everyone is out)

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

      Seems like a 50/50. Even if he plays, seems like a 2pts anyway.

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

      Not a chance that end-of-my-bench waster sees any action!

    4. MTPockets
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Mixed opinion by fans (e.g. yes vs. back 3 + Ibe/Fraser wingbacks)
        https://bournemouth-forum.vitalfootball.co.uk/threads/team-for-everton.9928/

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

          Thanks mate.

      • Respect My Authoritah
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Not me

    5. GunSlinger07
      • 10 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Boly + Tielemans
      To
      TAA + McGinn

      (-4)

      1. Blue&White85
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        It looks ok to me though I’m not a huge fan of McGinn in FPL.

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

        No

    6. Tuttebba
      • 4 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      A: Salah and Haller
      B: Auba and Pepe

      Which one?

      1. Blue&White85
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        A

      2. Make United Great Again
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        A

      3. DantheManinaPan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        A, without a doubt

    7. ZAWAd25
      • 6 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Need y'all advise with my plan. have 2FT

      Current team:
      Pope (Button)
      AWB VVD Zinch Lund (Kelly)
      Mane KDB Sterling Mount (Cantwell)
      Kane Pukki (Wickham)

      Planning on doing
      This week: Mount + Kane >> Son + Barnes
      GW6: AWB >> Digne
      GW7: VVD >> TAA

      Team should line up like this on GW7

      Pope (Button)
      TAA Digne Zinchenko Lund (Kelly)
      Mane KDB Sterling Son (Cantwell)
      Pukki Barnes (Wickham)

      Good moves?

      1. RAFA THE GAFFA
        • 7 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        I think this week’s moves could backfire. The other two after that look good upgrades

        1. Blue&White85
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          I agree with this.

        2. ZAWAd25
          • 6 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          the only way I can make those upgrades is by doing this weeks transfers. You think I should go for it?

          1. RAFA THE GAFFA
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Not really no

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

        So who on earth you gonna play GW8 and onwards?
        I Would hate to field Cantwell, Lund or Kelly

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

          Dunno where i took the GW8, but i ment after this gw.

          1. ZAWAd25
            • 6 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            will probably play Cantwell and hope for the best

            1. ZAWAd25
              • 6 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              he will be my 5th mid , so I am not too worried about it

    8. RAFA THE GAFFA
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      No KDB? 😯

      1. Make United Great Again
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Surprising!

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

        ?

        1. RAFA THE GAFFA
          • 7 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Read the article

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

          Problem with the site format summed up there

    9. Mr. Mystic
      • 13 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Salah or Sterling captain then and why?

      1. Blue&White85
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        I’m sitting on Salah, however I keep getting it the wrong way around every week.

        1. Blue&White85
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Salah 100% will play whereas following the international break I’ve got a tiny bit of doubt about Sterling.

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

            It is a worry, especially with CL starting midweek. Fortunately, I've got a fresh Kun. If it's between S&S I would worry about Raz playing less than half a game and plump for Mo.

            1. Blue&White85
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Sterling is probably unlikely to be rested this weekend but it’s just a nagging doubt. With Salah having such a good fixture too I’m wondering whether it’s worth the risk of captaining Sterling.

      2. Make United Great Again
        • 11 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Sterling

      3. The Left Duke #3
        • 9 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        Salah for me, rested and home game.

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

        Salah, no Internationals and no rotation or no show.

        He is at home and Newcastle parking the bus has no relevance when it comes Mane Bobby and Salah. NEW can park all they want at Anfield.

      5. FPL Forward Thinker
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 5 Years
        4 years, 6 months ago

        I own Salah so will captain him but recommend Sterling as I think he will score more points via Norwich than Mo against Newcastle.

        Don’t buy rested or rusty argument.

        Sterling played for England twice and Salah had no internationals
        There are benefits to both situations.
        Don’t think this matters at all. Both are prime fit athletes.

        The only valid ‘why’ should be because if you own both, you predict (guess) which one will score more points.

        Captain who you want not what others think.

        1. Mr. Mystic
          • 13 Years
          4 years, 6 months ago

          Thanks all, valuable info!

    10. RAFA THE GAFFA
      • 7 Years
      4 years, 6 months ago

      Yay or nay? For a hit!

      Moura+VvD >> KDB+Lowton (-4)?

      Heaton
      TAA • Digne • VvD • Zinch
      Salah • Sterling • Mount • Moura
      Pukki • Haller
      (Pope, Greenwood, Dendonk, Rico)

      1. MTPockets
          4 years, 6 months ago

          How do you think KDB will do this week?
          Assuming VVD get a cs and Moura cameo = 7. If Lowton concedes you need 9 pts from KDB to break even.

          1. RAFA THE GAFFA
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            That’s possibly worst case scenario? And even then 9 is very achievable for KDB

            1. MTPockets
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Just one scenario, but sounds like you want to/should do it

                1. RAFA THE GAFFA
                  • 7 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  I’m quite torn. Seems like sensible moves but I can see your point. I think if it was for free I’d snap it straight up

                  1. MTPockets
                      4 years, 6 months ago

                      For sure if it was for free

            2. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Wouldn't sell VVD this week

            3. Lord.
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              I would - not having KDB is too painful.

          2. The Left Duke #3
            • 9 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Watched the Scoutcast last night....the segment talking about stats actually nearly made me crash the car with boredom. That absolute dribble would make you want to pack in FPL.

            1. Blue&White85
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Haha, I actually enjoyed it! Sad, I know!!

              1. The Left Duke #3
                • 9 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                haha. I couldn't hack it. I enjoy listening to the scoutcast in the car as I have 2 kids at home and find my journeys to and from work the only bit of peace at the moment. I'd take the kids over the stats lol

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

              You could always take my revolutionary path - don't bother with scoutcasts and keep enjoying the game!

              1. Now I'm Panicking
                • 9 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                This! After falling asleep after 5 minutes of 3 scoutcasts in a row, not bothering again was the obvious step! The half-decent ones all seem to be breaking away and doing their own, better thing now anyway. Mark leaving was the jumping of the shark.

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

                  It’s a shame as I’ve always loved the Scoutcasts and have been excellent for advice for my own team in recent years. It’s really dull and can barely watch now.

                  1. The Left Duke #3
                    • 9 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    Agreed lads, have always loved the scoutcasts. I think the biggest problem is the lack of personalities. Mark is a massive loss obviously and his banter with Granville is hard to replace. The lads that have come in seem to be good at their jobs but lack that bit of personality for something like the scoutcast. Neale even said he was boring himself last night lol

            3. tisza
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              whole thing needs freshening up.
              it's become monotone - needs some energy.
              Content ideas generally solid but delivery gone flat.
              Mark remains a big miss.

              1. The Left Duke #3
                • 9 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Yes pal, couldn't agree more. There's a Mark size hole that hasn't been filled and the current crew lack a bit of personality for a scoutcast.

          3. Fernandito
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 5 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Pope Button
            Robertson Digne Lundstram AWB Walker Peters
            KDB Mane Sterling Mount Cantwell
            Haller Pukki Wickham

            Is Wickham & Walker Peters to Barnes and 4.0 bench option worth a hit? (would be able to play 3-4-3 and have 2 playing bench options)

          4. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Think I'm going to roll a transfer this week and deal with jota with 2 free transfers next week.

            Team look good to go?

            Ryan
            Trent VVD digne zinchenko Lundstram
            Sterling (c) Salah KDB McGinn
            Jota

            Bench: Woodman*, Pukki, Dendoncker, Wickham

            1FT 0.4ITB.

            Benching Pukki the right move?

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

              play pukki

              1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Think he can score v City? Who would you bench instead?

                1. Make United Great Again
                  • 11 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  McGinn

                  1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 7 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    McGinn v a poor west ham team or Pukki versus the best team in Europe....

                  2. The Overthinker
                    • 7 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    Definitely not him

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

                This. Pukki is more likely to score than McGinn.

            2. ShaunGoater123
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              don't bench pukki

              1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Who would you bench instead?

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

                  Jota

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

                    Oh... Sorry. This^

                  2. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 7 Years
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    On the counter v a chelsea team who have conceded 9 so far?

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

                  McGinn, he is less likely to score than Pukki. Or do you trust him to assist?

          5. Blue&White85
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 8 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Which goalkeeper to play?

            A. Heaton (West Ham (h))
            B. Pope (Brighton (a))

            1. Make United Great Again
              • 11 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              B

              1. Blue&White85
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 8 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Thanks.

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

              A

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

              Pope

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

              I would never bench Pope for Heaton, no matter the fixtures

              1. RAFA THE GAFFA
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                GW3 got me 6 points Heaton over 2 points Pope on the bench.

            5. Warby84
              • 8 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              B

            6. FPL Forward Thinker
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 5 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              Be confident with your choice. There is no right or wrong choice when own both. Just don’t go by others opinions when you own both.

              I am happy with Heaton this week and Pope next week. I’ve added 18 points with rotating, but rotation is not liked by some.
              Perfect rotation between the two would have given 20 points (more than a certain 6.1 keeper)
              P8, H1,H6, H3 is only 2 pts off max.
              Min would have been a poor 8 points. Other only Pope 15 or only Heaton 12. So I’m please with 18.

              Nailed weeks 1,3 & 4 but was wrong GW2. 75% on target.

              Eventually I will stop rotating and get a 3.9 or 4.0 bench warmer later in season.

          6. Make United Great Again
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            Re: A few posts above.

            People think Sterling will be rested? In great form. And a main man for City. Even with CL incoming...would be surprised if Pep benched him.

            1. Now I'm Panicking
              • 9 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              The time wasted on here by people trying to guess what Pep is going to do is laughable.

              1. Make United Great Again
                • 11 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Aye. On that premise, KDB & Bernardo Silva all face the risk of being benched! All played midweek too.

                Bit early in the season be “resting” players

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

                This

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

              I agree ... but its Pep.

              1. Make United Great Again
                • 11 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Ah well. Sterling (C) locked in 😉

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

              I have Kun and Salah. This combo much easier to choose from than Salah and Sterling 🙂

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

                Not owning Kun or Salah this week hurts. Hope Mane can match him just this once

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

                Is it?

                In Salah's favour, right?

                Because Sterling is a better choice than Aguero

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

              I wouldn't be so sure mate

            5. Karan14
              • 7 Years
              4 years, 6 months ago

              City play on Wednesday if it was Tuesday id be more worried.

          7. Jebiga
            • 11 Years
            4 years, 6 months ago

            All set ? Should i play Lundstram instead of someone ?

            Pope
            TAA, Matip, Digne, Zinchenko
            Salah (C), Sterling(VC), KDB, Mount
            Abraham, Puki

            Sub: Button, Lundstram, Dendoncker, Greenwood

            1. MTPockets
                4 years, 6 months ago

                I would, over Pukki. But many would disagree

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

              Mane vs Sterling captaincy doing my head in and I know ill get it wrong in the end, already 3 captain blanks this season. Any advice?

              1. The Overthinker
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Mane.
                Easy

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

                  I am on Mane currently. Thanks

              2. Karan14
                • 7 Years
                4 years, 6 months ago

                Same dilemma here. On Sterling currently.

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

                  Higher upside + Higher risk with Sterling definitely.
                  Mane the safe pick.

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

                    Not sure Mane is the safer pick...

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

                      I'm not sure what you mean, He was rested in the IB, guaranteed starter and playing at home. Care to elaborate?

                      1. AndyCook
                          4 years, 6 months ago

                          I think what he is saying is that Mane has low goal involvement and Liverpool might not score that many

                2. Emiliano Sala
                  • 7 Years
                  4 years, 6 months ago

                  S

                3. AndyCook
                    4 years, 6 months ago

                    I don’t like Mane as an option personally, never feel comfortable captaining, doesn’t historically have a high enough goal involvement to be safe (about 25% since 17/18 season and only 28% in his best year) and when he gets one return he rarely gets bonus points

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

                      What a load of nonsense. Mane nearly matched Salah last season points per min. Mane also beat Salah’s bps by 24/18. The reality is you’re too afraid to without Salah.

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

                        I just want him to outscore Salah a couple of times to balance the scales back

                      2. AndyCook
                          4 years, 6 months ago

                          Mane has a significantly lower goal involvement percentage, Mane overperformed historically last season and Salah underperformed and Salah still had a much higher goal involvement and is well over 40% in the same time frame. Points per minute is a terrible statistic unless a player has missed a period through injury - an example is players who are subbed a lot always have a boosted points per minute, 1 minute a game gets you 1 points per minute. You can be as aggressive as you like but it doesn’t mean your evidence is solid.

                        • AndyCook
                            4 years, 6 months ago

                            I also never indicated I thought Salah was good for collecting bonus but his goal involvement is much higher so it matters less

                    2. The Overthinker
                      • 7 Years
                      4 years, 6 months ago

                      Why would pep give 'rest' to his important players wiz kdb , sterling, Aguero for the champions league opener? It's the elite competition , first matchday , surely they would want to start with a bang

                      If anything He would rather rest them the weekend against Norwich as eve
                      man City B could score 4 past them.

                      1. MTPockets
                          4 years, 6 months ago

                          Because there's also Mahrez, Jesus etc. But who knows - either have and hold or avoid Pep's picks

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

                            Yeah, that's what he's saying. Pep could easily play the B team against Norwich

                            1. MTPockets
                                4 years, 6 months ago

                                Or vice-versa, or a mix, or A team for both. Don't really get the point in over-hypothesising. Either stick or avoid

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

                                  I would say the rested players are more likely to get the Norwich game and the ones who played IB are more likely to get the midweek game but thats second guessing Pep again

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

                                Jesus ain't really a B team player.

                                Seeing that it is Norwich, this is a perfect game for Jesus to get some shooting practice. That is if he is ready. Pep roulette.

                                I am happy owning Kun over Sterling for the forseeable future.

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

                                  Anyone who isn't first choice is B team. Its not about quality, its about whether you are first choice or second. And Kun is first choice centre forward

                          2. Karan14
                            • 7 Years
                            4 years, 6 months ago

                            Pep only has 3 fit wingers.

                            Bilva has played similar mins as Sterling over IB on the same days.
                            Mahrez played one game on Tuesday.

                            I still dont get it why Sterling would be benched!
                            Also Bilva & Mahrez have rarely played on the LW.

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

                              The only player capable of playing Lw in a similar role to Sterling is Jesus. He has done it in the past...but that only matters if Pep plays the same system, who's to say he doesn't shift to 352 with walker RCB and Cancelo RWB...Pep is capable of it.

                        • Captain_Shirokov
                          • 5 Years
                          4 years, 6 months ago

                          Best sub 5.5m defender and sub 8.8m striker?

                          Otamendi and Haller best combo?

                          1. FPL Forward Thinker
                            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                            • 5 Years
                            4 years, 6 months ago

                            Yes

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

                          The only way I can see myself getting Aguero in is by not having Mané. Looking at it as a direct comparison, Id much prefer Aguero but that leavese with 3 city and 1 Liverpool. Is the coverage trap fooling me?

                          1. MTPockets
                              4 years, 6 months ago

                              If you'd rather have Aguero then pick Aguero

                            • AndyCook
                                4 years, 6 months ago

                                Yes

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

                                Mane cannot cover Salah. They are simply too selfish.

                            • waltzingmatildas
                              • 13 Years
                              4 years, 6 months ago

                              What would you do with this team? 2ft

                              Heaton
                              Robbo zinchenko digne
                              Mane kdb maddison mount
                              Aubameyang jota pukki
                              Pope Cathcart dendoncker montoya

                              1. AndyCook
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Downgrade Cathcart or Heaton, upgrade Jota

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

                                Wan-Bissaka & Cantwell to Pieters & James for -4 good moves?

                                1. Eleven Hag
                                  • 6 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  No

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

                                Would you make any changes to this team or good to go ?

                                Pope
                                Mina VVD Zinchenko
                                Mount Sterling Salah KDB
                                Barnes Pukki Haller

                                Subs: Button, Lundstram, Kelly, Dendoncker

                              4. moalavian
                                • 6 Years
                                4 years, 6 months ago

                                on my WC
                                What would you go with?
                                A: Mane and Abraham
                                B: Auba and siggy

                                1. Eleven Hag
                                  • 6 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Mane Jimenez/Haller?

                                2. Warby84
                                  • 8 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Not a fan of either to be honest.. A due to Liv attack

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

                                Best captain for this week?

                                A, Aguero
                                B, Sterling
                                C, KDB
                                D, Mane

                                1. Warby84
                                  • 8 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  B

                                2. Eleven Hag
                                  • 6 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Kun

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

                                  Has to be A

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

                                A) James + Abraham
                                B) Mount + Pukki

                                1. Warby84
                                  • 8 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  B

                                2. Riders of Yohan
                                  • 5 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Stats would suggest B

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

                                Is Jota to Haller/Barnes worth a -4?

                                1. Eleven Hag
                                  • 6 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Yeah

                                2. Warby84
                                  • 8 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Y

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

                                  Hmmm, ok. Wasn't expecting those answers.

                                4. AndyCook
                                    4 years, 6 months ago

                                    Probably because it would otherwise only use next weeks transfer

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

                                  Feel like I only have one option but would like to hear what else I can do here with 1ft and 0.4m

                                  Pope — heaton
                                  Taa vvd digne zincheko — rico
                                  Sterling kdb perez — cantwell docker
                                  King Kane pukki

                                  A: Perez >> 6.7m mid (Mount)
                                  B: Something else? Open to suggestions

                                6. Riders of Yohan
                                  • 5 Years
                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                  Having the same Salah vs Sterling captain debate.

                                  Who plays LW if Sterling gets rested? Is Sterling guaranteed minutes until Jesus or sane back fully fit?

                                  1. AndyCook
                                      4 years, 6 months ago

                                      No, Pep could play Mahrez there, play wingbacks in a 3-5-2 and remove that position.. it’s an unknown

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

                                    Anyone else benching Mount? Playing Dunk + Pukki over him at the moment.

                                    1. AndyCook
                                        4 years, 6 months ago

                                        If you are benching him a lot then you should be selling him

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

                                          Benching him this game.

                                          1. AndyCook
                                              4 years, 6 months ago

                                              I guess it was general advice, I understand the logic but at his price I would like to be play every game nearly

                                              1. AndyCook
                                                  4 years, 6 months ago

                                                  Or find a player I was more confident in