News

The latest on Project Restart after clubs return to training

Premier League clubs have returned to training this week, with small-group sessions having been given the green light to take place from Tuesday onwards.

Players from all 20 top-flight teams have been back on the grass to varying degrees, although this ‘phase one’ of the return to training protocol is strictly of the non-contact variety and subject to social distancing measures.

We round up what has been happening up and down the country this week as the so-called Project Restart steps up a gear.

RETURNING FROM INJURY

Solskjaer provides Rashford injury update as Rodgers backs Vardy from the spot

There were a few familiar faces who we haven’t seen in a while who were spotted back in training this week.

Marcus Rashford (£8.8m) was pictured at Carrington, having not kicked a ball since sustaining a back injury in January.

Harry Kane (£10.8m), Steven Bergwijn (£7.4m) and Son Heung-min (£9.7m) have all been stepping up their comebacks at Hotspur Way, with Son having previously carried out mandatory military service in his native South Korea.

Kane has been out the longest of the three, having tore his hamstring on New Year’s Day.

Tammy Abraham (£7.5m), Callum Hudson-Odoi (£5.2m), Christian Pulisic (£6.9m) and Ruben Loftus-Cheek (£6.3m) were among the Chelsea players who were previously injured or lacking in match-fitness who were spotted at Cobham on Tuesday, meanwhile.

Hudson-Odoi had been the first Premier League player to test positive for COVID-19 back in March but has made a full recovery, as has Mikel Arteta, whose similarly early diagnosis acted as a catalyst in the suspension of play.

The Arsenal boss and left-back Kieran Tierney (£5.3m), who has yet to feature under his new manager because of a shoulder injury, were involved in training at London Colney this week.

David Brooks (£6.2m) is among a cluster of Bournemouth players nearing a return after lengthy lay-offs, while the fit-again Jonny (£5.4m) is back in training with Wolves.

Alisson (£6.2m) was being put through the paces at Melwood as Jurgen Klopp gave his squad a clean bill of health, while Jay Rodriguez (£5.7m), Johann Berg Gudmundsson (£5.9m) and Matt Lowton (£4.2m) are back in contention at Burnley after spells on the sidelines.

Ashley Barnes (£6.1m) is not yet up to speed after double hernia surgery in January, however.

STAYING AWAY

N’Golo Kante (£5.0m) has been given permission to train at home because of coronavirus fears, with Sky Sports reporting on Friday that the player would be prepared to miss the rest of 2019/20.

Troy Deeney (£6.2m) will also not be returning to training for the time being, with the Watford striker citing concerns about the welfare of his young son.

MORE TESTING

Earlier in the week, 748 players and club staff were tested for coronavirus, with six results coming back positive.

Adrian Mariappa (£4.2m) and two other Watford employees were revealed to be among that number, along with Burnley coach Ian Woan.

Hornets boss Nigel Pearson said on Friday that his defender “looks exceptionally well and feels very well himself” despite the diagnosis.

Further testing took place across the 20 Premier League clubs on Friday, with the results from this second round of tests expected back on Saturday or Sunday.

WHEN WILL THE SEASON RESUME?

No Premier League football before April 30 but plans remain to finish the season

That’s the million (or should that be billion) dollar question and one we have yet to be provided with an answer.

Interviewed by BBC Sport on Friday, the Chief Executive of the Premier League, Richard Masters, was asked when top-flight football would resume.

In response, Masters said:

We had a staging post in mid-June but we have to be flexible. We are able to discuss at least next week the possibility of going to contact training and then after that, it’s about how much contact training is required – and that really gives you a start date. So we have to be flexible.

Culture secretary Oliver Dowden said on Wednesday that the government sign-off on a return to contact training could come “very shortly”.

EARLY DOUBLE GAMEWEEK?

In another interview days earlier, Masters had said that the four clubs with ten fixtures remaining – namely Manchester City, Arsenal, Sheffield United and Aston Villa – could have their outstanding matches played soon after the restart in order to level the playing field.

The Premier League’s head honcho said:

It is a relatively normal occurrence for, at this stage of the season, there to be displaced matches that have to be played.

But I think it is a good idea to prioritise games that have to be played first relatively early in the schedule.

While it’s still just at the “good idea” stage and we have no idea how Fantasy Premier League plan to accommodate the other 90 remaining fixtures, it could be that we’re in early Double Gameweek territory if and when the top tier of English football resumes.

What’s Next?

UEFA aims to have 2019/20 club competitions finished by the end of June

A vote on phase two of of the return to training protocol will take place early next week, with clubs, players, managers and unions all consulted ahead of it.

UEFA had originally set a deadline of May 25 for its member leagues to inform them of plans to resume their respective domestic seasons, although it’s not clear if the rescheduling of the European governing body’s next executive committee meeting (which has moved from May 27 to June 17) will give the Premier League a bit of breathing space in that regard.

278 Comments Post a Comment
  1. mad_beer ✅
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Good Saturday morning all

    1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Dude you missed Friday . What happened? 😆

      1. mad_beer ✅
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        It was a busy day at work. Sorry.

        1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          🙂 ill let you off

  2. Syd.
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    It is all about the money, ain't it.

    1. el polako
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Since its been invented, yeah.

  3. waldo666
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Was all set to transfer KDB top Richarlison in vFPL, run a friendly and KDB top scores with 17!

    1. fc_skrald
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Ah, thanks! - was Sané involved in celebrations?

      1. waldo666
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        A goal and a YC for 6 points, 8 score involvements.

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

    Virtual fpl:
    I would like some information regarding KDB's future form and points - anyone with some friendly game results? The one Man C game I ran is not that representative since Sané got a red card after 10 minutes:

    Liverpool - Man C
    3-0
    Goals: Firmino, Mané, Salah
    Assists: Mané, Robertson, TAA

    Salah: 15, Alexander-Arnold: 15, Mané: 13, Agüero: 12, Jesus: 11, Firmino: 11

    1. waldo666
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      See above.

      1. waldo666
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        It was in a 6-1 drubbing to Everton too btw. Jesus, Kun and Sterling all in the points.

    2. tets mcgee (Bachmann an Rob…
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      maybe we could create a hot topic each gw where we just leave our friendly results if so inclined sure everybodys will help some1.. that said i did 3 brighton games and they are pretty uninspiringbut ill post here incase some1 is interested

      1. tets mcgee (Bachmann an Rob…
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        BRI 0-2 EVE
        G Sigurdsson Walcott

        A Keane

        1. tets mcgee (Bachmann an Rob…
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          BRI 0-1 SHU
          G Baldock
          A Fleck

          1. tets mcgee (Bachmann an Rob…
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            BRI 0-0 PAL

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

    Repost for the deadzone crowd!

    Recorded an episode with the General where both of us pick their best FPL XI's of all time:

    https://youtu.be/c0SB--OLS2Q

    1. DeadStarComing
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Will give this a listen whilst I’m out walking over the weekend. Cheers!

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

        No problem! 🙂

  6. dunas_dog
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Vpl- not seeing any changes needed for tonight. Giving KDB one more chance against leaky Spurs defence. Any moves you would suggest here?

    McCarthy
    TAA Van Aanholt Robertson
    Salah KDB Bruno Grealish Trossard
    DCL Ings

    Button Greenwood Burn Bardsley

    1. tets mcgee (Bachmann an Rob…
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      should be good.. tough captain choice this week

      1. dunas_dog
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Yes- thinking TAA but will probably end up on Salah

        1. Hazz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Sheffield score a decent amount of goals here and there. Very much hoping for for a CS but can see it being busted.

  7. el polako
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Tonight's Bayern game can be watched with virtual fans noise added to broadcast.
    Will be bit like a game of PES I guess.

  8. Epic Fail
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    No contact allowed in training but are they allowed to kick the corona covered ball at the keeper?

    1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      If that is profitable then yer, sure

    2. Pipermaru
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Even worse, think about all that corona covered grass they're running at.

    3. FPL Virgin
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Diluted bleach kills the virus in less than a minute. Give the ball a quick wipe and off you go. Sorted.

      1. Epic Fail
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        So they are allowed to shoot bleach covered balls at the keeper?

        1. FPL Virgin
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Once the balls have been given a few minutes to dry in the sun, aye.

          1. Epic Fail
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            And then wiped clean after every shot?

            1. FPL Virgin
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 7 Years
              3 years, 10 months ago

              No need. Boots will be wiped and cleaned prior to training.

              Our country should hang its head in shame if they can't even COPY what the Germans have done.

              1. Epic Fail
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 13 Years
                3 years, 10 months ago

                So when you clean something once the virus can't attach itself to it after?

                Great news. I've washed my hands today. No need to wash them again until tomorrow.

                1. FPL Virgin
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 7 Years
                  3 years, 10 months ago

                  Did you wash your hands in bleach?

                  1. Epic Fail
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 13 Years
                    3 years, 10 months ago

                    Yes.

    4. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Whilst the corona-covered sun shines in the corona-filled sky.

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Sounds like the backdrop of a Mexican beer advert.

        1. Brimble82
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          I'm thirsty. Almost midday...

  9. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    If they go with the immediate DGW then i assume it will be the only one for rest of season. So anyone with BB left probably has hand forced to use it and won’t be able to WC in a BB ready squad.

    I did a slow WC and have actual WC/BB left, but would have loaded up on City/Arsenal/Villa/Sheff U more if I knew they would DGW straight up. Speculation still I guess.

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Yeah I have no idea what their plans are but you'd think they would try to get as many games played as early as possible just incase.

      1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Yep indeed I guess those that loaded up on the City/Arsenal game could benefit if they left their team alone. Ive only got KDB, Grealish and Basham, plus one FT - in which case a WC/BB over single GWs based on fixtures/form etc later in the piece seems a better very speculative plan

      2. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Players will be dropping like flies. I would avoid anyone who has problems with muscular injuries for one

        1. Epic Fail
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Especially with no mach fitness going into it. They are gonna be foooked.

          1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
            • 14 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            Sports scientists will have to be on the ball. Can't see Pep risking the likes of KDB, Kun etc with nowt to play for. Players like Martial and Danny ings may as well just ping their hammys now, get it over with

            1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
              • 10 Years
              3 years, 10 months ago

              Yeah but surely they need to build up match fitness.

              1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
                • 14 Years
                3 years, 10 months ago

                Absolutely. I remember Klopp saying that any sports scientist will tell you that players need a full 3 days minimum to get over the effects of the last game. A full 4 to 6 weeks of pre season. All depending on the player of course. Weight will be an issue for some of them i reckon

                1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
                  • 10 Years
                  3 years, 10 months ago

                  If FPL restarts its going to be about getting 11 on the pitch indeed. As Virg says the wing backs might be at the greatest risk, centre halves with 100pc starting records may be very useful

                  1. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
                    • 14 Years
                    3 years, 10 months ago

                    Definitely. The stop start players who need to accelerate. Central defenders and GK probably the safest from rotation

      3. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        ...and probably key for them is getting 2 Liverpool matches played quick. One less issue for them if the title is mathematically sewn up asap.

        1. Epic Fail
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          That's a good point. The same must apply to Man City too. The league will hope that Liverpool win games and Man City lose their games ASAP. Get it over and done with.

          1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
            • 10 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            City v Pool could be done quick yes

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

        I don't think they will cram the games in the first gameweek. More likely to be a double the following week.

        They will want some time to review how the first round of fixtures have gone and address any issues before going again.

        1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Hope not. I think Jarvs shout below makes a lot of sense. Great ‘test the water’ for players, club staff, medics, TV, media etc.

          1. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            Interesting.

        2. Feanor
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Yes, in Germany the 3rd set of matches are being played midweek.

    2. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      If they want to do a "soft launch", the two games in hand (one a day on the first weekend) seems ideal.

      1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Yes good call and a very attractive fixture in Villa/Sheff U!

        So first GW could be a massive blank GW...

        1. RedLightning
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Perfect for a Free Hit.

          1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
            • 10 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            Yes indeed. I have WC/BB so it would be a bad scenario for me. In that case I'd be more than happy for FPL to hand out a free WC which I could then use like an FH, then WC/BB from, probably immediately.

      2. Pumpkinhead - I'm ITK …
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Not a bad shout. Ppg is a load of shite and truely rediulous but at least if they have to do that then levelling it up so everyone played the same amount of games helps slightly

  10. FPL Virgin
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    With this news of a possible early double, I wish I had slow Wildcarded more Man City, Sheffield United and Arsenal players in now.

    I had 2 FTs when GW38 ended. Will I get them back?

    1. FPL Pillars
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I also did, would expect so but we’re in uncharted territory so anything can happen. Just got to wait for news. Who do you have?

      I have KDB, Egan and Auba.

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        KDB and Egan, that's it. Grealish looks appealing. Forgot to mention him.

    2. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      You should do unless they go for this crazy free WC idea. Could be a lot of ‘2 point’ hits if not

      1. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        No good for me as I'm trying to get through the season without taking a hit.

        Apple Bonkers mentioned ages ago on the FPL surgery pod about the extra free Wildcard. Apparently they did it several years ago but that was down to technical difficulties with the website.

        1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Actually thinking about it any hits would be more speculative than ever. May be best avoided.

          1. FPL Virgin
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            We're looking at 10 substitutions a match, surprise positives in test results and mass rotation from players who lack match fitness while trying to cope with a fixture pile up. If you haven't got 5 centre halves in your team along with nailed on talismen like Jimenez, Grealish, Zaha etc in your team, then you are not a high level, elite FPL manager.

            1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
              • 10 Years
              3 years, 10 months ago

              I’ve got 4 CHs but Holgate is a risk. Liverpool will be full strength till title is sewn up. Then TAA/Robbo and their front 3 become a dilemma.

              Then again part of me thinks these guys are pro footballers. Do they really want to not be playing and getting sharp again?

              1. Epic Fail
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 13 Years
                3 years, 10 months ago

                They may want to but it will probably be taken out of their hands. I can't imagine Klopp (or any other manager) wanting to needlessly risk them with the next season potentially starting so soon after.

                1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
                  • 10 Years
                  3 years, 10 months ago

                  Will certainly be a balancing act and a lottery to predict. Any clubs 'on the beach' will be more of a risk than ever maybe.

    3. Rotation's Alter Ego
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I still don't want many City, SHU, Villa or Arsenal players for the rest of the gameweeks, so pretty happy with my team regardless - wouldn't be surprised if it was a very underwhelming DGW anyways.

      Still, I'd probably FH unless the fixtures are organised into a whole series of DGWs

      1. FPL Pillars
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        All depends on fixtures really so it’s a bit to early to discuss

        1. FPL Virgin
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Not really. Neale did a good article on remaining fixtures. Worth a read. We know whose remaining fixtures are good, we just don't know the order.

      2. FPL Virgin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Hmmm, I had forgotten about my free hit.

    4. rdamjan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      What news? Thanks.

      1. Epic Fail
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        There's no news, just speculation.

        1. rdamjan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Ok, thanks. Cheers.

      2. Rotation's Alter Ego
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Article above. Speculation based on quotes.

      3. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        The news that the Chief Executive of the Premier League, Richard Masters, has publicly stated:

        “It is a relatively normal occurrence for, at this stage of the season, there to be displaced matches that have to be played.

        But I think it is a good idea to prioritise games that have to be played first relatively early in the schedule.”

    5. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Got Ederson on slow WC anyways to partner KDB as city representation

      Partially because of 10 fixtures, partially because he’s nailed, and partially to punt on City defensive improvement with Laporte back

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

      Would work out alright for me with Fernandes, AWB, KDB, Aubameyang & Egan.

      Would expect subs and a knock on effect the following week(s) however.

      1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        United don’t have a double but do have great fixtures.

      2. Hazz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Good point! I detached the United from Sheffield when I read it.

        A costly mistake in some parts.

    7. DOG GOD IT - KEANE 15
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I did a slow WC too, to get a team I'm happy with.

      But i still have FH, WC and BB, so i guess i might use the FH in the DGW, then WC and BB later as and when needed.

  11. fc_skrald
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    When they start playing here in Denmark next week 5 substitutions are allowed in a game - that substitutions have to be made within 3 game stops though. Will something similar apply if/when PL resumes?

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Exactly the same for the PL.

    2. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Probably. Safety of players will be paramount.

    3. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Yep, doing this in Germany already. Makes the game very stop-start in the 2nd half. First thing they need to do is get a board that displays more than two numbers to speed up double/triple substitutions.

    4. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Can they sub a player off, then back in again later, using two sub spots?

      1. fc_skrald
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Yes, I would imagine - unless there is some kind of strange rule against this. I guess it has always been allowed but rarely practised.

        1. GreennRed
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Not in soccer but in an All Ireland Gaelic Football final Tyrone's captain and talisman Peter 'The Great' Canavan was just recovering from injury. Tyrone started him, subbed him and brought him back in later, his influence and leadership leading them to the championship.

          https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HG3zGIOHqpU

          1. fc_skrald
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            Yes, they had a good day it looks like 🙂
            I just had a look at the soccer rules (from the Danish football orginasation) and it is very clear - except for some youth and veteran games this is not allowed. But why is this not allowed?

            1. Epic Fail
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              3 years, 10 months ago

              It's just the rules innit. There has to be rules.

              1. fc_skrald
                • 8 Years
                3 years, 10 months ago

                Yes ok, I accept that. Think I will look into some more rules now that I opened the site 🙂

        2. fc_skrald
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Sorry, I'm wrong - this is not normally allowed. I don't know if it wil be allowed now with the 5 subs.

  12. Joe-AsWell
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Who cares

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      About what?

    2. fc_skrald
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Nobody cares, always been like that...

    3. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Jesus cares. Two men called to my door last December and asked me 'Have you found Jesus'? I told them I hadn't but took their number in case Jesus called so he could ring them.

  13. rdamjan
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Is there a possibility for BGWs and DGWs in vFPL?

    1. Hazz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Seen Ragabolly me mention that there won't be this season, but if he re-runs it for another season - possibly.

  14. mad_beer ✅
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    So what is the PL going to do when player contracts end on July 1st?

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Some are allowed extensions and others not wanting an extension are free agents. Not much they can do about that.

  15. circusmonkey
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    With the 14 day quarantine thing, that will knock European competition into touch.

    1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I think the only option they have is to try and finish it tournament at one neutral venue in a bubble. Logistical nightmare though

      1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        This business of staggering CL rounds over weeks has made it worse

    2. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      They are saying there may be exemptions for the Formula 1. I'd guess something similar will happen with the football. $$$

  16. goriuanx
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    @cfbayern

    In English: Rummenigge, CEO of @FCBayern, confirmed: „The option expired and we haven't activated it“. Goodbye @Phil_Coutinho (your number 10 is already promised @LeroySane19)

    1. HamezMace
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Bold statement if a deal hasn’t already been done.

      Hope Pip comes back to the PL.

      1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        A straight swap would of been good. Replace David Silva and leave Foden waiting again lol...

      2. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Newcastle, Arsenal or Spurs on loan I think

    2. Poseidon.
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      We should be in for him imo. Imagine Coutinho feeding Sancho and Martial on the wings with Rashy down the middle

      1. goriuanx
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Might close the 40 odd point gap 😯

  17. bitm2007
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    It would have be FA Cup final day today. I've heard a lot or talk about the PL and CL resuming, but what about the FA Cup ?

    1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      A mini tournament over one weekend at Wembley maybe?

      1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Or even midweek

    2. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      They have until the end of the calendar year I suppose.

  18. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    LaLiga back 8th June...

    1. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      June 12th Sevilla vs Betis.

      1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Do you think they may batch fixtures as local as possible just to help with travel situations, something the Prem may do too?

  19. Poseidon.
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    ‘The BBC are reporting that the FA and Premier League have both announced today Premier League clubs will play at neutral venues as far away as possible from their main fan base to stop people gathering outside the ground. Therefore Man Utd will play their games at Old Trafford.’

    A guy I know just sent me this - can’t see anything on the BBC website but this is great news for us if true!

    1. Poseidon.
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Nvm apparently hes winding me up

      1. tets mcgee (Bachmann an Rob…
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        are u sausage roll in disguise?

        1. Poseidon.
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          who

        2. GreennRed
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Probably, playing the holding roll in midfield.

        3. Epic Fail
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Not much of a disguise.

        4. Nomar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Pork pie, sausage roll?

    2. potatoace
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Lol. Saw that joke juggernauting down the road a mile away.

  20. potatoace
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    It's only just dawned on me that if/when the league restarts, the revised schedule will cancel out all those DGW, BGW we've all been planning our chip strategy around.

    The new emerging strategies are likely to be much more varied and more fun imo.

    1. Feanor
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I used my BB in GW1 to great effect.

      Then I used my TC on Mane in GW 24, and it was a disaster.

      1. potatoace
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Need to start thinking of ways of getting rashers and son back into our squads asap also.

      2. Botman and Robben
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        I performed the exact same disaster.

    2. ebb2sparky
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      It won’t fully cancel it out since it’s impossible for there to not be at least one DGW or BGW.
      If it’s a DGW then BB will be an advantage
      if it’s a BGW then FH will be an advantage
      I still have both chips so not too fussed. Obviously hope the DGW won’t be the first week though since won’t give time to play the WC
      No idea when I’ll use my TC though.

      1. potatoace
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Yes, you're right . There's going to have to be some sort of dgw at some point.
        Really hope project restart pulls off. I'm excited for the new schedule and the new challenge of navigating it.
        Feels more fun to me.

        1. Epic Fail
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          I have nothing to base it on but I have a feeling there won't be any DGWs but they will just have a standalone GW for the extra fixtures (meaning some teams blank like Sparky mentioned). Though I guess it depends how close the fixtures are to the others,

          1. BNMC
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            Has there ever been a BGW with four teams only?

            1. Epic Fail
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              3 years, 10 months ago

              There was snow week when almost every game was called off. I can't remember how many teams played but it wasn't many.

              1. Nightcrawler
                • 4 Years
                3 years, 10 months ago

                Only 2 matches took place once. Only tim cahill got points that week

    3. BNMC
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      If there's one thing vFPL is teaching me, it's to have fun with the chips. Yes, there are no BGWs and DGWs in vFPL, but at the same time I feel like you can use a chip any time provided that you do it well and maybe get a bit lucky. Points are points, no matter when in the season they come.

      1. GreennRed
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        I would never pick a player just for one fixture then sell him on in FPL. Not sure why, I think it's the short gap between GWs and the fixed prices, but I'll try it more now. It's mighty craic 🙂

  21. BNMC
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Who's joining me with TAA(C) tonight?

    1. fc_skrald
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Last time I captained a defender was on Duffy in the real game

      1. Bada Bing
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        I still have nightmares about that duffy dgw captaincy. Note to self: never ever captain a defender.

    2. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      No. A cleansheet very likely but I think less attacking returns than against Villa, Bournemouth, Norwich.

      1. GreennRed
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Having second thoughts now. Blades not many CS but only conceded 21/21 so prob not a high scoring game. 17 scored. A cleansheet should see Trent outpoint Salah or Mane.

    3. ebb2sparky
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Not for me. I'm thinking Salah or Fernandes

    4. Legomané
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I’m on TAA atm, but now considering Bruno/Grealish too.

    5. Amey
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I captained him in laat two actual gw's this season 😀

      It was fun

  22. Legomané
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Feels like a good week for a differential captaincy in vFPL — Bruno Jack or Trent?

    Or cop out and just back Salah or Mané?! 🙂

    A) Bruno v NOR(h)
    B) Grealish v BOU(h)
    C) TAA v SHU(h)
    D) Salah or Mané v SHU(h)

    1. Amey
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Bruno.
      Bit biased but I'd © him myself so can't suggest anyone else

    2. dunas_dog
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Presently on TAA but having asked similar question Hazz pointed out SHU score decent amount of goals here and and looking at table other than Liverpool they have conceded least number of goals. Norwich conceded most so now going Bruno as captain as bit of differential

      1. Hazz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        I won't lie, they're still one of the lowest scorers in the vFPL league - just they a bit unpredictable scoring wise.

    3. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Yes it's looks like a great week for a differential captain. We are back in a similar situation to GW1 when the irresistible force (Pool attacked) meet the immovable object (the Sheff Utd D, that only Pool have conceded less goals than in this VFPL season). Something had it give, and on that occasion it was the Sheff United D but only once and those with the Salah/Mane double up came unstuck. It will be interested to see if Pool do any better in the home fixture tonight, they may do but I'm not expecting a landslide. So as somebody who has all four of those options to choose from I'm going A (Fernandes scored 18 points in the reverse fixture which was also in GW1)

    4. Legomané
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Cheers — I’ve swapped to Bruno — good luck all 🙂

  23. BNMC
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Rag if you're here, Eid Mubarak! (And to anyone else that's celebrating)

    1. Ragabolly
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Thanks mate, really appreciate the gesture 😀
      Good luck tonight

  24. Bobby Digital
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    C'mon FPL, let's go!

  25. Hazz
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Bench one:
    A) Jota (CHE)
    B) Ings (WAT)
    C) Alonso (WOL)
    D) Ward (BHA)

    I'm leaning on starting Ward, but could be convinced otherwise.

    1. dunas_dog
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      I would bench Ward. Can see Brighton scoring at home. Trossard scored in last 3 home games and in form. More chance of attacking returns from other 3.

      1. dunas_dog
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        * Having said that I am playing Van Aanholt and Trossard with Burn first on bench at the moment! Hedging my bets in that game.......

        1. Hazz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Trossard already burned me last week by being benched, haha.

  26. Poseidon.
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/may/22/manchester-united-sues-football-manager-makers-over-use-of-name

    Football manager makers won’t let us use their database for scouting purposes so we sue them for using our name

  27. TLF
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Fully intended to play VFPL but after putting an initial team together haven't made a transfer or followed the game. Am going to try and get involved from here on, had a quick look at the fixtures a moment ago. Based on current form what do you reckon my priority is ? would appreciate some tips as not in the loop. Thinking I could ditch Soy for a Brighton defender maybe....

    McCarty (Button)
    Soy, Holgate, Trent
    Grealish, Rich, Salah, Sarr
    Auba, Vardy, Ings
    (Fernàndez, Hanley, D.Luiz)

    1. Ragabolly
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      That's a good team and a solid transfer

      1. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Swift response from the man himself ! Cheers Ragabolly, hope all is well. Any stand out Brighton defender currently ? Got 2 frees, guess I'll just roll the other one.

        1. Ragabolly
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Cheers 🙂 Webster has been scoring goals but also gets rotated sometimes. Between him and Dunk I would say.

          1. TLF
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            Cheers, why not Burn ?

            1. Ragabolly
              • 14 Years
              3 years, 10 months ago

              Also a good option. Nothing much between them..

              You can look at http://www.livefpl.net/playerdata and choose Brighton. Check the defenders and see their minutes and goals etc.

              1. TLF
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 7 Years
                3 years, 10 months ago

                Thank you

      2. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Just checked scores, was assuming Duffy but Burn and Webster are doing well !

    2. dunas_dog
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Does your squad not have 6 ( Söyüncü Holgate TAA Fernández Hanley D Luiz) defenders and 4 midfielders?

      1. Ragabolly
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Douglas Luiz

      2. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        It's Douglas Luiz mate, mid

        1. dunas_dog
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Sorry my mistake! Good team. I would say Burn for Brighton defender. After this week though you may want SHU defender for good run of games

          1. TLF
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            No worries, ok cheers

  28. Ronnies
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Anyone think Greenwood starts ? Scored last game when he came on and Martial out injured.

    Crazy to play him ahead of Ings - away to Watford ?

    1. BNMC
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      This week is Ings's last chance to impress me. Watford defensive stats have been pretty bad lately.

  29. Gentle_Turks
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    Rashford is surely due a score this week, right? Six blanks in a row but now home to Norwich. What do you think?

    1. Hazz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Sounds like he's in form.

      1. Gentle_Turks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        No clearly not, but law of averages etc, and against that Norwich defence. What do you reckon?

        1. Gentle_Turks
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Thinking of bringing him in to fund Neto to Grealish. Or could bring in Firmino instead of Rash?

    2. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Did he score in the friendlies this week?

      1. Gentle_Turks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        just about to run a friendly. Did anyone else run a UTD friendly this week?

        1. TorresMagic™
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          You'll probably sell him with upcoming MCI(A) WOL(H) CHE(A) TOT(H) CRY(A)

          1. Gentle_Turks
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 10 months ago

            True.

      2. Gentle_Turks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Friendly result at home v Arsenal: 1-2. Rashford missed two penalties...ha, ha.

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

      Put it this way - who'd you bring in to fund Neto to Grealish? Firmino or Vardy? The two moves would be for a hit though and involve taking out Auba (a risk after his hattrick, but his away form is awful)

      1. BNMC
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        I haven't run the numbers, but I wouldn't be surprised if Auba has the highest percentage of his points in home games than any other premium player.

        1. Gentle_Turks
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Think you could be right.

    4. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Six blanks in a row. He's due something, being dropped.

      1. Gentle_Turks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Lol. Never. Ole loves him.

    5. Epic Fail
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Spot on. That's exactly how "due" works.

  30. Hazz
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 10 months ago

    I would never have sold Taylor had he got injured.

    1. Hazz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      *not got injured

    2. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 10 months ago

      Who did you replace him with?

      1. Hazz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 10 months ago

        Targett, who subsequently got injured 😆

        1. Nomar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 10 months ago

          Oops.