The Promoted

Can Pablo Hernández and Leeds’ attackers offer reliable FPL appeal?

Fantasy Premier League managers may have to wait and see whether a cast-iron attacking asset emerges from Leeds’ ranks in 2020/21.

Marcelo Bielsa’s men certainly have a wealth of talent going forward but in a team where the goals and assists are spread around and the centre-forward is somewhat wasteful, it may be difficult to pin down one key individual to invest in initially.

To get the inside track on this newly-promoted team, we have once again consulted LeedsLive reporter Beren Cross, who has covered the club for the duration of Bielsa’s reign thus far.

You can read more about Leeds’ tactics and their fluid 4-1-4-1 formation HERE, while we have also assessed their defensive potential HERE.

What is Leeds’ goal-scoring potential?

“Brentford are considered a high-scoring, attractive, creative, buccaneering outfit and United only scored three fewer goals all season in the Championship. Naturally, there are always what-ifs about how sides will transition from the second tier and it is impossible for me to accurately predict whether they will score plenty or struggle to do so. It has to be said, United are wasteful. If they tucked away the chances they should have done in 19/20, they would have scored closer to 100 goals than the 77 they ended with. The problem has been finishing and, as the striker, Patrick Bamford has carried the can among many fans.” – Beren Cross

For 95 per cent of the season, United have been faced with deep-lying, defensive set-ups which are happy to camp in their own box and ask the Whites to break them down. That will not be the case in the top flight. Teams will attack United and they have shown, when the opportunity arises, they are deadly on the counter.

This insight from the front-lines carries a specific warning for Fantasy managers to bide their time before investing too heavily in the Leeds attack next season.

While they might benefit from more space to exploit, it does seem evident that Bielsa may have to encourage better finishing among his players. Remember, unlike Norwich, they are not coming into the Premier League armed with a reliable 25+ goal-a-season striker. In this team, the goals are spread around a little bit more, something that Fantasy managers are less keen on.

Title WinClubGF (title-winning season)RankingGF (first PL season)% change
2010-11QPR71743-39.4%
2011-12Reading69543-37.7%
2012-13Cardiff City72332-55.6%
2013-14Leicester City83146-44.6%
2014-15Bournemouth98145-54.1%
2015-16Burnley72139-45.8%
2016-17Newcastle United85139-54.1%
2017-18Wolves82147-42.7%
2018-19Norwich City93126-72.0%
2019-20Leeds United772TBAN/A


AVG = 80.2
AVG = 40AVG = -49.6%

The Whites’ 77 goals last season was the second-highest in the Championship, just three short of a free-scoring Brentford outfit. A feat not be scoffed at. However, it does represent the first time the title-winner did not also top the scoring charts since Cardiff in 2012/13. That total is also just below the division’s average for the last 10 teams to finish in the top spot.

If we were to feed Leeds’ total of 77 goals into the average percentage decrease of Championship winners in their first top-flight campaign immediately afterwards, we get a figure of 38.1. For some context, that equates to fewer goals than Sheffield United (39) and Bournemouth’s (40) tallies for 2019/20 although one of those teams nearly qualified for Europe and the other was relegated.

How much that counts for does remain to be seen, of course. Norwich went up with the second-highest Championship goal-tally of the last decade but ended up with the worst of any of them in the following Premier League campaign, with a measly total of 26.

A lot will, of course, depend on how other teams set up against Leeds, partly why biding our team seems sensible. As Beren mentioned, there could be more space to exploit for the Whites, but it is too soon to say.

If that were to be the case, away goals could be an area that Leeds look to target. After all, playing teams on their own turf usually opens the door a little more to counter-attacking sides.

Bielsa’s men scored 37 times on the road last season, more than any other side in the Championship and backed up by their ability to hit teams on the break.

They were no slouches at home either, finding the net 40 times at Elland Road, an impressive tally considering how many teams set up with deep lines when travelling to West Yorkshire. Only Brentford and West Bromwich Albion (44 each) scored more times in home matches.

Player-by-player

Pablo Hernández

  • Position: Central attacking midfielder
  • Starts: 27
  • Substitute apps: 9
  • Goals: 9
  • Assists: 9

“Naturally, the obvious asset at first glance is Pablo Hernandez after another Player of the Year triumph with nine goals and nine assists in the title-winning campaign. However, now 35, Hernandez’s minutes have become more and more managed by Marcelo Bielsa. If he is fit and the fixtures are not too congested, the Spaniard will be a very safe and astute selection, depending on his price. However, he did only make 27 starts in a 46-match season last time out.” – Beren Cross

Pablo Hernández has been a much-discussed asset in the Fantasy community since Leeds’ promotion was confirmed but it is interesting to see Beren pour some cold water on any forming bandwagon.

That is not to say the central midfielder won’t be a regular starter but there are still a few ‘ifs’ to consider ahead of the new season.

There are lots of things to like about the former Swansea man, considering his perfect balance of goal threat and creativity.

Last season, his total of 74 shots was bested only by three other players while only two colleagues managed to produce more goal attempts in the penalty area than him (38). Those numbers are especially impressive when you consider that Hernández played just 2,502 minutes in 2019/20, 10 Leeds players spending more time on the pitch than that on the way to the title.

For that reason, Hernández’s 82 key passes and 13 big chances also indicate how productive he can be when handed minutes considering only Jack Harrison managed more in each department than that.

However, the ‘ifs’ begin with set-plays, which Hernández does not have much of a monopoly over compared to the architect of other teams. In 2019/20 it was defensive midfielder Kalvin Phillips who took the bulk of these, firing in 227 corners to Hernández’s 51 while Harrison was also responsible for a further 44.

The former Swansea man did take five direct free-kicks on the way to the title but, again, it was Phillips who assumed the responsibility most often with a total of nine.

The defensive midfielder does have special set-play pedigree but one of the reasons why Hernández cannot quite compete with him for them is as a result of the aforementioned management of minutes.

The Spaniard picked up a knock ahead of the first Project Restart fixture against Cardiff which meant he only started twice during the final nine matches of the campaign, his more advanced central role often handed to Tyler Roberts during this period.

Hernández emerged as a substitute on six occasions following his return to fitness, replacing Roberts in all but one of these, so there is not necessarily any suggestion he is set to lose his place to the Welsh international any time soon.

But the way the 35-year-old finished 2019/20 is certainly an indication of the factors Fantasy managers must be aware of as it meant he contributed to just 23.4% of Leeds Championship goals.

Because of these considerations, it is hard to describe Hernández as quite as much of a talisman as a Grealish or the like, the sort of player you can be confident will start every single match without fail. That surety will be there if he’s fit and the fixture schedule is kind but, at this stage, neither one of those is completely guaranteed.

Five players registered more assists than him in the Championship, including West Bromwich Albion’s key man Matheus Pereira.

Jack Harrison

  • Position: Winger
  • Starts: 45
  • Substitute apps: 1
  • Goals: 6
  • Assists: 8

“Jack Harrison is worth investigating. Heading into his third consecutive year-long spell at Elland Road, Harrison is on an upward curve and improved massively in his second campaign under Bielsa. He delivered six goals and eight assists from out wide and, barring injury, will almost certainly start every week.” – Beren Cross

Fantasy managers could consider the more advanced attacking asset in Harrison, who largely finds himself stationed on the left-wing.

Much like what we saw with Luke Ayling and Stuart Dallas, Harrison is the more assured starter who offers slightly less according to the underlying statistics.

That is not to suggest the Manchester City loanee is a bad option. As already mentioned above, Harrison finished 2019/20 top of the charts for key passes (87) and big chances created (17) among Leeds players.

He was also the best of the rest for efforts on goal outside of centre-forward Bamford, registering a total of 78 shots, 61 in the box and 16 big chances, second-best in each of those categories.

However, Harrison shoulders some responsibility for Leeds’ wastefulness in front of goal last season. Despite lofty ranks for the volume of shots, four Leeds players managed more shots on target than 23-year-old.

Mateusz Klich

  • Position: Central midfielder
  • Starts: 45
  • Substitute apps: 0
  • Goals: 6
  • Assists: 5

“Mateusz Klich is another who is likely to start every match. The Pole’s streak of 92 consecutive league starts was ended by Bielsa in the penultimate match of 19/20 after some exuberant celebrations. Klich delivered six goals, five assists and might be on penalties next term.” – Beren Cross

Klich’s importance to the team is also in his favour considering he is a solid contributor to Leeds’ attacks.

Bamford, Harrison and Dallas are the only team-mates to have shot more times en route to Championship glory than the Polish international (76).

Most of Klich’s efforts came from outside of the penalty area (52.6%) but he was still in the top three Leeds players for shots on target (24).

He was also third for key passes (79) and big chances created (11).

On top of that, Klich took three penalties in 2019/20, the same number as Bamford, assuming responsibility for the only one Leeds were awarded post-lockdown, hence why he is the current favourite.

Patrick Bamford

  • Position: Striker
  • Starts: 43
  • Substitute apps: 2
  • Goals: 16
  • Assists: 2

It perhaps says something about Leeds’ array of attacking options that we come to their centre-forward so late in the list.

While Bamford had a hand in the joint-highest number of goals this season, his total of 18 attacking returns, level with Hernández, still only counts for 23.4% of Leeds overall tally.

He is also the chief culprit when it comes to assessing the chances the Whites failed to score on their way to the Championship title.

His tally of 128 shots in the box was the highest of any player in the division and yet Bamford still finished the 2019/20 campaign 10 goals shy of the Championship’s joint-top scorers in Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ollie Watkins (both 26). He was also 13 goals shy of the previous season’s Golden Boot winner Teemu Pukki, who netted 29 times in the Championship.

In total, the centre-forward was afforded 44 big chances but he only put 10 of those away, spurning the other 34 (77.3%). 

For some context, the five worst Premier League players for big chances missed in 2019/20 were Diogo Jota (12), Jay Rodriguez (12), Michail Antonio (14), David McGoldrick (15) and Roberto Firmino (20). Those players, admittedly played a shorter campaign, but only six matches, while Bamford was playing in the best team in the division.

If Bamford is to truly cut it in the top-flight and offer Fantasy managers a reliable stream of attacking returns, some improvement in this area is sorely needed. Up to this point, he has scored just one Premier League goal in 27 appearances at that level.

It is no secret that Leeds need some competition for Bamford but the former Middlesbrough man will surely be handed first dibs at leading the line in the Premier League based on Bielsa’s management style.

“Bielsa only tends to change the team for suspensions and injuries, even during poor runs of form. They are so fit, fatigue is rarely an issue. The aforementioned Bamford would go 10 matches without a goal in the Championship and not be dropped, much to many fans’ dismay. However, Bielsa is loyal and his players run through brick walls for him.” – Beren Cross

Other options

An important member of the team, Kalvin Phillips offers more than the usual defensive midfielder considering that he takes Leeds’ corners and free-kicks. This, of course, is another detraction from Hernández’s credentials and may only count for Fantasy appeal if Phillips comes in kindly priced.

Helder Costa is another relatively secure starter for the new season, traditionally operating on the right-hand side of midfield. While he is the opposite number to Harrison, the former Wolves man did not quite match his colleague’s attacking returns totals for 2019/20, scoring four goals and assisting another four, the same as right-back Luke Ayling, with whom he usually shares a flank.

As already mentioned, Tyler Roberts was the central midfielder who played when Hernandez needed his game-time managed. In 1,086 minutes he managed four goals and one assist, although that still only works out at an attacking return every 217.2 minutes.

Ezgjan Alioski registered five goals and three assists from 2,253 minutes which is solid if not spectacular. However, his role across the campaign was one of impact substitute, 21 of his 39 appearances coming from the start and 18 from the bench.

Best players by position:

765 Comments Post a Comment
  1. FPL Theorist
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Are you trying to cut down the number of hits you take for the new season? If so, what's your target (i.e. taking less than how many hits?)

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Well, I went silly last season, taking 44 hits. Ironically it was my best season in a decade finishing 25K.
      But I will try to minimise hits as far as possible this time, yeh. No point setting a target, just be more thoughtful and less impulsive. Part of that was making transfers early to avoid price changes and getting caught out by injuries. So I need to wait closer to the deadline.

    2. Tomerick
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      It’s probably not really that helpful to think about it in those terms. They should be avoided whenever possible and when you are taking them you need to be thinking, am I going to benefit from this move in the long term and is the hit going to be repaid? An arbitrary figure could mean you take needless hits or stubbornly avoid an obvious one that would have helped. It would leave you too inflexible.

      1. Now I'm Panicking
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Absolutely this. Rigid plans to cap hits or aim for lots of hits is just silly. Play the cards you are given.

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

        Nailed it.

    3. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Take a hit when you need to. 4 points is the right price.

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

      Really should cut down my number of hits, yes! Don't have a specific target.

    5. jimmy.floyd
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Six or less

    6. Camzy
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      I follow a few guidelines:
      Only take a hit if:

      - It directly improves my starting XI this week and can pay off right away
      - If it's to replace an injured player (long term)
      - I will want the player long term and it's the most urgent of many fires

      That's really it. The last point is contentious, but basically, I will make a move for a player on a hit if the following week I have some other moves that I will also need to make. Doing it now instead of later gives me a transfer which I can use to greater effect.

      1. FPL Theorist
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        That seems smart. I feel like I could rationalise about 20 hits a season with these rules though (mainly through convincing myself something would pay off right away), which seems like too much.

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

          Surprisingly, I don't really do that most of the time. I trust my original selections generally to ride out their run of fixtures.

          So like: Sterling vs Leicester away I will keep vs switching to Son vs West Brom at home. I don't make moves like that. I generally make moves for a run of fixtures.

          However, if those two coincide with Sterling going on a bad run and Son on a good run, I'll do it and only if I have urgent need to make more transfers the following week as well.

    7. Superflymonk
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      No hits will be my new style. I even want to create a no-hits league with all participants must adhere to the one rule of no hits. If you take one, you get DQed. No matter how bad your players get.

    8. OverTinker
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      I took 3 or 4 hits whole season and I was very happy with that. Actually it was the plan from the start.

    9. The Mighty One
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Here is the answer...this is what I’m going to try to do this year:

      Have 2 decent bench players who play 90. The 3rd bench can be dead.

      Then have a personal rule where I only take a hit through the entire season when I would captain that player! If the transfers don’t involve my captain that week then I’m going to resist.

      1. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Decent solution

        Think the point about bench is relevant to me and many others too likely. Less sure about the captain option for me. I'd be willing to take a hit for a Jim/Ings type who was almost certainly a good long term prospect and would otherwise need a few weeks to bring in if I also had foreseeable captaincy transfers to make in the coming weeks.

        1. The Mighty One
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Well the decent bench helps with patience as too often we get one injury and feel the need to swap the dude out (often for hits). Unless the transfers provide your captain, I see patient players just letting the bench ride it out for that week. Often times the following week my transfer ideas change too if I’m patient.

    10. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      I’m going to adapt a suggestion made by Simon March and simply change the rules of the game!!

      I’m going to pretend I have 48 free transfers a season and allow myself 10 hits. That will still allow me to make moves but will limit my room for manoeuvre.

      For me part of the trap is that so many of my hits did work out - encouraging me to take hits that didnt, To make his work I’m setting parameters

      - no hits for players I’ve transferred in in the last 4 weeks
      - ignore transfers for price
      - only 3 hits every 10 gameweeks

      1. The Mighty One
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Rules 1 and 3 seem destined to be broken when you get to that specific week...are you really going to say “it is week #8 and I’ve already done 3 hits so no more for me”?

        1. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Don't think so actually for my game style

          Went through my hits last season and it was pretty easy to isolate the hits that I didn't need to make - from a prospective point of view not retrospectively. I am willing to hold players and rely on bench - had Martial for instance for 3 weeks on the bench early on.

          Rule 3 would be the game changer for me. It would require disciple of course but that's just what I'm trying to instill. In practice it'll likely mean holding FTs more frequently to allow subsequent hits.

        2. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          And actually the week 8 example is just what I have in mind. The temptation for the hit happy - I'm including myself there - is to allow one hit to lead to another hit. It's a gambling addiction if you like

          Hit worked - take another - it works
          Hit didn't work - take another - I'm in a hole

          I don't want to give up the drug altogether and go into cold turkey - I like the high too much 🙂

          Feel confident that I can pull this off as I've already progressed from being a junkie to a regulate user. On the right path. Just want to become a casual user now 🙂

    11. Salarrivederci
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      My best season so far I averaged 1hit pr. GW (38 hits = 152 points) and ended up at 9K.
      That was my first season, and in the second and third I thought I would improve by not taken as many hits, but ended up at 20K and 12K.
      I don’t really fear taken hits, and early on I would even do it to optimize TV. However I will try to group my transfers into 3 (-4) every second week and do a mini WC instead of 1-2 transfers a week.

  2. Andy_Social
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    The crazy thing is, mid-way through DGW30, I broke into the Top 1000, having at that point taken about 38 hits. That really shouldn't happen. Just shows you there are no rules!

    1. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Why shouldn't it happen? Hits are an investment, not a fine.

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        We'll it's not orthodox, wasn't planned, and won't be repeated (hopefully)!

    2. Netley Lucas
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      If you are Gangster Monkeys then you took 18 hits all season and 11 by GW30.

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        I am Gangster Monkeys. My page shows 118 transfers. That includes wildcards and free hit . On my ML table it shows I took 72 points in hits. Oh, you're right, that is 18. My bad. Cheers.

      2. Zimo
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        How'd you find his team ._.

        1. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Weird. Stalker? 😉

          1. Netley Lucas
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            Not at all bud, hope you're well. I did check because I took a load too, 22 (88pts) and finished above you. Better luck next season.

        2. Netley Lucas
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          I know him, same League.

          1. Andy_Social
            • 11 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            No worries. Which league is that?

  3. Bun Rab
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Chelsea (4-3-3) Caballero; James, Zouma, Christensen, Emerson; Kante (c), Kovacic, Barkley; Hudson-Odoi, Abraham, Mount

    Subs Kepa, Cumming, Rudiger, Tomori, Simeu, Maatsen, Bate, Lawrence, Giroud, Batshuayi, Broja

    Bayern (4-2-3-1) Neuer; Kimmich, Boateng, Alaba, Davies; Goretzka, Thiago Alcantara; Gnabry, Muller, Perisic; Lewandowski

    Subs Ulreich, Hoffmann, Odriozola, Sule, Javi Martinez, Coutinho, Cuisance, Hernandez, Tolisso, Tillman, Musiala, Arrey-Mbi

    1. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      As a Chelsea fan this could get nasty. Bayern so far ahead both in the score and the team.

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

        Bayern might struggle match fitness wise, they finished their season good while ago.

        1. Bun Rab
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          This is my only hope. But even a half fit Bayern have a winning mentality and players. We are too young and inexperienced to cause them real danger. Just hope the energy of youth can push us on.

      2. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Defence needs major surgery.

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      That bench! White flag raised.

      1. Bun Rab
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Thats the issue with bringing through youth. The depth is just more youth! Plkus injuries and suspension.

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

      Is Alonso injured or on his way out?

      1. Bun Rab
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Sent off in the 1st leg so suspended along with Jorginho.

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

    Pirlo is the new Juve manager. Didn't see that coming.

    https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1292154859995705345

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Wow. Risky. Must've been inspired by Sarri's replacement at Chelsea 😉

      1. UnitedFan
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Nah Mourinho's replacement at United 😉

    2. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      So they were just waiting for their season to end to ditch Sarri? Could be interesting appointment.

      1. UnitedFan
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        It's quite the gamble.

        1. Bun Rab
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Not if he plays the 'Juve' way like Conte and Allegri. If he want's to do thing differently then it could be interesting, but he's taken over a team that has won 8 odd titles in a row!

          1. UnitedFan
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            True but merely from the perspective of him being a novice.

            1. Bun Rab
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 11 Years
              3 years, 7 months ago

              Agreed. But Pep was once the same. Pirlo has a history and knowledge of the club stryle. Will defo be interesting.

              1. UnitedFan
                • 8 Years
                3 years, 7 months ago

                Good point. Very excited to see how it goes. I like Pirlo and Juve.

    3. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Stop gap for a year while Pep is in his final year at City?

      1. Amey
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Aye

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

      I should have applied !!
      Could have had a Serie A on my resume ...... 🙂

  5. Digital-Real
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Coutinho likely to join Arsenal, midfield minefield in FPL!
    Is 9.0m his price in FPL?

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Minimum, possibly 0.5-1m more. What was his last FPL price?

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

        Considering KDB was 9.5m last season pricing Coutinho (in Arsenal) at any more than 9.0m would be madness.
        Then again FPL towers do work in mysterious ways at times.

        1. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Good reference point actually. KDB was cheap because he didn't do much previous season. Coutinho hasn't done much this last season either, so he may well come in at 9. I'd prob gives him a couple of matches to see how he links up with Auba and the front line.

      2. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Was 8m the last time if memory serves me correct.

        1. Baps hunter
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Imo Coutinho was close to ten if not
          above, I did own him and he wasn't much different from Salah and Mane... But perhaps they were also cheaper. I'd expect him to be at least 9.5, maybe 10.

  6. Dynamic Duos
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    When are we expecting FPL to start again?

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

      September 12th

    2. UnitedFan
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      No one knows but I'd say about 3 weeks before the season starts.

    3. Zimo
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Maybe in a week

      1. Zimo
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Probably within 3 weeks tho

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

    I tip Bayern to take the CL this season.

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

    You think Chelsea has a chance to overcome this 0-3 deficit tonight?

    1. FOO FIGHTER
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Bayern lineup says hi...

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

      No

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

      Be surprised if the lose by less than 2 goals on the night.

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

        Ouch.

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

      I don't think so, but anything can happen.

    5. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      None. I'd take only losing by 3 again.

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        I'd say their objective is to avoid a humiliation that might impact on how they start the PL season.

        1. Bun Rab
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          New players for the new season will boost us anyway. But yeah a hard working performance needs to be played. Our defence worries me though.

  9. Greek Freak
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Well, almost 5 months later it's up to Serge Gnabry (C) to save my UCL Fantasy gameweek!

    1. Azathoth
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      (c) him when scored 4 against your beloved Spurs?

      1. Greek Freak
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        You've confused me with someone else - I support Arsenal.

        But I don't let team allegiances affect fantasy football decisions in any case.

        1. Amey
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          That was sarcasms i guess

          1. Greek Freak
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            Tbh I didn't think I was well-known enough as an Arsenal fan to be sarcastic towards! 😀

            1. Amey
              • 5 Years
              3 years, 7 months ago

              You celebrated wildly after FA cup 😛
              Along with your gravless mates.
              Ha ha

              1. Greek Freak
                • 8 Years
                3 years, 7 months ago

                I was merely pointing out how the referee made all the correct decisions 😆

                1. Amey
                  • 5 Years
                  3 years, 7 months ago

                  😀

  10. Bun Rab
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Penalty to Bayern. Lewa to take.

    1. Greek Freak
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Who won it?

      1. The Mighty Hippo
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Robert L

      2. Bun Rab
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Lewa.

        1. Greek Freak
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Thanks. This is the first time I'm without him in UCL Fantasy - he was injured when the game was originally supposed to take place...

          1. Amey
            • 5 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            Is it as fun as FPL ?
            I don't like it tbh as i don't follow Any other countries football

            1. Greek Freak
              • 8 Years
              3 years, 7 months ago

              I like the format - same as the world cup if you played that. i.e. can sub out players and bring in players from your bench (as long as they haven't played of course) in between different days of the same GW. And captaincy works the same way - i.e. can captain someone on the first day, then switch to a player the following day etc.

              Whether that's fun or not depends on whether you like that format I guess! The captaincy was almost a non-factor this year given how explosive and consistent Lewandowski and Haaland have been.

              Also for me the draw is being able to have players like Lewandowski, Messi, Mbappe, Ronaldo etc. That's always fun - although Messi has never hauled for me!

              1. Amey
                • 5 Years
                3 years, 7 months ago

                Sounds like too many decisions to be made. I'm happy I'm not playing it then.as i tend to overthink every small decision.

                GL to you !

    2. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      1-0

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

    Imagine Pep gets Barca in the following round?

    1. Hy liverpool
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Next round fixtures already decided

      1. Amey
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        I stopped imagining it then 😀

      2. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Only saw that now.

        Who do you think will win it?

        1. amitmishr
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          I think Atletico will finally lift it by beating pep

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

      I can't see Barca beating Bayern, they're looking sharp as hell.

    3. Greek Freak
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Barcelona-Bayern will be the pick of the draw.

  12. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Good evening everyone, hope your all having a pleasant day today ,What price do we see Bruno being?? Seen Az on the scoutcast suggesting something like 11.0 but if we remember Hazard was 10.5, surely that’s a more appropriate price for him??Arguably Hazard was more attacking too, both were on penalties, What’s the general consensus???

    1. FOO FIGHTER
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      FPL say KDB in for a considerable price rise. If he is at 12 then I do not see Bruno at anything less than 11.

      1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Yeah I think the same mate, I think 10.5 personally would be bang on for him

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

      10 alongside. tony Rash& hopefully Sancho.

      1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        10.0 would be a dream price for him mate!! I highly doubt it tho unfortunately

    3. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Agree, I think he's going to be 'underpriced' in many people's eyes - 10.5 max imo

      1. SADIO SANÉ
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Remember people thought Robbo would be 8 maybe even 9 last season and then started crying when prices were released

    4. keefy59
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      He's averaged over 8 points a game for 14 games that would give him over 300 pionts in 38 games .
      That won't happen as that form is unsustainable
      Probably 10/10.5

      1. Tinkermania
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Don't forget his points were coming against relegation fodder. He arrived at the time when they had a good run of fixtures. Yet to score against in team in top 10 in PL from open play. He will never get to 11mil. A copule of penalty misses and he could lose the role.

        1. Baps hunter
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          He has missed only one, ever, I believe. How many penalty misses is likely for Milner?

          1. Tinkermania
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            Where has Milner come from in this thread?

            1. Baps hunter
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 6 Years
              3 years, 7 months ago

              Add Jari Litmanen to comparison. They just don't miss penalties, because they are/were excellent penalty takers.

              1. Tinkermania
                • 4 Years
                3 years, 7 months ago

                Ah! I get you now. You should have been clearer. I am not predicting he will miss(read it again). I am saying 2 misses can happen. And he could lose the responsiblilty then and that could have a bearing on his appeal/price. He might not miss any until he retires. MIGHT!

        2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Why does it matter if he scores from open play or not?

          He got 16 attacking returns in 14 games - that’s bananas regardless of who it’s against... 12 of those returns were from play

          In 7 games against top 10 teams he has 3 goals & 2 assists...

          I’m not seeing the problem here...

          In other words he can afford a 50% regression and still be getting attacking returns every other game (50% regression would be pretty extreme)

          1. Tinkermania
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            Thought we were talking about value. Penalty takers can lose the role of taking penalties, we have seen it before. That could seriously impact on price, wouldn't it? He scored a pen against Leicester and another against Spurs, just to correct you. 2, Not 3 goals against top 10 in PL. It's just my personal opinion that some of those stats will stop him reaching the prices some are touting here.

            1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
              • 14 Years
              3 years, 7 months ago

              2 goals 2 assists in 6 games vs top 10 opposition (including City, Chelsea, Wolves, Leciester)

              2 goals 3 assists in 7 games against top 11 opposition (pull Southampton into the sample)

              3 goals 3 assists in 8 games against top 12 opposition (pull Everton into the sample)

              And so on & so on

              You know every team gets to play bottom half teams 19 times a season? Really not seeing where this bizarre fixation on specifically scoring goals, specifically from play, specifically against the top 10 is relevant when he’s already demonstrated his ability to generate FPL points against top 10 opposition...

              For a guy who has 12 returns from play in 14 games (AND has penalties!) I’m not seeing the equally bizarre fixation on him LOSING penalty duty either... especially when he’s such an obviously quality penalty taker...

              This whole line of thought with Bruno just seems very.... strange?

              1. Tinkermania
                • 4 Years
                3 years, 7 months ago

                At least we agree on price. I still maintain my opinion, 2 goals only against top 10 and from the spot isn't exactly cult status. But again, standards and opinions vary. Thanks for clarifying that it was 2 goals not 3.

                1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
                  • 14 Years
                  3 years, 7 months ago

                  So 4 attacking returns in the 6 games he faced top 10 opposition? What a failure! 😉

                  Out of interest - Did Bruno do something wrong to you?

                  Ever since the Brighton match - I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone try to so hard to construct such an inappropriately negative narrative around such a blatantly promising (And high performing) FPL prospect, it’s genuinely bizarre 🙂

                  1. Tinkermania
                    • 4 Years
                    3 years, 7 months ago

                    I agree. He was a good fpl prospect for the time he arrived with fixtures they had. He even did me a favour for a few weeks. You are saying world class, I am saying I have not seen enough. I respect your opinion, and you are in the minority. They are opinions.

                    1. Tinkermania
                      • 4 Years
                      3 years, 7 months ago

                      Sorry, I meant I am in the minority. Eeryone thinks he is a world beater. Everyone but me.

                    2. have you seen cyan
                      • 4 Years
                      3 years, 7 months ago

                      I don’t rate Bruno that highly either. Been over-performing and feeding off pens. Won’t live up to expectations this season imo, certainly not comparable to KDB.
                      Think Rash as a mid will compete with him on points, and if they share pens for sure.

                    3. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
                      • 14 Years
                      3 years, 7 months ago

                      Where has World class been stated? And even if someone has (which they blatantly haven’t in this thread) - what bearing does that have on his FPL prospects...

                      Are you perhaps confusing his FPL ability with someone’s opinion on whether he’s world class or not? Is that the real issue here?

                      Kante is world class for example - do you pick him in FPL?

                      Sheffield United defenders are not world class - did you avoid them in FPL?

                      1. Tinkermania
                        • 4 Years
                        3 years, 7 months ago

                        So that debunks everything I said. Game over for me 😉

                      2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
                        • 14 Years
                        3 years, 7 months ago

                        Have you ever seen the “This is fine” meme by any chance?

                        That’s what I picture this whole narrative as - with the flames growing higher with every attacking return Bruno clocked up on the run in 🙂

    5. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      I’d say 10.5 - that’s a massive hike from the 8.5 they priced him at 14 games ago

      1. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Shirley Towers are thinking 8.0 was completely underpriced. He would be outscoring everyone with his PPG.

        I really do not see less than 11. 10.5 if we are lucky.

        1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Just don’t think 14 games is enough to give him more than a 2.0 rise (which is HUGE in & of itself)

          That’ll be the saving grace that prevents the 11.0 imo

          If he had played a full season we’d be phucked & he’d likely be 11.5+

          You can’t give a trigger happy long range sharp shooter the #10 role, DFK’s, Corners, and Penalties for Man Utd & not expect damage - but the fact that it’s still such early days will hopefully ward off any thing above 10.5 (hopefully!)

          10.0 would be epic from a value perspective but we mightnt be that lucky

    6. have you seen cyan
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Bruno for 11 is stupid. Will be 9.5 or 10. 100%
      0.5 more then puli and same price as son

      1. Tinkermania
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        @TROPHE M.., exactly. He won't play Brighton every week.

        1. have you seen cyan
          • 4 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Players don’t have 3 mil price hikes based on 10 games or something, let alone An entire season.
          I expect he is probably 10, although I think he should be 9.5

          1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
            • 14 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            Fingers crossed - I genuinely cant see them giving him an 11.0 after only 14 games which is hopefully going to play right into our hands

            The price rise to proper premium 11.0 will come next season imo, so we need to make hay while the sun shines 🙂

            1. have you seen cyan
              • 4 Years
              3 years, 7 months ago

              For sure, he won’t be 11 yet.
              Hoping for 9.5, but certainly 10, I’m sure he is the same Son

              1. have you seen cyan
                • 4 Years
                3 years, 7 months ago

                10.5 is over priced, 11 is a joke. Who would get Bruno for 11 when could have Auba or sterling xD
                Let alone rash or martial who would both be cheaper than Bruno in that case.

                1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
                  • 14 Years
                  3 years, 7 months ago

                  I’m reverse psychologysing FPL Towers into pricing him cheaper than 10.5

                2. Baps hunter
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 6 Years
                  3 years, 7 months ago

                  No point arguing yet.

    7. Goonsquad245
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      11m, 10.5 min. Anything lower and he’s an absolute auto-buy for everyone GW1 which FPL will want to avoid.

      Last season’s price won’t enter into it. FPL have a history of giving big price hikes to previously underpriced assets (Kane, Mahrez, Alli, Sterling) and its about points potential and demand right now, not relative to last season.

      Bruno will be in huge demand (Manchester United talisman in red hot form) and has the points potential to justify 11m for me. Might even outperform that.

      Obviously just an opinion, but for me it will be a joke if he comes in at 10m or lower - he might regress significantly but there’s more chance he just makes a mockery of the price point.

  13. Bun Rab
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    2-0 Perisic G Lewa A i believe.

    1. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Yep.

    2. jtreble
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Emerson caught.

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

    Messi - half man half amazing.

  15. Piggs Boson
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    You can see why Chelsea are after a left back...

    1. goriuanx
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      And a GK, and a CB.

    2. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      I'd like to see Maatsen given a run out. a run out. Still young though but long term I think he'll be the long term back up to Chillwell, Tagliafico or whoever we do sign.

  16. Bun Rab
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    2-1 CHO G Tammy A

    1. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Nope. Ruled out for offside. Sigh.

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

    Neuer should have done better.

  18. goriuanx
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Lampard probably going to cry about that too

    1. amitmishr
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Lampard is excellent at mind games, reminds me of another manager to cry about refree decisions before crunch games.

      He is managing a young and hungry Chelsea team vs the mighty bayern, such up and downs are expected

    2. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Manager of the year contender....joke

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

        especially when the likes of Nuno and Dyche miss out behind him

  19. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Chelsea getting absolutely battered here

    1. Bun Rab
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Men v Boys.

  20. FOO FIGHTER
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Barca destroying Napoli

  21. Bun Rab
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    2-1 Tammy tap in.

  22. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Bad mistake from neur

  23. Digital-Real
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Zorc at Dortmund is just too good at his job.
    Genius!

  24. lilmessipran
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    It would be so typical Barca to throw this away in the second half

    1. UnitedFan
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Hope they do.

  25. Eze Really?
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Are Arsenal fans planning on leaving their shirts indoors?

    1. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      me no understand senor

      1. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Arsenal bosses laying off 55 people and still buying players and paying 10 times that saving on Ozil. Shameful!

        1. SADIO SANÉ
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          I don't think it's shameful, Arsenal don't owe them anything (except redundancy money)

          1. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            Wear the shirt then. Only my opinion and I can assure you of one thing; I am not alone. Not denigrating gooner fans, just the billionaire owners.

  26. diesel001
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Minimum 35 days break for Chelsea before their first PL fixture. More than enough of a break.

    1. Baps hunter
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      I doubt I want any of their players...

      1. Zimo
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        I think he's referring to Lampard complaining that his players need a longer break.

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

          After all the epl clubs, including his own, agreed to a minimum 30 day break. Lamps is already one of the biggest whiners in management

          1. Old Man
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 12 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            He learnt from the master.

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

    Can see a power 5 in mid: Bruno, Kdb, Sterling, Son, Salah, 54m ish.

    1. have you seen cyan
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      More like 56 at least

      1. have you seen cyan
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 7 months ago

        Bruno 10, KDB 12, Sterling 11.5, Son 10, Salah 12.5.
        ?
        Tbh I’m not sure about kdb and salah prices so much. Maybe both 12.5

        1. Baps hunter
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 7 months ago

          Bruno won't be two million cheaper than KdB imho.

          1. Tinkermania
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 7 months ago

            @ BAPS SNIFFER, care to elucidate? You statement can mean he will be less than 2mil cheaper and can also mean he will be more than 2 mil cheaper.

    2. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Panic stations if Auba is a mid 😀

    3. Baps hunter
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Difficult to afford TAA and Robbo + Martial, in that case 😉

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

      Imaging the defence!

    5. theplayer
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      So 46m on the other 10 players? Good luck with that

  28. Bun Rab
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    3-1 Toliso G Lewa A

  29. Bun Rab
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    4-1 Lewa G

  30. SAKA AND EMILE SMITH ROWE
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 7 months ago

    Wonder when the pundits/media will pick up on just how bad Chelsea’s defence is? It’s far far worse than Arsenal’s but suppose it doesn’t fit the narrative...

    1. Greek Freak
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      This. Whenever Arsenal lose or suffer a setback it's just 'typical Arsenal' as per the narrative, but they cut Chelsea and Lampard a lot of slack.

    2. diesel001
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 7 months ago

      Most pundits have been saying Chelsea's defence is not good enough. Other than Azpi, I have seen criticism of the rest and Kepa.

      With Arsenal, the issue is the defence has been poor for years. And nothing has been done about it. Arsenal spent money on Pepe and signed Luiz, when Cahill was available and they could have used the money for a CB and a DM.