Scout Notes

Son scores from the spot as £4.0m FPL defender Johnson struggles in Hammers loss

We round off our coverage of Saturday’s pre-season friendlies with a look at how Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, Leeds United and Leicester City got on in their final warm-up matches before Gameweek 1.

Watford 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur

  • Goal: Son Heung-min (£9.0m)
  • Assist: Erik Lamela (£6.0m)

Son Heung-min (£9.0m) led the line and scored from the spot as Tottenham Hotspur rounded off their pre-season campaign with a defeat at recently relegated Watford.

With Harry Kane (£10.5m) away on international duty, the Korean was again given the nod to spearhead the Lilywhites’ attack in front of an attacking midfield trident of Erik Lamela (£6.0m), Dele Alli (£8.0m) and Lucas Moura (£7.0m) at Vicarage Road.

On paper, it seems that Lamela would be the placeholder for Kane, with Son moving back to the left flank, but the South Korea international has shone in pre-season in a central role and his energetic displays were in sharp contrast to the sluggish performance that Kane turned in for his country at the weekend.

The England striker has mitigating circumstances for his rustiness, of course, having been quarantined following a trip to the Bahamas, and even if half-fit, it’s difficult to see Jose Mourinho omitting him for the visit of Everton this weekend.

Son’s goal from 12 yards came after Lamela had been fouled and with Alli on the pitch, which, even if it is only a meaningless pre-season kickabout, may be an indication that the Korean is next in line in the penalty-taking pecking order whenever Kane is absent.

Alli had caught the eye in his first two pre-season starts, bagging a goal and two assists, but he was unable to replicate that form here, being moved into a deeper central midfield role in the second half as Tanguy Ndombele (£6.0m) was sacrificed for young winger Jack Clarke; Alli’s ball-playing skills perhaps required from deep as the two long-passing centre-backs – Eric Dier (£5.0m) and Toby Alderweireld (£5.5m) – were not on the pitch.

That’s not a position Fantasy managers want to see him in and it likely isn’t the plan long term but with Giovani Lo Celso (£7.0m) not featuring at all in pre-season, Harry Winks (£5.5m) withdrawing from the England squad because of injury and Ndombele locked in a never-ending battle to regain match-fitness, there is a lingering question over who gets the nod alongside midfield anchor Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (£5.0m) in Gameweek 1.

Youngster Dennis Cirkin and Juan Foyth (£4.5m) both got 45 minutes at left-back in the absence of Ben Davies (£5.0m), who was away with Wales, while Serge Aurier (£5.5m) stepped into the void at right-back with Matt Doherty (£6.0m) and Gedson Fernandes (£5.0m) away on international duty.

None of the deputy full-backs turned in particularly convincing displays, with Cirkin giving away a converted penalty and Aurier’s distribution typically erratic, so there was little to worry prospective owners of Doherty and Davies.

Mourinho said after the game:

I would say that those are the positives, players who needed minutes had them, some players played 90 minutes. Also positive was that Watford took it very seriously. I liked that. They competed, they were aggressive, they made the game very hard, those are all positives.In the same way I wasn’t super-enthusiastic after winning three friendlies, wins that don’t give us any points, I’m not sad that we lost this one.

I said to the players at half-time, maybe in the Premier League if we are losing 2-0 at half-time, we have the second half to fight for the result. It was a game to give us minutes and a competitive mentality and I really liked the fact that in the last minute, we are fighting to try to score, and then Sonny makes a 100-metre sprint to stop the 3-1 on the counter-attack. So, overall, it was okay.

*With thanks to TopMarx for his observations

Tottenham Hotspur XI (4-2-3-1): Hart (Gazzaniga 46′); Aurier, Sanchez, Carter-Vickers, Cirkin (Foyth 46′); Ndombele (Clarke 46′), White (Bowden 81′); Lamela, Dele, Lucas; Son.

West Ham United 3-5 Bournemouth

  • Goals: Jarrod Bowen (£6.5m) x2, Felipe Anderson (£6.5m)
  • Assists: Josh Cullen x2, Robert Snodgrass (£6.0m)

A West Ham United side who have kept only two Premier League clean sheets since David Moyes took charge in January were again exposed on Saturday, this time by a team who have just dropped down to the Championship.

The alarm bells were ringing upon the release of the teamsheets as Moyes, without the unavailable and influential Tomas Soucek (£5.0m) and Declan Rice (£5.0m) due to their international commitments, opted to name the attack-minded Manuel Lanzini (£6.5m) and the ageing Mark Noble (£5.0m) in a two-man central midfield.

Noble was overrun and Lanzini lasted all of 32 minutes before limping off but they weren’t the only ones culpable, with the back four unconvincing as ever and back-up goalkeeper David Martin (£4.0m) not doing his future prospects any good.

In a possible blow to managers who were looking for playing defensive bench fodder, Ben Johnson (£4.0m) turned in such a poor performance that he was hooked for Ryan Fredericks (£4.5m) with less than half an hour gone, a withdrawal that can’t have done the youngster’s confidence any good.

The return of Rice especially (providing he isn’t sold) will add much-needed protection to the back four but the Hammers haven’t recorded a single shut-out in pre-season and, given the fixtures that are to come, few Fantasy managers will be interested anyway.

Goals at the other end have been flowing at least, with Jarrod Bowen (£6.5m) continuing his fine form with a brace on Saturday – both strikes being set up by Josh Cullen.

Encouragingly, Bowen was loitering around the six-yard box for each one and he took his tally to four goals in three warm-up matches with that double at the weekend.

Felipe Anderson (£6.5m) added a late consolation with a header from fellow substitute Robert Snodgrass‘s (£6.0m) corner.

Michail Antonio (£6.5m) didn’t get on the scoresheet, however, and one of the form FPL players of the post-restart era rounded off pre-season without a goal to his name.

Antonio was paired up front with Sebastien Haller (£6.5m) as Moyes plumped for a 4-4-2 but the recently reclassified forward saw little joy against the Cherries, eventually being replaced just after the hour mark.

West Ham United XI (4-4-2): Martin; Johnson (Fredericks 26), Diop, Ogbonna (Balbuena 63), Cresswell; Bowen (Masuaku 63), Noble (Wilshere 63), Lanzini (Cullen 32), Fornals (Snodgrass 82); Antonio (Felipe Anderson 63), Haller (Xande Silva 82).


Leeds United 3-1 Pacos de Ferreira

  • Goals: Pascal Struijk (£4.0m), Pablo Hernandez (£6.0m), Helder Costa (£5.5m) 
  • Assists: Barry Douglas (£4.0m), Patrick Bamford (£5.5m) x2

With at least half a dozen possible/probable starters away on international duty, including new signings Robin Koch (£4.5m) and Rodrigo (£6.0m), a patched-up Leeds United side saw off Portuguese outfit Pacos de Ferreira in their final warm-up match before Gameweek 1.

Two budget FPL defenders combined for the Whites’ opening strike, with Barry Douglas‘ (£4.0m) free-kick being nodded in by the ‘out of position’ (at least, in Fantasy terms) Pascal Struijk (£4.0m) two minutes after the visitors had gone in front.

Patrick Bamford (£5.5m) went on to claim a brace of assists after the break, first teeing up Pablo Hernandez (£6.0m) for a net-busting strike from distance and then providing a lofted through-ball for substitute Helder Costa (£5.5m) to convert.

The fluid 4-1-4-1/3-3-1-3 Bielsa set-up was again in evidence, with the hosts putting in an improved display after the interval and Hernandez looking more effective when moving into a central role from his original position on the right.

Douglas may well get the nod in Gameweek 1 if Bielsa opts to use Luke Ayling (£4.5m) at centre-half over new recruit Koch, although the longer-term prospects don’t look quite so positive for the bargain-bin defender.

Few will be wanting him to be anything other than emergency bench fodder this weekend anyway, given that reigning champions Liverpool are providing the opposition.

Leeds United XI (4-1-4-1/3-3-1-3): Casilla; Douglas, Ayling, Casey, Davis; Struijk; Hernandez (Gotts 73′), Shackleton, Roberts (Costa 45′), Harrison (Poveda 70′); Bamford (Cresswell 88′).

Leicester City 1-1 Blackburn Rovers

  • Goal: Daniel Amartey (£4.0m)
  • Assist: None

An under-strength Leicester City side drew their final warm-up match against Blackburn Rovers at the weekend, with only a handful of first-teamers featuring.

Harvey Barnes (£7.0m) and Demarai Gray (£5.5m) flanked Jamie Vardy (£10.0m) in a strong-ish looking three-man attack but there was little to report from the long-serving striker, who forced an early save from distance and then took one of his trademark tumbles in the opposition box without reward.

Ayoze Perez (£6.5m) chalked up his first pre-season minutes as a substitute but there was again no James Maddison (£7.0m), who looks to be a major doubt for Gameweek 1 given that he was only training in the ‘rehab gang’ with fellow absentee Ricardo Pereira (£6.0m) last week.

Daniel Amartey (£4.0m) made his return after a lengthy period on the sidelines, nodding home the Foxes’ only goal from a corner following a goalkeeping howler.

Wilfred Ndidi (£5.0m) was deployed as a centre-half for this one and it’ll be interesting to see if he is again given the nod alongside Caglar Soyuncu (£5.5m) in Gameweek 1, with Jonny Evans (£5.5m) suspended and Wes Morgan (£4.5m) nursing an injury – although Filip Benkovic (£4.5m) is a more natural fit and James Justin (£4.5m) could potentially deputise.

Brendan Rodgers has favoured a back four in pre-season over the wing-back system he ended 2019/20 with, although the knowledge that Evans will be suspended for Gameweeks 1-3 has perhaps forced the Leicester manager’s hand, given the lack of options at centre-half.

Leicester City XI (4-3-3): Stolarczyk; Daley-Campbell (Leshabela 84′), Ndidi (Amartey 62′), Knight (Johnson 62′), Thomas; Mendy, Choudhury, Dewsbury-Hall; Gray (Perez 71′), Vardy (Iheanacho 75′), Barnes (Albrighton 71′).

Best players by position:

2,395 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Vazza
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    VVD or Doherty for the season?

    1. Kloppcorn
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      VVD

    2. Kloppcorn
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Plays for a better defence, and less question marks against him

      1. Vazza
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Thanks - does your opinion remain the same if the question is changed to VVD or Doherty for the first four GWs.

        Liverpool have more difficult fixtures whilst Spurs have a fixtures congestion..

        1. Kloppcorn
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          If you already have trent then Doherty first 4, Liverpool have two tough fixtures with Chelsea and Arsenal and spurs have good fixtures, although I’d still want 1 pool defender regardless of fixtures

          1. Vazza
            • 3 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Ok, that’s great. Thanks

            1. Kloppcorn
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 9 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              Any other questions, I’m happy to help

    3. Blunder fc
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Laporte > vvd >doherty

      1. Kloppcorn
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        City conceded more goals last season with Laporte playing than Liverpool did

        1. Blunder fc
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          For the 0.5 m less he's better value (will get 180 pointsish) also when he gets rotates he doesnt come on so you get point off the bench which is on top of that. Both are better than doherty as spurs wont keep as many clean sheets as wolves and in a 442 he wont be able to attack as much

          1. Kloppcorn
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 9 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Interesting VVD just had unreal potential at set pieces though could score far more than he already does, could easily start grabbing more goals

    4. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      depends who of TAA/Robbo you own tbh, personally I think Doherty is a better option but would I own either of them for a season or even be thinking about the full season atm? probably not.

    5. FantasyHero
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      doherty likely won't play 1st gw right? no preseason games or training yet

  2. Pep Roulette
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Hey fam! Thoughts on this team?

    McCarthy
    TAA Robbo Mitchell (Maguire Johnson)
    Salah(C) Auba Son Havertz ASM
    Adams Mitrovic (Davis)

    Cheers!

    1. Vazza
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I’m not a great fan having two 4.0m defenders personally.. And your front line is a bit light..

    2. AD105
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Pretty solid on the whole!

      Would downgrade Robbo for now until Pool fixtures improve, TAA is enough to start with

      Not keen on Maguire

      Would maybe downgrade Havertz for now until we get a better look at him, also no guarantees he’ll start GW1 (Son to Havertz further down the line is an easy transfer)

      Need to invest more up front - Werner, Ings, Kane, Vardy look good to start with, plus Martial from GW2

    3. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      agreed with Vazza, front line does look a bit week and wouldn't be able to move to a premium in 1 move which does lack flexibility. Maguire is a bold choice, depends how highly you rate united defence i guess but personally he's not for me, i'd even have Wan-Bissaka over him for the same price if u want a united defender.

      Outside of that do like the TAA + Robbo double up and midfield is very strong, would be worried about ur bench though its very very light.

      1. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        weak* oops

    4. Tony Moon
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Not well balanced at all, sorry.

    5. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Arise, Sir Pep Roulette!

  3. olly:)
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    thoughts on this bunch then?

    McCarthy
    TAA Robbo Saiss Dallas
    Auba(c) Alli Soucek
    Vardy DCL Adams

    Peacock-Farrell Reed Rashford C.Taylor

    £1.0 ITB

    Soucek 12th man, placeholds for rashford GW1. Dallas C.Taylor can fill in as 4th defenders with TAA, Robbo starting every week and Saiss starting majority. Don't want Salah as imo Auba is the best captain for week 1/2, can't bring myself to own Salah without a want to put the armband on him. No Chelsea I know but would rather sit until after GW2, Alli can easily become any mid with money ITB or Vardy could become Werner.

    1. Tony Moon
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Different but decent. Keep an eye on Soucek, might still be isolating and miss GW1.

      1. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        yup, got my eye on that for sure. If he isn't gonna make it will probs go for Ceballos (obviously if he looks likely to start) then obviously if that isn't the case i'll give it another look. Cheers.

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

    Anybody with any questions, I’m Happy to give my opinion

    1. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I will answer also, got some time to chill on FFS

      1. Kloppcorn
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Same here mate, just wanna talk football rather than rate teams

        1. Vazza
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          And me..

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

      It feels like Chelsea’s new first choice players are most suited to a 4-2-3-1. Do you think that will mean Jorginho and Kante will play in a double pivot? Or will Havertz play centrally on a 4-3-3?

      1. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        depends what Lampard wants to play really, we've seen him play with wing backs last year etc. I do think that when all fit they will look to have a front 6 of :

        Kante Kova
        Ziyech Havertz Pulisic
        Werner

        but obviously we know Frank and know loves to rotate and probably will also look to change systems depending on the opposition. I wouldn't be shocked to see Kai play deeper in a 4-3-3, outwide or even up-top for example. All we know is that he has a lot of quality players to choose from, even his beloved Mount misses out in this case.

        1. FPL_Crisis
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          I think they'll become City 2.0 with the rotations and will be pretty frustrating

      2. Kloppcorn
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        I think possibly Kovacic and kante in a double pivot

    3. Vazza
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Are Man U likely to be as free scoring as they were during project restart. They’ve hardly had any preseason, which is worrying..

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

        No

      2. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        I think so, well maybe not as free scoring but I certainly think they are likely to be one of the highest scoring teams come the end of the season. They just have such a dangerous front 5 or so players I can't see why that wouldn't be the case (barring mass injuries ofc.)

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

        I think united will continue to score a lot if their players remain fit, plus not many teams have had a proper pre season, they’ve had a smaller break because of Europe and a lot have played international minutes

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

      What kind of minutes do you expect Ampadou to get at Sheffield?

      1. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        definitely can't see him being a starter, at least not early on in the season. Wilder likes his players to fit his system similarly to Nuno so I do think that it will take him a while to get his role set etc. I do rate Ampadu but he did struggle to break into the Leipzig team last season and hasn't had much gametime, he'll most likely be more of a backup centreback for a fairly decent period imo.

        1. The Suspended One
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          May get some time in Def mf also

    5. Bibidh Subedi
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      What do you think Zaha's influence going to be in this Palace team?

      1. Vazza
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        He is a very streaky player..

      2. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        I definitely wouldn't be looking to start with Zaha, Palace won't score many and were extremely poor at the end of last season. I do think he's a quality player but seems like he can't be bothered atm? I mean he is surrounded by a lot of, in truth, crap and although I don't doubt his ability to win games for them on his own and score a couple of goals, for 7.0 I would want him to be in a team that's more free scoring than Palace.

    6. Vazza
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Anyone else with Doherty extremely tempted to find 1.0m to get to Robbo?

      1. Kloppcorn
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        If I had Doherty I would deffo look for the switch, I think robbo will play a lot more advanced than Doherty will in a superior defence, I’m just waiting till after the arsenal game

    7. Vazza
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      James Rodriguez’s likely price?

      1. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        7.5 / 8.0 imo, has problems with injuries but a quality player if can stay fit. Surely gotta be priced cheaper than Havertz so one of those two prices seem fair. Ideally 7.5 as more will be interested there but we will see 🙂

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

          8 mil is going to be a tough bracket for him. There are certainly more proven options already available

    8. KUN_DE_BRU_YNE
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Whom do u prefer
      Che adams + soucek or, armstrong + ASM

      Its my greatest dilemma atm !!!

      1. Kloppcorn
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        I’d say the second two if their both going to start the fist if only one is starting

    9. golden skulltula 69
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Hi! How does it look?

      McCarthy Nyland
      TAA Doherty Justin Taylor Mitchell
      Salah Aubameyang Son ASM Bissouma
      Werner Mitrovic Adams

      £0.5 itb

    10. Sanchit
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Which Chelsea midfielder would you go for?

  5. Chelsea91
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Team looking good?

    Mc Carthy
    Taa,Coady,Davies,Kwp
    Salah,Auba,Jwp,Traore
    Mitro,Werner

    Nyland Mithcell,Mc Carthy,Martial

    0ITB

    1. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Double SOU def is bold, you also have a triple up so if it comes to wanting Ings / Adams you cannot get them in 1 move. Traore is also most likely to be technically reverse OOP as I think he'll play RWB (unless they sign someone), I personally wouldn't pay 6.5 for a wolves wing back as a mid in FPL. Outside of that you have Martial already waiting to come in for GW2 which i like and your core of TAA, Salah, Auba, Werner is solid.

      1. Chelsea91
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        thanks mate , maybe will go for ASM/Traore and upgrade defend.

  6. Gabbiadini
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Anyone else with Alli extremely tempted to find 1.0 to get to Son?

    1. Vazza
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I don’t have Alli but would be tempted to find 1.0 to upgrade to Son.. He is sonsational..

    2. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      not really, will need to see more of Son to convince me and the fact that last season when Alli + Son + Kane all started together, Alli scored the most points makes me happy with him + 1.0 over Son.

      1. Gabbiadini
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Son's preseason is definitely noteworthy.

        1. Tony Moon
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          True but he's playing up front. Will be back on the wing once Kane returns.

          1. olly:)
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            +1

        2. Aubamazette
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Not necessarily he’s been playing upfront through out pre season a big factor why he’s been among goals, he won’t be playing there come Gw1

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

      no happy to start with Alli, it's more the opportunity to move to Haevertz/Pulisic so possibly keep 0.5m itb

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

      I've really gone off Alli. Rather than upgrade to Son, I'd rather downgrade to Mount as a placeholder for Pulisic or possibly Ziyech/Harvetz - whoever is the best option when fit.

  7. Vazza
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Anyone else with Doherty extremely tempted to find 1.0 to get to Robbo?

    1. Phil's Stamps
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      VVD better value, so you only need 0.5.

  8. tom66
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Looking at WK 1 fixtures only, what are your thoughts on Bowen and Ayew? Thanks

    1. Vazza
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      No thanks

    2. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      don't mind Bowen but why are u looking at one week only? his fixtures are so poor after that.

      wouldn't touch Ayew at all.

      1. Gabbiadini
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        placeholder obviously... yes I like Bowen as a GW1 pick.

        1. olly:)
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          placeholder for what? why would u need a 6.5 midfielder to placehold unless its for Foden i guess...

          1. Gabbiadini
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Because Auba/Salah to KDB and Fernandes give you 2.0 so then Bowen can become a Chelsea midfielder at 8.5

    3. KUN_DE_BRU_YNE
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Bowen only as a placeholder

  9. FPL Bond @ Twitter
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    What disciplinary action will Foden and Greenwood face?

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

      Sent to their rooms by their mothers with no supper.

    2. vsberlina
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm guessing they could be isolated for two weeks. They weren't close contacts of a known positive, but with so much at stake, precautions will need to be taken to keep them away from team members.

  10. lilmessipran
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Is C Taylor for Burnley nailed on? Or is he one bad game away from being benched for Pieters?

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I think he is nailed but not sure why people are starting with him, I'd be grabbing him GW4.

    2. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Both played last season didn't they as Pieters can play both sides? got no reason to believe he isn't nailed as of right now, he's in my team.

      1. Gabbiadini
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Why not trade to him in GW4 and have someone who will get points in the first 3 weeks?

        1. Punter
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Like who? Already have KWP

          1. Gabbiadini
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Justin the best 4.5 atm.

            1. Punter
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 8 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              Even after castagne?

            2. golden skulltula 69
              • 8 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              Could Justin lose his place with Castagne?

        2. olly:)
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          because id be happy to play him in 3 and 4 (even 2 honestly) and ideally don't want to use up many of my transfers in moving defenders around, especially 4.5 ones. 4.5 Burnley defender is gold while dyche remains in charge

    3. KUN_DE_BRU_YNE
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Nailed

  11. KUN_DE_BRU_YNE
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Choose one:
    A) che adams + Soucek(3-4-3)
    0r,
    B) Armstrong + ASM (3-5-2)

    1. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      B) if necessary as wouldn't want to start Soucek every week. Neither ideally if i'm being honest.

      1. Aubamazette
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        ^^

  12. Flair
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Reports saying Wolves are close to signing Alex Telles... would be straight in my team if that happened!

    1. leo_messi
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      already prepared 5.5 for him...Boly as a placeholder

      1. Flair
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        5.5 would be a blessing

      2. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Think he's gonna be 6.0 based off pedigree, would i have him then? probably not. Even at 5.5 is a stretch when most of his attacking returns come through set pieces which he likely won't gain.

        1. Gabbiadini
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          I think at 5.5 I'll grab him, especially after GW2.
          6.0 would be too much for me to see viable

        2. Flair
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          I'd have no issues punting at 6, with those fixtures and his ability at wingback CS and returns should be aplenty

    2. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Marçal seems like a strange signing if this is the case.

      1. olly:)
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        he can play LCB too, was playing there for Lyon even in later rounds of UCL

        1. Gabbiadini
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          that makes more sense.

  13. Totalfootball
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Guys , is issa diop a starter ?
    Looking for a cheap defender

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      He was 4.5 last year and only produced 76 points.

      1. Totalfootball
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        What about Saliba ?

        1. Gabbiadini
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          starting spot is unknown.

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

      Did you read the report above? The state of Hammers defence.

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

      West Ham back-line is in shambles.

  14. Balls of Steel
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    A) Jiminez and Armstrong
    Or
    B) Ings and Saint-Maximin

    Cheers guys

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Ings & Armstrong will score the most points.

  15. Totalfootball
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Can anyone please tell me if Saliba is a GW1 starter ?

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

      No one, not even Arteta.

    2. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      seems like no one really knows, best to wait for Arteta presser and see if that gives any ideas. I'm sure people would be racing to get him in if he looks likely to start.

  16. Gabbiadini
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Who do people now see as the 2nd best 4.0 option behind Mitchell?

    1. olly:)
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      depends if you need them to start week 1 as a placeholder for a blank bench player or not, Ferguson is probably the best long-term if you can afford to wait for him to recover from injury

      1. Gabbiadini
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Yes, that is an option.
        Although ideally, you want to pick a starting 4.0 alongside Mitchell if there is one.

        1. olly:)
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          don't think there is one, maybe Buur at wolves if they don't sign a right wing back but im sure Traore would be preferred there. Wouldn't go near Johnson at west ham even if he looks like starting they are a shambles. Team lacks balance if you are in need of 2x starting 4.0s imo

          1. Gabbiadini
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            With Mitchell playing that's a rotating bench option, don't see why you'd need another in a 3ATB.

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

              I've got 3 nailed on premium defenders at the back. I'd have 2x4m benchies if I knew they'd start due to unforeseen rest/rotation in my squad.

              1. MrZ
                • 9 Years
                3 years, 6 months ago

                Think you should have playing bench, covid can hit anyone

    2. MrZ
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm lining douglas as my 2nd 4.0...

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

        I see Douglas and Struijk played the friendlies, but I need some authoritative source to state one or both are highly likely to be first choice. And not just for GW1 v Liverpool!

  17. olly:)
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    I'm seeing a lot of 'VVD better value than Robbo' shouts about recently, someone care to explain why? don't see it personally.

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      3 points between them last year and .5 difference.

      1. MGMT
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        And 300 less minutes played...

    2. Flair
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      They say he'll get around the same points for .5 lower

      Personally doubt that'll be the case this year

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

        They'll both be better value than any 6.5/7m midfielder or forward.

        1. Flair
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Not really the comparison I'd be making, and I meant that Robbo should increase his points tally.

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

            Yeh, we're approaching from different angles. But on your point, I've noted that VVD is now coming up for every set piece into the box and I can see him getting a fair few with his nut. If Liverpool are fully motivated, I can see all 3 scoring more highly this year, hence I have them all.

            1. Flair
              • 3 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              I need to see improvement from them before I triple or even double up on their assets defensively, the leakiness they've shown since Watford. Robbo+TAA+VVD(?) on GW10 WC with those fixtures sounds very appealing on paper.

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

      there's also the argument you can get Robbo for 0.5m cheaper than Trent
      Both players ~400 fantasy points the last 2 seasons combined

  18. seewhyaxe
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    if Fraser/Wilson could recapture his form 2 seasons ago...

  19. olidooley
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Hey guys....Hows it shaping up?

    Johnstone Button
    TAA Robertson KWP Lamptey Mitchell
    Salah Auba Havertz ASM Bissouma
    Werner Mitrovic Adams

  20. European Bob
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Best 4.5 mid?

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Gordon if he features at LW.

    2. MrZ
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Only bissouma so far, nailed & have attacking prospect. Rest are rotation risk or no attacking prospect

  21. FPL_Crisis
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Is McCarthy Armstrong Ings too much Saints for the first 5/6 GWs?

    1. MillsAU
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm on KWP Armstrong Adams and asking myself the same question.

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

      Individually, they are all the best options at their price points. I don't care about cover, I prefer points. So for me, it would be fine.

      1. FPL_Crisis
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        cheers Andy

    3. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      nope got the exact same 3, lock the in.

      1. Gabbiadini
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        them*

  22. ZAWAd25
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Mitrovic or Che Adams?

    1. olidooley
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I’m sticking both in with a plan to upgrade the best one to Martial

    2. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Che but I'm not a fan of the cheap striker.

  23. steven8991
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    got headache to decide which 5.0m defender to get.
    A. Egan
    B. Davies
    C. Bellerin
    D. AMN
    E. Zouma
    F. get 4.5m defenders instead and upgrade elsewhere

    McCarthy Nyland
    TAA KWP 5.0m (4.5m 4.0m)
    Mane Auba Son JWP ASM
    Werner Mitrovic (Davis)

    1.5m ITB to change Son>Bruno in GW2

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

      For how long?

      Egan for the first 5 GWs, then he hits a wall. Davies for the longer term. I've noticed that in the few weeks you wouldn't want to start Davies, Taylor has great fixtures, so a Davies/Taylor combo would work for me.

      1. Flair
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Don't have any issues with starting Davies against Everton, Newcastle and Southampton personally

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

          Me neither - I just mean Egan's first 3 are a tad easier.

      2. FPL_Crisis
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Agree with Egan
        Actually got Robbo Davies Egan Taylor right now in my squad but might be too heavy

    2. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I probably like Davies best just because I think Sheffield Utd decline slightly this year.
      Monitor 5.5s

  24. Alister
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    A. Zaha and DCL
    B. ASM and Ings

    ?

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      B but Armstrong if you don't have him.

  25. Gabbiadini
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    my thoughts on how Leeds def could look GW1... Dallas | Ayling | Cooper | Douglas, anyone got an opinion on this?

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      un-fpl related by I don't see the hype of people that think Leeds will finish 12th or higher.

      1. MrZ
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        I feel that they can finish in top 10

        1. Gabbiadini
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          I can't see them finishing above any of...
          Liverpool, City, Chelsea, United, Arsenal, Spurs, Wolves, Leicester, Southampton, Everton, Burnley & Sheffield United.

          1. MrZ
            • 9 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            I can't see them finishing above any of...
            Liverpool, City, Chelsea, United, Wolves & Sheffield United.

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

            Results-wise it wouldn't surprise me if they finish very similar to Sheff United last season, together with tailing off at the end of the season.

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

        I'm VERY excited to see a Bielsa side in action. I see them finishing mid-table but their opening fixtures make them a wait-n-see for me. However, if a 4m defender was definitely nailed (and not just for GW1), I'd be very interested. So if Douglas is just a stand in for Koch and faces Liverpool, I'd pass.

        1. Gabbiadini
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Koch to CB, Dallas to LB and Ayling to RB, is that how you would see it?

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

            Yeh, that would be my assumption, but I'm not a Leeds-watcher (yet).

          2. MrZ
            • 9 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Don't forget josko... But the ideal lineup should be this one

  26. jaguar shark
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Any strong feelings on whether Brewster will go on loan?

    1. Flair
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Unlikely, I wouldn't hold out hope

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

        🙁

        1. Gabbiadini
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          still the best 4.5 option there is though.

          1. Flair
            • 3 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Extremely low bar

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

      Villa are pressing hard, Blades and Palace are still trying. If it happens it'll likely be post-GW1. I can see him doing a Commie Shield, coming on in the 90th min v Leeds and blazing an open goal over the bar, and Klopp making his decision!

      1. Gabbiadini
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        The thing that restricts things is that if Liverpool chooses to loan him it will only be to a prem club, however, it doesn't allow them to send him out for just half a season like they were able to do to Swansea in the championship.

  27. Gabbiadini
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    I feel like if Telles to Wolves is to be correct he comes in at 5.5, the same price Cancelo came in last year.

    1. Flair
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Sounds like a bargain

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

      With so much last-minute reorganisation, I wouldn't have any Wolves in my GW1 squad (had 3 last year) - not even Jimenez. I'll wait.

      1. Gabbiadini
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        My intention would be Justin to Telles in GW3/4, which is around the time Pereira is expected to return.
        Wolves fixtures are superb after GW2.

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

          That sounds a good plan. By then you'll know if Wolves are still operating like a well-oiled machine or not.

  28. FantasyHero
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Kane and mitro
    Or
    Jimmy and ings

    1. Flair
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Kane and Adams

  29. lugs
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    with Evans suspended until gw 4, who will partner Soyuncu in the Leicester defense, Benkovic ?

    1. Gabbiadini
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      yes unless they sign someone.

    2. MrZ
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      From this article, ndidi

    3. lugs
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Meh @ Ndidi, Benkovic would have been interesting as he's a giant that can score a goal, but there is enough uncertainty to make it a wait and see, cheers both

  30. Lav
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Late night FPL thinkering is killing me. Switched Son to Alli today and want to go back. Contemplating a defense of TAA + three 4.5s and a 4.0, and a downgrade to Mitro to find that 1m. Brutal stuff.