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The best hidden gems to consider for your FPL Draft team this season

The key to success in any draft version of Fantasy Football is to find some reliable options outside the thinking of your rivals.

One of the main differences to appreciate between this edition of the game and the standard Fantasy Premier League affair is that you are looking, ideally, to acquire a team of season-keepers at the draft or auction. You simply do not have the luxury of assuming that all players remain at your permanent disposal to jump from one bandwagon to another and/or play the fixtures. 

That isn’t to say that you can’t do the latter, but it’s a strategy that will leave you at the mercy of other managers. Remember that a dropped player can very quickly find their way into one of your opponents’ teams, with no means of prising them back.

Once you have understood the fundamental nature of FPL Draft, or its auction-based counterpart Fantasy League (FL), it makes planning a great deal easier. In FPL, you can always adopt a ‘wait and see’ strategy, in the knowledge that the worst outcome is that you miss out on one big haul and have to pay marginally more to bring a player in.

FPL Draft and FL are all about identifying those hidden gems (or not so hidden, given that I see FPL people talking about ‘waiting and seeing’ with the likes of Werner and Havertz!) and putting your instincts on the line at the outset. 

So who are my own ‘under the radar’ players (relatively-speaking) whom I think will produce over the full season? I have identified three players from each positional category barring goalkeepers as, given the vast differences between scoring for goalkeepers in FL and FPL, as identified in my article last season.

How Liverpool's defensive assets compare after their FPL price changes

The defender category is, generally speaking, the hardest place to find hidden gems ahead of a new season as it’s rare that an Andrew Robertson or Trent Alexander-Arnold will appear almost out of nowhere. Very often it is about finding the teams which no one expected to keep clean sheets but which are suddenly more watertight than before. 

For example, during last summer’s FFS FL auction, we all laughed at Neale (SkontoRigga) when he picked up Jack O’Connell from newly-promoted Sheffield United. Did he not realise that the Blades were set to be Premier League whipping boys? Well, we all know what happened next and it is to Neale’s immense credit that he didn’t rub our noses in it every single week. 

So who do I think will be this season’s surprise defensive packages? While in past seasons there would have been nothing revolutionary about saying Spurs and Manchester United, a quick look at their defensive records last season will reveal that Spurs had a season-long shocker and even though United managed 13 clean sheets in total, only three of them came in the first half of the season. 

However, this is going to be Mourinho’s first full season at Spurs and I would expect him to tighten up at the back considerably, and with United, I suspect that attack will continue to be the best form of defence and, provided they continue their post-lockdown form, we should see a lot more consistent clean sheets from them.  

Eric Dier/Toby Alderweireld

Can we trust Spurs' FPL defenders with appealing fixtures this season?

The Spurs centre-back pairing of Alderweireld and Dier is pretty tempting and very much overlooked judging by 2.4% and 1.4% ownership respectively in FPL. 

Yes, I know that Doherty, Aurier and Ben Davies are the more obvious choices but this is about finding players that others aren’t likely to want in FL or Draft FPL, meaning that you get them on the cheap or late in the draft without having to waste an early-round pick. 

Alderweireld, in particular, is a decent goal threat from set-pieces and no Spurs player had more headed attempts than him last season; in fact, he had almost double the next best (Moura, and not Kane, surprisingly).

Luke Shaw

Similar to Spurs, United’s first choice centre-backs are not well-owned, indicating that they could also be cheap/late acquisitions, but it’s Luke Shaw that could be the forgotten gem here (1.2% ownership in FPL). 

Don’t forget that he missed a large chunk of last season with injury but, fully fit and on song, he’s a significant attacking threat with his love of getting forward and putting in crosses. 

Expect him, if he stays fit, to surpass by a good margin his 67 and 18 points in FPL and FL respectively from 2019/20.

Bruno Fernandes

Unchanged line-ups for Man United and Southampton as  FPL bosses eye Fernandes

Now I appreciate that there’s nothing innovative or hidden about Bruno Fernandes, at least not since he landed on these shores in January and set the Premier League alight with his incredible skills. 

I’m not a Manchester United fan but he was an absolute delight to watch and, more importantly in the context of Fantasy Football, a genuine points machine. 

Aggregated up to a full season, he would have been the top scorer in both FL and FPL. It’s for that reason that he is my number one pick out of all players in any position for the new season and I would be more than willing to forgo Salah, Kevin De Bruyne, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang or Raheem Sterling in my draft pick to get him. 

Of course, in FL, you could probably get at least four out of the five but it would leave you with seriously depleted funds and the rest of your squad may not look too clever, but you could certainly look forward to watching Liverpool, City, United, Arsenal playing every week.

Jarrod Bowen

Bowen is the next of my January midfield signings and whilst, coincidentally, it is interesting to note a general theme I have observed over many years of playing Fantasy Football that the psychology of numbers means that a lot of managers only look at the absolute figure rather than considering their context. 

What I mean by that, per my Bruno example, is that the season-long figure may not have come from a full season and, all points were acquired over the space of less than half a season. 

However, some people in your draft or auction mini-league will only look at the total points and disregard the lower-scoring players. 

I appreciate that for the majority, if not all, of those reading this article, I’m largely preaching to the converted, but it explains why these players can often be picked up on the cheap in FL, or acquired quite late into an FPL draft.

Last season in FPL, Bowen scored a measly 44 points and just 11 in FL, but a quick look at the underlying statistics tell you the whole story. 

The former Hull City man had a minutes per expected goal involvement (xGI) figure of 186 (courtesy of the FFS Premium Members’ Area), which is the same territory as Phil Foden, Willian and Harvey Barnes. 

Unlike the latter two, he didn’t have the benefit of playing a full season in a familiar league but, before signing with West Ham, he’d already scored 16 goals in 29 appearances for Hull in the Championship. 

Bowen is no slouch and his pre-season form suggests that he could be about to replicate his Hull City form for West Ham. 

I keep reading that the Hammers don’t score many goals yet they were 10th best in the league in that department last season (and only three goals behind eighth-placed Wolves) and I need only remind you of Michail Antonio’s form during last season’s run-in to show you what a West Ham player is capable of doing. As a result of that form, a lot of the attention will be on the forward this season, but Bowen could quietly tick along too.

Takumi Minamino

Minamino is my cheeky punt to emerge from the Anfield woodwork and take the Premier League by storm this season. 

Liverpool haven’t changed formation since Coutinho left, with Klopp sticking rigidly to his preferred 4-3-3, but I wouldn’t be overly surprised if that becomes more of a 4-2-1-3 or 4-2-3-1, with Minamino sitting either in the middle or on the flanks (considering we know Salah, Mané and Firmino can all play number 10 or centre-forward).

He took time to find his feet but a January signing rarely hits the ground running (I can think of very few examples over the years, with Bruno being far more the exception than the rule), and a goal in the Community Shield.

He followed that up with a standout performance against Blackpool in last week’s pre-season friendly, suggesting he is ready to show the league why Liverpool bought him in from FC Salzburg. 

I also don’t want to tempt fate for Liverpool fans, nor wish injury on any player, but Liverpool have been incredibly lucky with no long-term absences to any of their front three in recent seasons, and surely the law of averages suggests that one of them is going to face some time out at some point. More so than Origi, I can see Minamino coming in to replace any one of them should the need arise.

Neal Maupay

I can see the supply to Brighton’s forwards being much improved this coming season and Maupay, as the first-choice striker, should be the principal beneficiary of this. 

Adam Lallana is the sort of player that will stand out at Brighton, as he did at Southampton, and Leandro Trossard having had a full season under his belt, should be another source of assists for Maupay. 

Last season, the former Brentford man underperformed on his expected goals (xG) by more than three (he scored 10 in total) and so I would see his xG both increasing and a reduction in the delta between xG and actual goals resulting in more points this time out.

Che Adams

A season in the shadow of Danny Ings has meant that it’s easy to forget that Adams started last season as Southampton’s first-choice striker after his move from Birmingham City where, in the 18/19 season, he scored 22 Championship goals. 

It took him a while to find his feet and losing his place to Ings won’t have helped his confidence or adjustment to the new league. 

However, he ended the season in a good run of form and while just four goals (against an xG of just over five goals) is hardly something about which to get overly excited, I think he could be one of the league’s surprise packages this season. Do I expect him to surpass Ings? No, but then I’d expect to pay a fraction of what Ings will cost (and represent better value for money) or get him later in a draft.

Jay Rodriguez

I fully expect Rodriguez to start this season as one of the two first-choice strikers for Burnley, even when Ashley Barnes returns from injury. 

In my mind, Wood and Barnes are so similar that it makes little sense to play them both as a matter of course when there’s a striker with the guile of Rodriguez who can give them something different. 

He only scored eight Premier League goals last season but 16 of his 36 appearances were from the subs bench. This is my one pick which is fewer stats based and more gut instinct but Rodriguez is a player I’ve always liked and, if I can find the room, would want in my team this coming season.

Best players by position:

Clouseau Serious (for which you can read \'stressy\') fantasy football fan. Have been playing the auction-based version with its unique squads (fantasyleague.com) for over 20 years but more recently branched out into FPL. Follow me on Twitter @FFSClouseau

813 Comments Post a Comment
  1. AD105
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    ASM or Saka as a playing 4th mid? Seen Saka in a lot of teams this morning

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

      ASM. Saka isn't nailed

    2. I Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm on Saka but not decided yet. I know he isn't nailed but get the feeling Arteta likes him and think he'll start GW1.

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

        I too think he will start. The question though is where? If he's playing LB or CM he's no good. He'll need to be on RW or maybe LW with Auba center in order for him to actually get something.

        1. I Member
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Think he'll be RW. Saka, Nketiah, Auba front 3 GW1 with Willian being eased in.

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

    Any helps?

    McCarthy (Button)
    TAA - Davies - Coady - Egan (4.0)
    Salah - Auba - Alli - ASM (Bissouma)
    Werner - Ings (4.5)

    Plan would be:

    GW2 Salah and Ings > Bruno and Martial for a hit -4
    GW3 Auba > Sterling or KdB
    GW4 Alli > Chelsea mid.

    How that looks? Dont like a hits but could see that Martial and Bruno will pay it back.
    Also could see both of them price rise before GW2.

    1. I Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Nice team.

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

        Thanks.
        Im tempted to play WC GW3 but probably will save it later if they postponed games..

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

      Thinking of doing something similiar but with Havertz from the start to save a transfer

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

        I think one Chelsea is enough, they have Liverpool GW2.

  3. The Train Driver
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    What will be the high scoring game of gw1? I'm betting on New - WH

    Goalless? Spurs - Everton is my bet...

    1. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Fulham Arsenal or Liverpool Leeds I reckon
      Sheff U - Wolves goalless

    2. The Sarjeant
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Brighton v Chelsea highest scoring.
      Sheffield v Wolves goalless.

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

        In My Superbru predictions, I've got Arsenal 3-0 and Blades/Wolves 0-0.

        Overall i think it will be a very low-scoring week, with players not sufficiently match-fit.

    3. Y26 Royal
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Fulham - Arsenal for high scoring.
      Palace - Southampton for goaless.

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

      Brighton chelsea cos both can't defend

    5. Sune
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      LIV - LEE
      SHU - WOL

  4. Milk, 1 Šuker
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Pereira or Armstrong over Alli? Already have Ings. Don't want to triple up, so thinking Jimenez instead of Ings. What do you all think?

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

      Would say Ings is the best option there, so take Pereira.

      1. Milk, 1 Šuker
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        That'd mean getting rid or benching Justin

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

          Don't really understand how Justin falls into this, but for me he wouldn't be that much of a deal-breaker.

  5. Y26 Royal
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Any thoughts on this draft?

    Ryan
    TAA, Doherty, KWP, Coady
    Auba, Salah, Son, Havertz
    DCL, Wilson
    (Steer, Struijk, Brewster)

    Was weighing up Ryan/KWP or McCarthy/Dunk. Went with the former due to 0.5m cheaper.
    Unsure on Havertz. I see most have Werner but he's 1m more and from what i've seen it's not 100% he'll be playing upfront in the middle. Why are people so sure he's the best option? To note i originally had Pulisic so may well switch back to him if we find out he's def back.

    1. The Sarjeant
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I think Pulisic and Havertz could outscore Werner.

      1. Y26 Royal
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        There's an article somewhere on here that states when Werner is down the middle he plays similarly to Firmino. This means the midfielders could be gold so i'm inclined to agree with you. Just not so sure Havertz will play straight away so fingers crossed for Pulisic fitness!

        1. The Sarjeant
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          My plan is to do Bowen to Pulisic, or Havertz if he looks better, around GW4.

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

        No way, Abraham didn't play much and was still top scorer.

        1. The Sarjeant
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Pulisic played 500 minutes fewer and was 26 points behind Abraham.

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

            I was referring to the total goals scored, points midfielders always have unfair advantage cos they get 1 more for each goal and clean sheet.

            1. The Sarjeant
              • 10 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              Oh right. Yeah, I was talking about total points. 😆

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

                Yeah strikers have hard time beating midfielders to points scored. Chelsea's this system is usually the striker scoring goals though when even giroud could score.

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

    How's this looking?

    Ryan
    TAA - Davies - Kwp
    Salah - Auba (c) - Son - ASM - Armstrong
    Werner - Wilson

    Subs: Steer, Brewster, Branthwaite & Taylor

    1.5m ITB, Son > Bruno after GW1, then Auba > KDB after GW2? Thoughts?

    1. Collie01
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Solid and template.

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

        Don't think it's that template honestly

        1. Collie01
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Probably Mitro instead of Wilson would be more template, but most players are popular picks I think.

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

            Yeah Mitro for sure would be. Template changes basically everyday, so who knows

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

        Lovely, any changes to subs or anything? Bit concerned about Brewsters playing time.

        1. Collie01
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Its wait and see with Brewster, if he gets a loan move keep for sure, if not then replace him with some other 4.5 fodder before the deadline.

          Maybe Branthwaite to a 4.5 as bench is a little light. I wouldn't be too keen on Son-Bruno as I think I'd prefer the flexibility of having the bit in the bank. For example one of 5.5s to Foden or Grealish might be great to be able to do.

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

      Hate the 1.5m ITB plan. Son should be there to stay.

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

        How would you look at bringing in United & City players with that lineup then? Struggling on how to do it, only City player I want is KDB and only two united players i'm bothered about are Martial & Bruno?

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

          Salah > Bruno.

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

            Or just avoid United if you like Salah more. United's fixtures aren't great honestly.

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

              I'd prefer Salah in over Bruno to be honest, is Auba > KDB still a good move though?

  7. IRBOX ⚽
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Pens down!

    McCarthy
    TAA Davies Justin
    Salah Auba Alli ASM
    Werner Ings Mitrovic

    Nyland Taylor Bissouma Mitchell

    1. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Balanced setup.

      Any plan for United attackers GW2?

      1. IRBOX ⚽
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Actually thinking of Salah > Bruno and/or Ings > Martial. Bruno and Vardy trolled me last season and I’ve learnt my lesson in cognitive dissonance

        1. Karan14
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Nice moves I'm thinking along the same lines.

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

      Snap! Except taking punt on ur boi Rodriguez instead of Saint-Max funded by Ings -> Adams.

      1. IRBOX ⚽
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Ballsy! I would like to give J-Rod a bit of time to settle. He could do wonders for Richarlison also. Really hoping for a strong season from the Toffees!

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

          just those early fixtures so tempting.

          1. IRBOX ⚽
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Not interested in DCL?

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

              A little bit yeah. Might be able to get something like Barnes + DCL instead of JRod + Mitrovic.

              Will look again on Friday

  8. Mitch3ltje
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Hi guys,

    Would you be so kind to rate my team?

    McCarthy
    TAA - Doherty - Vinagre
    Salah - Auba - Ziyech - Soucek - Son
    Werner - Bamford

    Subs: Nyland - Mitchell - Douglas -Davis.
    Probably subbing out Auba for KDB first.

  9. Collie01
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    I know Potter is about as predictable as Pep these days, but any Brighton fans have an insights about how they will most likely line up? Interested in Trossard but I'm not sure about his minutes.

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

      Think he started 7 of 9 of the restart games and got 2 goals.

  10. villian-ty
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    RMT

    Ryan (Nyland)
    TAA KWP Davies (Taylor, Braithathe)
    Auba Salah Havertz Ali Soucek
    WIlson Werner (Brewster)

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

      Arise, Sir Villian-Ty!

  11. SorSy
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Help me out , what about some changes in here? any suggestions ? May i need replacement for Brewster?

    McCarthy
    KWP Mitchell Ailying TAA
    Auba Son Salah ASM
    Werner Ings

    Nyland Taylor Bissouma Brewster ?

    1. SorSy
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Idea**
      Maybe Branthwaite for Ailyng and buying Mitro?

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

      Help? Why? Arise, Sir Sorsy!

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

    This team by GW4 looks pretty dope

    McCarthy
    TAA Saiss Davies AWB
    KDB/Sterling Bruno Rodriguez (if looking good) Havertz
    Martial Werner

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

      Built in any buffer to account for price rises?

  13. I Member
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Haven't had Ings in any of my drafts but now I can't shake the feeling he's going to bang this weekend.

    1. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      nah, Mitchell autosub CS luck is on the cards I reckon

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

      Yeah it's a problem. I don't have him either and worried because I think he's the most likely player to score. But I've gone for a more long-term approach.

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

      Huge question for me is whether I want Ings as the star man or if an Adams / Armstrong can keep pace (relative to value).

      £2.5/£3m goes a LONG way in the rest of the team. I really like Saints' fixtures though, big advantage to play Spurs after the Bulgaria trip on a Sunday lunchtime in GW2 as well.

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

    Here we go then! Predictions. Let’s see yours below. Mine:

    Fulham 0 vs 2 Arsenal
    Palace 1 vs 3 Southampton
    Liverpool 2 vs 1 Leeds
    West Ham 2 vs 2 Newcastle
    WBA 0 vs 0 Leicester
    Spurs 1 vs 1 Everton
    Sheffield United 0 vs 0 Wolves
    Brighton 1 vs 2 Chelsea

    1. H.E. Pennypacker
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Fulham 1 vs 4 Arsenal
      Palace 1 vs 1 Southampton
      Liverpool 3 vs 1 Leeds
      West Ham 2 vs 2 Newcastle
      WBA 0 vs 2 Leicester
      Spurs 2 vs 0 Everton
      Sheffield United 0 vs 0 Wolves
      Brighton 1 vs 1 Chelsea

    2. i am jose mourinho
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Fulham 1 vs 2 Arsenal
      Palace 1 vs 3 Southampton
      Liverpool 3 vs 0 Leeds
      West Ham 0 vs 2 Newcastle
      WBA 0 vs 1 Leicester
      Spurs 1 vs 1 Everton
      Sheffield United 2 vs 2 Wolves
      Brighton 2 vs 3 Chelsea

    3. Ole.
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Fulham 1 vs 1 Arsenal
      Palace 1 vs 2 Southampton
      Liverpool 2 vs 0 Leeds
      West Ham 1 vs 1 Newcastle
      WBA 1 vs 1 Leicester
      Spurs 1 vs 1 Everton
      Sheffield United 0 vs 0 Wolves
      Brighton 1 vs 2 Chelsea

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

      Can guess all your teams from your predictions

  15. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Will be interesting to see how Greenwood and Foden react once they get on the pitch again. Confidence eroded or a burning desire to put things right? Even the latter may result in trying too hard rather then playing relaxed...

    1. Mayor of Flair
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      They'll be fine. Didn't get to where they are by being thin skinned. I've got them both in my GW2 team

  16. MatthewByrne
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Would you change anything from this team for GW1

    Ryan (Walton)
    Trent, Buur, Davies, KWP (Taylor)
    Salah, Auba, Son (soucek) (anguissa)
    Wilson Werner DCL

  17. JJeyy
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Adams and ASM (extra .5)
    or
    Wilson and Armstrong

    1. The FPL Units
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      A and A

  18. Mini Mahouse
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Vinagre still nailed on?

    1. SorSy
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      hope so

    2. The Sarjeant
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      He’s getting sold.

  19. f18
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Please share thoughts.....

    A) Mane, Wilson, Mitrovic
    B) Vardy, Jiminez, Adama Traore

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

      Hmm. Not a fan of Mitro. B for that reason

      1. f18
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Thanks

    2. MatthewByrne
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      A- swap mane for salah

      1. f18
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Thank you

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

      A

      1. f18
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Thank you

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

      A, too much Wolves in B and I expect them to blank first 2 GWs.

      1. f18
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Thanks.
        But if for 90% of their goals, i would imagine either/both of those wolves will def be involved no?

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

          Both accounted for 21 goals 16 assists and they scored 51 goals, so there's probably a 40% chance of goals scored by either and about 30% chance they get assist. So that's like in 15 games they will get 11 contributions. Problem is adama might not start.

          1. f18
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            Nice Analysis!
            Thanks.

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

              Def worth it from weeks 3-7, with doherty gone it means their % of contribution would be higher. Can check if adama starts or look out for podence as well.

  20. eljinj
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Am I missing something with Big at the Back and value?

    I see a lot of talk about comparing TAA and Robbo with 7m mids and forwards, but surely thats not the end of it. If a 4.5m def gets me 88 points (using last years scores and this years prices, sorry i know its not the best) then they are only 122 better off with TAA. Abraham (not the best example but best at score from last year at 7.5) is 128 better off than a 4.5m forward.

    I'm not advocating for abraham or not TAA but i wonder if we are oversimplifying the value by saying a 7m mid outscores a 7m mid or forward, as a 4.5 def will outscore a 4.5 mid or forward aswell.

    Thoughts?

    *(I probably should have posted this under the big at the back article, but i find you need to be in the latest to get a response).

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

      It's also the case that the Big at the Back sorts are nailed season-keepers. Mids/Fwds at the same price tend to be inconsistent and eat up a lot of transfers. If you're into Upside Chasing or a narrow transfer strategy you want most of your squad to be fixed.

    2. Deulofail
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Maybe a fairer comparison would be between 4.0-7.0 def and a 4.5-7.5 forward.

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

        Good point, a 4.5 F isnt really the playing baseline, but the same logic could be applied to mids. Grealish at 7m is only 86 above the mid 4.5 baseline. Which swaps it back and makes the big at the back defenders look good value.

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

          6m is when forwards hit over 2000minutes, so i guess that should be their baseline

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

        If so my prediction would be exactly the same.

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

      You're absolutely right. The error ost do is to compare value in terms of ppm ("points per million"). This concept is flaed for a couple of reason:
      - There is always a selection of 4.5 defenders who do well and reach say 100+ points. 4.5 midfielders will typically give you 60 pts, whereas there are no viable 4.5 forwards. So the base line is not the same
      - You have a budget, and you need to fill your team with (mostly) playing players.

      So the more correct measure would be to assess value based on expected extra points per million over base cost. So saygoing from a 4.5 defender to a 5.5 defender would net you 20-30 points per million, going form 4.5 midfielder to 5.5 midfielder could typically net you 40-50 points per million. And 4.5 forward to 6.5 forward should be even more

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

        Bit over my head all that. But there's another reason. I'm intending to go 'upside chasing', which means I don't want to be spending transfers on defence. By set-n-forget, I can focus my transfers in a narrow field. If you have 4.5 defenders and 6m midfielders, you're gonna be chopping and chasing, fannying about with f&f, rotation etc. I don't want to miss 2 or 3 key captaincy wins due to that.

  21. RAFA THE GAFFA
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Which team is best? Sorry for long post.

    Team A;

    Ryan
    TAA, Davies, Egan, KWP
    Salah, Auba, Havertz, ASM
    Werner, Ings
    (4.0, C.Taylor, Bissouma, 4.5)

    Team B;

    McCarthy
    TAA, Doherty, Egan
    Salah, Auba, Havertz, ASM
    Werner, Adams, Antonio
    (4.0, KWP, Bissouma, Mitchell)

    1. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I like A

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

      Would say A

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

      A earns a knighthood

  22. Karan14
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    If you want to captain Bruno or Martial in GW2/3/5 and can't get them without a hit in GW2 I wouldn't worry too much about it and take the hit in GW2.
    They will definitely cover that 4 point hit for you over the next 4 games.

    1. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Plan to take the hit after a unlimited transfers option? Really?

      1. Karan14
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        I'm planning Salah & Antonio to Bruno & Martial for a hit in GW2. Looing at the next 4 fixtures for both set of players I'm very confident of getting my 4 points back probably in GW2 itself.

    2. RAFA THE GAFFA
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Good advice imo

      1. Karan14
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Cheers mate!

    3. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm back to questioning the Bruno pick again, Sterling is 1m more but surely a decent chance he smashes Bruno up GWs 3-6

      1. SADIO SANÉ
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        not 'surely', but you know what I mean

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

        Getting that 1m is still a tough job if you want the likes of KDB, TAA, Werner and Chelsea mid too.

      3. Mayor of Flair
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Agree

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

        Yeah city's fixtures look better than united's. If you don't want go for both team's assets, I would choose city.

  23. Tshelby
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Thoughts on this? Think it's kinda template

    Ramsdale, Steer
    KWP, Doherty, Webster, Taylor, TAA
    Salah, Aubameyang, Alli, Soucek, Stephens
    Ings, Werner, Davies

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

      Bench is too weak. Can't have Stephens + Davis.

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

        Can do Ings -> Richarlison and upgrade one of them?

    2. moz_1983
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Davis looking likely to be sold after Villa bought that dude from Brentford.

  24. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    exclusive from
    @TheAthleticUK Ziyech and Chilwell will miss start of the season for #CFC, Pulisic in line to feature and Havertz on course to make debut.

    https://twitter.com/SJohnsonSport/status/1303654903353667585?s=20

    Pulisic anyone?

    1. FPL Daniel
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Wow. I want triple Chelsea

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

      I want Havertz.

    3. Bubz
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Think Id prefer Havertz

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

      Man Pulisic vs Havertz is going to give me a huge headache.

    5. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      GW3 for a Chelsea mid...time to ponder line ups and match fitness

      1. Y26 Royal
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Whilst i would normally do this i need a set and forget so i can concentrate on getting in the City/Utd players

    6. Y26 Royal
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm currently on Havertz but i would prefer Pulisic so this is good news!

    7. Deulofail
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      "Feature" and "make a debut"

      I'm out.

    8. ClassiX
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Pulisic coming back from injury probably means a sub appearance to start with, I would guess.

  25. FPL Daniel
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    https://youtu.be/2vUAN6JcpEk

    Jose vs Rose. Rage. #MustSee. Bavies looks nailed to me

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

      Sess

      1. Karan14
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Doesn't know how to defend.

    2. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      the first two sentences Rose speaks haha, chip on his shoulder is humongous

      1. FPL Daniel
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        It was fun, I agree

  26. beetlejuice
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Anyone else also having minimum 1 player on each game in GW1? I feel lucky.

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

    A)
    Dier, Johnson(bench), salah, ings
    Or
    B)
    Doherty, shaw(bench), ziyech, kane

    ??

    1. f18
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      A
      Doherty might be rotation risk.
      Ziyech no a confirmed starter (yet)

  28. Mayor of Flair
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    McCarthy
    TAA Doherty Lindelof
    Auba Havertz Alli Greenwood Foden
    Werner Ings

    Think this GW2 team is awesome, awesome to the max.

  29. MoSalalalalalalalalah
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    If Puli is fit to play, then which option?

    A) DCL + ASM/Diangana
    B) 4.5m forward + Puli

    Keeping in mind that I already have Werner

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

      Could even put Havertz in instead of Puli

  30. BHA_Seagull
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Current draft has left me with 6.0m ITB
    This in mind moving forward into gwk 2 - 3

    Anyone else in a similar boat?

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

      6.0m feels like a lot to leave in the bank.

      Are you casting a wide net to find cheap starters that might chispa?