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Eliteserien Runde 14 – Different Strokes

At this stage in the season, it’s becoming more and more obvious which players are edging closer to essential status, while at the same time many of us will be feeling as though our teams are a jigsaw puzzle with a few pieces missing. An almost perfect picture ruined by jagged, misshapen holes; our beautiful scene peppered with invisible bullets fired by an invisible gunman. We have an idea of what we want but as is the case in most walks of life, the reality we seek is very often not the reality we come to obtain.

The most-owned players in the game are popular for a reason – they’re in form, scoring points and playing for the teams that are scoring the goals. From a quick glance at the computer screen, it’s obvious to me that anywhere from seven to nine players pick themselves. That leaves very little room for us to cover up those bullet holes, even less room to move out of the line of fire. But if we want to improve our overall rank, we can’t do things exactly the same way as those above us. We need to adapt, be resourceful; open the box a little and start to think outside.

On the basis that the majority of our team is already decided, we are left with the daunting challenge of trying to fill in the rest of our puzzle. The gunman is always potentially around the next corner, but there is no going back – we have to push forward.

With this in mind, I have come up with a shortlist of a few differential picks for the next three gameweeks. From my experience with FPL, a differential is usually described as any player that is owned by less than 10% of managers, while at the same time possessing ‘hidden’ value; an opportunity to get one over of unsuspecting rivals. This type of player may not be a season-keeper and it could very well come down to getting him at the right time, rather than assuming he’ll still be a viable asset after his purple patch has lost all its colour.

With timing being so important, I’ll get on with it:

GOALKEEPER:

Julian Faye Lund, Rosenborg: 6.8% (5.5m) 

Rosenborg are by the far the best defensive team in the league. They’ve conceded the least amount of goals to date (11) as well as keeping five clean sheets. They face Aalesunds and Stabaek at home in their next three fixtures, with a trip to Mjondalen in between. While their form is a bit spotty, these fixtures should be ringing a few alarm bells – there’s potential at both ends of the pitch for points.

Aaelsunds are rock-bottom of the table after winning just one of their opening thirteen matches. They might have scored 18 goals, but they’ve let in an astonishing FORTY. That’s 13 goals more than anyone else. Away from home, they’ve failed to score twice, against far inferior teams than Rosenborg, so a clean sheet for the home side seems very likely.

Stabaek have scored nine times away from home in just six games but also drew 0-0 with Start and recently lost 3-1 to Haugesund (the lowest-scoring team in the league). A 1-0 home defeat against Odd has rounded off their awful form and Rosenborg will feel like a win is very obtainable.

Mjondalen are one of the worst-performing home sides in the league. They’ve scored five in six games, failing to register a goal in two of them. Compare that to the eight goals they’ve conceded in front of their own fans, and you get the idea that they’re more likely to let a goal in than they are to scoring one. They’re the second-lowest scoring team in the division for a reason and should pose very little threat to a Rosenborg side that is potentially beginning to find its find.

Prediction: I think Aalesunds and Mjondalen will really struggle to break down Rosenborg’s defence. I’d be surprised if they didn’t manage to keep a clean sheet in both of those games. With Castro and Fridjonsson on the pitch, there is always a chance that Aalesunds will grab a goal, but they’re up against the big boys and I think they’ll bottle it.

Mjondalen are a team lacking inspiration without a goalscorer. The lack of creativity is becoming a real problem and Rosenborg are more than capable of suffocating them out of the game.

I see Lund taking home at least 15pts from those three fixtures – it wouldn’t surprise me if it ends up being more, truth be told.

DEFENDER:

Jon-Helge Tveita, Brann: 0.4% (5.5m)

He’s played just 170 minutes all season but grabbed both a goal and an assist against Molde last weekend. He may not be nailed, but in one of Brann’s biggest games of their season, he turned up when called upon. He was replaced by Taijo Teniste just before the hour, raising questions as to who is preferred at right-back going forward. In my opinion, the 28 year-old has done enough to earn another start against Mjondalen this weekend and offers great clean sheet and attacking potential.

An away fixture against Stabaek follows, offering yet again another realistic chance at returning clean sheet points. Stabaek have won just two of their seven home games (only Aalesunds and IK Start have won less) and even though they have managed to find the net seven times, in three games they blanked. Brann are a club in transition and after beating Molde (away), they will be riding on a high they’ll want to keep elevated for as long as possible.

Stromsgodset currently occupy 10th place but only Aalesunds have conceded more goals. They’ve won just once away from home and failed to score at all in three of their six games, making them an incredibly beatable team by anyone’s standards.

If Tveita is given a chance he could really prosper from these fixtures. He got forward at set-pieces and was involved at both ends of the pitch against Molde and I have no reason to believe this won’t be the case if he is given the game time I’m expecting him to get in the coming weeks

Prediction: For me, Tveita starts at least two of these games and probably features in all three. Teniste is 32 years old and doesn’t offer the same kind of service. I have Brann down to go undefeated in this mini-period, and Tveita to prosper in Fantasy world. I’d be very surprised if he wasn’t amongst the points come the end of the month.

MIDFIELDERS:

Fredrik Haugen, Brann: 0.7% (7.8m)

Staying with Brann, may I present to you Mr Fredrik Haugen. His assist at Molde last weekend was his first return since Runde 2 but on paper he’s starting to excel in some areas. He’s played 26 key passes (two less than Magnus Wolff Eikrem in 99 fewer minutes) has three assists and has a credible 125 accurate passes in the final third and 195 accurate passes in the opposition half.

He may not be the fanciest of players (he’s completed four successful dribbles) but he’s on set pieces and the types of passes he plays are the kind of passes forwards love. Only four players have created more big chances and given the fixtures Brann has from now until the end of the month, he’s being given a huge opportunity to improve on those numbers.

I’m not sure I would label him as a player that has the potential to haul like Eikrem or Pellegrino (or any of the Bodo/Glimt boys) but he offers a consistency that Brann need. He’s a solid player who was perhaps lacking a bit of confidence coming into the Molde game. With the shock win tucked under his belt – along with his first assist for months – he should be feeling as though he can channel his inner Eikrem in his upcoming games.

Prediction: Let’s not forget this is a guy who scored five goals and got eleven assists a few seasons back. He’s capable of more than he’s currently showing, that’s for sure. I’m not suggesting he will take a game by the scruff of the neck and return a heap of points, but I do think if there ever was a chance for him to get his season started – this is it.

Brann have marked their transition period with an incredible away win at Molde (have I mentioned that yet?) and I see them winning the next three, too. People might hear the names Stabaek and Stromsgodset and think they represent a challenge, but the reality is they really shouldn’t. Brann should be challenging for a top five spot with this squad and they will be looking at the next few games as a way to close to the gap between themselves and Rosenborg and Kristiansund who are just three points ahead of them.

For Haugen, I see a couple of assists and a goal, if not more. He has the potential (along with Koomson) to really hurt Mjondalen. Being own by not even 1% of players, he represents incredible potential value and a chance to hurt non-owners (pretty much all of us).

Aron Dønnum, Valerenga: 4.4% (8.5m)

As is the way of all things, you don’t realise what you’ve got until it’s gone. This is my experience with Mr Dønnum. I owned the energetic winger for three weeks from Runde 3 to Runde 5. He scored me a grand total of seven points, going on to score eight the very week I got rid of him. He’s scored 35 points since I chucked him (69% of his total points).

He’s not the best player in the league. He’s not an incredible player. He will not be in the top ten high-scoring midfielders at the end of the season. He’s not a brilliant fantasy choice. What he IS, is a confidence player. And right now, he’s confident. He’s found his way back into some form (scoring in a home draw with Bodo/Glimt and getting an assist away to Brann the week before) and looks to be enjoying his football again. I see a purple patch coming.

Valerenga have very, very nice fixtures: IK Start (A), Sandefjord (H) and FK Haugesund (A). While Start have somewhat surprisingly managed to keep three clean sheets at home, they’ve also conceded 11 goals (1.6 a game) and won only once. Valerenga are decent away from home (winning three out of seven, only failing to score in one) and in general a hard-to-beat outfit.

A home game against Sandefjord will be viewed as a must-win, easy three points despite the newly promoted side winning three out of their last four games. FK Haugesund have more chance of signing Phillipe Coutinho than getting a result against Valerenga – in truth it could be an absolute mauling.

Prediction: I like Aron Dønnum. I like how hard he tries. I like how much he runs (only Jens Petter Hauge – 30 – has completed more dribbles than him – 29) and even though he’s lacking end product from his game, he’s part of an exciting team who have a very tangible opportunity to play in Europe next season. Statistically speaking it’s hard to compare him to his peers but he put in a spirited performance against Bodo/Glimt which I think will lead to a resurgence of form.

FORWARD:

Dino Islamovic, Rosenborg: 4.2% (10.1m)

By far my most controversial pick, Dino Islamovic gets a mention for a few reasons. Right now most of us have similar forward lines. We all have Junker, a lot of us still have Borven and then the rest of us have another big name who has been disappointing us week after week.

Islamovic gets the nod because even though he’s not guaranteed to start, he’s potentially a really good option for a third striker. I have Ohi in my team and am resigned to the fact he may not play every week. I am not particularly interested in any other forward and can afford to have someone as expensive as Islamovic or Ohi in my team as it doesn’t stop me from being able to afford all the other players I want.

Rosenborg have great fixtures. They’re starting to score more goals. They look more menacing going forward. Islamovic scored in the twenty minutes he played against Sarpsborg. And Borven is still yet to run riot for his new club, creating a possibility that Islamovic could start alongside him up top. Or at least get more game time. We’ve seen Borven pushed out wide in multiple games – could this happen over the next few weeks?

Islamovic may not get the minutes I think he probably should be given and I’m sure there will be many who will scoff at the suggestion of him even being touted as an option. I think we overlook him too easily. Let’s not forget he too is a new signing in Trondheim and he’ll be on the hunt for more goals just as Borven is.

Prediction: He might not start any of the next three games but he’ll certainly feature in some capacity. Personally I see him in the starting line-up for at least one fixture and his minutes to increase across all games. He’s still finding his feet in this division yet he does cut a threatening figure out on the pitch.

Rosenborg are not playing wonderful, free-flowing football. They are not the consistent machine they strive to be but are showing glimpses of what they can be. If he has the minutes, Islamovic gets a couple of goals in those games.

Let’s also not ignore the fact that it’s slim pickings when it comes to forwards, so there is that.

Other Mentions: 

Ola Brynhildsen, Molde: 7.0% (6.6m)

When I saw Brynhildsen had joined Molde, I immediately jumped at the chance of having in my team for a paltry 7.0m krone. He lasted a whole two gameweeks in my team as it became blindingly obvious the young lad wasn’t going to be given the game time. It looks like that might have changed…

He’s scored goals in his last three games, starting two of them. Ironically it was in his 27 minute cameo against IK Start where he scored most points, bagging himself a brace to end the round on 11pts.

I think he’s one of the most exciting players in the league, playing for one of the best teams in the league. If he starts more regularly – or at least brought on more – then he’ll be straight back in my team. He has the potential to be one of the best players in the league and if he is entrusted with more game time I think we’d be absolute fools to turn our noses up.

Carlo Holse, Rosenborg: 3.1% (6.3m)

Some might say this is a kneejerk reaction to his last couple of fixtures but I maintain otherwise. Having watched Rosenborg most of the season I can attest to them having the power to put anyone watching them to sleep, let alone those playing against them. Carlo Holse hasn’t mixed a single game, but he’s only played 458 minutes. That’s a lot of cameos. Having completed back to back games for the first time this season, it looks as though he’s set for a run in the team. The fact he scored three goals in those 180 minutes can’t do his chances much harm either.

He’s an energetic, exciting player who has injected some life into what has seemed like a lacklustre Frankenstein’s monster of a team over the last couple of months and offers a real opportunity for both Fantasy managers and Rosenborg to get ahead.

This is more a case of trying to jump on the back of his form more than anything. I’d be hesitant to call it point-chasing, more, getting ready for a flurry of red-hot form while everyone else around me shakes their head, thinking I’ve fallen into a trap only mere casuals would succumb to. I see big results for Rosenborg in their final games of this half of the season – I see Holse being a big part of them.

Osame Sahraoui, Valerenga: 1.0% (6.0m)

Another Valerenga attacking midfielder. But looking at their upcoming fixtures, can you blame me? He’s scored one and set up one in the last four, picking up four bonus points along the way. It looks as though he’s cemented down a starting spot after being in and out of the team at the start of the season.

He may not be setting the league alight right now, but at just 19 years of age he looks to be a player with a lot of unrealised potential and Valerenga are seemingly happy to entrust him with more and more game time rather than restricting his development by bringing him on towards the end of games.

It’s hard to argue he’s not a good ways behind both his colleagues and opponents, but the teenager is clearly a talented player who, given the right nurturing, could develop into a player that gives us something to think about whenever Valerenga play.

CONCLUSION

If you’re after differential glory over the next two to three gameweeks, I think you’d be foolish to not at least consider most people on this list. Rosenborg, Brann and Valerenga have the fixtures while some of their players have the form. The others may seem like a bit of a stab in the dark, but when we’re looking at those players owned by just a handful of managers, that will always be the case.

I am aware there are other options that bridge the space between template assets and the obscure, but I wanted to shed light on a few teams that have a real chance to push up the table and the players I think will help them to do that. There are of course plenty of other options who may end up being far better choices than my own – that’ll be for you to decide.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing, especially with differential picks. I loathe hunting for early bandwagons yet there is certainly cause to do just that. It’s the smallest differences between us that end up defining our season. You won’t win if you copy everyone else – I’m pretty sure some schoolteacher said that at some point in their career…

ReindeerHotdog ESF: https://en.fantasy.eliteserien.no/entry/12433/event/17 Follow me on Twitter: @ReindeerHotdog

987 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Bodø/Glimt
    12 Nikita Haikin
    2 Marius Lode
    3 Alfons Sampsted
    5 Fredrik André Bjørkan
    18 Brede Mathias Moe
    7 Patrick Berg
    14 Ulrik SaltnesKAPTEIN
    16 Morten Ågnes Konradsen
    10 Philip Aksel Frigast Zinckernagel
    11 Jens Petter Hauge
    21 Kasper Aalund Junker

    Vålerenga
    13 Kristoffer-August Sundquist Klaesson
    2 Christian Dahle Borchgrevink
    4 Jonatan Tollås NationKAPTEIN
    22 Ivan Tarek Fjellstad Näsberg
    25 Samuel Ayomide Adekugbe
    8 Magnus Lekven
    14 Fredrik Oldrup Jensen
    26 Osame Sahraoui
    7 Henrik Rørvik Bjørdal
    9 Aron Leonard Dønnum
    24 Vidar Örn Kjartansson

  2. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    JP Hauge is fit and starts... Looking forward to this game...

  3. Paul Psychic Octopus
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    That Ruud goal could be curtains for my cup chances. Opponent has Pellegrino capt. though - I have Zinck.

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

    Berisha subbed due to injury or just poor performance?

    Seems like an awful decision to hook him when you're needing a goal...

    Doubled up on KBK defence and captained Pelle this week. Hoping to be rewarded.

    I know Glimt are great but potentially tired and against the second best team in the league. Hoping Valerenga put up something of a fight.

    Can't wait for the game.

    1. Mince n Tatties
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I had the armband on Bytyqi - but switched to Berisha to match my cup opponent.
      Looks like I'm going through to the next round but would be good to get an update on why Berisha was taken off at half time

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

        Their twitter account didn't really allude to anything at all.

        Would be nice if teams were a bit more open and communicative with what's happening.

        Just frustrating that happens while Bakenga is on my bench. Almost started him against Hauge but decided against it.

        What can you do I guess.

  5. Hotdogs for Tea
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    When you come up against a Rich Uncle in the Cup ... and they stack their team with players against AAFK, MJO, Start & Sandefjord and captain Pele 🙁

    1. ffs casual
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      How did you get on? It could be worse. Only Stabaek kept a clean sheet and not high scoring games. The Zach brace must have hust a little. Do you need a big captain score from BG?

      1. Hotdogs for Tea
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        My Stabaek defender didn’t start, he has two of the blighters

        check it out https://en.fantasy.eliteserien.no/entry/14516/event/19

        1. ffs casual
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Could be close. I think you will need around 30 points from your BG triple and Kjartansson. I would be more nervous if I had his team with your four big hitters to play. Lets hope for a high scoring game.

          1. Hotdogs for Tea
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            all to play for 🙂

            1. ffs casual
              • 3 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              You made it though by a point, congratulations.

              I went out by a point. Klaesons bonus point put me out otherwise I would have scraped through by conceeding one fewer goal. Fine margins. I think that is the furthest I have ever been in a cup.

              On the bright side, a green arrow. Only my third one in ten gmeweeks so not a bad week.

              1. Hotdogs for Tea
                • 8 Years
                3 years, 6 months ago

                thanks and unlucky for you, just one point is tough

                The BG guys were conspiring against me - missing penalties and chances

                live to fight another day 🙂

                1. ffs casual
                  • 3 Years
                  3 years, 6 months ago

                  My opponent also took a -4 so I don't think I deserved to go through. Hauge was probably thinking if he scored the penalty he would go out of the cup so hit it sofly down the middle :).

                2. Eytexi
                  • 5 Years
                  3 years, 6 months ago

                  good to see another regular make it through to the last 2k, fancy fixing the draw so we can have an FFS feature in the final? 😉

                  Up to 58th OR, would be 33rd if I hadn't benched Bakenga for his brace. 2FT to move around the Hauge sale & Viking injuries, feeling confident still!

  6. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Unbelievable come back from Haugesund
    1-4 down and now back to 4-4

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

      There goes Ruud's BFP.

      1. ffs casual
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        After Haugesund scored within the first five minutes, I'll gladly take the goal and assist as I had double Odd defence. Not good condeeding two in injury time though.

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

          Of course.

          Quite a frustrating end to the games I have to say.

          Seeing Hopmark and Sormo lose their CS points and then Odd capitulate, yeah, unfortunate.

          Hopefully Glimt and Valerenga ends 1-1 with neither Hauge nor Zinckernagel in the points...

  7. Team Cruel
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    https://fantasy.eliteserien.no/entry/23032/event/19

    Hauge sold himself on Rich Uncle. What a casual

    1. ffs casual
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      His cup opponent has Zinck captain and Hauge. He may literally end up playing himself out of the cup.

      1. Hotdogs for Tea
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        hope he gives penalties to Zinc

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

      Hauge has joined AC Milan on a 5 year deal.

      Incredible for him. Can't believe they gave him such a long deal but it's great to see. Genuinely looks a top player who could easily one day be in the Premier League.

      Shame we won't see him linking up with Zinckernagel anymore. It does raise concerns about Glimt's attacking appeal from here on in. Obviously they're still formidable and will win the league but a vital cog in the machine has been removed. Who steps up to replace him?

      From a Fantasy point of view I'm assuming everyone here has him as well as Berisha and Bytyqi. Not a great start to the upcoming GW...

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

    Current Wild carders many with triple Wolves and triple Man City , probably would have done the same tbh , bitter pill so far...

    1. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      not having BG more of a worry ?

  9. FPL Bielsa
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    By some ridiculous luck I currently sit 21st in the world and top in England, makes up for my abysmal FPL start !

    Current team - Makani - Ruud, Desler, Hedenstad - Zinck, Hauge, Saltnes, Pelle, Bytyqi - Berisha, Kjartansson - bench Kongs, Hegghein, Daaland, Tveter

    Two transfers this week and not sure which way to go, any suggestions from the locals ? need to wait on Berisha and Bytyqi injuries first I guess. All chips left except the wildcard.

    Thanks in advance.

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

      Right behind you in 58th & 4th mate, benching Bakenga may come back to bite me though. I'm looking at getting rid of Dragsnes when I can afford the FT, but it looks like I'll be using both my FTs to sell Hauge (if sold) & the Viking boys (if injured). Picking differentials here could be season defining.

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

        Thanks for the response, the Hauge transfer might spice things up a bit and I may jump to 3 up front with Junker.

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

        Your logic makes very little sense.

        When you're that high up you don't hunt for differentials, you want to minimise your risk. You want to be risking as little as possible, sticking with the assured routes into points and making sure you nail your captains while having a plan for the upcoming weeks.

        Hunting for differentials when you're so high up is incredibly risky. That's what people much further below need to be doing.

        The main reason most people are so high up in the rankings is because they had triple Glimt from the start and more or less captained Zinckernagel each week. That's pretty much it.

        Going forward it's about making sure you stay with the leading pack. Every drop in rank from this point is pretty much exponential.

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

          I understand that it is risky, but why would I change a strategy that has consistently worked for me? I will pick the players which I believe have the best chance of scoring points, is that not the point of the game entirely?

          We are enjoying the game and having positive interactions. Bluntly stating someone's logic makes little sense is not really a welcome part of that. Cheers.

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

            I really think you're misunderstanding what I'm saying and being far too sensitive.

            I'm giving my input regarding your situation.

            If you're high up, the last thing you want to do is change too much.

            As you say you're doing well after employing a certain strategy. Regarding differentials you don't want to hunt for something that doesn't exist.

            I suppose another aspect is that you need a slight edge over your rivals.

            Shifting captaincy is a valid tactic but if everyone has the same team it's hard to move ahead.

            I think a good way to approach it is to investigate what your rivals teams are like and see where you can get the edge.

            I do think tone is lost in text comments - I'm not intentionally trying to be annoyed or angry or hunting for conflict, I'm just happy to disagree where I think a dialogue can be breached. I suppose if you don't like that there's not much I can do.

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

              Hardly sensitive, just a misinterpretation. I do appreciate the different opinion, of course. That is the point of the forum atterall.

              Back to my point though. Using the eye test this season, whether due to luck or good play, has changed my season. And there have been plenty of weeks where I have regretted not trusting the previous weeks' highlights as a dictator for things to come. Whether I end up 1st or 1'000th, I'm happy to live or die by the strategy that's gotten me here.

              We shall see though, haha, I shall go down graciously if needs be my friend.

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

      Not really sure what you want any of us to say?

      You're doing well enough as it is to be honest.

      I imagine your team is very similar to most of ours.

      The only differences in your XI to mine are Hedenstad and Desler over Sormo and Hopmark.

      It's hard to know who to suggest at this point. You've got the players you're going to need.

      It's 100% about nailing your captaincies at this point. I suppose the casual pick is Zinckernagel each week but at the same time it's hard yo dispute the fact he's the most consistent player in the league.

      For someone in my position I have absolutely no idea how to climb any higher as even when I'm 30 or 40 or even 50pts higher than average I'm getting red arrows.

      Everyone has the same team. So if you're able to spot someone everyone else is overlooking, I'd go for that.

      An example of how luck is hindering players: Berisha starting ahead of Bakenga. And now looking likely Bytyqi and Berisha injured.

      Captaincy will determine rank from here on in. For you there's very little reason to do anything drastic.

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

        I agree everyone seems to have the same team and risky to not Captain Zinck each week, I went Berisha two weeks ago and it cost me.

        The Hauge transfer might spice things up a bit, probably I'll move to Junker with three up front.

        The big hitters seem very consistent in Norway, the BG boys and Pelle mainly which has made this season a bit predictable, the Fridge was a fun differential when he appeared but then his injury had me back to 5 in midfield.

        I think i probably just need to get lucky with the chips and will save until the end to make the run in fun.

    3. ffs casual
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      You have a solid team so not much really for you to do. I think the only player I'm not keen on is Makani. He has returned too many 1 and 2 pointers for my liking. I have no idea who to switch to though.

      As Reindeerhotdog says, nail your captains and you should be fine. I also think that getting your chips right will also have a big impact on your rank. If you look at the top 20, 11 have used two captains, 7 attack attack, 8 ric uncle and 12 wildcards. That already gives you an advantage over many teams. It will also be interesting to see how BG play after they win the title early, whether the stick with the same players or rotate.

      I think for this week, hold onto your transfers until you know how Berisha and Bytyqi are.

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

        Thanks for the response, you might be right about BG after title win and if Hauge goes that might impact the others.

        Agreed I'm waiting on Berisha and Bytqi before making any move.

  10. The Mandalorian
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Changes to Penalty rules being discussed by FA according to Sky Sports

  11. ffs casual
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Lets hope this isn't true, well at least te joining immediately part. I haven't played two captains yet.Best of luck to him if he does join. they must have been impressed with his performance at the San Siro.

    https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1310632620066308096
    AC Milan and Jens-Petter Hauge agents have been in direct contact today. Milan are ‘confident’ to sign the Norvegian winger on a permanent deal from Bodø - he’d join immediatly and he’d not stay at Bodø until January.
    Hauge is keen to join Milan.
    Talks now at final stages.

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

      He’s a goner. Fair play to the lad, that audition at San Siro was fantastic.

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

    Apparently my comment on Hauge was posted as a reply to a comment above.

    Fair enough!

    (Do not get an Android phone. They do what they want).

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

    Chances of each starting the next game?

    A: Foden
    B: Podence
    C: Saiss
    D: Reece James

    1. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      not in this league

  14. Eytexi
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    With Hauge leaving & potential injuries to Bytyqi & Berisha, it seems the time has come to break the template and really push up the ranks. I have been saving 2FT since my WC for this moment so I'll be trusting my gut & the eye test which has done me so well this season to bring in 2 differentials along with Berisha to Junker for a hit. Absolutely make or break time, good luck to all: trust your guts and own your decisions. Whether you celebrate with a humble brag or scream is up to you. 🙂

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

      We don't even know how bad the Bytyqi and Berisha injuries are yet.

      If they're out for just a week it's not going to change anything other than this upcoming gameweek.

      The real issue will be the shift in dynamic for Glimt.

      I think people are underestimating just how important Hauge was to Glimt. Zinckernagel is obviously having a great season but a lot of that was down to Hauge's influence on the team.

      I'd argue Saltnes is also more important to Glimt as he's a solid influence in the middle of the pitch.

      It's definitely a wait and see situation for me regarding tripling up on Glimt again and especially on getting rid of the Viking duo.

      My real aim is still to get top 500. I'm so ridiculously close it's bizarre how I've not broken in yet.

      That Brann goal and late Haugesund comeback plumetted my GW rank from 68 to 5,000. This game is decided by the smallest of margins.

      Hopefully Hauge's move will mean everyone who simply captains Zinckernagel each week starts to lose points and rank for it and it will require a bit more thought into who they should pick. The guy has been a blight on my season up to this point hah.

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

        I don't think Hauge is that influential for Zinckernagel. The right hand side of Glimt is mostly Zinckernagel doing things on his own. The left side on the other hand is a lot more creative and of a higher quality. I expect Hauge's exit to have a negative affect on the team overall, and particularly Saltnes and possibly Junker. Bjørkan might be positively affected. Ola Solbakken is in the same mould as Layouni. He likes to get on the outside of the fullbacks and get down the line. Bjørkan got into the box a lot while Layouni played, but with Hauge he never found the space to surge forward. Instead Saltnes moved more into half spaces while Bjørkan varied between overlapping and tucking into Saltnes's position.

        Something that also could happen is that Zinckernagel moves into Hauge's position and Solbakken comes in on the right. That fits more into the current style of play, with two clear inside forwards.

        Konradsen as a 5.5 defender is now someone to watch out for. He was apparently fantastic in pre-season before he got injured. He'll likely take over Fet's spot in midfield.

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

          I don't think Zinck is as good a player as most people think.

          He's having a great season but Hauge was such a great player that gelled the side together.

          I suppose we shall see what happens but I really wouldn't be surprised if Glimt struggle to be as dominant without Hauge.

          Getting a replacement for him will be key.

      2. Eytexi
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Jesus mate, you have a lot of anger fueling these comments today. Captaining Zinckernagel has been the best & optimal strategy. It has worked because it has been the best way to play the game i.e. has scored one the most points. That is literally the point of fantasy football.

        If anything, the decision to captain Zinck has been obvious. The idea that those captaining "should put more thought into who they should pick" is entirely wrong. Those who have not captained him have taken a risk, and it has proven to be a poor one. We all take risks - back them, and don't complain as if thoughtless play is the reason that you have suffered in a simple game intended for our enjoyment and no more.

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

          I can assure you there's no hidden agenda in my comments, or anger as you say.

          I'm simply giving my opinion.

          Obviously captaining Zinckernagel has worked out for everyone doing it. It's also absurd to say you expect him to perform every week. It very rarely happens.

          Would you say he's a better captaincy option away to Rosenborg than Berisha or Pelle at home to AAFK? Surely you'd expect the latter to outscore him.

          The whole point of my input is to challenge what is widely regarded as the norm and not keep on regurgitating the collective think.

          I apologise if you've interpreted my opinions as hostile - I can assure you they're not. I just don't agree with what you say at times, as well as others.

          If there's no room for debate or alternate theories, opinions abd strategies then what's the point of this comment section? Do we all just agree with one another and keep posting our weekly ranks?

          I've never ever said that captaining Zinckernagel every week is a poor strategy. It's a valid season-long strategy but my word it's been lucky. You do realise Glimt have hardly even been in the top flight of Norwegian football recently?

          Nobody expected this kind of dominance, consistency or brilliance. Having those players in early has paid dividends. That's been the main thing here.

          I'm not a fan of captaincy anyway, as it's another element of luck which can be frustrating to navigate.

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

            I understand & appreciate the variance in opinion. Opinions can come across more black & white than intended.

            Hostility aside, yeah it's a game of opinion haha. I don't think anyone is objectively correct nor incorrect providing they have a basis for their argument. No discredit to anyone's rank whatsoever, I simply enjoy hearing how others' seasons are going and, therefore, post regarding my own. Feel free to ignore as per mate.

            That said, it is a game where luck is a key determinant of variance, so to put success down to it or a lack of thought is a discredit to those who have succeeded. Whatever the game, their rank or the decision in hand.

            Good luck for the season mate, would love to see another article too!

            1. ReindeerHotdog
              • 3 Years
              3 years, 5 months ago

              Yeah I think we have got our wires crossed if anything. It's difficult to always accurately convey your thoughts through the medium of forum posts and I'm more than happy to contradict what people post if I feel there's a place for it.

              Fantasy is a game of opinion and there are obviously some rules/strategies which are tried and tested and work whilst there are also other more maverick or high-risk high-reward styles, too. We all have our own ways of playing which makes it interesting to say the least.

              I'm not discrediting anyone who is doing well, I'm merely stating the Captaincy element of the game is undoubtedly the biggest area of luck which can determine rank. It just is. 100%. I personally do not care for that side of the game even though I have both benefitted and been punished because of it. I think there's already enough luck in the game already but I fully understand why it's in the game - the drama, the talking points; the chance of jumping in rank again.

              That's just my opinion. I understand and appreciate why people will disagree with me. But I do think and self-congratulation felt for picking the right captain is a bit peculiar. There's been times this season in ESF that there have been just as good captaincy options as Zinckernagel yet it failed to yield much in returns. Everyone on here was clamouring for Eikrem at the start of the season (other than myself) and so I can't really remember a time until it became clear that Glimt were steamrolling the division that most people agreed Zinck was the best choice. Especially as Hauge and Junker were both on fire too.

              Good luck to you too. I think the next few GWs will ultimately decide my rank. Should be in the top 500 but narrowly avoiding it. It's ridiculously tight at the top. Hopefully Hauge's departure will open a few doors. Either way I'm very confident for next season.

  15. ReindeerHotdog
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    New Player:

    Markus Henriksen (8.5m) Rosenborg.

    Has a massively underwhelming couple of campaigns in the Championship so for me it seems silly bringing him in over Zach.

    Kjartansson was an easy decision to bring in for his debut because he was ruthless when he played in Sweden. Was easy to ignore his lacklustre campaign in Turkey.

    Anyone shipping out Hauge for him? Even if I wanted to I'm 0.1m out anyway.

    1. ffs casual
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      I switched Hauge for Zach. Only had the one transfer so he seems like the best or safest option. If I had two transfers I may have gone for Junker, but it wasn't worth for -4 for me.

  16. Hotdogs for Tea
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Has Hauge left the building yet ?

    1. ffs casual
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      There are videos of him arriving in Milan for medical checks so it seems it is only a matter of time. I don't think he has officially signed yet though.

  17. ReindeerHotdog
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Torgeir Børven er solgt til den tyrkiske klubben Ankaragücü.

    Lykke til videre, Torgeir!

    https://t.co/Uc303MEHGS

    --------------------------------------------------

    Torgeir Borven sold to Ankaragucu.

    Didn't see that coming. Potentially makes Henriksen more viable as an option?

    Dino looks a better choice every week that's for sure.

    Borven and Hauge both gone. Sad times.

    1. FPL Xylophone
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Sad indeed

  18. ReindeerHotdog
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    New signing Markus Henriksen straight in the starting line-up for Rosenborg's European clash with PSV tonight:

    1 Hansen
    2 Hedenstad
    4 Reginiussen
    5 Skjelbred
    7 Henriksen
    9 Islamovic
    11 Holse
    15 Eyjolfsson
    18 Zachariassen
    25 Konate
    28 Adegbenro

    1. ReindeerHotdog
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Not looking good for Rosenborg. 2-0 down with 15 minutes to go.

  19. The FPL Units
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    What are we thinking for a Hauge replacement unit? Saltness or Zach?

    1. Team Cruel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Looking at Sahraoui. Think his link up with Kjartansson is going to be lethal now that fixtures are getting good.

  20. Team Cruel
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Hauge, Børven, Koomson gone in the last couple of days. Pellegrino potentially to Turkey. Hanche-Olsen has a bid accepted from Belgium. Junker and Fridjonsson being linked with several clubs. The league is being dismantled.

    Berisha trained alternatively yesterday so seems to be a big concern for the weekend. Bytyqi also a doubt. The template that looked so solid a week ago is well and truly shattered.

  21. FPL Bielsa
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    So 2 free transfers this week and thinking Hauge to Zach and Berisha to Junker current team

    Current team - Makani - Ruud, Desler, Hedenstad - Zinck, Hauge, Saltnes, Pelle, Bytyqi - Berisha, Kjartansson - bench Kongs, Hegghein, Daaland, Tveter

    Any other obvious moves ?

    1. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Hauge to cheaper player
      Get Junker and play 3 up top

  22. Eytexi
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    OUT: Dragsnes, Hauge & Berisha.
    In: Stølås, Sandberg & Junker (-4).

    Double Haugesund. It's make-or-break time.

    Klaesson, (Vieira);
    Ruud, Solheim, Stølås, (Heggheim, Daland);
    Zinck (K), Saltnes, Pelle, Sandberg, Bytyqi;
    Junker, Kjartansson (V), (Bakenga).

    Good luck to all, anyone not on Zinck (K)?

    1. ReindeerHotdog
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Do we have news on what's happening with Berisha? It seems to be quite difficult to find much information on injuries.

      Already shipped Hauge out for Sahraoui and currently have Berisha starting with Bytyqi on the bench. I suppose if one is out then the other plays so it's not too much of an issue.

      1. Eytexi
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 5 months ago

        Last I heard is that he was training separately from the rest of the team which, at least to me, implies he won't start. That said, I needed to make that downgrade to Junker in order to fund my moves regardless, and I believe Junker to be the better option long-term.

        Bytyqi has been confirmed fit, I believe, at least I saw that he was training with the first team. Really like the Sahraoui pick, just a tad inconsistent for me. Some weeks exceptional, but others rather anonymous. Really like Dønnum, so will be looking at bringing him in once he's served his suspension, especially if Pellegrino is off.

        1. ReindeerHotdog
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 5 months ago

          Ah OK cool. Cheers.

          I'll make sure Bytyqi is in my XI then. I'll hold on to Berisha I think. I'm not too sure what to make of Hauge's departure and how Glimt will proceed. They've won the title and I know they're out of Europe, but I think they could very easily take the foot of the gas a little bit whether intentional or not.

          Junker is obviously a phenomenal player and a great choice, he just seems a bit injury prone. Though we said that about Pellegrino and he's been essential for the last 5 or 6 weeks.

          Saharoui comes in because he's a player I like the look of. I mentioned him in a previous article regarding players to watch and I'm just hoping he can seize his chance. With Donnum out, maybe he'll find it easier to step up. Either way, Valerenga have great fixtures going into the latter stages of the season - I'm hoping for him to team up with Kjartansson and come good.

          If Pellegrino leaves then at least he's one of the most expensive players in the game. He can easily become Zachariassen, Henriksen or like you say, Donnum.

          I think I'll be aiming to get Islamovic at some point. Think Rosenborg will be pushing for second place and he's going to be integral to that shift up in focus.

  23. Hotdogs for Tea
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Good luck to anyone still in the Cup 🙂

    1. Paul Psychic Octopus
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Good luck to you. Be great if this Board could field all 4 semi-finalists.

      I made my traditional exit last week. Not quite to a Ghost Ship team, but one that had a few men overboard nonetheless. It happens. I have the same record in cups as the team I support.

    2. Eytexi
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      o/ Final 1k here we come. 🙂

  24. Paul Psychic Octopus
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Could be a good GW to play Two Captains?

    Zinck at home to Sandefjord. Pellegrino away to Aalesund.

    1. FPL Pillars
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Used mine already but yes seems like a good week

    2. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      There are a few weeks later in the season where it is good to play that chip too.

    3. Team Cruel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Zinck, Pelle, Kjartansson

      I want Three Captains 🙂

  25. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Sarpsborg 08
    33 David Erik Johan Mitov Nilsson
    3 Jørgen Horn
    4 Bjørn Inge UtvikKAPTEIN
    5 Magnar Ødegård
    6 Nicolai Næss
    7 Ole Jørgen Halvorsen
    15 Gaute Høberg Vetti
    22 Mikael Bertil Dyrestam
    10 Guillermo Federico Molins Palmeiro
    11 Jonathan Lindseth
    14 Tobias Heintz

    Stabæk
    12 Robert Marcus Sandberg
    2 Jørgen Olsen Øveraas
    3 Yaw Eystein Ihle AmankwahKAPTEIN
    5 Mats Goberg Solheim
    26 Emil Jonassen
    6 Aketchi Luc-Martin Kassi
    8 Emil Bohinen
    22 Sammy Solitaire Siddharta Skytte
    24 Kaloyan Kalinov Kostadinov
    9 Darren Melvin Philip Maatsen
    23 Oliver Valaker Edvardsen

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

      No Hanche-Olsen, is he injured ?

      1. Ramboros
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 5 months ago

        Getting sold to Belgium.

  26. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    So this Runde I'm up against 55th Overall Rank
    So to add a killer punch - I've gone in with Attack! Attack!
    Appreciate Berisha might not make it but still quids in with...
    Junker (K) vs Sandefjord
    Kjartansson (K) vs Mjondalen
    Berisha (K) vs Stromsgodset

    Good luck to all those still in the Cup!

    1. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      good luck - I am up against a team 20k plus with Hauge, Borven and Fridg ... I just know it will mess up for me lol

  27. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Vålerenga
    13 Kristoffer-August Sundquist Klaesson
    2 Christian Dahle Borchgrevink
    4 Jonatan Tollås NationKAPTEIN
    22 Ivan Tarek Fjellstad Näsberg
    25 Samuel Ayomide Adekugbe
    6 Herolind Shala
    7 Henrik Rørvik Bjørdal
    8 Magnus Lekven
    11 Bård Finne
    26 Osame Sahraoui
    24 Vidar Örn Kjartansson

    Mjøndalen
    1 Sousha Makani
    3 Vetle Winger Dragsnes
    12 Markus Lund NakkimKAPTEIN
    23 Sondre Solholm Johansen
    33 Stian Semb Aasmundsen
    8 Fredrik Neerland Brustad
    17 Martin Rønning Ovenstad
    20 Isaac Twum
    24 Ole Amund Sveen
    26 Syver Skaar Eriksen
    9 Sondre Liseth

  28. ReindeerHotdog
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Haha.

    4 Valerenga goals and no involvement from Kjartansson, Saharoui or Borchgrevink.

    1. ffs casual
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Only Kjartansson here so it could be worse. A little worrying the centre forward has no involvement with four goals. Do you know anything about Bjordal?

      1. ReindeerHotdog
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 5 months ago

        Can't say I do. He's not exactly been the most prolific goalscorer in his career.

        He's 23 and scored 9 goals in 126 games. That's a goal every 14 games.

    2. Ramboros
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Makani is the new Kepa.

  29. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    As planned - Attack! Attack! a turd of the way down the pan...

    Kjartansson blank

    Still to come...
    Berisha likely not to play
    Junker by name....

    1. FPL Pillars
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Unlucky man, 4 goals and nothing yuck!

      Had him and Borchgrevink. That own goal was so filthy, they were so blunt in attack. Miracle they scored.

  30. Ramboros
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 5 months ago

    Interesting round so far. I spend more time wanting my players to fail than succeed. Kjartansson? 100% ownership at the top. Spissrush means negative points are positive for me. Borchegrevink? Nr 1 in the world got double Enga defence. Might as well hope for the worst. Berisha? Same as Kjartansson, and my cup opponent got him with no backup while i got Holse. Better for me if he's out.

    1. ffs casual
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 5 months ago

      Is it time to ship Kjartansson or has he been unlucky?

      Sebinhoooooo has Bjordal (0.4% ownership) as vice captain. Had he been captain he would almost have made the top 10.

      1. Ramboros
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 5 months ago

        I'm not sure if I would call him unlucky, but he has certainly been close to hauling. Disallowed goal today due to a push on the GK. Missed 3 fairly big chances against Glimt. Hoofed a penalty above goal against Molde.

        1. ffs casual
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 5 months ago

          Many thanks for the update. So long as he is getting the chances I may keep him a little longer.