Podcast

Scoutcast Episode 351 – Ben Crabtree chats about life after winning FPL

Fantasy Premier League managers are used to having to seize opportunities when they arise in the game. The same applies for this week’s Scoutcast when Joe and FPL Family’s Sam don’t let the chance to quiz a former champion pass by.

The pair are joined by 2016/17 winner Ben Crabtree to look ahead to Gameweek 8 and find out what it is like to win a game that more seven million people play each season.

They find out what exactly happens when an FPL manager becomes champion and how it impacts on their life. Would Ben put the achievement on his CV? Which Premier League star did he meet when he claimed his VIP trip to see his team Everton? How does he stay motivated to continue playing? These and many more questions are answered during the show.

Meanwhile, Joe, Ben and Sam, who is filling in for the holidaying Az, also look ahead to Gameweek 8’s tough decisions. Will this be the last moment in the sun for Tottenham Hotspur assets, before their tricky fixture run starts?

While the games get harder for Spurs, the Season Ticker looks far better for West Ham United and Chelsea. Our Scoutcast trio assess which players to target from these other London sides.

Elsewhere, there are all the usual features as they look back on their Gameweek 7, reveal their transfer and captaincy plans and frisk the next four fixtures.

After Karam finally picked a differential that scored the Scoutcast points last time out, Ben takes his turn this week to select a low-owned gem. Has the tide finally turned for our selections? Given Ben’s exceptional pedigree in the game, we certainly hope so.

This Scoutcast was first beamed live via our YouTube channel. Be sure to subscribe to get notified of future live episodes.

In addition, the Scoutcast and all our other podcasts are now also available via our Soundcloud channel.

If you’re a traditional type, you can acquire the mp3 audio version via this link or the first player below. Or you can take in the full visual experience via the second player below.

J0E Podcaster and writer. Tweets stats and stuff via @FFScout_Joe Follow them on Twitter

1,211 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Ze_Austin
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Lampard confirms he discussed with Jorginho, and Werner is now first choice on pens:
    https://twitter.com/SJohnsonSport/status/1324114891817574406?s=20

    Lindelof is injured. "Bad back": https://twitter.com/BenDinnery/status/1324118212523577344?s=20

    1. Werkself
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Thanks for the usual brilliant stuff Big Man.

  2. GW7 Review
    BigManBakar
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    The Review: GW 7

    Hi everyone, welcome to the latest edition of The Review where I look back on the key numbers of GW 7 with a look ahead to GW 8:

    (Data taken from FFScout with consent)

    1) Who is the best captain this week? Should this be the last GW for the Son Heung Min/Harry Kane double up in our teams?

    With the win against Brighton, Tottenham are now joint top for big chances in total over the last six GWs. Last week, I compared how Son and Kane fare home and away. The findings allowed me to reach a conclusion where I could conclude, albeit on the basis of a limited sample size, that Son is more potent playing away while Kane might be a more reliable captaincy shout at home – and the trend continued at the weekend. Here I update the comparisons based on last week’s data:

    Son (Home) vs Kane (Home):

    Mins per shots in the box: 100 vs 27.7
    Mins per big chance: 300 vs 72
    Mins per big chances created: 150 vs 120
    xG: 0.81 vs 3.54
    FPL points per game: 4.5 vs 7.25

    Son (Away) vs Kane (Away):

    Mins per shots in the box: 31.5 vs 33
    Mins per big chance: 36 vs 88
    Mins per big chances created: 252 vs 52.8
    xG: 1.91 vs 2.30
    FPL points per game: 17.7 vs 14

    Captaincy is pretty much a 50/50 call between Son and Kane this week but I think given Son’s away underlying numbers and the fact that he gets additional points per goal and clean sheet, I’d lean towards him. Son has the best big chances per game ratio away from home this season and remains joint third for chances created in the league, so possesses both assist and goal potential at the same time.

    Furthermore, let us take a further look at how menacing Spurs have been going forward in the last three GWs compared to the start of the season:
    Spurs (GW 1-4) vs Spurs (GW 5-7)

    Shots inside the box per game: 11.5 vs 6
    Total big chances per game: 4.25 vs 2.3
    Chances created per game: 12 vs 7.7

    Despite having decent fixtures in the past three GWs, there has been a significant drop in attacking stats from open play for Spurs, but with West Brom ranking worst for big chances conceded and xGc in the league over the season, a Spurs asset is a safe choice to be entrusting the armband with. However, it might be worth noting that after the game with West Brom, tough fixtures await Spurs (MCI che ARS cry liv) so it might be time to ditch the double up of Son and Kane after this fixture.

    Another likely differential candidate for captaincy can be Timo Werner with Chelsea favorites for scoring 2.5 and more goals this week according to the bookies’ odds. With relatively easy fixtures to follow (SHU new TOT LEE eve) Werner might be a shrewd option over the long term anyway.

    2) Should Trent-Alexander Arnold and Andy Robertson be sold from our FPL teams?

    After another missed opportunity at a clean sheet this weekend, Liverpool’s defenders have now failed to claim any clean sheet points for the past five GWs which has caused a lot of concern for FPL managers who own Trent and/or Robertson. But since the pair is not only reliant on defensive returns, we cannot rule them out yet. Let us take a look at how they have fared this season:

    Trent Alexander-Arnold:

    Big chances created: 3 (1st for all defenders)
    Chances created: 13 (1st for all defenders)
    Touches in the final third: 236 (2nd of all defenders)

    Andy Robertson:

    Big chances created: 3 (1st for all defenders)
    Chances created: 10 (3rd for all defenders)
    Touches in the final third: 276 (1st of all defenders)

    With Thiago expected to return and allow Liverpool to create more chances, chances are the pair will be directly involved in attacking returns in the times to come. Liverpool defensively rank third worst for big chances this season, but encouragingly have only conceded just the single big chance in the last two GWs from open play so have been unlucky in the clean sheet department over recent weeks.

    I am aware that selling that Trent and Robertson is popular this week but long term I think you would still want at least one of them given their explosive potential, so transferring them out and bringing them in later on would be difficult since it would require additional transfers and the distribution of funds would make it awkward. Having said that, I think there is enough evidence for those who own both the assets to transfer out one or the other for better value options available.

    3) Has Chelsea's defence significantly improved compared to last season? Is it time to invest in Ben Chilwell and Kurt Zouma?

    With a convincing win over Burnley, Chelsea now have recorded three clean sheets in the span of the past four GWs. During this period, Chelsea are also joint top for conceding big chances. Their improvement could be put down to the fact that they have splurged on defensive reinforcements. For better understanding, here I run an in-depth comparison on how Chelsea have been defensively both home and away this season compared to last season:

    Chelsea (Home 20/21) vs Chelsea (Home 19/20):

    Shots in the box conceded per game: 7 vs 4.05
    Big chances conceded per game: 1.67 vs 1.11

    Chelsea (Away 20/21) vs Chelsea (Away 19/20)

    Shots in the box conceded per game: 5 vs 7.47
    Big chances conceded per game: 1 vs 2.21

    The numbers above point to how much better significantly Chelsea are faring now defensively away from home. Their home numbers have dropped a bit but bear in mind one of the three home games this season was against Liverpool when they were playing with ten men, so the home numbers might be a bit skewed.

    Chelsea now show a high defensive potential compared to last season and with decent fixtures to follow (SHU new TOT LEE eve) it might be a good time to invest in Ben Chilwell as his position in a reformed Chelsea defence allows him the chance to become involved in attacking returns while reaping points from defensive results at the same time.

    I prefer Chilwell to Zouma, and think he is worth the premium. Chilwell is second for touches in the final third and chance creation for defenders since he has started featuring, so his numbers have been consistent. Zouma, meanwhile, has scored thrice but has only registered a single big chance so there’s an element of overperformance to the points tally he has achieved thus far.

    4) How does the Brighton defence compare this season to the last? Has their attack slacked off in recent weeks?

    Brighton defence (20/21) vs Brighton defence (19/20):

    Shots in the box conceded per game: 4.43 vs 9.07
    Big chance conceded per game: 1.71 vs 2.16

    Comparing this season's stats with previous season shows how much Brighton have improved defensively, and with Burnley coming up next, who are second worst for xG and big chances this season, Brighton look like a likely candidate for a clean sheet this GW. Tariq Lamptey remains an excellent shout having created the most chances of all Brighton defenders this season – he also features in the top five defenders for touches in the final third this season, so attacking potential is definitely there as highlighted by his controversial goal vs Spurs at the weekend.
    Interestingly, Brighton’s attack has significantly dropped off after the opening GW’s despite their fixtures being considerably easier on paper, as highlighted below:

    Brighton (GW 1-4) vs Brighton (GW 5-7):

    Shots inside the box per game: 7.75 vs 6.67
    Big chances per game: 2.5 vs 0.3
    Minutes per chance: 6.9 vs 9.4

    Apparently, Maupay was dropped against Spurs due to attitude problems but Potter has now cleared to play him against Burnley. There are still slight doubts over his starting position but I guess it makes sense for FPL managers to keep Maupay for the Burnley fixture before planning to get rid.

    5) Does the Arsenal defence now deserve more and Arsenal attack deserve less attention under Mikel Arteta?

    In this section, I roll the scanner over Arsenal. Following the defensive master-class against Man United, Arsenal are now ranked in the top three for big chances conceded and shots inside the box conceded over the past four GW’s. However, over the same duration, Arsenal going forward have been third worst for big chances total – to further explain this here I compare the underlying numbers Arsenal this season to their numbers last season under Arteta:

    Arsenal 19/20 (Under Arteta) vs Arsenal 20/21:

    Shots in the box per game: 6.9 vs 5.9
    Big chances per game: 1.9 vs 1.6
    Minutes per chance: 9.9 vs 11
    Shots in the box conceded per game: 8.95 vs 5
    Big chances conceded per game: 2.35 vs 1.7

    By interpreting the aforementioned stats it can be seen that the priority this season for Arteta has been the defence, but this has come at a cost of declining numbers in the goal threat department which is also clearly shown by Arsenal being in the bottom three for xG over the past four GWs. Arsenal have a good run of fixtures coming up (AVL lee WOL tot BUR SOU) so their defence could represent a differential route to gain points.

    6) Who is the best Romain Saïss replacement?

    I think it is fair to say that Wolves perhaps delivered their best performance of the season against Crystal Palace. Nuno opted for a more natural wing back in the shape of Rayan Aït-Nouri and it worked wonders. Despite Saïss’ versatility, I find it hard to believe that he will regain his place back – therefore it probably makes sense for FPL managers to get rid.

    The first choice for me would be Chilwell considering the stats and with favorable fixtures mentioned above (SHU new TOT LEE eve). Tariq Lamptey may also be a good shout considering the value he offers long term.

    Alternate options consist of West Ham differentials, let us first look at how West Ham have fared defensively over a stretch of really stern tests (lei tot MCI liv) and then I do a side by side comparison of how their defenders have fared this season:

    West Ham (GW 4-7):

    Shots in the box conceded: 20 (League Rank: 3rd)
    Big chances conceded: 7 (League Rank: 4th)

    Cresswell vs Masuaku vs Coufal:

    Mins per chance created: 48.5 vs 89.3 vs 120
    Mins per touch in the final third: 8.29 vs 4.54 vs 7.35
    xA: 0.14 vs 0.11 vs 0.10
    xGI: 0.19 vs 0.21 vs 0.17

    West Ham’s defensive stats are really impressive for a team which has experienced such a tough run of fixtures. Looking at their defenders individually, Masuaku provides a better goal threat and playing as a wing back is expected to be in the final third more frequently as shown above but be wary if Moyes decides to shift to a back four, Masuaku may have to give way. No defender has created more chances than Cresswell this season so I think he may be worth the premium over Coufal. He’s being entrusted with set-piece duties and has the best bonus potential out of the three, so he’d be my pick here.

    Héctor Bellerín may be another differential who can offer a direct swap for Saïss. Arsenal have conceded the least amount of goals in the league, but bear in mind that 19 defenders are ranking above Bellerin in the charts of chance creation and 16 likewise for touches in the final third. Bellerín may be a good shout for clean sheet points but not for attacking returns which might be contrary to general opinion.

    7) Who should Danny Ings be sold for?

    With Ings expected to serve some time on the sidelines, it is time managers put their faith elsewhere. Three likely candidates stand out, Timo Werner, Patrick Bamford, and Jamie Vardy. Let me take a look at each of them individually:

    Timo Werner:

    Minutes per shot inside the box: 40.7
    Minutes per big chance: 203.3

    With Ziyech pulling the strings, chances will be a plenty for Chelsea. What’s pertinent now is that Werner is Chelsea’s first choice penalty taker – the German scored two penalties emphatically against Rennes despite Jorginho being on the pitch at the same time. Sheffield United have conceded the joint highest number of big chances over the last four GWs so chances of immediate returns look great.

    Patrick Bamford:

    Leeds under Bielsa have been the most exuberant team in the league so far, going all out in attack with having the most shots inside the box and ranking second only to Liverpool in the xG column over the past four GWs.
    In this potent looking attacking Leeds side, Bamford is the one that stands out. No player in the league has accumulated more big chances and shots in the box than him over the past couple of GWs. During this spell, Bamford has the highest xG and has scored more goals than anyone else in the league. He was unlucky not to register vs Leicester – he accumulated three big chances which was the highest he managed in a single game all season, yet he blanked. I think he will continue to offer value for his price regardless of the fixtures because Leeds play the same way against every side, they just love to attack!

    A comparison between the first couple of GWs with the rest of the GW may better show how Leeds have progressed in the attacking department,

    Leeds (First two GWs) vs Leeds (Last five GWs):

    Shots in the box per game: 6 v 11.8
    Mins per big chance: 180 v 32.1

    Jamie Vardy:

    Vardy is another fascinating option who's back in form. I would however, wait on him for two weeks though. I highlighted the improvement in the Wolves defence earlier last week and after the Wolves fixture, it's Liverpool away so the ceiling isn't as high. I think it makes sense to wait on that one.

    8) Is Jack Grealish the real deal? Callum Wilson or Ollie Watkins?

    With Grealish securing another double-digit haul, he now ranks in the top three midfielders for FPL points accumulated. Last week, we looked at how Grealish and Barkley compared against each other since the switch to 4-3-3. Let me update those numbers,

    Grealish vs Barkley (Last three GWs):

    Shots in the box: 7 v 1
    Big chances: 3 vs 0
    Big chances created: 3 v 1
    Touches in the penalty area: 33 v 8

    The difference between them is as clear as night and day. Grealish is playing in an most advanced role on the pitch hence his high involvement in almost all of Villa's attacking returns comes across as no surprise. Grealish since the start of league is top for creating big chances, joint second for having shots inside the box and big chances in total, and is only third in terms of touches in the final third. With having a price tag of just £7.3 million Grealish definitely looks like the real deal.

    The fixture against Southampton saw Watkins being handed penalty duties, which has made him a potentially lucrative budget striker option with the potent attacking stats of Villa in context. Another budget option which rivals Watkins in terms of big chances and shots inside the box and being on penalty duties is Callum Wilson. Let us take a deep dive here into how Watkins and Wilson compare over the season,

    Watkins vs Wilson:

    Mins per shot in the box: 36 vs 41.2
    Mins per big chance: 77.1 vs 69.1
    Mins per penalty area touches: 13.8 vs 19.4

    By looking at these stats, there’s not much between them. Watkins would be my pick since his immediate fixtures are better and he’s cheaper. Villa’s attacking numbers are much superior to those of Newcastle’s too which sees them rank in the top four for big chances and xG over the past four GWs.

    9) What to do with Man City assets and the impact of João Cancelo on the Man City defence?

    After another narrow win against Sheffield United, Man City have now only managed to score two or more goals only twice out of six games they have played. Previous week, I showed how Man City had been a shadow of a team they were last season. Let us take a look at that again,

    Man City first 6 games 19/20 v Man City first 6 games 20/21

    Shots in the box: 94 v 54
    Big chances: 32 v 11
    Goals: 24 v 9

    The stats show a big difference in the attacking potential for Man City compared to last season. It is worth noting though that Man City against Sheffield United created more big chances in a single game than they managed in a league game after GW 2. Finally signs that the attack is starting to click?

    It might be an oversight not to appreciate the impact of the addition of Cancelo in the defensive line. Here I look at how Man City have fared defensively before and after the inclusion of Cancelo,

    Man City 20/21 (GW 2-4) vs Man City 20/21 (GW 5-7):

    Shots in the box conceded per game: 7 vs 3.7
    Big chance conceded per game: 3.3 vs 0.67

    The stats clearly show how much City have improved defensively over the past three GWs compared to the start of the season. Hence, I would urge caution on Diogo Jota this week, it looks likely he is set to keep his spot and would be a really good transfer from next week onwards particularly for the owners of the likes of Podence and other midfielders in that price range – Jota has amassed six goals in four different matches in just ten days. With Cancelo ranked third for touches in the final third, top for chances created and touches inside the penalty area for defenders over the last three GWs, he could offer a super differential from next week onwards too.

    10) Is it worth investing in Man United's attack?

    Following the defeat to Arsenal, Man United have now only scored twice in the last four league matches at home, whereas away from home they have accumulated seven goals in just a couple of GWs. They have shown glimpses in the Champions League but so far, that form hasn’t translated into the league with consistency. Let us look at how Man United attacking stats this season tally when compared to post restart last season:

    Man United 19/20 (Post Restart) vs Man United 20/21:

    Shots in the box per game: 8.1 vs 6.83
    Big chances per game: 2.78 vs 1.17
    Chances created per game: 9.67 vs 10.67

    The underlying stats shown above highlight how Man United have been a shadow of the team they were post restart. However, they do seem to be creating more chances but a downfall in big chances and shots inside the box shows the lack of quality in the chances they create. Man United are currently ranked fourth worst for xG, third worst for big chances, and second worst for xG from open play since the league started. For me, Rashford, Martial, and Fernandes need to show a bit more in the league before warranting investment.

    If you are looking to follow more of my work, follow me at:

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/bigmanbakar

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    Thank you so much for supporting my content!

    1. pablo discobar
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Put it in an article. Too long

    2. Hazz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Cheers mate. I was scrapping through my own stats this evening, and you popped up on my timeline. Timely!

      Any shouts on a decent mid-priced midfielder for this GW? (6m - 8m)

      I know Grealish is a good answer, but chasing a lot of people with him. Part-tempted on a differential pick.

      1. Ajax Hamsterdam
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        what about bowen ?

      2. SH@KTIMAAN
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Bowen

    3. Doctor Evil
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Will anyone actually read this and if they do what’s the point of playing if you take in this much info. Isn’t the point of the game to use your own footballing brain and knowledge. I like the opinions on this site but this is too far.

      1. Hazz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Why don't you give it an actual read. The data he reads are very relevant for popular questions that are being asked for the current GW, each week. The aim of the game is not to -just- use your own footballing brain; it's t score the most points. Data helps support that. He puts a lot of effort into these each week so the least you could do it spare him 2 minutes for a worthwhile reply...

        1. Ajax Hamsterdam
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          this

        2. BigManBakar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Thank you so much for the support Hazz! 😀

        3. Scrumper
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 4 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          I agree, biggup bigmanbakar

      2. Snevitz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        It's always the best comment of the week and better than any articles posted. The amount of work that must go into this is extraordinary.
        I've just read it and will read it again later on in the week before I make my transfer.
        The up votes that it gets show that many other people feel the same as I do.

        1. Ajax Hamsterdam
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          and this.

        2. BigManBakar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Good luck with the moves you make man. Thanks for the love! 🙂

      3. Ajax Hamsterdam
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I find the content of his posts very useful, helped me pick antonio last season before his 4 goals haul v norwich. thanks again for that 🙂

        1. BigManBakar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          My pleasure bro, well done on making the right call! 🙂

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

        I read it and enjoyed the information, so thanks Bigman.

      5. diesel001
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I thought the aim of the game is to score as many points as possible.

        And using data to work out who is going to score points is a viable strategy to meet that aim.

        Fantasy Football Scout is a website that facilitates a data-driven approach. Pretty much everything in the members' area is data and using that data to work out who is going to score points. Every article uses stats. Even the third-party content they promote is largely content on FPL data.

        This isn't new either. FFS has been going for over a decade. Perhaps you just aren't enlightened to the fact that data is massive in FPL and has been for a while.

    4. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      brilliant work thank you so much 🙂

    5. KLOPPS AND ROBBERS... the s…
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Always useful big man!

    6. Camzy
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Thanks BigMan for this.

      However, I will protest your use of home/away stats. They don't mean anything with such a small sample size. Nothing. It's more accurate say that Son performed better than Kane vs Southampton, Manchester United and Burnley than to say he's better 'away from home'. The quality of opposition is a much much larger factor than whether a team plays home or away. Especially with such small sample sizes.

      I just cannot put any stock at all into home/away this season or any season really when trying to differentiate between two players from the same team. There just will never be a big enough and fair enough sample size to draw a conclusion like X player is better at home and Y player is better away.

      Mane/Salah home/away is complete hogwash. Mane scored 18/22 goals at home in 18/19. Last year, he scored more away. So which is it? Is Mane the home guy or the away guy? Or maybe... It doesn't have any correlation whatsoever and is purely a product of the team/players' form going into a game against a specific opponent.

      I liked Jan's guest appearance on the Wire where he talks more about trying to envision how a game is going to progress when trying to pick a captain. Is there going to be space to attack? Will that suit a particular player? I think for instance it's not hard to point out that Son would do better against Southampton and Manchester United as a result. But against West Brom who sit deeper? I think Kane is the better pick.

      1. Silver_and_Gold
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Couldn't agree more on the home/away vs. projected game progress point. Love Bigmanbakar summaries bar this specific point. Good luck to all!

    7. Free Hat
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Nice work. Thx for the read.

      1. Old Gregg
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Great stuff.

        Studying going well it seems. Lol

    8. The Mandalorian
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Really useful hope this gets posted a few more tines for the day time crowd

      1. RedLightning
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        The day time crowd can find it by looking in the Hot Topics list - and that is probably how most of us found it.
        Also keeping the comments together in a single Hot Topic is better than spreading them over a lot of repeat posts.

    9. Dexters Laboratory
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Appreciate your weekly insights

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

      Cheers Bakar, nice read, im considering Timo as an alternative captaincy pick to Kane this week but playing 90 tonight is a little off putting with risk of rotation. GL this GW man.

    11. mrelpea
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Great, insightful read! Have already sent it to my mate. Can't believe I haven't come across your reviews before. Will be looking out for these each week now, that's for sure. Keep up the great work mate!

    12. DA Minnion (Former great)
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Again superb work. Really helpful.

    13. Danno - Emre Canada
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Great info, thanks dude

    14. Mr. O'Connell
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Quality as always. If I had Ings I would be going straight to Vardy. Actually think he could grab a couple against Pool ahead of their upturn in fixtures. Its the Wolves fixture next that actually puts me off slightly.

    15. Scrumper
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Consistently one of the most useful 'articles' on the site - thanks

    16. The Rumour Mill
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Wonderful stuff as ever, absolutely essential reading every week, thank you. Appreciate you taking the time out from studying to still produce this.

      Also love the comments from people moaning about it being too long

      1. The Rumour Mill
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        1) if everyone was like this there would be no books, no literature, no magazines, no plays, no newspapers, the world would be a much poorer place.

        2) no one is forcing you to read it.

        3) it only takes about 10-15 minutes to read and process anyway.

        4) most of the world is in lockdown, you should be grateful of something to fill the time! What the hell else is there to do?

    17. Monya Meow Meow
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Always looking forward to this, thank you!

    18. Winston.
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Excellent, thanks Bigmanbakar!

    19. ritzyd
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Starting to get a bit wordy these. I love the content but was way better when they were more condensed. Or write it as an article instead.

      1. diesel001
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Nah. Will get ruined if an article once the editors get their hands on it.

      2. Kindness
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Just learn to read mate

      3. Silver_and_Gold
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Thank you! Always most awaited piece of analysis before every Gameweek. Seems more and more decent defensive options on the horizon. Points might again be coming from this department 🙂

      4. Alchim1sT
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        great work again 😉

        thank you

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

        Brilliant work and becoming one of the best information sources of the week, I need to start saving my transfers until after I've read these.

        Brought Zaha in for Pullisic this week because of his nice fixture run and maybe should have done Grealish ? time will tell.

      6. Dronny Imp
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Excellent post. Your reviews are a highlight each week. Thanks for doing the work.

      7. Twisted Saltergater
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Always an insightful read. I look forward to these every week. Thank you!

    20. Snevitz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      How's this team looking for the coming week, I have a bench full of injuries...

      Martinez
      James, Bellerin, Keane, Lamptey
      Salah, Son, Grealish, Zaha
      DCL, Bamford

      1. Brosstan
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        James an issue with no bench

        1. Snevitz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Yeah, think I might need a hit to take out one of Ings, Havertz or Castagne.
          The above included using my transfer on Saiss to Bellerin to ensure 3 playing defenders but maybe I should be looking to change an attacker as well/instead.

          1. Brosstan
            • 9 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Id probably remove Ings out of those, and yes think a hit is needed unfortunately

            1. Snevitz
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 14 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              Saiss and Ings to Coufal and Werner could be the move I think, I have exact money for that.
              Thanks for your comments.

    21. PascalCygan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      How much should we read into Zouma playing 90 and Rudiger coming on for Thiago Silva?

      Was going to do Saiss to Zouma tonight but wondering if I should bring in Coufal instead?

      Overthinking? Just go with Zouma?

      1. ChickenTikkaMoSalah
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Overthinking, Lampard won’t rotate Zouma in the prem imo. Thiago taken off as Frank has always said his minutes will be managed

        1. PascalCygan
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Thank you. Voice of reason!

    22. Werner Bremen
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Fornals or Bowen?

      1. Orion
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Bowen

      2. RoryzonderR
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Bowen for me

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

      So, the EFL just gave Sheffield Wednesday 6 of their 12 deducted points back.

      Very generous of them.

      If they have any more spare points lying around then we’ll happily take them at QPR.

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

      Werner going to be the next bandwagon, isn’t he.

      Seriously thinking it may be time to reinvest in him again.

      1. FF Dirtbag
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Same... Shame I'm 0.1 off Ings to Werner...

    25. Flynny
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Fair to assume reece james doesn't start v Sheffield?

      Correct decision to bench him for lamptey who has burnley at home?

      Thanks

      1. Hazz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I am concerned he gets another rest. Less-so because he would be tired, but it's just been three games in a row that Azpi has sat out. However our back line is so settled at the moment... difficult.

        1. Flynny
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Common sense suggests he is benched at weekend....

    26. Gizzachance
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Pick two to play with chillwell?
      A robbo
      B kilman
      C Dallas
      D kwp
      Cheers

    27. Erez Avni
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      play one:

      A. KWP
      B. Justin

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

        KWP

    28. tbhogal
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Is Lamptey fit to play guys?

      1. Brosstan
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        he wasnt injured in the first place..

      2. PastaFasul
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Had the flu...but Friday match might make it close in terms of training time

    29. DAZZ
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Going ahead with TAA + Podence + Jiminez > Chilwell + Bowen + Werner -4. Have a WC if it goes tits up. Might even (C ) Werner.

      1. Ajax Hamsterdam
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        nice enough moves gl

        1. DAZZ
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Cheers mate

      2. mrelpea
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I like it!

    30. wulfrunian
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Werner has played in all the last three games.He will get a rest,right?

      1. Werkself
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Wouldn't count on it if Pulisic and Havertz are both out.

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

          cheers.Fourth game in 15 days is too much.Frank has players to start.

    31. FF Dirtbag
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Reguillon + Ings -> Lamptey + Werner (-4) worth it?

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

        Wasn't Lamptey left out for attitude problems?

        1. Baps hunter
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Nope, definitely not. He is no Maupay.

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

            Of course. Whoops

        2. Jimmers
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          That was Maupay

      2. Baps hunter
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Reguillon out now is not a good idea and Werner could be rested or not play 90.

        1. FF Dirtbag
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Cheers baps that's some nice clarity there.

    32. Reeker
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      No blackbox this week?

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

        Tomorrow.

    33. Bobby
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      evening guys, people with zaha are you keeping for a bit? Tempted to go to grealish/ward prouse but against leeds worth another week at least?

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

        Go Grealish...Villa's fixtures are stuff of dreams

      2. Hazz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I'd keep Zaha this week. Arsenal defence has been decent. Plus Zaha has some decent fixtures afterwards too. Easy switch when you want, though.

      3. JJeyy
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Why would you sell for this great run. I prefer Grealish but that is a luxury move only considerable if your team has no other holes

        1. Bobby
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          ok thanks guys, i think ill hold for a bit - I guess mili coming in for free kicks and pens has given me the jitters too

          1. Hazz
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Luckily for you he's suspended for a few games now!

    34. SuperDan
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Yay or nay?
      Saiss & Jimenez > Zouma & Werner

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

        YAY!

      2. Big boy Bowen
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Super moves on paper

    35. mrelpea
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      On WC here:

      McCarthy Button
      Chillwell Cancelo Vestergaard Kilman Coufal
      Grealish Ziyech KDB Son Jota
      Kane Wilson Watkins

      1.6 ITB

      GW9: Kane to Jesus
      GW10: Son to Salah

      GTG?

      Any thoughts welcome!

      1. Voodoo
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Vestergaard and / or McCarthy to Zouma/ Bellerin and Mandy / Fabianski.

        1. Voodoo
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Mendy not Mandy!

        2. mrelpea
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          The West ham or Chelsea double up is very tempting. I cant really stretch to 5.0 goalie as want to bring Salah back in in GW 10, but swapping Vestergaard for another West Ham defender is food for thought

    36. FPLMACKEM
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      For people who still have their wildcard. When do you plan on using it?

      Possibly gw10 for the fixture swing?
      Or maybe gw16 to prepare for the blank and double he?

      I was planning on holding for gw16 but the fixture swing in gw10 is just too tempting.

      1. Voodoo
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I’m in same boat but really don’t want to waste it. Team is looking ok and can get 3 city in with probably just a -4. Will see how it goes and if team looks ok come GW10.

      2. BeWater
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I'm thinking the same as you. Original plan was to hold until GW16 but 10 looks an ideal time.

        1. FPLMACKEM
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          I'm just wondering if there is more potential for points in attacking the fixture swing rather than the blank and double gws. That is the question.

    37. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      What to do here?

      Martinez
      TAA Chilwell Lamptey
      Salah Son Pulisic* Grealish
      Kane DCL Maupay
      ___
      Forster Saiss* Stephens 3.9

      2 FT 0.4 itb.

      1. Niho992
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Pulisic and Saiss to Ziyech and Coufal?

        1. FC Hakkebøf
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Prolly my best bet yes. Was hoping that Pulisic starts so that I could do TAA + Maupay -> Werner + Coufal / Bellerin

    38. Niho992
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Good ebening fellas. What to do with those ? Have no idea. 2 FT and 0.5 iTB.

      McCarthy
      TAA-Ayling-Justin
      Son(C)-Salah-Barnes-Grealish
      Kane-Mitrovic-Jimenez

      Steer-Bavies-Bissouma-Mitchell

      Thinking to sell Barnes and TAA this GW.

      Thoughts?

      1. Baps hunter
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Chelsea def probably in? Or MCI for their fixture swing. Coufal or Creswell aren't bad options either.

        1. Niho992
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          I was thinking to do TAA and Barnes to Zouma and Zaha for free but feelin too kneejerk? Or no?

      2. Big boy Bowen
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Unai Emery is that you?
        Mitrovic to Bamford and Bavies to Chilwell

        1. Big boy Bowen
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Oops maybe can’t afford that so Jimenez to DCL and Bavies to Chilwell Unai

          1. Niho992
            • 5 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Cheers Harry but im keeping Jimenez. Bavies could start vs WBA and TAA is bigger issue because of price. Barnes needs to go also. Im going to do Mitro to DCL/Richa after IB. Cheers again !

            1. Big boy Bowen
              • 7 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              Fair, Davies is a big rotation threat so at some point I think you should be looking to sell, especially as you’re seemingly benching him this week - too pricey to be on the bench for me.
              TAA’s stats are starting to look good, I think it’s a matter of time til he starts returning regularly.

              1. Niho992
                • 5 Years
                3 years, 4 months ago

                True dat but dont like Liverpool fixtures in next 4 and dont see many CS tbf. Even if he have assist without CS thats between 4 and 6 or 7 points...

                Think i will sell Bavies on WC probably in GW 10, maybe after IB if i decide to not WC in GW 10

    39. Baps hunter
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      To get three starting MCI assets will not be too easy. One def, KdB and Sterlin? Or Jesus if Kun isn't fit. He hasn't looked himself this season imo.

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

        Im going with Cancelo, KDB/Sterling and Jesus will swap Kane in for Jesus after the West Brom match. Know Cancelo is a slight risk, but i think hes done enough to start most games

      2. Mile Plankton
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I don't like to double up in one line. Def, mid and attacker.
        But I think I'll go with Vardy and Kane up front.
        Just Cancelo and KDB from City.

    40. Voodoo
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Do we think Ryan will play then?

      1. Baps hunter
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I don't. He was benched for a reason and the other gk did well enough imo.

      2. Old Gregg
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Potter gave no clue in today’s press conference.

        I’m leaning towards getting rid unfortunately. But Don’t really want to use a transfer on a GK though.

        1. Voodoo
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Same here.

          1. Old Gregg
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            How will you be going for?. Probably Fabianski or Mendy for me

            1. Voodoo
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 11 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              At the moment it’s Fabianski and Chillwell in with 2FT but tempted to double up and go with Mendy.

    41. Nespinha
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      A) Saiss to:
      1 - Zouma
      2 - Cresswell
      3 - Bellerin

      B) Bruno to KDB: Yes or No?

      1. Baps hunter
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Out of those pure coin toss. Y but no hurry yet.

    42. FF Dirtbag
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Is Antonio an option this week? Do we learn of his injury tomorrow?

      1. Saka Punch
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Last we heard he was very unlikely to be back this week, but hopefully we'll know for definite either way in presser

      2. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        The most likely answer is no.

    43. Old Gregg
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Fabianski or Mendy?

      Have Chilwell

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Neither imo. Go cheap.

        1. Old Gregg
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          McCarthy or Martinez next I guess

          Although there only 0.2/3 between Martinez and Fab/Mendy

    44. Hazz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Oh blimey, don't go on the West Ham forums if you're getting Cresswell "because he's more nailed".

      (I have my own feelings on that, and the formation, but it has planted doubts.)

      1. Saka Punch
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        How come?

      2. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Link? Never been to these ''forums''

        1. Hazz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          They're not gospel, of course. https://www.kumb.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=2

          1. FC Hakkebøf
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Haha, you know what I meant, thanks!

    45. Chucky
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      A)Ings to Martial for -4
      or
      B)Play C.Taylor

      1. TLF
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        B will give you time to reassess options to replace Ings over the IB.

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

          thanks. talyor might get a cs with mee coming back...

    46. Mile Plankton
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Are we expecting Azpi on RB on Saturday?
      Or is James now the first choice?

      1. Hazz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        #1 - Unclear
        #2 - On form, yes, but that doesn't mean he's nailed

    47. Bobby
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      quick question - when do you have to start to really worry about your rank? I assume things will settle down at some point. Seems a more open season than ever at the moment!

      1. Mile Plankton
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I only worry about my ML rank.

      2. Iceball
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I have set goal...gw10 500k, gw 15 250 k gw 20 100 k and so on..shouldnt panic. Now at 8-900k after terrible start