Scout Notes

Digne and Everton attack thrive in wing-back system but defence leaks more goals

FULHAM 2-3 EVERTON

  • Goals: Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£7.8m) x2, Abdoulaye Doucouré (£5.3m) | Bobby De Cordova-Reid (£5.3m), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (£5.9m)
  • Assists: Richarlison (£7.8m), Lucas Digne (£6.1m) x2| Tom Cairney (£5.3m), Ademola Lookman (£5.0m)
  • Bonus: Calvert-Lewin x3, Doucouré x2, Digne x1

CONVERT-LEWIN

Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£7.8m) owners may be hoping Carlo Ancelotti retains the wing-back system which worked to devastating effect in attack during the first half against Fulham on Sunday.

The Everton striker put his team 1-0 up after 42 seconds as the Toffees pounced on Fulham’s poorly-executed attempt to play out from the back.

Lucas Digne (£6.1m), operating at left wing-back, won the ball high up the pitch before releasing Richarlison (£7.8m).

The Brazilian’s cross took a slight touch off a Fulham defender but found its intended target in Calvert-Lewin, who bundled home from close range.

The England striker totalled three attempts in the match, all from inside the box and all of which hit the target.

“The first half was a representation of me benefitting from the new system, where I’m getting chances from wide areas, crosses coming in.

“That’s what I like, being in the right area at the right time.” – Dominic Calvert-Lewin

WING-BACK TO THE FUTURE

Whether or not Ancelotti retains the 3-4-3 formation will be revealed in the coming Gameweeks, though the Italian is aware that Everton must defend better:

“Alex Iwobi played well, like the others played really well. I am pleased for him. In that wing-back position, he can show his quality.

“We have to improve (defensively) for sure. We were not so compact and not so close to the line. We have time this week to work on this.

“I don’t think it is a winning system because there is no winning system. The sytem gave us the possibility to use more of the width of the pitch and to put crosses in.” – Carlo Ancelotti

Both Digne and the impressive Alex Iwobi (£5.9m) were heavily involved in Everton’s attacking play at Craven Cottage.

Iwobi’s jinking run in the first half led to James Rodriguez (£7.9m) finding Digne on the left.

The Frenchman’s first-time cross resulted in a first-time Calvert-Lewin finish just before the half-hour mark.

Ten minutes earlier, Iwobi saw an assist for Calvert-Lewin chalked off as the striker had strayed offside before beating the busy Alphonse Areola (£4.5m).

Rodriguez owners may be less impressed with the new Everton system, which saw him playing centrally in attack but usually feeding the marauding wing-backs.

That occurred again on 35 minutes as a lovely one-two between Digne and Rodriguez allowed the former to cross for Abdoulaye Doucouré (£5.3m), who rose unchallenged to head home.

It could have been an assist hat-trick for Digne before the half-time whistle but Richarlison fluffed his lines from close range after the France defender put in a teasing low cross.

Richarlison also saw an attempt inside the box saved by Areola earlier in the opening period, following an excellent shot assist from Calvert-Lewin.

TOFFEES COME UNSTUCK

For all of Everton’s excellent attacking play in the first half, Fulham exposed the 3-4-3 formation in the second period.

Parker’s team took control of possession, pushing Digne and Iwobi back towards their own goal.

Fulham’s pressure told on 68 minutes when substitute Ruben Loftus-Cheek (£5.9m) was fouled inside the area.

The Cottagers’ woes from the penalty spot continued, however, as Ivan Cavaleiro (£5.3m) slipped on hitting the spot-kick to send the ball over Jordan Pickford‘s (£4.9m) crossbar.

Aleksandar Mitrovic (£5.7m) and Ademola Lookman (£5.0m) – who have both missed a penalty this season – were on the pitch at the time.

“I don’t think you could write it. Cav was the penalty taker, we worked on it this week. Like I said it after the last time [with Lookman], you can miss penalties and he slipped. It is one of those things.

“No denying we have issues with penalties. We’ll keep working and training it to see who is the best to take them.” – Scott Parker

Two minutes later, Loftus-Cheek did grab a goal back for Fulham as he steered a Lookman cross past Pickford.

“I thought [Ruben] was brilliant really. He came in and worked really hard with him with the information I’m trying to give him so he can have a big impact. Sometimes he can have a tendency to drift but today was everything we wanted.” – Scott Parker

Ancelotti’s response was to hook both Rodriguez and Richarlison, as Everton clung on for a precious three points:

“It was a difficult game, it was difficult to prepare. It was a good first half, second half we lost physical energy and we had difficulties. James was tired, Richarlison was tired.” – Carlo Ancelotti

While Fulham dominated the second half, their defensive lapses in the opening 45 minutes – and another spot-kick blunder – proved the Cottagers’ undoing. That domination, however, did stop Calvert-Lewin from having an opportunity to clinch a hat-trick.

“It was a game of two halves. Second half, we didn’t really have much of the ball. It was more about digging in, winning fouls and free-kicks. It was more of a lonely role [up front].

“It sounds cliche but in the second half we didn’t have much of the ball and on another day we might be punished for not playing well in the second half.” – Dominic Calvert-Lewin

COTT ON THE HOP

The Cottagers’ issues in defence are certain to be at the forefront of FPL managers’ minds heading into Gameweek 10.

Parker’s men travel to play Leicester next weekend, before back-to-back clashes against Manchester City and Liverpool.

Having conceded ten goals in the opening three Gameweeks of the season, Fulham let in just five in as many fixtures before Gameweek 9.

But going into Gameweek 9 only Everton (7.83), Sheffield United (7.64) and West Ham (6.11) had higher ‘expected goals conceded‘ totals than Fulham (6.01).

That xGC figure was racked up in fixtures against the Blades, Crystal Palace, West Brom and the Hammers.

On Mitrovic’s benching, Parker said before the game:

“[It is] mainly [a] tactical [decision]. Obviously Aleks has come back from international duty. The team I’ve [picked] today is a team that I feel can hurt Everton, can cause them problems.

Cavaleiro was the man tasked with leading the line against Everton, though it was Decordova-Reid who got Fulham’s first-half goal after linking well with Tom Cairney (£5.3m).

After the match, an irritated Parker reflected:

Improved in the second half but three goals down, I have stood here many times, you can’t go on to score four goals to win games.

A reaction? Yes, for sure, but it came too late. First half as always we played some nice stuff, showed what we were about but any second ball we came out second best. It is not the way it needs to be.

We changed things around tactically [in the second half] but we did exactly what we missed in the first half in the battles and the fundamentals of a football match. They have to be a given. We fell short of that in the first half.


Fulham XI (4-2-3-1): Areola; A Robinson, Adarabioyo, Andersen, Aina; Reed, Lemina (Zambo Anguissa 69′); Lookman, Cairney (Loftus-Cheek 57′), De Cordova-Reid (Mitrovic 57′); Cavaleiro.

Everton XI (3-4-3): Pickford; Keane, Mina, Godfrey; Digne, Allan, Doucouré, Iwobi,; Richarlison (Sigurdsson 76′), Calvert-Lewin, Rodriguez (Davies 73′).

Lessons Learned from FPL Gameweek 9

1,125 Comments Post a Comment
  1. seanmcging
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    What is the consensus on having a strong attacking 8? I have had to decide between Wilson & Podence which was painful, now Jota has replaced Podence, so even more tricky now.

    1. The Big Fella
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Strong 7 and a regular playing cheap(ish) 8th that will have a go. Soucek for example

    2. Il Capitano
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Cheap 8th attacker, saves headaches

      1. Mr Wolf
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        This

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

      Life's too short for those sort of headaches.

    4. antis0cial
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Strong 7 with an 8th that is nailed to start.

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

        I agree, finding it difficult to ditch Wilson, can't get rid of any of the 5 mids (Salah, Son, Ziyeck, Jota & Rodriguez).

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

      I'm in the 'get the cheapest, weakest bench you possibly can' camp.

      If you're an active manager, you can replace players who get injured/are doubts with transfers. A really good bench wastes team value and causes problems.

      The sweet spot for me is get a good 4.5m defender to rotate as emergency and then I'm totally fine with Douglas (3.8m) and Davis (4.3m) as the other bench slots. Lamptey was intended as that 4.5m slot.

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

        I have always been in that camp. Worked great last season but this season it isn't working.

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

          It isn't?

          I got Lamptey's 9 points off the bench a few weeks ago. I'd say it's working great. Been able to field 11 every week and my 3rd outfield bench slot has never come up.

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

            May be its because I destroyed my team after GW 3 WC then

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

        This. 4.5 Def, Playing 4.5(Brewster), 3.9 Def

    6. Tonyawesome69
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Same as everyone else cheap 8th attacker. Depend on formation either 4.5 mid or 4.5 fwd

    7. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Plenty of decent 4.5 (ish) mids and defenders for a playing bench, but having a strong front 8 where you play 7 against the easiest fixtures each week and rotate maybe 2 or 3 of the 8 can work very well.

      I never quite understood people who have a couple of non starting 3.9 bench fodder players 'to get maximum cash on the pitch' but then have money in the bank any way ... and ... because 'we never get down to the third sub' but then take a -4 because they don't trust their one playing bench fodder because he is pants 😉

      No single strategy is better than the next in this game of chance 🙂

  2. kime67
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Lamptey would have probably been the only threat for liverpool.

    1. Hangman Page
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Welbeck played really well v Villa not sure what game you were watching.

    2. kime67
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      it was villa being bad imo

      1. Hangman Page
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Could've been to be fair.

  3. The Senate
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Current team: 0FT
    Leno
    Cancelo Telles Justin
    Salah Bruno Son Rashford Grealish
    DCL Watkins
    (Chilwell Brewster Mitchell)

    Potential WC team:
    Meslier
    Robbo Cancelo Targett
    Salah KDB Bruno Grealish JWP
    DCL Watkins
    (Chilwell Brewster Bernardo)
    +0.4

    Sound worth it or keep what I have?

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

      Current is way better

  4. Fernando Torres
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    A) DCL (c) + Rodriguez
    B) Vardy (c) + DCL (-4)

    Which is best?

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

      A

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

      B

  5. Il Capitano
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Some early considerations for next GW transfers.

    1FT 0.9m ITB WC available

    McCarthy (Button)
    Chilwell Zouma Justin (Mitchell Taylor)
    Bruno Sterling Son Grealish (Bissouma)
    Werner DCL Watkins

    A) Zouma > Cancelo/Dias (Sterling/Bruno captain)
    B) Werner > Vardy (C)

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

      Close. Probably A assuming Vardy would be short-term. Can you afford both...?

      1. Il Capitano
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Yes, can afford both with 0.1M to spare, reluctant to take hits in consecutive weeks though

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

    Doing Kane to Vardy (c) leaves me with one more FT.

    Could go for:
    1) Reguilon to Cancelo
    2) Hamez to any mid up to 11.5 - Sterling? (Can't afford KDB)
    3) Both for a hit

    Martinez
    Robo/Kilman/Chilwell
    Bruno/Son/Hamez/Grealish
    Kane/DCL/Bamford

    Martin/Reguilon/Mitchell/Stephens

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

      Probably A as you already have good Spurs coverage.

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

    A) DCL, Ziyech
    B) Bamford, Bruno

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

      A

    2. Catastrophe
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      A

  8. davies
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    What’s the bigger upgrade?

    A) Dunne > Cancelo/6.0

    B) Brewster > Bamford

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

      Will they rotate? Presumably Dunne and Brewster are not starting for you...

      Cancelo has the fixtures, I would go with him probably.

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

        Chilwell Lamptey Kilman Mitchell *****

        Brewster currently rotates with Soucek - as would Bamford for his bad fix

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

          Think you have to do A then otherwise you could risk not fielding 11.

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

            With B I can afford Dunne > 4.3/4.4

    2. NETFLIX & CHILWELL
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Dunne >Cancelo

  9. Catastrophe
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Help greatly appreciated! Which do you prefer?

    A) Ziyech, 4.6D & 4.6D
    B) Jota, Zouma & Cancelo

    Prefer Ziyech but thinking if Jota continues to get minutes then B is the better option.

    Rest of Team:

    Martinez
    Chilwell, X, X
    Salah, KDB, Fernandes, Son, X
    DCL, Bamford

    (Steer, Kilman, Brewster, Mitchell)

    Cheers.

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

      B

    2. jomikijiq
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      B

    3. Catastrophe
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Cheers.

  10. MIGHTY JOE
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Martinez
    Konsa Coufal Mitchell/Ayling/Lamptey
    KDB Son Zaha Bruno Soucek
    Werner Kane

    Did Salah to Bruno last gameweek, always planed on getting him back & simply can not afford anymore braces from DCL without owning him:

    Thinking about going Werner->DCL this GW, and Son->Salah the next.

    Thoughts?

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

      Sounds good. Although I would consider Kane & Zaha -> Bamford/Watkins & Salah (if funds allow) rather than losing Son.

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

        Thats also a thought. Good thing theres still a few days until deadline. Thanks!

    2. Mr Wolf
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      I think you are a little too late for the DCL train...a couple of good fixtures remain, then big swing.

  11. Pukki Blinders
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    The people that think Jota is nailed on will cop a huge shock when Salah returns. If you think Firmino will sit on the bench every week you are hugely mistaken...

    Liverpool’s system won them the league, not their individual talents... and Firmino is essential to that system.

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

      Yeah until Klopp plays 4-2-4 with Henderson Wijnaldum Firmino Mane Salah Jota out.

      He will play. He will play good minutes especially with the injuries Pool have.

      1. JONALDINHO
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Doesn’t work for Liverpool. Only reason we played that against Sheffield and City was due to a lack of mids. Jota will be rotated in and out of the front 3

    2. kime67
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      i dont think klopp can bench him now, they will go with 4231 again wich i dont like as salah owner, but it is what it is

      1. Pukki Blinders
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Striker Salah, how can you complain as an owner?

    3. Bruce Lee
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Jota can play better than Firmino in his position

      1. Bruce Lee
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Non-owner btw

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

        Only works in games where teams play a high line and have more of the ball.e.g Atlanta. Wont work in the prem

        1. Bruce Lee
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Why won't it work with teams with a low-block?

          Please enlighten me

          1. Pukki Blinders
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Jota doesn’t have the ability to breakdown a low block defence mate, he’s not that type of player

            1. Bruce Lee
              • 5 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              And Firmino does?

              Can you give me an example where he has done so?

            2. Bruce Lee
              • 5 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              LFC vs WHM

              Jota comes on for Firmino

              Score is 1-1

              WHM are deep

              Jota gets the winner

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

            Jota exploits space in behind the defense similar to Salah and Mane. Against low blocks this space is non-existent so it’s firmino’s job to create it. If you watch their games closely you’ll see this. Jota can’t do that

            1. Bruce Lee
              • 5 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              LFC vs WHM

              Jota comes on for Firmino

              Score is 1-1

              WHM are deep

              Jota gets the winner

              AND has a disallowed goal

              Next please

              1. JONALDINHO
                • 6 Years
                3 years, 4 months ago

                And how did he score? By exploiting the space in behind. Just not as effective as when firmino is on. But you go off because I suppose you know more than klopp anyway...

              2. Hangman Page
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 5 Years
                3 years, 4 months ago

                What a ridiculous response, just C&P what you already said in response to a very reasonable answer. This place is a cess pit.

      3. Pukki Blinders
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        absolute rubbish. Jota doesn’t come close to replicating Firmino’s role in that team

        1. Bruce Lee
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          HAHAHAHAHAHA

          1. Pukki Blinders
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Key word is role. Jota’s strengths are out wide, not central

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

              They're not his only strengths though. Jota is a versatile player. In fact, all 4 of their attackers are.

              1. Bruce Lee
                • 5 Years
                3 years, 4 months ago

                No no no, don't use logic

                All players must fit into a box

                Firmino is creative

                Jota is a runner

                That's the end of the story

    4. kime67
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      i think hes better when hes on the wing

    5. kime67
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      bruce lee thats bs

    6. sully29
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      I very much doubt Jota is nailed on but a spell on the bench might be good for Firmino. He underperformed terribly in front of goal last year and has hardly pulled up trees this year either.

      1. Pukki Blinders
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Goalscoring isn’t his strength, nor has it ever been yet Klopp has persisted with him

        1. sully29
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Yep but even by his own standards he was extremely poor last season when it came to converting chance. This is a player who previously scored 27 goals in a season for Liverpool too, so it's not like goalscoring is beyond him. And he gets *lots* of chances.

          1. Dr Van Nostrand
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            He does need to improve his finishing rate which has been poor of late but his job isn't to score goals. He wasn't scoring many when Liverpool were one of the most dominant teams in history last season so Klopp is happy with his overall contribution.

            Just because he is listed as a striker in FPL doesn't mean he has to score alot of goals. He's a beast at everything else and will remain first choice until that gives way.

            So can't see Jota 1st choice unless Liverpool remain depleted in the front 5

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

      Everyone forgetting how effective Klopp's 4-man attacking system was when Coutinho was around? Jota will start many,many games, IMO, and the formation even allows more playing time for Minamino.

      1. JONALDINHO
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        What?? We were struggling for 4th place and scraped our way out of the group stages when coutinho was there

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

          But they scored goals. Lots of them. Arguably the weakness was the defense and this was pre VvD and Alisson. I don't see why it won't work now.

        2. ClassiX
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Defense was poor (No VVD, very early days of Robbo and TAA), but attack was unbelievable. My point is that Klopp is not a single-system coach - he has played other systems successfully, to get the most out of performing players.

          1. Pukki Blinders
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Exactly. He needed to play an attack heavy system to get results, because their defence was awful. Even without VVD, their defence is still solid now so they won’t be going all out with a 424 again

    8. ClassiX
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      By the way - this sentence makes no sense
      "Liverpool’s system won them the league, not their individual talents... and Firmino is essential to that system."
      You literally say the system is more important than the individuals, and then go on to say a specific individual is critical for the system to work...??

      1. Pukki Blinders
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        You’re missing the point. Firmino is plays that central role best, nobody in that team can replicate his role. Jota central just doesn’t work.

        1. Bruce Lee
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          No mate, you've missed the point

          You can't cover up your flawed logic by saying "you've missed the point" or "you just don't look close enough"

          1. Pukki Blinders
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            I’ve explained the point he’s missed. Getting players that can play the system is more important than individual talents. What don’t you get mate?

        2. ClassiX
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          It could be argued that Firmino's drop in gaols has come about because of the change in formation. He scored 27 goals in Coutinho's last season. It could be possible that Firmino may actually score more goals with Jota in the team.

          1. Pukki Blinders
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            He scored plenty back then yes, but now he’s not the man for goals. He sets up Mane and Salah who are the real finishers of the team. Jota can’t provide as well as Firmino does in that sense

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

              It's a fun debate, but I'm bored now. Jota will definitely be on my radar, along with Torres, as my Podence replacement. Pretty sure both of them will score more points over the next 29 GW's, even occasionally coming from the bench.

      2. Bruce Lee
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Logic isn't there...

    9. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Jota has taken to the Liverpool style like a duck to water. He must have seen coming what mess Nuno has made of Wolves system.

      So long as he is displaying the sort of form he is then Klopp would be mad not to involve him heavily. Him and Robbo were linking great and owning both was a very enjoyable experience.

      1. Pukki Blinders
        • 4 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Yep linking great with Robbo, but that was from a wide position. He’s competing with Mane and Salah in those positions unless Klopp runs with a 4231 which I can’t see him doing consistently

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

          Fair comment. I'm prepared to see how it develops. Maybe it's 4231 against the 'shut up shop' type sides. Maybe controversial but I think at some point Klopp has to avoid pandering to his front 3 as the be all and end all. Pep is never afraid to swap it around (at a cost to many an FPL manager) but people should be able to hold a shirt on merit and at the moment Jota deserves a place.

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

      This is funny as hell. Let's be clear here. We are all guessing, nobody knows for sure. I reckon Klopp will use 4-2-3-1 in most games against midtable team or below, especially on hometurf. He will use his "regular" 4-3-3 system against top 6 sides. In these games Firmino is essential because of his high pressing. It remains to be seen however, if Jota's form can justify a benching Of Firmino in such games. First test is the game vs Spurs in gw13. I am pretty confident that Jota will start the next three games regardless of Salah being ready or not.

      1. JONALDINHO
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        It’s the other way around. Against top teams I’d expect a front three of Mane Jota Salah. This is because there is already plenty of space in behind. Against middle table teams however who play deep there is nowhere near as much space. It’s firmino’s job to create this space for the others to exploit. He’s the best in the world at doing that. People just base it off goals without actually analysing their system

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

          Firmino's pressing is second to none. You talk of Firmino as if he only has one job.

          1. JONALDINHO
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            I never said he couldn’t press?

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

              Pressing is essential vs top 6 sides. Hence why I think Jota would be benched in such games. Pool have not had many troubles beating top 6 sides, bar City. Some problems vs United as well as they have often parked the bus

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

            But yes Firmino creates space which vs low block teams. Jota, however is good in one on one situations as well. Having them all four on the pitch vs low block teams is a good idea. No need for three CM's in games where the opponent willingly will let Pool be in possession. Liverpool had trouble breaking down teams who parked the bus due to a lack of a CAM. We didn't have the same problems with Coutinho in the team. I think Firmino as a CAM, Jota on a frank, and Salah up top could solve the problem of breaking down the low block teams.

            1. JONALDINHO
              • 6 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              If we play with 4 attackers it means the full backs can’t overlap as effectively. Our success was built on a 433 with the full backs providing width and carrying up the ball allowing the 3 forwards to get into the box. We had no problem whatsoever breaking down low blocks. Against Sheffield we tried 4 attackers and barely scraped out the win. Jota is a quality player and he’ll rotate in and out of the front 3 but the point I’m trying to make is that he’s not first choice

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

                Of course the full arks can overlap? Why wouldn't they? Firmino basically becomes CAM/cm

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

                  Look at Chilwell and James for Chelsea

                  1. JONALDINHO
                    • 6 Years
                    3 years, 4 months ago

                    Chelsea play a 433. Chilwell and James overlap allowing Werner and Ziyech to come inside. This is the same as Liverpool. This isn’t anywhere near as effective with a 442. Look at Trent and Robbos stats when Liverpool played a 442 and compare that with the 433. Insane difference

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

                      Mount is playing in as a "CM" in a 4-3-3 but basically has a free role similar to a CAM. Firmino could optain that role for Liverpool imo.

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

                      And yes obviously the wingback will see the ball a little less in a 4-2-3-1 but it adds another dimension to break down low block teams. Will be much

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

                        Much harder to cope with for low block teams as you basically replace a defensive minded CM with another attacker.

    11. Catastrophe
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      This has generated quite a debate 😀

      At 6.4 - we should probably just buy him, right? Especially as almost everyone will only have Salah/Mane and Liverpool score a lot of goals. Even the odd benching won't be a catastrophe?

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

        He is 6.6 now

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

          Good shout.

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

        It’s basically foden 2.0. Your better off stretching for Grealish/Ziyech who will consistently chip in with points

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

          There's certainly risk. I'm torn between Jota, Cancelo and Zouma vs. Ziyech and two 4.6 Defenders. Not budging on the other 4 (KDB, Salah, Fernandes, Son) 🙂

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

            So you don't want Grealish?

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

              Not as much as the other 4 🙂

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

                I think he is essential at his pricerange. Allows you have one of TAA and Robbo in the side as well

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

          Jota will outcore Ziyech over the next 5 gameweeks for 1.5 million less I think

          1. JONALDINHO
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            It’s all down to personal preference. For me Jota will play more in the UCL and only get half the mins Ziyech does. Ziyech is nailed on the right of that front 3 as they don’t have another creator like him. He’ll constantly be involved and we know Chelsea score lots of goals

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

        But you are absolutely right. At that price playing 2 out of 3 games is just fine. You just need someone like Soucek/Brewster on bench to cover for him.

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

          True, although surely he will only STAY on the bench once in a blue moon...

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

            Will happen every now and then due to the fixture congestion. The likes of Origi and Minamino will see gametime as well.

  12. kime67
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    cancelo would be exiting but theres no way he plays both of the next 2 right?

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

      If he gets rested both CL matches, possibly

  13. Bruce Lee
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    How much would Sergio Ramos be in FPL?

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

      5.5 if he goes to Arsenal

      1. Bruce Lee
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Sad, but true

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

      7m.

    3. Hangman Page
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      I reckon they'd make him 6.5 - 7.0

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

      6.5 same as Virgil

    5. james 101
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Depends who he plays for, right?

      1. Bruce Lee
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        The obvious assumption is a top team like Burnley

        1. SHOWSTOPPERRR
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Messi and ramos won't play together..

    6. FPL Theorist
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Possibly as high as 7.5 assuming he's still on pens for a team that gets a lot of pens.

      1. Bruce Lee
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Him at United would be ridiculous

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

          Bruno would still take penalties

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

    Kane is on form and Tottenham are top of the league but also Vardy in the last 4 games has 3 goals,2 assists and 4 bonus with much better fixtures.

    1. BNMC
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      That is why I own both.

      1. james 101
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Smart

    2. Bruce Lee
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      I got Vardy over Kane

      Hasn't worked out in the last GW, but in the long-term it should do

      If it doesn't I won't care as I know I made the best decision at the time

  15. Bonus magnet
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    I hate that I`ve had other fires to put out meaning i still have Mahrez

    Surely with the easier fixtures coming up, he should have a big chance to play more of those with the "regulars" prioritised for champions league?

  16. james 101
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Martinez
    Digne Cresswell Chillwell Justin Kilman
    Son Bruno Grealish Rodriguez Zaha.
    Kane DCL Bamford

    Want to do Bamford + a mid to Vardy plus 5.6 mid. Who do I lose?

    A. Grealish
    B. Zaha
    C. JRod
    D. Don’t do it.

    And if I do, is Soucek the right choice or?

    1. james 101
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Would prob cap vardy this week if so

    2. MarcusAurelius
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Lose JRod as you have DCL

  17. Yankee Toffee
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Hard to justify getting rid of the game's top two points scorers (84 points each), Kane and Son, despite fixtures.

    How to get the likes of Vardy, KDB, Salah is doing my head in.

    1. james 101
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Agreed. I’m keeping for now

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

      Just keep 1. For me I’m keeping Son over the next 6 because he thrives against high lines. Getting KDB for Kane. Will do Bruno to Salah before Fulham. Salah, KDB and Son is a good mix for me

  18. Shark Team
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Jota Vs BHA(A) will be like Atalanta away. Those 2metres tall Brighton CBs won't catch him , mo and the crew.
    Sell Jrod this gw for Jota or not before this home fixture Vs LEE (H) ?

    1. King Kohli
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      I have the same transfer planned but waiting to see if he starts in the cl midweek.
      If he doesn't, I think he should start vs Brighton

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

      Jota will play in the UCL with Firmino rested. Against Brighton we will go back to the original three. Mark my words

    3. Yankee Toffee
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      I'm keeping JRod, it should be a goal fest

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

      He's my VC this week. I think he can do some serious damage.

  19. davies
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    Do you prefer Bruno or Vardy as an option moving forward?

    1. JONALDINHO
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Bruno

    2. Yankee Toffee
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 4 months ago

      Bru

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

      Wouldn't want any of them long term tbh.

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

        Why not?

        Looking at this front 7

        Salah KDB Bruno Son Grealish
        DCL Bamford

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

          It looks great on paper till Kane or Vardy start firing. I just think I'll keep Salah as my permanent premium when fit and rotate the rest of them based on fixtures and captaincy.

  20. kime67
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 4 months ago

    what did you guys think of the villa game? imo mcginn was awful. They should play someone more defensive minded alongside luiz.

    1. @persecuted_by_mods
        3 years, 4 months ago

        Their man issue as I see it is sometimes they approach games with an arrogance that doesn't match their talent, when it works they can put anyone to the sword but sometimes they need to respect teams and defend properly instead of trying to be a mini Liverpool. Welbeck's goal was a joke

      • Mr Wolf
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 4 months ago

        I watched the game and losing Barkley at the beginning had a big impact on the way they wanted to play the game. Lot of players underperformed - they have the potential to be really good and actually play better with top 6 sides, but then miss the easier games.... I am considering to sell Watkins after GW 11....we'll see.

        1. Dr Dream
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Agreed. Barkley seemed a body blow before a ball had barely been kicked.

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

      Best way to fund Rashford > Salah in GW11/12?

      A) Kane > Werner
      B) Son > Torres
      C) Zouma > 3.8m fodder (leaving me with a defense of Cancelo, James, Lamptey, Mitchell, Douglas?!)

      I'm oddly leaning C and hoping that Mitchell plays and can be my key backup.

      1. @persecuted_by_mods
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Does Mitchell really get in ahead of PVA? And he's not a right back is he so C would be a risk too far for me, James is a rotation risk, Cancelo isn't nailed either and tbh Lamptey will get his share of early subs too

          I'd go for A

        • Karan14
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          C but you could have 10 players playing certain weeks with so many games coming up.

          1. @persecuted_by_mods
              3 years, 4 months ago

              Could genuinely align to have 0-1 defenders

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

              Yeah it's true. I'd have 0.4m that I could use to upgrade Mitchell. But I would ideally like to not be wasting transfers in defense. However, the tradeoff is a crazy powered attack of:

              Salah KdB Grealish Son Jota
              Kane DCL

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

                That's a great attack no doubt. Seen some teams fitting Bruno & Bamford over your Kane & Jota.

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

                Not sure I would put Jota ahead of all the possible 6.6m forwards - Wilson, Antonio, Bamford, Watkins

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

                  For my 3-5-2 structure, it's what I have so...

          2. Tonyawesome69
            • 5 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Hopefully Roy can give some indication tonight when both Mitchell and PvA are fit.

        • kime67
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          ayling to castagne or cancelo?

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

            Add PVA to the mix too.
            Castagne has great fixtures but we have no idea if he'll come straight into the XI because of:
            1- injury
            2- justin displays have been OK.

            Castagne looks great but carries some risk. There's a chance he won't start against FUL

        • OverTinker
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Martinez
          Semedo Robo Chillwell Mitchel Dunne
          Son Bruno Grealish Zaha Burke
          Wilson DCL Jimi

          1 FT and 4.0 m itb
          Can you fix this team? (one hit allowed)

          1. BNMC
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Jimi to Kane/Vardy, easily

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

              yes thats easy. But What about Semedo and no city? Son to KDB/Sterling??

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

                Jimi -> Vardy

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

                  Ofcourse I'd do Jimi to Vardy but what else as I have no City

        • rnrd
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Dallas or Ayling on a WC?

          Dallas looks like OOP at the moment and coarries more goal threat but Ayling has some goods underlying stats + more security of starts.

          + Dallas is on 3 YC. Ayling 0

          1. BNMC
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            If you have good bench cover, Dallas

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

              Well the idea is to cover the X-mas rotation period, some certainty of starts clearly is something to consider (that's why I also mentioned the Dallas 3YC).

              Quite close probably.

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

            I still wouldnt opt for a leads def on wildcard, i know they just cleaned but arsenal have been toothless and played a lot of the game with 10 men. Leeds conceded 4 goals last week to palace which worries me.

            West Ham, Villa, Brighton, Palace or even West Brom perhaps look better bets for CS

            Leeds have Everton, chels and united in 3 of the next 5

        • Hansel
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          A)
          GW10: DCL, JRod, Bruno
          GW11: DCL, Ziyech, Bruno
          GW12->: DCL, Ziyech, Salah

          B)
          GW10: Bamford, JRod, Bruno
          GW11-> Bamford, Salah, Bruno

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

            a

        • melvinmbabazi
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Rashford and Kane to KDB and Vardy for -4?

          Yes or No?

          Cheers

          1. No Professionals
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            should work out, but Rashford and Kane could both realistically brace. Probably the right move over the next 3-4 weeks though?

        • No Professionals
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Martinez
          Chilwell Taylor Saiss
          Fernandes Son Grealish Foden
          Kane Vardy DCL

          Steer Mitchell Lamptey Alzate
          2.0m 1FT

          Lamptey red card has left me struggling at the back (was already to be fair).

          Son and Saiss to KDB and Coufal (-4) seems a straightforward move?

          and then do something with Kane the week after to get Salah back in.

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

            Not sure Kdb will outscore a -4 Son..

            1. No Professionals
              • 6 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              I'd be captaining KDB.

              part of me is tempted to just do Saiss to Cancelo and captain vardy.

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

                Hmm. Might work out if you C Kdb yeah. Wait and see what happens with Son, Kdb and Cancelo midweek and then make a decision.

              2. FPL Theorist
                • 4 Years
                3 years, 4 months ago

                The latter seems much better.

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

            Saiss and Foden to Cancelo and Torres

            1. No Professionals
              • 6 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              problem is i fancy Foden to start after the showing on Saturday, and I don't want another major rotation risk in Torres. Probably one to keep an eye on through the week.

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

                agreed, i'd just do Saiss to Cancelo, no hit

        • JBG
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          Who's more vital to have in my WC team going forward, Salah or Vardy?

          1. No Professionals
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Salah

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

              Thanks

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

            Salah long term

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

              Thanks

        • jb1985
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          If you had both Chilwell & R.James, would you upgrade James to a City defender?

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

            No. I'd want a City defender alongside those two.

            1. jb1985
              • 5 Years
              3 years, 4 months ago

              My other option is to upgrade Justin who has 3 good fixtures so not sure it is worth upgrading him but I know Pereira is lurking.

              My other defenders are Coufal and Mitchell.

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

              I have Chilwell, R James, Coufal, Targett and Lamptey. Brighton likes to concede two too often and while other defenders get bonus and cs with assist Lamptey gets card. His fixtures are turning sour also. I am seriously considering downgrading Barkley to Bissouma to upgrade Lamptey to Cancelo.

          2. Pukki Blinders
            • 4 Years
            3 years, 4 months ago

            Don’t think double Chelsea is necessary with the upcoming fixtures, I’d ditch one

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

            Not sure that this helps but i have James and will sell him in gw12.

        • UnitednationsXI
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 4 months ago

          best moves here with 4m and 1FT. Concerned about my def

          Martinez
          Chilwell James Saiss* -- Mitchell Lamptey
          Bruno Son Barnes Grealish -- Burke
          Watkins DCL Kane

          A: Saiss + Barnes >> Masauku/Ayling + Sterling (-4)
          B: Saiss + Barnes >> Lewis + KDB (-4)
          C: Saiss + Barnes + Kane >> Cancelo + KDB + Werner/Jesus (-8)
          D: Something else

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

            is there an argument with the fixtures to keep barnes a few more weeks?