Scout Notes

What can FPL managers expect from Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel?

Former PSG boss Thomas Tuchel has taken over from club legend Frank Lampard at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea’s record goalscorer, Lampard had taken his side on a 15 game unbeaten run before only winning one of their last five league games.

With their capitulation against Leicester, Roman Abramovich decided to act, officially removing Lampard from the post on Monday.

New boss Thomas Tuchel, 47, paid tribute to the Blues’ former boss

“I would like to thank Chelsea FC for their confidence in me and my staff.

We all have the greatest respect for Frank Lampard’s work and the legacy he created at Chelsea. At the same time, I cannot wait to meet my new team and compete in the most exciting league in football. I am grateful to now be part of the Chelsea family – it feels amazing!”

Thomas Tuchel

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said there was still much to play for this season for Chelsea

 “It is never easy to change Head Coach in the middle of the season but we are very happy to secure one of Europe’s best coaches in Thomas Tuchel. There is still much to play for and much to achieve, this season and beyond. We welcome Thomas to the Club.”

Marina Granovskaia

Tuchel arrives in west London with an impressive pedigree, having taken PSG to the Champions League final.

But how will his high-energy, possession style of play affect Chelsea’s Fantasy Premier League (FPL) assets?

WHAT WENT WRONG?

Things were looking rosy for Frank Lampard at the beginning of December, with his Chelsea side climbing to the top of the league following a 3-1 win over Leeds.

And their team contained strong FPL assets all over the pitch, with Kurt Zouma (£5.7m), Ben Chilwell (£6.1m) and Hakim Ziyech (£8.1m) all attracting attention.

But since their dip in form, points have been hard to come by for Chelsea players, with a lack of goals and clean sheets.

Their amount of goals scored and goals conceded in the first 15 Gameweeks so Chelsea were a top performing side.

But after their defeat to Arsenal, their slide down the Premier League table has also coincided with a dramatic drop in goals scored and rise in goals conceded.

Despite their recent tailspin, Chilwell and Zouma are still well-owned and assets, and more than 10% of managers still have Timo Werner (£9.2m) in their team, despite the German forward not scoring a goal since November.

Tuchel’s first task will clearly be to halt Chelsea’s slump in form and get them performing again, particularly big-money signings Werner and Kai Havertz (£8.2m).

TUCHEL – THE MAN

Thomas Tuchel has taken a similar journey in management to that of Liverpool gaffer Jurgen Klopp.

His first job as head coach came at German outfit Mainz, where Klopp also began his managerial career.

He quickly became one of the most talked about young coaches in football by transforming Mainz from a side struggling at the lower end of the Bundesliga to competing with the top sides, qualifying twice for the Europa League.

Many argue Tuchel was more successful than Klopp in his time at Mainz.

After achieving all he could with Mainz, who have not even come close to matching his success since, Tuchel took a year’s sabbatical before taking over from Klopp at Borussia Dortmund.

Tuchel took a side that had looked tired and steered them to a second-placed finish, rivalling Pep Guardiola’s Bayern.

But he quickly became disenchanted when star players such as Ilkay Gundogan (£5.6m), Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Mats Hummels were sold.

Dugout discussion - souars + wbamci

After winning the DFB Pokal, Germany’s equivalent of the FA Cup in 2017 before he was sacked that year, after falling out with a number of key figures at the club.

A year later, he took over at PSG, winning the Ligue 1 title twice and managing to keep a squad containing huge names relatively happy.

Last season, Tuchel was a whisker away from winning the Champions League, with his side falling to Bayern Munich in a final they had the better of.

Yet again, however, Tuchel had a falling out with Sporting Director Leonardo and was sacked on Christmas Eve.

Players and staff who have worked with Tuchel have praised his tactical awareness and his attacking style of play.

One source at Borussia Dortmund told the Athletic:

“He will always get a top job because he is amazing in what he does with a team.”

While there is no doubting his ability and tactical acumen, Chelsea fans will be worried about his numerous bust-ups at several clubs.

Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke described him as a fantastic coach but a difficult person.

And a source at Mainz described him as a very unforgiving person who bore personal grudges.

So it will be interesting to see how he gets on at Chelsea, a club known for its internal politics which brought about the downfall of his predecessor.

TUCHEL TACTICS

Another area Tuchel has been compared to Klopp is pressing, with both managers deploying a high-energy press.

But the two greatly differ when their teams have the ball, with Tuchel preferring a possession style of play more similar to that of Pep Guardiola.

He also looks to constantly adapt his tactics to negate opponents’ strengths, something he did to great effect with Mainz, where his team would often change formations several times per match.

In his most recent role at PSG, his preferred formation was a 4-2-2-2.

This formation saw Les Parisiens play the ball out from the back into midfield, with their full-backs pushed high up the pitch.

FPL players who have kept hold of Ben Chilwell and Reece James (£5.1m) should see them high up the pitch if Tuchel brings this system to Stamford Bridge.

The Scout Squad picks for FPL Gameweek 3

The two attacking midfielders in Tuchel’s formation would often be positioned on the opposite flank to cut inside.

This a system that would suit Hakim Ziyech and Christian Pulisic (£8.2m), who is yet to discover the form which made him a near-essential pick last season.

Whether he sticks with such an attacking formation in a League with much more competitive opposition is yet to be seen, but it will also be music to the ears of Werner.

Werner played his best football at RB Leipzig in a similar system, where he played off a bigger striker, making runs in behind the defence.

In Olivier Giroud and to a lesser extent Tammy Abraham, Chelsea have the personnel to replicate this.

Whatever system and style Tuchel chooses to deploy at Chelsea, he always tailors it to the players he has at his disposal.

My role is that of a service provider, I’m here to help and support the players.

Thomas Tuchel

TUCHEL STATS

PSG’s numbers in his final full-season at the club show how Tuchel was getting the most out of their attacking play.

The Qatar-owned club scored 75 goals in Ligue 1 and conceded 24, leaving them with a goal difference of 51.

Even in a less competitive league this figure is impressive, with PSG averaging out at 2.78 goals per game.

In his first full season, PSG were just as prolific, scoring 105 goals at a rate of 2.72 per game.

Tuchel’s Dortmund side produced similarly impressive attacking numbers in a much more competitive environment.

His Dortmund team in his final season scored 82 goals, at a rate of 2.41 a game.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Giroud outshines Werner again as Chelsea regress at both ends of the pitch
.

Thomas Tuchel has achieved results in every manager’s job he’s had so far, so Chelsea fans are right to be excited.

His attacking brand of football is perfect for a lot of Chelsea’s underperforming players, such a Pulisic, Werner and Ziyech.

Part of Tuchel’s remit will surely be to get the most out of Havertz as well, after spending £75million on him in the summer.

The main problems Tuchel has encountered in his managerial career have been fallings out with club hierarchy.

But with half the season already over, surely even Thomas Tuchel can’t lose his temper that quickly, can he?

715 Comments Post a Comment
  1. aborg
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 2 months ago

    Unfortunately I had brought in Barnes instead of Gundogun for this GW as I was not sure how they would play without KDB.

    How many points do you think Barnes will bring in today and how does he look as a long term pick?

    1. rubberdignerapids
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      You'll have to watch the game or wait and see...that will be your best indicator of whether Leicester and Barnes will be a good longterm pick rather than asking for opinion on here when that won't necessarily impact any pressing decisions before the deadline.
      Hope Barnes works out in any case for you and the game today will help!

      1. aborg
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Yes I know you're right...it's just that i've been kicking myself for being hard headed not to bring in Gundo, and can't wait to make up for it 🙂

        1. rubberdignerapids
          • 4 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Yeh it's annoying especially when City/Gundo play like that and everyone seems to be racking up the points. Having said that though, Barnes could bang in a goal or two with an assist to even things out...

          I myself had bet on Leicester for my team prior to the Vardy injury...he's now sitting like a DoDo on my bench and with Soucek next to him as second sub- I feel your pain, but in a very different way LOL

    2. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      No idea.

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

      The history of Leicester attacking assets without Vardy is poor.

      Have Barnes but not overly optimistic - looking at move to Zaha or Grealish in 22

      1. aborg
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Not what I wanted to hear 🙂 But fingers crossed this game without Vardy will be the similar to yesterday's City without KDB 😉

    4. The Ejiptian King
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Don't even bother thinking about it until after Barnes has played then beat yourself up and don't sleep until the next GW if he blanks, that's what I'd do.

  2. CrouchDown
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 2 months ago

    What would you guys do here for next GW?

    Martinez

    Cancelo Dallas Mitchell

    Salah Bruno Gundo Soucek

    Kane Antonio Bamford

    Subs: McCarthy, Coufal Bissouma Taylor

    1. rubberdignerapids
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Subs? Money itb? Maybe some initial thoughts from you- give us something at least to work with

      1. CrouchDown
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        1 FT and 5.3M itb.

        I was planning on doing Soucek > Son but now not so sure after Soucek's haul

        1. rubberdignerapids
          • 4 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          I'll prob myself do Soucek to Son tonight as I have Lookman as my first sub and with the exact cash (although not ideal since there are still games to come and possible cancellations)

          I'd say that unless you're gonna play Soucek week in, week out, you'll be bound to miss some of his points and be frustrated when he doesn't score vs Son who you should expect to score fairly evenly regardless of the opposition

          Therefore I'd perhaps wait until further games and injury news and do Soucek to Son without hesitation as close to the deadline as possible...unless you're affected by price changes etc

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

            Not tonight. Wait for Spurs to play. Mou hinted at unnamed injuries.

    2. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Is Bamford to DCL an option ? If not how much ITB and how many FT's.

      1. CrouchDown
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah I could do that. Cheers mate.

        I have 1 FT and 5.3M itb so a lot to play around with.

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

      Taylor to Stones/Dias or Bamford to DCL

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

      Single City defence? Or if you’re not keen then there’s a Chelsea wingback or Digne.

      Bamford to DCL is going to be the template move for those with full complement of City

      Wouldn’t consider Mitchell a starter really

  3. faux_C
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 2 months ago

    Has the Tuchel appointment made some huge change to Rate My Team? Ben Mee now rated down to 1.64 pts next week.

  4. Rupert The Horse
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 2 months ago

    Got a sudden urge to go to the dentist.

    1. rubberdignerapids
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Is it an urge or an ache? If it's the latter then I'd book an appointment pronto

    2. Make Arrows Green Again
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Ted and Dougal will take you.

      1. Hooky
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Will have to lose the sax solo first!

        1. Make Arrows Green Again
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          XD

    3. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Mine has just started doing check-ups again, think I'll wait until COVID numbers have improved.

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah. Still incredibly high.

        1. bitm2007
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Yes we were low down here in Cornwall until everybody came home for Christmas, then it shot up to a case rate of nearly 400 per 100,000. Slowly dropping again now.

          1. Rupert The Horse
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            Seems so unfair for you. My area was 1/25. Mad really.

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

      I'm delaying my scaling appointment. It's been a year.

    5. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      So he can look a gift horse in the mouth?

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Tips hat.

      2. Pompel
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        had to Google that one 😛

    6. The Train Driver
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Make sure you tell the dentist which tooth that hurts so he doesn't pull out the wrong one. Could be Stones/Cancelo situation all over again...

    7. The 12th Man
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Too many sugar cubes?

  5. wulfrunian
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 2 months ago

    When will we know if Eve or Sou will have a double gw24?

    1. KAALI_DAAL
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Soucek just had a DGW

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

    Thoughts on these early transfer suggestions.

    A. Vardy and Bamford/Rodrigo to Kane and DCL (-4)
    B. Vardy and Raphinha to Kane and Son (-4)
    C. Vardy, Rodrigo and Coufal to Kane, Antonio, Mitchell (-8)

    1FT 6.5itb
    Martinez
    Stones Cancelo Cresswell
    Bruno Gundo Salah Raphinha Soucek
    Bamford Vardy*
    (Johnstone Coufal Holding Rodrigo)

    1. rubberdignerapids
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      A looks the best option, but perhaps just doing Vardy to Kane is enough and not taking a hit?

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

        I'll wait and see how Everton get on. DCL with all the main players back against Newcastle could be a great option. I didn't take the hit on Vardy this GW and it worked out ok. I really want Antonio in the team, just a pity I'm already maxed out in 3 WHU players.

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

      I like A

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

        Hopefully Everton put on a similar performance against LEI tonight as they did against Sheffield Wed (of course it is easier opponents)

  7. The Train Driver
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 2 months ago

    I get the urge to cap Cancelo, however I think Gundo is the better option.

    - He looked really up for it vs WBA and played very advanced, almost as a forward on a couple of build ups.
    - Got constantly into dangerous positions, often in the opposition penalty box.
    - Could have scored more if his teammates had been more alert about his movements.
    - Well rested, only got 50 min vs WBA.
    - Was very clinical when he got the chances.
    - On penalties, and tbh with that amount of time City players spend in the opposition box, penalties could come easily.

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

      For City cap option, I would go with Gundo. Sound arguments there. I'm still leaning towards a premium asset in Kane or Son

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

      Most of those points don't differentiate him from Cancelo, though, imo

      1. The Train Driver
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Gundo far more clinical and getting into better positions compared to Cancelo. The only thing going for Cancelo compared to Gundo is the extra CS points. I bet and hope both do well, just a question of who does better...

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

          Extra CS points (and the potential bonus that come with it) are quite significant, and an extra point for a goal. I would personally consider Gundo mainly due to pens and being nailed to start. Without those two things, I think Cancelo would be the easy choice of the two.

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

      Gundo's on pens.

      Cancelo was playing as an attacking midfielder, but other oppos won't throw in the towel after 10 mins.

      1. The Train Driver
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Yeah, never seen a defender attack this much. Probably reclassified as a mid next season so enjoy while it lasts...

        1. thegaffer82
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          No chance he gets moved into MF on FPL. He’s still nominally City’s RB and when the team sheets come up he’s always RB or LB.

          Until Pep starts playing him over Mahrez/Silva etc... he’s not going to be reclassified no matter how high up he plays during games

  8. Sarri-ball
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 2 months ago

    Crazy to think about werner over kane next 4 if can score 2night?

    1. Vlekz
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Post again after he scores 2. Everyone single reply will be yes. Easy peasy

      • The Train Driver
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Will be exciting to see how he does, could become a great option with new manager.

      • Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Kane captain choice v Brighton and West Brom. I wouldn't overthink it but if you fancy a punt and he looks a bit better tonight then maybe....

      • jammie26
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Yep, totally crazy

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

      Got 2 FTs to use

      McCarthy
      Dias - Dawson - Targett - Mitchell - Dunne
      Salah - Bruno - Son - Grealish - Soucek
      Kane - DCL - Bamford

      (a) Gundogan/Barnes/Zaha + 4.5m in for Bamford + Soucek
      (b) Downgrade Soucek to add a 5th defender
      (c) Use 1 FT and carry over

      1. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Not planning to get Cancelo?

        1. FPLMarc
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          I feel like the time to get a second City defender was a few weeks ago

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

        happy with mccarthy?

        1. FPLMarc
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          I hadn't thought about that, actually. I suppose if another £4.5m GK came up, I'd consider it.

          1. Ruth_NZ
            • 9 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            Areola looks a really good shout.

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

              Doubt he'll outscore McC; he dovetails well with Martinez's tough fixtures. If you can't stretch to Martinez I'd wait for when you have a little cash.

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

      Pepe, Auba, Martinelli, ESR, Odegaard, Saka, Lacazette (Nelson, Nketiah, Balogun, Willian) competing for 4 slots. Time for 4-3-3 at Arsenal?

      1. R.C
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Auba AWOL

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

          Obviously I'm not talking only about the next game

      2. The Ejiptian King
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        How would competing for 3 places instead of 4 help?

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

          That would then be competing for 5 if Partey were to play DM.

          1. The Ejiptian King
            • 5 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            Suggesting ESR and Odegaard at CM? That seems way too attacking and lightweight.

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

              Hardworking dynamic players. ESR isn't a skeleton, but he is part of the spine! I wouldn't count it out as a possibility. In any case, it doesn't reduce the slots to 3.

              1. The Ejiptian King
                • 5 Years
                3 years, 2 months ago

                Arteta seems to be quite a cautious manager by nature, I don't see it happening.

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

        Don't see ESR and Odergaard being on the pitch together.

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

          I certainly do. Either one could be utilised on the left or right wing or midfield, though I suspect ESR will be used as a 10 all season unless desperate, so as not to give him extra minutes. But for Odegaard to get significant minutes, he'll need to be adaptable, as he has been in the past, since I don't see him being prioritised over ESR. Rather, Arteta will surely use hom to help rotate to rest players in general, not just with ESR. We'll see

      4. Baines on Toast...
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Saka, Laca, Auba as the first choice front 3

        Odegaard in the double pivot.

      5. aleksaa2
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Arteta wanted us to play a hybrid 4-3-3 from the beginning of this season, but we were unable to bring Aouar or any creative midfielder until now, so we were forced to play either with wing backs or 4-2-3-1 with 0 creative players in the squad...

        I think we will also see some games with Odegaard and Partey as CMs and ESR as CAM depending on the opponent. He brings another dimension to our squad, that's for sure. Our productivity will be much better and we won't be piss poor in creating chances like at the start of the season.

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

      time to get rid of mccarthy guys? tired of these 1 pointers.

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

        Yes, i got rid of him and KWP. Saints gone off a bit.

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

        think so too. Dont see any clean sheets coming anytime soon.

    5. R.C
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Why the hell is KDB not dropping in price?!?!?!

      1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Sometimes flagged players get protected from price drops, either that or corruption at FPL.

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

        the latter surely

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

      If I have Bruno (c) with Cancelo (vc) but only Coufal as first sub, do I want a Bruno no-show?

      Who has everyone VC'd this week?

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

        Gundo for me so I wouldn't be devastated. Grealish off the bench.

      2. McSauce
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        eh no

      3. The Ejiptian King
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Bamford...

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

        bruno no show after a rest. sorry not gonna happen

      5. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Everyone has Bruno cap this week it seems, no show is very unlikely though

      6. Euro Raiders
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Isn't going to happen so why ask?

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

          Just wondering if the VC points will offset the 1st sub points. Wonder if this can be answered by the Fantasy What-If on LiveFPL...

          1. Annie
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            doubt it copes with autosubs, doesn't even model points correctly, try entering high values.

          2. Euro Raiders
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            If Captain does not play double points will switch to VC player. You cannot make a bench player a VC. Auto subs are a different process but cannot effect Captaincy or VC. NB: A Captain or VC player, or both, could be auto subbed to the bench and will get zero points.

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

        Nope, I have Bruno (C) Cancelo (VC) with Coufal first sub as well

      8. Freshy
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Same as you with Souchy first off bench
        Also did Raphinha out for Gundog

      9. Baines on Toast...
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Gundo VC Soucek first sub 😀

        1. mojoindojo
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Ouch

          1. Baines on Toast...
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            Played Saka, Wilson and Bamford. Even Wilson got something, but yeah shoulda gone 3-5-2.

      10. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I would get a Mitchell 1 pointer but I would love it if Bruno does not feature. Gundo is my VC. Everyone else in my ML has Bruno C but really crappy VC selections.

      11. No Salah
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I have Bruno (c) Cancelo (vc)
        Raphinha has 1st sub!

        Is there really a chance of Bruno no show?!

        1. grumpyman
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          If Bruno is ever going to get a rest, this is a good match to do it in. I'm praying! (Gundo VC, Soucek first on bench).

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

            He got it at the weekend

            1. grumpyman
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 8 Years
              3 years, 2 months ago

              Damn, you're right. Warm-up injury my only hope then 🙁

      12. Black Knights
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Not many are gonna have 17 point VCs so that'll more than make up for the Coufal > Soucek discrepancy.

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

        For sure you want that

        Bamford here

    7. mojoindojo
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Brewster to DCL for free and bench Saka(MUN)?

      1. Toblerone52 - Zlatan Ibra-H…
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I would

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

        Transfer looks good. Not sure about benching Saka with the form he is in at the moment

        1. mojoindojo
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Yes benching headache for sure.

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

        Yeh

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

        Cheers for the replies.

    8. MMN
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Any changes on a WC? The plan is to BB in 26 & FH in 29.

      Martinez
      Justin, Cancelo, Stones
      Gundo, Son, Bruno, Grealish, Barnes
      Kane, DCL

      Areola, Bamford, James, Mitchell

      0 ITB but feels a bit too bench heavy at the moment ...

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

        Tough one BB now when DGW26 fixtures is not confirmed. Prefer Bamford to Antonio but that would give you a benching headache unless you downgrade one of the midfielders

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

          Tough one when DGW26*

      2. thegaffer82
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        We don’t even know what the GW26 doubles will be yet do we?

        Way too early to WC with those games in mind.

        Was your team in a state or something?

      3. MMN
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Was going off Ben Crellin's most likely expectation and certainly, it will be many of these. The only ones that I might want if things change between now and GW 25 is Lpool and Arsenal and that can be dealt with using transfers.

        With regards to my team, yes a few too many that weren't optimal and felt I would be better off overall with the improved team from GW 21 - 24 particularly with Everton, Leicester, Chelsea fixture swing. Wilson, Vardy, ESR (still got him in case I decide on a cheap 8th attacker), El Ghazi, Zouma, Coufal, Holding and Forster making way ...

        1. Lord.
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          One of the things that will change is that City will almost certainly have a DGW in GW24 (against Everton or Southampton), with another likely in GW27. This will be in addition to the big double in 26 (primarily for FAC quarterfinalists, if City progress). wildcarding now reduces your flexibility to take advantage of how this pans out.

          1. MMN
            • 10 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            But I am already having triple city regardless both pre and post WC. With regards to Southampton and Everton I don't think anyone is worth investing bar DCL if the second fixture is vs City (perhaps Ings or Adams if things change but I don't think a defender will be much use). Did contemplate getting Adams or McCarthy on the bench for this. Another option is Digne as he has the fixtures from now anyway.

            Given I have already activated, would you get any other Everton or Sou players? Everton because they have great fixtures now anyway and Southampton because they can be benched.

            1. Lord.
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 9 Years
              3 years, 2 months ago

              DCL is worth considering now the supply line is back. Obviously I’d want Ings if Southampton get the first double.

    9. Baines on Toast...
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Early shouts for next captain?

      Imagine Gundo popular but could easily play just 50 again and not score this time.

      1. drughi
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Kane or son for me

      2. mojoindojo
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Kane

      3. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Cancelo again.

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

        Kane or Son v Brighton

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

        Sticking to a premium so Kane or Son

      6. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Kane

      7. Aster
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Sterling will be my captain (since I did not get Gundogan)

      8. aleksaa2
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Salah probably

      9. Rhodes your boat
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Sterling Kane or salah

      10. jammie26
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Unlikely City will be 4 nil up at half time which led to Gundo's reduced minutes.

        1. Scholes Out For Summer
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Which will mean that Gundo will probably score less

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

        Salah currently

      12. thegaffer82
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        More tempted by Cancelo after he broke his duck.
        But Gundo is a strong option too, especially with penalties in the bag

    10. Rhodes your boat
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      What are your thoughts here? 1FT 0.5itb

      Martinez
      Stones coufal Mitchell
      Salah sterling Bruno son soucek
      Kane bamford

      Forster holding yedlin** davis

    11. Winston.
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Supposing DCL plays well tonight, would you prefer A?

      A. DCL+Raphinha/Saka
      B. Watkins+Grealish

      1. mojoindojo
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        A with saka

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

      Who to bench in 21?

      A. Bamford (lei)
      B. Soucek (LIV)
      C Antonio (LIV)

      B just?

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

      Martinez (Steer)
      Cancelo Diaz Justin James (Coufal)
      Salah Sterling Fernandes Grealish (Raphinha)
      Adams Antonio (Bamford)
      0.4ITB

      Should I do Sterling + Adams -> Gundogan + Kane (-4)? I want Spurs coverage but don't really keen on selling Sterling after only one game.

    14. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Cannot wait to watch Everton vs Leicester. With all the support cast back will be a proper audition for DCL.

      1. Scholes Out For Summer
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Will be a cracking game

        1. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Only wish Vardy was there.

      2. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Indeed.

    15. mojoindojo
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Looking at all Soucek points on bench its good that I did Soucek to Saka for a hit.
      Else I would have played Dallas over Soucek.

    16. fplking14
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      50 points behind my ML leader, is it over?

      1. Scholes Out For Summer
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        No. Literally half the season left

      2. Ha.
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I made 50 points over a rival last week alone, so no

        1. aleksaa2
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          He is lying!

          1. Rupert The Horse
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            Why would you say that?

      3. aleksaa2
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Yes, no one has ever done it before

      4. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I covered 58 in 3 GWs. Possible.

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

        I am 100+ points behind my ML and I do not think it is over. All it takes is picking a few good differentials and captains.

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

        I turned 60 points around in a competitive ML with 5 weeks left last season to finish 2nd. It's not over at all.

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

        I made up 102pts the leader of one of my MLs in January. He's 34pts ahead now.

        1. sunzip14
          • 7 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Oh It's easier checked that way... I made up 101pts and currently lead him by 32 🙂

      8. sunzip14
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I was trailing by 69 points GW16. Currently I lead him by 32 points.

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

          Last season I was leading my ML by over 100 points with 6 GWs to go. Lost it by 5 on the last day.

          1. sunzip14
            • 7 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            Ouch! I recovered similar margin towards the end of last season as well. Don't really remember if it was over 100 points but it was definitely close. Heard you are doing great this season. So, maybe no chance of similar slip ups this season 🙂

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

              No, I've been having a poor season - just got my act together in the last 3 wees, rising from 2M to 750K.

              1. sunzip14
                • 7 Years
                3 years, 2 months ago

                Apologies for that! maybe I just saw you were having good few weeks, in some post earlier. That is some recovery though. I also had a good few weeks rising from 598k to 72k now (without using any chips). Good luck for coming GWs 🙂

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

                  Well I tend to skulk away and lick my wounds when I'm doing badly!

    17. Scholes Out For Summer
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Soucek + Bamford --> Son + Watkins (-4)

      Is this move overthinking?

      1. Aster
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Would wait for Vila-Burnley before making that Watkins move.

        1. Scholes Out For Summer
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Yes for sure.

      2. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Oof. Losing Soucek for a hit. Not sure it’s thinking in any respect.

        1. Scholes Out For Summer
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Liverpool is the best team in the past 6 games in terms of set piece defence and headed goal attempts. Leicester has been a top 5 defence in the past 6 games as well. Dont want either of them for this GW.

          Brighton has a bottom third defence and leaks attempts from the left flank. Southampton defence has been mediocre without Vestergaard.

          1. Rupert The Horse
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            3 years, 2 months ago

            Well then to be honest it sounds like you know exactly what you want to do and have thought about it. No point asking my opinion on it when you’ve developed your own and are confident with it.

      3. aleksaa2
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I wouldn't get rid of Soucek. Bamford to Watkins/Antonio/DCL depending on your budget should be a good transfer.

      4. Assisting the assister
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Scores a brace and you ditch him. I don't get it.

    18. Ha.
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Any rumours of a Watkins or Grealish injuries?

      JusticeForSoucek

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

        Soucek already got justice for you benching him.

        1. Rupert The Horse
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Haha

        2. Ha.
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Technically I benched him last week and just didn't move him

      2. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Hope they’re injured.

        1. Jernau M Gurgeh
          • 13 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Btw oil of cloves is an old remedy against toothache.

    19. Krafty Werks
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Firmino, El Ghazi & Bamford > DCL, Son & Davis (as bench fodder)? -4...yay or nay? Thanks :

      Martinez / Johnstone
      Cancelo / Stones / Justin / Coufal / Dallas
      Salah / Sterling / Bruno / El Ghazi* / Raphinha
      Firmino* / Bamford* / Antonio

      1. Ha.
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Yes

    20. Fit_to_drop
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Are Watkins' fixtures enough to tempt you to transfer him in (in place of Bamford) or would you stick with more tried and trusted performers like DCL and Antonio?

      1. Ha.
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Antonio

      2. Aster
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Would opt for DCL and Antonio.

      3. aleksaa2
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        I'd stick with DCL and Antonio.

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

        Thanks.

    21. The Mighty One
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Hi mates!

      Can we discuss Son vs Kane?

      I was ready to get Son, but the cheap Mids are so strong and my Wilson on the bench is so weak.

      Maybe Kane is the way to go. Why fix this midfield if it ain't broken? The 1.5 of cash savings with Son is useful.

      Just wondering any strong feelings here.
      Thanks all! Good luck in the second half of the season.

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

        So I think Kane's expected points are slightly better, so he's a better C option for GW23 and DGW26

        But in terms of value if you don't captain Son is better

        1. The Mighty One
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Great point. Thanks!

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

        Look at it this way: you have multiple options in midfield. Realistically, Kane/Antonion/DCL are the only 3 options up front and even of that group, Kane is the only week-to-week reliable performer. So at least if you get Kane, you can forget about that spot and work on your other positions.

        1. The Mighty One
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Very good point. Thank you! Much appreciated.

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

        Son:
        + Costs less
        + Still getting big chances
        - Missing chances of late
        - Not creating as many chances

        Kane:
        + Creating chances
        + Taking lots of shots
        + Penalties
        - Costs more
        - Typically a bit deeper

        1. The Mighty One
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          Awesome comment. The Pens make Kane captainable. That is very important. I would probably never captain Son with Salah and Bruno (and eventually KDB again) sitting there. Thank you!

    22. Fit_to_drop
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Those of you that sold KDB recently:

      A. Keeping the money in the bank to get him back when fit?
      B. Spending the money elsewhere and riding it out with Gundogan/Son/AN Other?

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

        B

      2. Assisting the assister
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        More fun spending it

      3. The Mighty One
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Now Kane instead of Son after the very good comments just above this thread.

    23. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 2 months ago

      Help needed! 32 points behind my ML leader. The two players that he has and I don't who can potentially widen the gap are Kane and Cancelo. Who do I get in first this week. I have Stones and Son. He has Stones but no Son.

      1. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Cancelo

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

          Fixtures say Cancelo

      2. Ruth_NZ
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Lord. Ignore him completely and don't look again till GW34 or thereabouts.

        1. Lord.
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 2 months ago

          I get ignored all the time.

      3. The Mighty One
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 2 months ago

        Definitely Cancelo as he is nearly playing the #10 now. Him and Gundo are hovering just outside the 18 yard box. I'm getting Kane personally because I have several cheap Mids and my strikers are weak, but Cancelo is very strong.