Pro Pundits

My Double Gameweek plans and why the Wildcard/Bench Boost tactic has its downside

FPL BlackBox’s Az talks Double Gameweek 24 players, when the best time to play the Bench Boost is – and spreadsheets.


After a relentless run of games in which I feel like I have lived, breathed and slept football, we now have a few days off until we enter Double Gameweek madness.

Since my last article, things have been pretty unspectacular. Good to know that all the planning and sleepless nights were worth it, then.

In came my Everton and Manchester City players, but in true Az 2020/21 style, I’ve managed to dodge quite a few points by failing to hand llkay Gündogan (£6.0m) the armband at the right time and, of course, leaving Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£7.7m) on my bench for his huge 12-point haul away at Manchester United.

I’ve been around the million rank before, of course, and it feels bad, but I’m just waiting for that one big Gameweek that can really kick-start my season.

Looking at other managers, many are treading water at the moment, finding it hard to get ahead due to a strong template having emerged. Of course, plateauing for someone nestled snugly in the top 10k isn’t as bad compared to where I’m at.

I’ve tried to play my own game and be a bit more aggressive, captaining the likes of João Cancelo (£6.0m) and Michael Antonio (£6.7m). I even took a failed -8 in Gameweek 21. This has seen my rank barely shift in any direction. Frustrating.

But now things are getting exciting. This is the time in which the spreadsheets are out, the Double Gameweeks are starting and in theory, it’s when the sharpest and most engaged managers can start to separate themselves from the rest of the pack. My time is now. Well, in theory.

Planning for the DGW

I think I’m in pretty decent shape going forward. The -8 I took a few weeks ago, while not generating huge points for my team, has at least allowed me to get ahead of the curve this week.

I’ve got six Double Gameweek players in place and really, I’m not sure I want to triple up on Everton with their game against Manchester City not looking particularly inspiring and some fitness concerns with James Rodriguez (£7.7m).

If I was going to take a punt, I might consider the likes of Richarlison (£7.8m), but he’s without a goal now since Gameweek 13 and it’s difficult to strongly advocate a striker double-up from Everton, or breaking up a decent trio also containing Patrick Bamford (£6.7m) and Antonio.

Manchester City present an interesting selection dilemma for us this week. We never really know who Pep is going to play, but the fact that both Spurs and Everton present real challenges for his team, I would like to think that we will see strong teams in each match.

John Stones (£5.2m) put in another good performance against Liverpool, even scoring a disallowed goal in the process. But there is now the real threat of Aymeric Laporte (£6.0m) filling in for him on occasion. It is worth noting however that in his last appearance, Laporte played at left-back, meaning that all three of himself, Stones and Ruben Dias (£6.1m) took to the pitch. I still think Stones is pretty safe in that backline given his performances – but looking at it from a Double Gameweek perspective, I wouldn’t be too surprised to see him miss one of the games. The FA Cup tie with Swansea may provide some clues on who will line up at the back for City.

I would be very reluctant, however boring, to go without Gündogan however. His form is incredible and doesn’t even look unsustainable given the role he is playing in the team and the quality of his finishing at the moment. Raheem Sterling (£11.6m) looks to be hitting form at an interesting time, too, and may even be a viable captain option this week over the likes of Calvert-Lewin and Gündogan.

I think those who have gone for three at the back for City have some decisions to make. Stick with what you’ve got and hope for a couple of clean sheets against quite tough opposition, or make the move for one of Gündogan or Sterling. For free (i.e. with two free transfers), I think I’d make the switch. If you are looking to captain one of them, then a hit probably is the right thing to do, too. I’d still be backing Gündogan over Sterling though, given his form.

Bench boost fears

While I’m pretty happy with how my team is set up, a bit of a monster bench score last week has brought into focus that I need to time my Bench Boost right, and the best opportunity to do so might be while my funds are so evenly spread out across my team, rather than waiting for another moment further down the line.

If I’d played it last week, I’d have got a solid return of 24 points. Looking at my team this week, I’m not sure there’s going to be a better time to play the chip. I could even move Son Heung-min (£9.6m) out for Marcus Rashford (£9.6m) and target the Red Devils against West Brom, in what is arguably the best fixture to have right now.

It would also solve my bench dilemma of who to drop out of Tomas Soucek (£5.4m) and Vladimir Coufal (£4.7m), who both have a home game against Sheffield United. It’s actually a bit of a shame that the potato-salad loving man from the Czech Republic went and got his ban overturned. Zero points and now a dilemma… great.

Alternatively, I could wait until Gameweek 26. I’ve still got the Wildcard to play, and I know a lot of people are thinking of using theirs in Gameweek 25 to attack whatever Double Gameweek we get. But a Wildcard/Bench Boost double-up would see me continue with funds spread right across my team. It would be nice to really focus on my starting XI with the Wildcard and not have the Bench Boost burning a hole in my pocket.

The other thing is that I’m looking at my team and not really seeing that much wrong with it in the longer term. While I am keen to readdress the “balance” (probably by moving for Harry Kane in a few weeks), I’ve got the majority of players who I want to keep in place. I’m not convinced that ripping this all up for one week is the answer – but of course, I will wait to see what doubles we have before making this decision.

Planning ahead

If you’re into spreadsheets, this is the time to fire up Excel and get planning.

It’s important to have a strategy in place of the players/teams you’re targeting and with strong benches, having a roadmap of the ones you think you’re comfortable benching can help not bring in unnecessary players and waste precious free transfers. Mark out your transfers (in a nice shade of yellow like I have) and your captains (try a nice calming blue) to make sure that your squads are in good shape for the weeks to come.

Something like the above took me about 10-15 minutes to fill out and I think I’m going to try and keep this going until the end of the season.

Good luck to you all for the coming Gameweek and get planning. It’s exciting times ahead!


Az <p>One half of the FPL BlackBox YouTube series with Mark Sutherns.</p><p>Former Membership Strategy Manager for FFS&nbsp;</p> Follow them on Twitter

731 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Alexis Nonsense
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    If Antonio is benched due to fatigue, there is a good chance he’ll come on for some minutes right? Just wondering if it’s best to just bench him?

    1. onceuponatyne
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I suspect he was just rested tbh, but others might know more?

    2. Konstaapeli
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      As I understand, it's his hammy, not fatigue.

      1. Simon69
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Source?

  2. Weeb Kakashi
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Ben's spreadsheet has the possibility of more fixtures added to GW25. Wonder if its possible ... Could BB that week

    1. Eleven Hag
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Link plz

        1. Eleven Hag
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Thnx

  3. onceuponatyne
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Were there any price rises? Not working on the site.

      1. onceuponatyne
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Brilliant, thanks mate. I'll save the link.

  4. Jafooli
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Other than Kane possibly in DGW26 (tbc), what other player/team options are being considered for TC?

    Does Bruno have a DGW? Or Salah? If so any idea what GW/teams faced?

    Anyone else worth considering and when?

    1. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Sane, Mane, Kane = 3 x TC fails in a row

      1. Pompel
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        That Sane TC fail still hurts...
        Then last two seasons I have actually inadvertently activated TC on Kane and also Sterling last season. So haven't been big success for me since that legendary Sanchez haul way back

        1. Fulchester's New Centr…
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          I can't remember any succesful ones ever, certainly didn't get Sanchez or Kun's mega-hauls.

    2. Pompel
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I still have TC left, looking at either of
      Gündo or Sterling dgw24 or dgw26
      Kane or Son dgw24 or dgw26

      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Spurs have a DGW in 24?

        1. Pompel
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Sorry, my bad - Spurs in dgw26 only ofc. Bit accoding to Ben Crellin, there's a possibility that SPurs could get a nice dgw in either gw27 or gw28 also

          1. Jafooli
            • 12 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            Cheer

    3. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Bampot in DGW25 an option for TC

      Wolves (a) & Southampton (h) - decent enough

      1. Eleven Hag
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Wolves have defended well against them when they were flying, now they aren't as attacking

    4. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Bruno vs Chelsea (a) & Crystal Palace (a) in DGW26 must be an option?

  5. Jafooli
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Anyone actually see Antonio pull up last weekend? Did it looks serious or precautionary?

    1. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      He looked happy enough. West Ham forums seemed more concerned about him being tired so rest for Cup game was always likely anyway.

      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Yeah, that’s how I understood it - more just knackered. Needed a rest, which he’s now had?

        There’s been nothing said about hammy injuries right? Seen some mention it....

        1. Fulchester's New Centr…
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Wee Davie's “I hope so. I don’t think it’s too bad.” is all we have to go on. SHU not till Monday I think so, fingers-crossed.

          1. Jafooli
            • 12 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            I’m also a Scot and that’s typical dour for ‘he’ll be fine and score a brace’ 😉

            1. Fulchester's New Centr…
              • 6 Years
              3 years, 1 month ago

              Guid luck

    2. aidmata
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      He did make a run then pull up and motion to be subbed. Was then seen rubbing his hamstring at a corner before he went off. Wouldn't be unlike Moyes to try to downplay things either...

      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Ah ffs....just when I convinced myself he’s cheers 🙂

        1. Jafooli
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          *fine

          1. aidmata
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 8 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            Commentators didn't seem to pick up on it but I was watching him quite closely as unfortunately had him Captain!

    3. Sterling Archer
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      he held his hammy and signalled to come off, dont think moyes is telling the full story, hopefully we get some news/training pics before the deadline

  6. Dybala10
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    These impending blank fixtures - are people just concentrating on the doubles in the next two weeks rather than long term?

    The reason I ask is because I wanted to bin West Ham assets due to fixtures but it looks like they are playing in 27 and 29 when there are blanks. I'm thinking is it really worth selling Coufal for Lowton (BUR double up) for the sake of this one week...

    Only have WC left.

    1. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Any 27 blank? FH for 29

    2. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes, but keeping a casual eye on BGW29 just to ensure not to drop any clangers, like transferring out a player you is certain to start in GW28, sort of thing...

    3. The 12th Man
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I suppose it depends how many DGWers you’d be happy with in 26.
      Wham players are an easy bench in that week with a single gw away to Man City.
      But the question then is how many Leeds players will you have for 26 and would you be happy to play them over a dgwer?

  7. Magic Zico
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    GK to play:
    A. DDG (wba)
    B. Areola (eve bur)

    1. the dom 1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      B

    2. The 12th Man
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      B

    3. SharkyT
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Dave for me

    4. marcos11
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      B

    5. The 12th Man
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      DDG ceiling is probably 6. Not going to make many saves.

      Areola 4 points just for playing 2 games. Then there’s save points. Should make 6 without a clean sheet.

      1. Magic Zico
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Exactly, playing Areola: if unlucky 4 v 6, if very lucky 9-12 v 2

  8. the dom 1
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Antonio > Jesus worth a punt for DGW?

    Y or N

    Cheers

    1. Botman and Robben
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      N

    2. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      For free why not if no other better transfer for your team

      1. the dom 1
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Could do Son > Stirling?

        1. Magic Zico
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          This is better especially if Sterling [C], as long as you are mindful of your Son DGW26 plan and future intent

  9. Gemma817
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Few one week punts before WC 25.

    Dallas, Grealish and Kane -> Mee, Sterling, DCL (-8)

    Would just lose .2m. Green signal, lads?

    1. Eleven Hag
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes

      1. Gemma817
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Cheers. Was nice to see Lingardinho teaching Grealish how to play football in that match v AV

    2. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      If you're sure WC25

      1. Gemma817
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Yessir, I seem to be. WC25 to BB26, few FTs and hits to have a decent enough team for BGW29. Then let's take it from there

  10. Agbonlahorse
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Rocking a Man City back line with Cancelo, Dias and Ederson.

    Should I be nervous not owning Gund or Sterling?

    1. Weak Become Heros
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes.

    2. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      If City concede in both you could be in trouble.

      If they CS in both, you’ll be quids in.

      Simple as that really...

      1. Hy liverpool
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Genius

        1. Jafooli
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          😛

    3. boombaba
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I have stones dias and cancelo

    4. Gemma817
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Bro imagine Citeh wins two pens in two games and Ederson takes them both. You'd be flying

  11. Hotdogs for Tea
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    I reckon Swansea are going to turn Man City over tonight 🙂

    1. Weak Become Heros
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Its 10am and you’re drunk, again.

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

        It's certainly not 10am where I am and the sun passed the yard quite a while ago ... for me the game is actually tomorrow 😉

        1. Weak Become Heros
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 5 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          As you were then. 🙂

  12. boombaba
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Bench son bamford or lookman

    1. SharkyT
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Son

    2. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I know he is DGWer, but Lookman has lowest ceiling. Fulham can't hit a cow's arse with a banjo.

  13. SharkyT
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Worth losing 0.3m in value on Son to bring in Sterling (c) for this DGW?

    1. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Who else you got?

  14. cescpistols111
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Is it worth taking a -4 to do Son to Mane? Exact funds available right now.

    Ederson Button
    Coufal Rudiger Lowton Holding Kilman
    Sterling Fernandes Son Grealish Bissouma
    Werner DCL Bamford

    1. SharkyT
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Not for me

    2. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Have you seen Liv recently?

    3. Gemma817
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      More specifically have you seen Mane recently? He's been awful

  15. Our Man Charlie
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Morning All,

    for the upcoming DGW24 for a -4

    Johnstone - Pope
    Zaha - Gundo
    Chilwell - Tarkowski

    Y or N
    Cheers

    1. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      yes, Yes, YES, YES!

      1. Our Man Charlie
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Thank you sir 😆 not pressing the button till after the FA cup games though

  16. DannyDrinkVodka
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    so........for those of us without a free hit dead-ending into GW 29 and WC GW30.............is GW26 still the best time to BB? Or should I just get Areola for a hit and do it now (0.1 off of Pope)?

    Martinez Forster
    Cancelo Shaw Mee Coufal Dallas
    Salah Sterling Bruno Grealish Gundog
    DCL Bamford Watkins

    1.4 ITB

    1. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Worst case scenario he gets 4 more than Forster so net zero at worst

    2. Fit_to_drop
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      See my post below about BB GW25

  17. Champions League Varane
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    BB26 is TC Sterling a good option this week??.

    1. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      You know if you do, Ederson will finally take that PK

      1. Fulchester's New Centr…
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        I think if you're feeling it, why not? "Best" choices of last couple of years at least have ended up as damp squibs.

    2. Rinseboy
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      wow sse below Tony. Just posted the same thing!

    3. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Hey Tony, is Cavani now stealing your starts?

  18. Rinseboy
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    What would you say are the pros and cons of triple captaining Sterling this week? I'm really tempted assuming he doesn't really feature tonight.

    Sterling looks primed for a big score soon and city are firing now. Even though their next 2 fixtures look tough, City sometimes perform better in those games than against teams that sit back.

    I always try and wait every season for the obvious captain and it never works out! i.e Kane in 26 this year

    Interested to hear what you think!?

    1. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I don't know if he is the best choice of the season, but who does?

      Like I said to Tony above, just do it if you think it is right.

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

      I wouldn't. The fixtures don't scream goals. But I think Sterling is the best cap pick this week.

    3. Gemma817
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Can he possibly be rotated? :/

    4. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      My experience so far with TC, the obvious ones have been dissapointing (read: unlucky). Kane looks rather obvious if DGW26 materialises. So I am going with Raphinha DGW25. Only thing with Sterling is the potential dissapointment of limited minutes.

    5. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I'm doing it if he doesn't play tonight, kinda worried Gundog outscores him anyway but worth a go

    6. Rinseboy
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      thanks all is a gamble for sure but I just feel like he is building up for a big score soon! whether its this week tho we will see!

    7. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Hard to know - if I had him I'd definitely think about captaining... but Triple captaining pretty much any Man City asset would personally would be a stretch too far as you never know when Pep will do a Pep & either bench a player, sub them off early, or play them in a new weird position/role etc

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        I'm exactly of the same mind. Even if Raz starts both, he'll likely have his minutes severely managed.
        I'd rather save my TC until Kane is fit, firing and has a DGW. You know he'll play 180.

  19. Gemma817
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Any clue as to which teams could have play double in GW26 and also have a game in GW29?

    1. Agbonlahorse
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Good shout. I'm eagerly awaiting more news on this too.

      Brighton beating Leicester will give us likely DGW for Leicester and Burnley I 26 and GW29 for both.

      Barnet beating Chelsea will give us Liv/Chelsea likely 26 double and GW29 game.

      Bristol beating Sheff Utd would give us Villa likely 26 double and GW29 game.

    2. Boss Hogg
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Villa.

    3. jtreble
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I'd suggest you follow Crellin on Twitter.

  20. Hazz
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Great article AZ. I have a similar feeling about this week, the BB & the squad going forward.
    (I'm also ranked around the 1,000,000 mark, and also took an excruciating -8 in GW21!)

    1. Az
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      and we basically have the same name too!

  21. Fit_to_drop
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    These 3 fixtures in GW25 Burnley V WBA, FUL V SHU and BHA V CRY - present a real opportunity to play a Bench Boost with low cost defensive assets and not have to worry about teeing up a BB with WC26.

    These are the three best No score draw fixtures i have seen all season.

    1. SADIO SANÉ
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      so a nice little 'both teams to score' treble there then 😆

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

      It's a nailed-on case for starting 5 at the back, but I don't see value in bringing in a midfielder or striker from any of those clubs.

  22. GreenEagle
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Which one would you choose to play from :
    - Salah: LEI (A)
    - Maddison: LIV (H)
    - Bamford : ARS (A)
    - Grealish : BHA (A)

    I have trouble choosing one

  23. Andy_Social
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    I don't fancy playing Son against City, and Antonio could be out, in which case I have a vacancy for a starting spot. With Baggies and Toon up next, what say you to triple United? Bruno and Rashford are stick-ons, but with Pogba out, how about adding Greenwood? No form but he's due and should play both games, no?

    1. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Somehow I'm confident Antonio to start

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        I'll leave it until Saturday morning anyway, but I'm not so sure.

    2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      My tip would be to play Son - the longer the odds on Spurs to win, the better for him

      City let Vydra in down their left channel several times between Laporte & Dias vs. Burnley & were lucky not to concede (https://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2021/02/04/salah-and-blanks-again-as-brighton-defensive-assets-shine-ahead-of-good-run/?hc_page=1&hc_sort_by=comment_date#hc_comment_23361557)

      Then did the same with Salah between Zinchenko & Dias at the weekend, Son will be attempting the exact same thing repeatedly for 90 minutes straight - chances are he may get the tiny bit of space he needs to smash

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Interesting. But do you tip him to outscore Greenwood v Baggies? If it's only 1 point I'd best not bother.

        1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          I'd put Son on a different planet to Greenwood at the minute - but who knows, Greenwood could always pop up with something vs WBA

  24. Mr. O'Connell
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Going Stones over Dias would allow me to go either:

    DCL > Ings
    or Soucek > Raphinha

    For DGW25 if I wish. Obv Dias is the better pick, but that extra cash in the bank is handy for the upgrades mentioned above. Do we reckon Stones starts both? I'm guessing he's more likely to as they are actually tougher games and they have performed so well.

    1. Pompel
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I wouldn't, Stones will be rotated imho

      1. Mr. O'Connell
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Probably a high chance, yeah. Would you rather a Burnley def (already own Mee) over Stones in that instance?

        1. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Just for the DGW, I'd double or triple on burnley with Pope, Mee and Tarowski (or Lowton). After GW25 they'd be a liability though.

        2. Pompel
          • 10 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Ideally yes, thinking City Dias + Gündo + Sterling is the optimal combo for gw's 24 to 26. Unfortunately I can't have that without taking hits, even with 2 FTs in hand

          1. Mr. O'Connell
            • 11 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            Yeah that looks ideal. Seems like I'll probably only end up with one of them unless I do Salah to Sterling for a hit (which I may do if he looks like the best captaincy option).

            Regarding triple Burnley, I think Lowton can be hidden deep in 3rd sub territory after Week 25 given he doesn't take up much cash.

            Cheers

  25. Magic Zico
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    These could be my transfers of the season 😉 whilst releasing funds from ex-BB DGW19 for preparing DGW26:

    DDG (wba) > Areola (eve bur) and Chilwell (NEW) > Lowton (cry FUL)

  26. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    It was probably just coincidence that a player who had recently returned from missing months with a hamstring injury, 60 minutes into his 3rd start in 6 days, is observed rubbing at his hamstring at a defensive set piece (could also have just been giving his arse a good vigorous scratching tbf), then runs to chase a ball over the top before mysteriously stopping mid run, then minutes later is subbed off

    Probably just fatigue as Moyes says

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Indeed. Hence my thoughts above.

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

      https://twitter.com/BenDinnery/status/1359429459779198976

      Moyes on the availability of Antonio for the upcoming game week. "I hope so. I don't think it's too bad." Meanwhile, the Hammers will need to check on a "few players" following the extra-time loss to Manchester United in the #FACup

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        That's a standard non-committal managerial response. Means nothing really, hence the observations of MBP having credibility.

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

          I think Antonio is just being managed. Wasn't fully fit for last night, but let's see. Yarmolenko struggled massively, as did the teen they brought on. Of course they'll have Lingard back - but the reality is West Ham need a proper forward up top.

          1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
            • 14 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            Genuine question - do you think he's just being managed having watched his final few minutes during the Fulham game?

            I can't be sure myself because it would mean calling David Moyes an actual liar - but to my (medically untrained) eye & knowing Antonio's history it had all the hallmarks of a hamstring - in which case Moyes shouldn't be lying & smoke-screening about "fatigue" & should just be honest & say "yeah he felt his hamstring a little & asked to come off so we took him off - the physio's have told me XYZ"

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

              See below. It's clear he felt something. As much as they may have wanted a win, Antonio wasn't doing that much & it's far in their interest to keep him at some level of fitness than out properly as has been the case before. As before, managing as best they can, since he's their only actual forward.

              Not trying to guess what Moyes is saying, that's pointless. Just putting a sensible cap on knowing Antonio's history.

              1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
                • 14 Years
                3 years, 1 month ago

                "@ExWHUemployee whats all this crap on antonio being fatigued . tell the truth . his left hamstring is pulled . end of"

                That reply summarises what a lot of people who watched the game are thinking

                If Antonio has hurt the hamstring Moyes needs to be careful how he manages the communication of this, people/West Ham fans aren't stupid - you can be sure Moyes has had plenty of conversations with Physios over the last 3-4 days & knows an exact detailed medical diagnosis of the situation + recovery times etc

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

                  FFS Twitter users frankly don't have a clue, are not close to the club and are not owed it. Moyes is not going to give away an advantage to Sheffield United to appease FPL managers.

                  It's nothing to do with him being shady or not credible. If there's genuine news, he can give it in a proper presser later.

                  1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
                    • 14 Years
                    3 years, 1 month ago

                    Well that's me told then 🙂

                  2. Wild Rover
                    • 13 Years
                    3 years, 1 month ago

                    How odd that just below this post you link a tweet from the same 'clueless' person. He is clearly an ITK as proven.

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

                      Mate, I posted this link before he did. When I say Twitter users, I'm not talking about ITK (I know he has an insanely good record, hence why linked). I'm talking about the average joe with no ties to the club in the slightest.

                      1. Wild Rover
                        • 13 Years
                        3 years, 1 month ago

                        But your comment was a direct reply to MBP quoting @ExWHUemployee

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

            https://twitter.com/ExWHUemployee/status/1359446741574164480 - a doubt as expected, but not too different from what Moyes is saying.

      2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Even that seems a bit strange from Moyes - he's now gone from "fatigue" to hoping that "it's" not too bad - hopefully he's not telling porkies & Antonio is ok - but i think Dave may be engaging in a small bit of the old "little white lies"

    3. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Got your point here and Moyes has been cryptic as you would expect with managers. Knowning Antonio's record with injuries, he will not be suddenly immune of such things. Think it's uncertain, just gut feels that he will start, no scientific explanation.

    4. Lazaretti
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Who looks "stupid" if you give 3 consecutive starts in 6d for a player who have just returned from injury. And specially from muscle injury.

      1. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        I think that's a big part of it unfortunately - it's saving face for the club management who (a) didn't sign a striker when they should have and (b) chose to start a guy (a critically important guy too) with hamstring problems 3 times in 6 days - pretty reckless & looks to have backfired

        Unless of course Moyes is telling the truth and he's just "fatigued"

    5. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      As expected, just totally coincidence

      Moyes & the West Ham management purposely avoid using the word "hamstring" at any stage in between the incident and kickoff tonight - they know they have a publicity disaster on their hands after not signing a striker, and choosing to start their (only, and recently hamstrung) striker 3 times in 6 days

      Very crafty

  27. Miro
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    What would you do with this team ?

    Martinez

    Coufal - Cresswell - Dias - Cancelo
    Soucek - Saka - Fernandes - Salah - Foden
    DCL

    Meslier - R.James - Adams - Bamford
    5.3itb 1FT

    Obvious move is Martinez to Pope but i kinda want to keep Martinez for the rest of the season and I bought him very cheaply.
    Plan for next week is Coufal -> Dallas

    Any suggestions ?

    1. Pompel
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      R.James or Coufal to Lowton/Mee

  28. Shatner's Bassoon
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Who would you play this week?

    A) Ayling (ars)
    B) Son (mci)

    B is the sensible choice, right?

    But there is some case for a Leeds cleanie:
    Leeds didn't concede against Arsenal in GW9.
    Leeds are 10th for min/xG conceded over the last 4 matches. In contrast they were 19th over GW1-18, suggesting much improvement.
    Arsenal are 11th for min/xG scored over last 4 matches, so attacking returns are far from innevitable.

    1. ShaunGoater123
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Son without a doubt

    2. Gudjohnsen
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      B and it's not even a question imo

      1. Shatner's Bassoon
        • 13 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Yeah. It has to be doesn't it.
        Maybe I'm just getting a bit tired of playing the odds each week and having it bite me in the b*lls. But there's not enough to go rogue here really. This is me seeing what I want to see.

  29. ShaunGoater123
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    If Antonio looks like hes going to be out then replace with Ings with next week in mind?

    Current team:

    Pope
    Maguire / Cancelo / Stones
    Salah / Son / Fernandes / Soucek / Gundogan
    Antonio / DCL

    Mccarthy / bamford / targett / dallas

    2FT's 2.8ITB

    1. Magic Zico
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      If he's out I'm getting Cavani

  30. Gudjohnsen
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    If Sterling doesn't play tonight is it logical to put the armband on him or is Cancelo a better option?

    1. DA Minnion (Former great)
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Neither are logical. Can see both been rotated. Dias is the only secure one followed by Gundogan.