Pro Pundits - Tom

Why I’m Wildcarding before a Double Gameweek 27 Bench Boost

Tom Freeman has finished inside Fantasy Premier League’s top 1k a staggering five times in his career. He is back with his latest column outling his plans for Double Gameweek 26 and beyond.


So, where were we? The last time I checked in, Gameweek 23 had drawn to a close and I sat just outside the top 300k overall.

I talked up Burnley’s prospects ahead of their double, specifically focusing on Matthew Lowton (£4.5m) and Johann Berg Gudmundsson (£5.4m), and also touched upon Lucas Digne (£6.1m) and Raheem Sterling (£11.6m).

Since then, it’s all been a bit meh for my own team with no real rank movement, but for context, here’s how Gameweek 25 shaped up:

So, in this my latest column, I’m going to discuss my Gameweek 26 Wildcard and also run through my chip strategy. I’m not quite ready to share my final team as I’ll be tinkering right up till deadline, but after reading this you should know which players I’m leaning towards.

CHIP STRATEGY

The Complete Guide to Scout’s tips and advice to FPL Gameweek 23

Firstly, it’s probably best to talk chips.

The original plan had always been to follow up my Gameweek 16 Wildcard with a Free Hit in 18 and Bench Boost in 19. However, the fixture rearrangements that were announced on New Year’s Eve involving Burnley, Manchester United, Manchester City and Aston Villa, plus Leeds United and Southampton later losing their double, meant that I shelved that strategy.

So now, after much deliberation, I’ve decided to Bench Boost in Gameweek 27. Why 27? Well, I don’t want to hold too much value on my bench for too long after Wildcarding, and I also want to target two specific fixtures which I’ll come to later.

This new strategy of course effects the way I build this Wildcard, and as a result, there has to be some sacrifices as I attempt to spread funds around the squad. I’m pretty sure it won’t be for everyone, but I hope by reading this, you can at least see why I’ve included some players and dismissed others.

I should also point out that I still have my Free Hit and Triple Captain chips available, and plan to use the former in either Gameweek 29 or 33.

THE GOALKEEPERS

Villa bank 11th clean sheet as Martinez bags another haul

Emiliano Martínez (£5.3m) is a bit of a no-brainer in goal, given Aston Villa’s fixtures.

Though the team’s overall level has dropped in recent weeks he’s still making lots of saves. In fact, over the last four Gameweeks, he’s comfortably ahead of any other keeper in the division:

The second spot is harder to decide on, but for now I’ve landed on Sam Johnstone (£4.5m). 

West Bromwich Albion have looked much better in recent matches, now that their new arrivals have been properly integrated into the starting XI. I am realistic though, and do expect more save points than clean sheets.

Alphonse Areola (£4.5m) and Alex McCarthy (£4.5m) are other names I considered, and may still turn to, but for now, Martínez and Johnstone are in my draft.

THE DEFENDERS

A Manchester City double-up makes a lot of sense here, given that their 10-point lead at the top of the table has been built on a solid defensive platform. That’s seen them concede just nine goals in their last 23 Premier League games, which is pretty remarkable. 

However, given my OR and the fact I’m playing catch-up, I’m tempted to double-up in midfield which would give me the opportunity to pair Kevin De Bruyne (£11.8m) with Ilkay Gündogan (£6.1m).

Going in with one City defender, which would be either João Cancelo (£6.1m) or John Stones (£5.2m), does come with risk though. 

For example, the advantage I gained from Sterling’s goal against Arsenal was pretty much wiped out once they registered a clean sheet. I’ve just got to hope we see a bit more rotation in the coming weeks. It’s probably wishful thinking, but it does feel like I’ve got to at least try something different.

Fit-again Pereira already showing signs of last season's form

Elsewhere, I’ve also found a spot for differential Ricardo Pereira (£5.9m) who took up an advanced role as a right-winger against Aston Villa. 

There was talk that Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers had put Timothy Castagne (£5.7m) and Pereira on the same side to double-up on Jack Grealish (£7.6m), who eventually missed out. However, I don’t buy that, and these comments from Rodgers after the game do suggest it’s a tactic we might see more of:

“It’s been something I’ve been waiting to do for quite a long time, but this is the first period where both of those boys were fit to play. They’re different types. Because of how we play, they find themselves in that attacking third of the pitch quite a lot. Tim will run more without the ball and penetrate, and Ricky’s one who can be inside and manipulate the ball. I just thought that combination of those two, because Ricky is comfortable coming inside, he can turn, he can pass, he’s very aggressive when he attacks. I thought the two of them were very good and combined well together.” – Brendan Rodgers

Pereira finished the match with 33 final-third touches, more than any other player on the pitch. He also took three shots, twice testing Martínez, and took up some nice position’s infield which you can see on his touch heatmap from the game below:

I also like Digne, who is currently owned by just 8.8% of FPL managers.

Everton’s defence isn’t exactly watertight right now, but Tom Davies’ (£5.2m) recent performances and the return of Allan (£5.2m) offers encouragement that they can add to their total of five Premier League clean sheets.

It’s also worth noting that their opponents on Monday night, Southampton, have conceded the highest number of chances from their right-flank over the last six Gameweeks, and will be without Kyle Walker-Peters (£4.7m) and Oriol Romeu (£4.5m).

Luke Shaw (£5.1m) and Antonio Rüdiger (£4.6m) are also in my thoughts, I’m just not convinced now is the time to invest given their immediate schedules. 

THE MIDFIELDERS

The biggest decision here is that I can only pick one of Bruno Fernandes (£11.6m) and Son Heung-min (£9.5m).

Potential reasons for losing arguably the best asset in the game include fixtures (che + cry, mci, WHU, blank) and the fact I probably won’t captain him until at least Gameweek 32. Despite this, Fernandes usually finds a way to return so I need to think this through carefully.

The alternative is Son. I’ve heard some say he isn’t in form, which is probably fair, but tougher fixtures can do that to a player and we are talking about one of the league’s most clinical forwards. There is potential to do well beyond the double too, with games against Crystal Palace and Arsenal to follow.

City duo De Bruyne and Gündogan will be included, and I’m also considering Harvey Barnes (£6.9m).

The 23-year-old has already netted 13 goals in all competitions this term, and I see him getting plenty of joy down Arsenal’s weaker right-flank this weekend. James Maddison (£7.3m) being out isn’t ideal, but I’m hoping it won’t disrupt their flow too much.

Above: Harvey Barnes’ xG shot map in 2020/21

However, if I decide on Fernandes over Son, I might need to drop down to a cheaper option in this slot, someone like Ademola Lookman (£5.0m), Bukayo Saka (£5.2m) or Bertrand Traoré (£5.9m).

This of course means I can’t fit Mohamed Salah (£12.6m) in, which is kind of scary, but if there is ever a time to leave him out it’s probably now. 

Since beating Palace 7-0 back in December, Liverpool have played 11 Premier League matches and won just two. The injury to Jordan Henderson (£5.4m) is a further setback, and my feeling at this moment is that I’ll make a move for Diogo Jota (£6.6m) once fit. The Portugal international recently returned to full first-team training, and it’s hard to argue against the value he offers when available, having scored nine goals in his first 17 appearances.

THE FORWARDS

harry kane fpl injury return spurs west brom gameweek 23

Harry Kane (£11.1m) and Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£7.7m) are obvious inclusions given their respective schedules, and it’s likely I’ll hand the former the armband too.

The final forward spot is still up for grabs, which unfortunately means I have to lose Patrick Bamford (£6.9m) who has been in my team since Gameweek 1, and is one of the few highlights of my season so far.

I’m looking at Mbaye Diagne (£6.0m) as a possible replacement, who has made a big impact since he joined West Brom and has been getting shots off in some good areas.

Above: Mbaye Diagne’s shot map (shots on target in green) since making his debut in Gameweek 21.

In fact, no forward has registered more big chances since he made his debut, despite sometimes looking isolated. 

Other options include Michail Antonio (£6.5m) and Ollie Watkins (£6.5m), and it’s likely I’ll make a late call on that one.

THE BENCH BOOSTERS

As I mentioned earlier, I’m planning a Gameweek 27 Bench Boost with an idea to focus on two fixtures.

West Bromwich Albion v Newcastle United

Albion have put in a couple of much improved displays against Man Utd and Burnley in recent weeks, and appear to have found a system which seems to be working. Signing a proper holding midfielder in Okay Yokuslu (£4.5m) is huge for them, and that improved defensive setup means I’m willing to take a risk on differential Ainsley Maitland-Niles (£4.5m). 

Following Semi Ajayi’s (£4.8m) red card at Burnley, the on-loan Arsenal man shifted out to a wider attacking role, which manager Sam Allardyce has hinted we might see more of in the coming weeks. I don’t have any stats to back it up, it’s more of an eye test thing, but for just one match I’m willing to give it a go.

West Ham United v Leeds United

The second matchup I want to target involves West Ham United, who are now in the top four and have a few players tailor-made for a Bench Boost.

Opponents Leeds United have now conceded eight goals from corners this season, a league-high alongside Sheffield United. Jannik Vestergaard (£4.7m) almost added another earlier this week, and given that the Hammers approach is largely based around crossing, I’m considering Craig Dawson (£4.5m). He’s already scored two goals in 10 games this season and always carries a threat from set-pieces.

I also think Marcelo Bielsa’s side can struggle against players who run directly at them, which is why I like Jesse Lingard (£5.9m) who has looked lively since moving to East London.

Above: midfielders sorted by shots since Jesse Lingard made his West Ham United debut in Gameweek 21.

So, I know this Wildcard won’t be for everyone but I hope having read this, you can at least understand why I’ve chosen the squad I have.

Also, before I sign off, earlier this week I was fortunate enough to join fellow Pro Pundits Lateriser and Zophar again on The FPL Wire.

We talked strategy, Wildcards and captains, plus loads more.

The chat complements this column, and goes a bit deeper into some of the players and teams covered, so if you’re into that kind of thing please check it out on the link below…

I’ll update you on how it’s going next time I check in, but for now, thanks for reading and best of luck in Double Gameweek 26.

4,459 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Mane Mane Mane
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Who’s everyone going for captain then?

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

      DCL

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

      Bruno

    3. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Goatnandes

    4. Spg76
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Bruno

    5. CAP
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Been on Kane all week but Salah is pulling me away

    6. Big Col
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Kane

    7. Amey
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Bruno

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

        Bruno

    8. SAKA AND EMILE SMITH ROWE
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Salah

    9. Salarrivederci
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Gonna 'punt' on Salah.

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

      Salah for now - still dithering over whether to get Kane as means 2 transfers and -8

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

        I’m in exactly the same position but feel the -8 is too much.

    11. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Mo

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

      Kane (TC)

    13. The Train Driver
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      DCL TC

    14. yosim
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      DCL TC

    15. Elly88 > KTR (Kevin The …
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      DCL and will not worry if he blanks. All out on him.

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

      Damn, none is considering MCI assets here?

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

        I just thought that, I’ve got Gundo Cancelo and Stones. Just feel there’s not enough certainty they will get two games.

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

          Think that's the reason but won't be surprised if Gundo is the highest scorer of the DGW

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

            Oh I agree completely, if I knew I could get two games out of them for sure then I would go city

          2. CROWLEY NOT CRAWLEY
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 3 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            I want to Captain Gundo, but that risk of only 1 game or 120 minutes is hard when I have Bruno/Salah/Vardy as viable options as well.

      2. Davemc23
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        TC DCL

    17. g40steve
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Are you C or TC?

    18. JONALDINHO
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Salah TC

    19. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Boringly, Kane.

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

        Excitingly, why boring 😆

        1. Nomar
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Cos everyone will cap him.

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

            For good reasons, come on Kane!

    20. Rahul
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Torn between Bruno and DCL

  2. FDMS All Starz
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Have exact for this...Is this worth a -4? Or any other suggestions?

    Adams/Sterling/Mee
    To
    Kane/Doucoure/Cancelo

    Johnstone
    Rudiger - Stones - Mee - Lowton
    Sterling - Gundogan - Salah - Son - Bruno
    Watkins

    (McCarthy - Bamford - Adams - Alioski)

    Still have BB chip/TC chip & WC...
    (2FTs & 0.3itb)

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

    Currently on WC

    Martinez
    Stones Dier Elmo
    Gundo Salah Bruno Barnes [Son/KDB]
    DCL Kane(C)

    Forster Brewster Struijk Mitchell

    Do I pick Son this week and switch to KDB next after seeing his performance/minutes? I will have the exact funds. Or just go KDB now just to be safe incase he goes up tonight?

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

      I would go for Kdb

    2. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I would get KDB now

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

    Would this for a -8 be an acceptable bench boost team.
    Martinez
    Stones Mee Shaw
    KDB Son Bruno Gundogan
    Kane Dcl Bamford

    Areola Dallas Raphinia Coufal

    Would really like some opinions.

    1. how now brown cow
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Depends if there is a better week to play it for your team.

      Some people say BB30 because it is good for leeds, but it is cack for hammers for example.

      I will prob bb meslier Dallas bamford burn this week.

  5. JJO
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    For this gw:
    A) Ederson + Reguilon
    B) Martinez + Dias

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yep i would

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

        Reply fail to the guy above i guess 🙂
        Could you solve my dillema too?

    2. SAKA AND EMILE SMITH ROWE
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      B

    3. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      B

  6. C_G
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    0 FTs, 0.5 ITB, gtg you think?

    Martinez

    Cancelo Stones Dallas

    Son Salah (vc) Gundo Bruno Raph

    Kane(c) Watkins

    Forster Antonio Lowton Mitchell

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

      Yeah good team.

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

    Play Lowton (tot, LEI) or Dallas (AVL)?

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

      Similar problem for me but with Bam and Raph as well. Fancy Leeds to beat Villa so leaning that way

  8. Big Col
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Best way to bring Kane (TC)

    a) Sterling, Mee, Antonio to Kane, Barnes, Dias

    b) Bamford, Antonio, McCarthy to Kane, Brewster, Forster

    both -8

  9. KagKagKag
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Current team

    Martinez
    Tarkowski Stones Cancelo
    Salah Son Bruno(C) Barnes Gundogan
    DCL Bamford
    Subs - Forster, Ings, Cresswell, Mitchell
    0 itb, 0 ft

    Would you guys do Son + Ings -> Kane (TC) + Lookman/Raphinha (-8) ?

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes -12 even.

    2. Nas
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      No

  10. cruzex
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Kdb or mane?

    Gundo or foden?

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

      Kevin and Gundogan

    2. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      KDB

    3. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Kdb
      Gundo

  11. Philosopher's Stones
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Is Dunk -> Dier worth a -4 (taking it to -8)?

    1. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      No

      1. Philosopher's Stones
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Okay. Thanks.

  12. konrad.sygula95
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Would you do Grealish & Ings to Son & DCL on -4? Yes or no?

    Martinez
    Shaw/Cancelo/Dier
    Gundogan/Fernandes/Salah/Grealish
    Watkins/Bamford/Ings

    Bench: Pope/Anguissa/Coufal/KWP
    1ft 3.9 itb

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      No

    2. Nas
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes

    3. FPLord
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes

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

      Absolutely!

  13. TheDragon
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Grealish -> Barnes for a -4 worth it even if I’ll want Grealish back in 29?

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      No.

    2. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes

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

      Only if he’s confirmed out for both games

    4. FPLord
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I did it but playing BB. If you have the likes of Raphinha coming in probably not

  14. andres
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Planning to take a couple of hits to Bb, what would you recommend?
    McCarthy out maybr, Mee, watkins?

    Pope (McCarthy)
    Cancelo Stones Digne Mee (dallas)
    Bruno Salah Gundo Barnes (Raphinia)
    DCL Watkins (bamford)
    0FT, 3.9 itb

    1. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Would not take the hit, BB this lot

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

        McCarthy to someone?

        1. Gazza2000
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Maybe Areola but not sure it’s worth the hit though. McCarthy could get a clean sheet against Sheffield.

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

      Yeah probably, but a -12 not keen on that even with bb

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

        Dgw might be worth to take the hit?

        Mee.. burnely double up not the best idea
        Watkins... just bad

  15. Egg noodle
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Predict the biggest fail of the DGW.

    I say Kane.

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

      I certainly hope so

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

      I hope it is Kane as a non owner.

      1. Egg noodle
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        I am an owner but also a doubter

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

      DCL

    4. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      City players as this is a single GW for most of them

    5. Spg76
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      DCL. After beating Liverpool everyone forgot they lost to Fulham. Its Everton....

    6. The Train Driver
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Hopefully Kane and Bruno, don't have the former one...

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

      Brewster

  16. Nas
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Trying to decide between watkins and richarlison. Also have dcl. Villa haven’t lit up any trees in attack recently and the only reason I’m considering Watkins is for gw29.
    What are the chances Everton and villa get an additional dgw before 29?

  17. Lav
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    DCL or Richy?

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

      Or both?

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

        I could if I wanted to take a -4

    2. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Dcl

  18. OLLY G
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Sorry to post the same topic again, i've been busy all day and only just looked at FPL.

    Is the Watkins injury rumour just a joke?

    Thanks. Please pity a gullible fool.

    1. Tomas_brolin
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Yes it’s a hoax

    2. how now brown cow
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Nothing vaguely concrete.

    3. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Apparently few team mates taken him out according to FPL insider but tweet was removed later.

      1. how now brown cow
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        They can't know till after deadline, so I'd stop repeating this (even though I get you are in no way agreeing with it)

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

          Yeah there's no way the account would know that.

      2. GinjaWhinja
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        If the players started talking about it, can't rule-out the fact that the club have told the players they cannot keep any of their teammates in their FPL teams. Would make sense given recent headlines.

    4. LiamK17
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Wesley and Tyrone Mings both took him out for a -4 supposedly

      1. OLLY G
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Thanks all

      2. Nomar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Probably did it deliberately to wind up Dean Smith!

    5. Podorsky
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Sauce

      1. DRIZ ✅
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Mayo

  19. Stranger Mings
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    About to press confirm ings & Antonio To Kane & DCL ?

    1. how now brown cow
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Thumbs up

      1. Stranger Mings
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Cheers

    2. LiamK17
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      100%

    3. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      No need to ask, really.

      1. Stranger Mings
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Yeh no brainer - it’s done

    4. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Pour yourself a glass in celebration once you're done.

      1. Stranger Mings
        • 3 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        All set for DGW26!!!

  20. Nomar
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    The more I look at my bench, the less I actually feel like I should play my BB.

    Bench currently: Pope, Rudiger, Raphina, Lowton.

    Hmmm......

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

      Save.

    2. how now brown cow
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      When else will you play it?

      1. Nomar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Yes, I know, just doesn’t seem so inspiring now I’m looking at it in the old light of day.

        Still got all my chips, though, so I need to use them at some point.

      2. Now I'm Panicking
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        This is it isn't it. Planning ftw.

        1. how now brown cow
          • 9 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          I don't understand the attitude of they have to be dgw players.

          If I wc 30 and then bb, I have to have 2 playing keepers and cheapies who have good fixtures that week and till the end of the season (as I wont want to waste transfers on them).rather than maxing on 11 or 12 starters.

    3. Mr-Inbetween
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I'm looking at my bench of Pope, Bamford, Raphina & Dallas, and I'm thinking the same 🙂

      1. Nomar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        All capable of returns, though.

        We may as well play it and get it over and done with, innit!

        1. Mr-Inbetween
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Yep, gotta take the plunge I think!

          1. Nomar
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 14 Years
            3 years, 1 month ago

            Yeah, I’m going for it.

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

      Only weakness i see is Lowton. Pope will rack up saves and Rud at least one cleanie. Raph a return id expect

    5. Nas
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I would boos trhat

    6. CAP
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      BB30 if you have any more Leeds assets

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

      pull the trigger

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

    Fourth time, need your help, please.

    Is it worth loosing Grealish for Lookman (-4) or play Raphinha/Bamford and keep Jack for GW28/29 instead?

    Johnstone
    Dias Stones Digne
    Salah Fernandes Gundo Raphinha*
    DCL Kane BamBam

    McCarthy Dallas Coufal Grealish

    1. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Keep Jack and play a Leeds boy.

    2. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Grealish to Barnes

      1. Nomar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        That works too.

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

        One less for 29.

    3. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      I’m glad you’ve asked this mate I’m wondering exactly the same, I’m leaning towards holding Grealish and will play Raphinha,bench Bamford and maybe do Lowton to Konsa to get an extra player for 29 and also Villa have games in hand too

      1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        *that’s me doing Lowton to Konsa btw

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

        Im currently on this. Lets stick, should pay off.

        1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Yeah I think your right mate, I wouldn’t feel right going into this gameweek with Bamford Raphinha and Dallas all on my bench along with Areola too haha I’ve used my BB, so if I leave Grealish on there it limits the Amount of points on there and keeps him for later and 29

  22. _Ninja_
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Is Villa Everton still likely in 28?

    1. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Nope

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

        Any idea what gw it would be moved to?

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

          37. It was never likely in 28 anyway.

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

            cheers

        2. DRIZ ✅
          • 12 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          38 but possibly hearsay

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

      Crellin believes 28 where is information contrary to him the man who has been spot on so far?

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

        They would've announced with the other added fixtures. What reason not too?

  23. Torres76
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Which one gang?

    1. Antonia, Son, Mee
    2. Kane, Jota, Elmohamady
    3. Kane, Lookman, Periera

    Thanks

    1. ManUtdFan977
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      3

    2. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      C

  24. LiamK17
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Any spurs fan be able to tell me if Dier will play both?

    1. how now brown cow
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Depends how the 1st game goes. There are no guarantees.

  25. For Fuchs Sake
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    How many DGW players on the bench is worth a BB?

    1. Podorsky
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Good question and for how many - 4s

    2. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      4

      1. how now brown cow
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Nonsense

    3. how now brown cow
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Depends how good they are. You are unlikely to have more dgw players on bench any other week are you?

      1. For Fuchs Sake
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        I don't have any at the moment, so wondering if it's worth it

  26. Purse83
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Reguilon in for -4 or just play Raph/Bamford?

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      -

    2. Hybrid.power
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Ha, I'm in the same boat. I'm honestly thinking of just sticking with the Leeds lads

      1. Purse83
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 1 month ago

        Obviously another BGW 29 player who is transfer in regardless in a few weeks...just whether Bam/Raph makes us live to regret it!

        1. Hybrid.power
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          3 years, 1 month ago

          Well another fear I have is whether Reguilon will start games.

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

      He is red in FanTeam, anyone know why?
      Might go for him too..

  27. Nay08
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    Which option is better?
    Out: Ings, Grealish, Mee
    for
    1. Kane, Barnes, Defender
    2. Watkins, Son, Defender

    The Defender is Between:
    a. Pereira: LEI good fixtures up to GW28, Good Differential, Potentially playing as a winger, but not playing in GW29.
    b. Targett: Good fixtures in DGW26, Play in GW29, the downside can block me from having Grealish back (in case I need to) if I also take Watkins.
    c. Fulham Def (Between Aina, Adarabioyo, Andersen): Have DGW26 and also play in GW29, it seems Fulham have tightened their defense a little bit, but not so great fixtures.

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      C

  28. Spg76
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    On a WC and had KDB over Salah overnight. I bottled it!!! Back to Salah. I just feel Salah is guaranteed minutes

  29. MoSalad
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    So AVFC bans FF due to the Grealish injury leak

    AVFC recommends FF players including Watkins for DGW26 - https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2021/february/FPL-tips-ahead-of-GW26/

    Now Watkins injury rumours

    You couldn’t write this stuff!! Literally.

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Villa trolling everyone this time

    2. JONALDINHO
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Villa trying to get back at the FPL community.

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

      Yeah I thought the FPL article on official site after player ban was a bit ridiculous

  30. HippY
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 1 month ago

    H.Barnes or Watkins?

    1. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Barnes

    2. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 1 month ago

      Barnes