The Promoted

Assessing Ismaila Sarr and Watford’s midfielders and forwards upon FPL return

Our series on the newly promoted Premier League sides continues with a look at Watford’s midfielders and forwards.

We have already assessed the Hornets’ defence, with focus now moving to some of their key Fantasy Premier League (FPL) players who operate higher up the pitch.

We previously ran the rule over Norwich City’s backline and attack, with a profile of top-flight rookies Brentford to follow in the coming days.

FPL price reveal and launch reaction from three-time top 200 finisher Lateriser 1

WHAT IS WATFORD’S GOALSCORING POTENTIAL?

Watford’s defence assessed ahead of FPL return in 2021/22 3

Watford return to the Premier League as the Championship runners-up but could boast only the sixth-best attacking record in the second tier of English football, having scored a modest 63 goals in their 46 league fixtures.

Brentford (79), Norwich City (75), Bournemouth (73), Cardiff City (66) and Blackburn Rovers (65) all found the back of the net more often than the Hornets last season and their success was largely built on a solid defence that conceded just 30 goals, a record-equalling total in the Championship as we know it now.

Given that they were rarely free-scoring and created the ninth-fewest chances across the division, Watford’s attacking potential does seem somewhat limited.

Another consideration is that nearly one in six of their goals arrived from the penalty spot: across the campaign they converted 10 spot-kicks, more than any other side.

WATFORD’S CHAMPIONSHIP TOP GOALSCORERS 2020/21:

Sarr13
João Pedro 9
Deeney7
Gray, Sema5
Chalobah, Cleverley 4

However, despite some underwhelming attacking numbers, Watford do start with an appealing run and sit top of our Season Ticker for ease of fixture in Gameweeks 1-7:

It’s also worth bearing in mind that Xisco did up the goal output upon his appointment, with predecessor Vladimir Ivic chiefly culpable for the shortage:

GamesGoalsGoals per game
Watford under Ivic20231.15
Watford under Xisco26401.54

Had Watford scored at that rate across the whole of 2020/21, they would have hit around 71 goals – that’s still short of what Brentford and Norwich managed.

From February onwards, the new manager set the Hornets up in a balanced 4-3-3 formation, with the aim of getting their wingers on the ball as often as possible. 

As a result, the wide areas are where most of their attacking threat stems from, which is where our assessment of Watford’s midfielders and forwards begins.

MIDFIELDERS

Ismaila Sarr (£6.0m) is the most expensive Watford player listed in FPL, and for good reason.

The Hornets’ Player of the Season finished as the club’s top scorer last year with 13 goals, and also provided four assists. 

He racked up 86 goal attempts and 57 shots in the box, more than any other team-mate, and ranked second for key passes (42).

Playing on the right of Muñoz’s 4-3-3, Sarr looks like the go-to pick for FPL managers next season, should Watford prove to be more of an attacking force than they were in the Championship.

On the other flank, Swedish winger Ken Sema (£5.5m) also established himself as a regular and impressed. He combined five goals with five assists, and was the Hornets’ top creator with 51 key passes.

Outside of the wingers, there isn’t too much to get excited about from a Fantasy perspective, but Tom Cleverley (£5.0m) led by example in the engine room and will be pushing for a starting place again, while Will Hughes (£5.0m) played more of a deep-lying midfield role at the base of Watford’s midfield three:

Above: Will Hughes’ touch heatmap 2020/21, via Sofa Score

However, his future is still uncertain as negotiations have stalled over a new contract, with defensive midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah (£5.0m) in a similar position.

Other options include Philip Zinckernagel (£5.5m), who will aim to build on a good second half of the season and could offer value if he can establish himself in the starting XI. 

Domingos Quina (£4.5m) and Dan Gosling (£5.0m) will need others to leave before being handed first-team spots, and may move on loan, which also applies to youngsters Kwadwo Baah (£4.5m), Ayotomiwa Dele-Bashiru (£4.5m) and Joseph Hungbo (£4.5m)

Of the new signings, Oghenekaro Peter Etebo (£4.5m) has arrived on loan from Stoke City and will compete for a defensive midfield role, while Imrân Louza (£5.5m) is a box-to-box midfielder who scored seven goals in 35 appearances last season at Nantes. He has played six times for the France under-21 side, which suggests there is plenty of potential, but of course will need time to adjust to Premier League football.

FORWARDS

Up front, the expectation is that Joshua King (£5.5m) will compete with Troy Deeney (£5.5m) for the no. 9 role. 

The last 12 months have not gone to plan for King as he had limited opportunities to impress at Everton, but he is an experienced striker who likes to run in behind and could be a useful FPL asset if he gets enough minutes; they’re aren’t many other viable forward options in the £5.5m-and-under price rung.

Club captain Deeney has scored 19 goals across his last two Premier League campaigns, and chipped in with seven despite injuries last season. He is also on penalties, but given his advancing years, it seems unlikely that he will be a week-in, week-out starter.

João Pedro (£5.5m) produced nine goals and two assists last term and is highly thought of, and like new signing Emmanuel Dennis (£5.0m), can play both centrally or in a wide position. The latter has featured in both the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League for Club Brugge, though it’s difficult to see exactly where he fits in given how many options Watford have in the forward department.

One interesting thing to note on the spot-kick front under Xisco: in the games when Deeney wasn’t on the pitch, the two players who won penalties – Pedro being one, Sarr the other – ended up taking them.

New signing Ashley Fletcher (£5.0m) has been brought in as a back-up option, which moves Andre Gray (£5.5m), Isaac Success (£5.0m) and Stipe Perica (£4.5m) further down the pecking order, and there is a distinct possibility they will all leave the club in the coming weeks.

Cucho Hernández (£5.0m), 22, is training with the first-team, and another youngster Adedapo Awokoya-Mebude (£4.5m), who signed as a free agent after leaving new Scottish champions Rangers, is likely to go out on loan.

512 Comments Post a Comment
  1. The Mandalorian
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone avoiding England Euro players?

    Apparently they will only have 1 warm up game for their clubs before the season starts.

    1. Union_Jacks
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Will probably swap Shaw to Wan b

    2. el polako
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Starting with Shaw and possibly one of Mount\Foden.

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

      Avoiding completely unless Kane goes to City

    4. Pukki Blinders
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      No. Only one I have is Shaw and will just bench him gw1. Bruno has had plenty of time to rest

    5. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      "Apparently". Too early to say.

    6. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Hadn't done it consciously, but seems there's no England players in my draft so far. Kane/Shaw/Stones will be the guys I'll be looking at once they come into full swing.

  2. R.C
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    is ESR nailed and first choice??

    1. WVA
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      When he starts yes, when he's on the bench no

    2. Pukki Blinders
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Nailed and first choice are the same thing. Yes

      1. R.C
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I mean't first choice CAM considering he can play in other positions as well

        1. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Other positions have Auba, Pepe, Saka

          1. R.C
            • 6 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Yep and they won't sign anyone else you think?

            1. Andy_Social
              • 11 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              You asked in another thread and i mentioned they're still trying to persuade Odegaard to return.

    3. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      If you do a Diesel type analysis and break down their squad he would appear to be first choice. But Arteta does mix things up and wouldn't call him nailed because Arteta.

      Also while he isn't a baby I can see him having protected minutes still.

      No Europe a bonus I suppose and it's possible Arsenal will be more predictable in line up this time but I'm not holding my breath.

    4. SAKA AND EMILE SMITH ROWE
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Short-term I’d say so yeah, Arsenal linked with Maddison but expect ESR to start at least the first 3GW’s

      1. The FPL Units
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Nice

  3. Pukki Blinders
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Raph outperformed Harrison in every stat last season, from xG, xA, SoT, chances created, penalty area shots + touches… you name it

    That extra 0.5m is easily justified.

    1. Weak Become Heros
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Agreed

    2. Yes Ndidi
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Absolutely identical in points per minute on the pitch. I'm having both, probably from the off.

      1. Pukki Blinders
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Yes, Only because Harrison overperformed

        1. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Think 0.5 justified but one interesting stat Harrison does lead in is shot accuracy. Raph has yet to show anywhere that he is in the good finisher category.

    3. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      And Harrison is not quite consistent for my liking. Produces in spells. Raphinha a much better option, and will probably be even better this season after a year of finding his feet in English football.

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Harrison is fine, but I think we should be mindful of Firpo as left wingback, possibly stealing some of his thunder.

        1. pingissimus
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Waiting to see here if Leeds land Pereira who they are apparently after - to me that's a more interesting. transfer than Buendia to Villa.

          1. Andy_Social
            • 11 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            The Baggies one, right?

            1. pingissimus
              • 5 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              Yep

              Put him in Leeds attack and the dynamic could look quite different perhaps. Didn't see that much of him last time - mostly highlights - but he looked a baller to me and add a bit of Bielsa stardust ...

              1. Andy_Social
                • 11 Years
                2 years, 8 months ago

                So presumably the midfield would be Phillips, Dallas, Harrison, Raphinha and Pereira. Curtains for Klich?

                1. pingissimus
                  • 5 Years
                  2 years, 8 months ago

                  Wasn't Klich put out by Dallas moving into midfield anyway?

                  1. Andy_Social
                    • 11 Years
                    2 years, 8 months ago

                    Well who else was in midfield - Tyler Roberts? There's a space for Pereira aanyway!

    4. WVA
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Raph passes the eye test too, looks quality

      1. Evil_Ash
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Always nicer owning players you enjoy watching - especially if they can easily keep place with those boring alternatives that grind out points. Raph definitely one of those, plus hes nailed. One of 4 players in every one of my drafts, despite fixtures

  4. R.C
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Fofana or Lamptey?

    (Disclaimer: Already own two risky punts - Jota and Mahrez)

    1. Weak Become Heros
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Lamps easy.

      1. R.C
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        You reckon he's nailed?

        1. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Neither are definites, but I'm going with Lamptey.

    2. WVA
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Fofana is first choice in my opinion

      1. Dynamic Duos
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Not Soyuncu and Evans?

        1. WVA
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Fofana is ahead of Soy IMO

          1. Weak Become Heros
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 5 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Im not so sure on that.

    3. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Lamptey

  5. N00B
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    What do you think about this 4-4-2?

    Meslier
    TAA Shaw Digne Lamptey
    Salah Bruno Havertz Raphinha
    Watkins Iheanacho

    Bench: Foster, White, Brownhill, 4.5 fwd

    1. Paqueta Rice
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      It looks very nice actually. Bench is probably a tiny bit light.

    2. Sad Pablo Arsecobar
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Bachmann Foster a better combo than Leeds GK to start with. Not a fan of having a non playing forward on the bench. Would downgrade either digne to 4.5 or havertz to buendia or ESR to upgrade 4.5 fwd (would rather have a rotation of wilson and ESR for example) You have a couple players who can get rotated on occasion so a playing bench will be important IMO.

  6. Paqueta Rice
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts on my latest draft?

    Sanchez
    Taa, Robertson, Lamptey
    Salah, Bruno, Barnes, Buendia, Sarr
    Watkins, Antonio

    Steele, Ayling, Fofana, Davis

    Thanks

    1. Drexl Spivey
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      As RMTs go I quite like that.

      Still going for Son though.

    2. Emiliano Sala
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      You have my defence line so that’s a good team!

    3. Dynamic Duos
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      No Everton with those fixtures?

      1. Paqueta Rice
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        No Everton no. Not because I don’t think they could do well, just not put them in. Digne and Dcl have been in a few draft but going to wait and see.

    4. Sad Pablo Arsecobar
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Can see white being talismanic at the back at Arsenal, so would prefer him over Ayling, and more CS potential.

      1. Paqueta Rice
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I like White but Lamptey and Ayling have a very nice rotation

    5. Carlton P
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Same as mine apart from fofana > Williams and sarr > Raphinha
      I like it

  7. R.C
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    United: Heaton; Wan-Bissaka, Mengi, Tuanzebe, Williams; Levitt, Garner; Elanga, Mata (c), Chong; Greenwood.

    Subs: Grant, Bishop, Telles, Fish, Bernard, Lingard, Andreas, Pellistri, Matic, Hannibal, Galbraith, Shoretire, Hugill.

    1. WVA
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Greenwood essential

      1. Dynamic Duos
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Going to playing upfront?

  8. Union_Jacks
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    And no love for Cancelo with Walker likely rested early on, seems a decent pick

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Probably good for GW1, but after that?

    2. Soto Ayam
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Yeah, he's currently in my mine. Isn't it zinchenko who takes his spot?

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Other side, with Mendy.

        1. Soto Ayam
          • 4 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Cheers

          1. Soto Ayam
            • 4 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Cancelo's on the left, no?

    3. Ze_Austin
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      The thing with Euros players is that they may only need to miss GW1 if they're fit, and that's not a guaranteed miss either. Pep can toss a Euros player in by GW1 or 2 and claim they have "more rhythm"

      He's done this with Sterling after an international break in which he was the only over-exerted member of the roulette, so there was the assumption that Mahrez (or Foden?) would start

      So we might very easily be back to a three/four way rotation of Cancelo (1st priority both sides), Walker, Zinchenko and Mendy at full-back as early as GW2 vs Norwich

      1. Union_Jacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Just think Cancelo could force his way back in as first choice at either right or left back anyway

        1. Ze_Austin
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          He IS first choice (I think)

          It's just that Pep likes his other three full-backs, and that's our problem in FPL

          1. Andy_Social
            • 11 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            This. He'll be rotated, like the rest of the squad. We can't know what percentage of games he'll play and whether he'll be good value. Maybe there will be a clearer picture a few games in; then again, maybe not.

            1. Pasqualinho
              • 14 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              Only 5 1pters, though - not many cameos. But owners would need a decent sub quite regularly.

        2. The FPL Units
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          All depends on the rhythm

  9. 03farmboy
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Which combo is better??

    TAA, Raphina, Saka
    Or
    Robertson, Mount, Sarr

    1. Soto Ayam
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      A

    2. Dynamic Duos
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      TAA, Raph and Sarr/Harrison + 0.5m

      1. 03farmboy
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Harrison back at Man City doubt he will bet much game time?

        1. Dynamic Duos
          • 10 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Leeds have bought him

        2. The FPL Units
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Back at Leeds

        3. Zimo
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Keep up to date bud. Leeds bought him more than 2 weeks ago.

          1. The FPL Units
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 14 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            2 weeks......ancient history on here

          2. 03farmboy
            • 4 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Oh really is he a better option than Raph then?

            1. Yes Ndidi
              • 4 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              No, but won't be any worse either. Depends what you can do with the extra half mill.

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

      TAA Raph Sarr

    4. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      a

  10. wanny180
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Hi All.
    What your thoughts on Konate, I think for the price he could be a steal, Big, strong and can score goals. do you think he will be a regular though.
    got him in my team, please can you rate, not gone to template and gone for teams with the good 4 week fixtures to start.
    Bachmann
    Keane. Konate. Shaw
    Salah. Soucek. Fernades. Barnes.
    Toney. DCL. Watkins.
    Foster, Dacoure, Fermia, Kelly.
    Cheers

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Konate - I'd want to see him in action before thinking he might be better value than TAA, Robbo or VVD.

      1. wanny180
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I have the money to upgrade to TAA, but what do you think about the rest ok or not.

    2. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Konate and Varane both look good buys - in principle. But I'd wait to see if they gel immediately before leaping in,

      1. wanny180
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        True

      2. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I'd be looking at them more as boosters for Shaw and TAA/Robbo in terms of more clean sheets.

    3. bitm2007
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Only started 14 times for Leipzig in the Bundesliga last season, and 8 times the season before. That doesn't bode well, has he had injuries ?

      1. wanny180
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Didn't know that, cheers, like the previous comments might not be worth the risk to start off with. looked good on paper lol...

    4. The FPL Units
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Robbo, Trent or VVD otherwise don't bother imo

      1. wanny180
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers, I take it other than Konate, the rest ok to go..

        1. The FPL Units
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Think I would rather ESR over Soucek

    5. Union_Jacks
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      At 5.5m he could prove to be a steal

      1. The FPL Units
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Yep but I wouldn't start with him.

  11. Golding123
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts
    Bachmann/ Foster
    Wan-Bissaka/ Digne/ Robertson (Lamptey/ B.Williams)
    Bowden/ Salah/ Fernandes/ Willock
    Antonia/ DCL/ Watkins

    Will switch Bowden to Raphinha when fixtures improve
    Willock there if Newcastle move happens

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

    A) TAA + Gundo
    B) 5.0 + Mahrez

    1. The FPL Units
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      A

    2. Dynamic Duos
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      A but prefer Jota or Greenwood

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

        Understood. Setting up a City-filled team in case Grealish and Kane move there. Otherwise, I do like Jota. Greenwood with Sancho (and Martial?) doesn't really appeal to me. Although I do have Cavani right now. Do you think he'll be competing more with Cavani?

        1. Dynamic Duos
          • 10 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Yeah can see Greenwood going upfront

  13. Dynamic Duos
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Shaw and Lamptey or Tierney and Reguilon?

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

      A
      But I think Tierney is better value than Lamptey and Reguilon (maybe Shaw too)

      1. Dynamic Duos
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        So why A?

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

          Ultimately more points I think. And marginally better value.

          Value wise, I'd go:
          Shaw/Tierney
          Lamptey
          Reguilon

          Even if you put Tierney on the highest tier, A is the best because Reguilon (coming from someone with him in my team - but I actually have allo of them in my team right now haha).

          It's hard to split Lamptey and Reguillon on points and playing time etc, so the cheaper one wins for me. Reguilon is a lesser know quantity to some extent too.

          1. Dynamic Duos
            • 10 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            So I get Shaw, Tierney and Lamptey then, problem solved lol

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

              Shaw thang

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Spurs defenders could be great value, but I'd want to see how the manager uses them first.

      1. Dynamic Duos
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        We know how Nuno likes to set up , Doherty and Reguilon as wingbacks

        1. Thomas Magnum
          • 8 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          How certain are you that Aurier won't get a look in though

          1. Andy_Social
            • 11 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            He's trying to leave

            1. Thomas Magnum
              • 8 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              Hmm, didn't know that. So say he gets his exit I'm guessing there's still a chance that Spurs could sign another fullback so would personally still be a little skeptical of Reguilon and Doherty

          2. Dynamic Duos
            • 10 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            At lwb he won't, I think that is Reguilon spot to lose

        2. Andy_Social
          • 11 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Yes, but what about the rest? 3 centre backs - does that mean a 4.5 there? I want to see the whole picture first.

          1. H.E. Pennypacker
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 3 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Only a friendly against Leyton Orient yesterday, but they set-up 4:3:3

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

          We know = we assume

          1. Dynamic Duos
            • 10 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Lol

  14. Khalico
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    At 7.5m, would you have Pepe or Greenwood?
    I don't have Bruno in my squad

    1. H.E. Pennypacker
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Pogba?

    2. Thomas Magnum
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Greenwood, or try squeeze up to Grealish if possible

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

      Personally would pick Pepe but maybe a little biased. This needs to be the season where he proves his worth. He finished strong at the end of last season and he has the talent. Hoping he can do it.

      Also, you might have one of Fernandes/Cavani/Sancho already.

      1. jia you
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Pepe has been awful 75% of his Arsenal career (and that's being kind to him)

        1. Qaiss
          • 8 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Where did I suggest anything else ?

          1. jia you
            • 7 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            just making a point that it's hard to trust him as an FPL asset just yet but fair is fair he did finish last season better so could surprise and become consistent (if played regularly of course)...the more viable options the better anyway so I hope he does!

        2. Qaiss
          • 8 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          And tbh, look at his minutes. He can’t score or assist every week if he’s not playing enough. Arteta was benching him for Willian a lot last season.

    4. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      neither tbh...but Greenwood if pushed...I've no Bruno but likely going Cavani (or possibly Sancho) to start with

    5. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Neither

  15. Z
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    I didnt change anything more then 10 days.....what do you think?

    Martinez/ Foster
    TAA, Shaw, Digne, Fofana/ Manquillo
    Salah, Bruno, Buendia, Foden (or Pulisic)/ Winks
    DCL, Watkins/ 4.5M

    1. IN SANE IN DE BRUYNE
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      That bench is asking for trouble with Foden in there.

      1. Botman and Robben
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        What bench?

    2. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      You could do better with those last two midfield spots for sure

    3. Soto Ayam
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I'd change manquilo for the least owned fodder.

  16. h3nh3n
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    A) Meslier, Kane, Shaw, Gilmour

    B) Bachman, Perica, Digne, Son

  17. Dynamic Duos
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Bloody hell, Pepe 10 goals and 3 assist in 1606 minutes, wow

    1. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      brutal

      1. jia you
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        is that all he played last season?

        1. Dynamic Duos
          • 10 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Yeah, hopefully he gets regular starts now

          1. jia you
            • 7 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            guess it's decent returns tbf to him but I don't trust him at all from the eye test apart from a couple of very good performances that I've seen

            1. Dynamic Duos
              • 10 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              He is still a wait and see atm , 2 and 3 are rough for Arsenal

              1. jia you
                • 7 Years
                2 years, 8 months ago

                deffo

    2. Paqueta Rice
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Missed a penalty in pre season the other day. If he gets a proper run he could be good value.

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

      He's known to be lethal in the box in training

      “Of course there's other parts of his game he needs to learn but if you can put him in these situations he's lethal all the time.” - Ljungberg

      I don't doubt it, but he is tasked with defensive duties and wider play, since there's no great overlapping WB on the right. I think that's partly why he's been stationed more on the left, with Tierney overlapping, since his wing play on the right leave a lot to be desired, given his need to cut onto his left and head towards goal.

      Chambers seemed to be the unlikely solution towards the end of the season. At least it seems like that might have been a factor in his emergence of form on the right. Idk just guessing really.

      In any case, he's potent. And not a bad choice to attack in a 1 or 2 up top if Arteta gets more experimental, I think. Takes an excellent freekick. Will probably take more than Laca this season, with Partey also involved. And penalties...? We'll have to wait and see.

      Just his level of nailedness. But you'd think he will be favoured to start at the beginning of the season, and otherwise will get opportunities of off the bench for sure. Still, there's Martinelli, Nelson, Saka, ESR, Auba, Laca and even Willian, still, currently, all vying for 4 spots. Maybe even just 3 spots if ESR is seen more as a wide man again.

    4. Qaiss
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      There is mostly a lack of trust for Arsenal players on this forum, but it’s understandable obviously. Without Europe though, I think the defence/ESR/Saka/Pepe could be decent value. From GW4 there is a very nice run of games. And hoping Aubameyang finds his scoring boots again.

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

    When the game first launched, TAA and Robbo were my first selections, but there are players that could rival them for points, let alone value. I mean, that they are safer picks, sure, given their level of relative consistency, and Liverpool's preferred, known, setup.

    But FPL have been very 'kind' with the pricing of Shaw, Castagne, Digne, Cresswell, Tierney, Reguilon, (Doherty?), Ayling and Lamptey, that it seems like the meta would be to accept their gift with open arms.

    Currently going without Livepool defence. As much as I'd like the double-up, the extra 3.5-5.0m saved could also be very fun elsewhere.

    I also find that more than one premium defender is a waste of rotation/strong-bench backup opportunity, since you will be playing them every week. Or otherwise, you will have spent money on a bench that you're less likely to ever use.

    Ultimately, I think going with TAA (and Robertson) is a great option, but so is going without. You just have to make the choice. Right now, it doesn't seem like many people are even considering the choice.

    1. Dynamic Duos
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Something like

      Shaw, Tierney, Coufal , Digne , Lamptey

      Is a great defence

    2. Carlton P
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I will go with both as I like the 6-7 mil midfield players. If I wanted havertz/Rashford or other 8-9.5 mids then I would drop Robbo

      1. Yes Ndidi
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I'm definitely doubling up on LFC FBs for the early run, and going with 3 mids in the 6-7 bracket which is where I think the value is. The 8-9 bracket looks very susceptible to rotation.

    3. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      True so many potentially underpriced assets this year it seems to me mate also.
      I'm thinking a bit differently to you though as I'm liking the idea of a set and forget double Liv and double City defence. It is the alternative potential value of attackers over the set and forget picks of Salah and Bruno that has my interest. Regardless, I think these potential pricing mistakes by FPL towers should make for a fun season!

      1. Dynamic Duos
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        With have still ended up with a pretty definitive template, but yeah there is so many options

        1. jia you
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          the template on here atm means abs nothing IMHO but I could be wrong and be left miles behind by ignoring it lol...a could of big transfers and the template will be shattered!

          1. jia you
            • 7 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            *a couple of big transfers

    4. Carlton P
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      May go Robbo > tierney at some point if/when I want to upgrade a mid

    5. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Depends what price you consider 'premiums'. I'm on Trent and a pair of 5.5s for core with 2x4.5 back up. Are the 5.5s premiums?

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

        I don't think that the label matters. If your 4.5 defenders are purely backup, then it may not be the the most efficient setup. I currently only have one 5.5 and then the rest 5.0-4.5, so I'm more happy to rotate based on form and fixtures. Also, I've probably got a lower level of nailedness in my midfield than the average team, which means I might be more likely to utilise the 'backup' on the bench.

        So regarding the number of premiums in your team, I mean more that the more expensive players are, the less likely your bench is to be involved.

        That said, you have to decide for yourself whether 2 x 4.5 on the bench really is a waste of money. We might see postponements or an injury crisis in your team, that you'll be glad for those players. But then again, you can have all that safety while simulateously working the bench players into your first XI plans.

  19. The Big Fella
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    I don't understand the love for Toney - am I missing something?

    1. Botman and Robben
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I'm just hoping he becomes a Bamford 2.0.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I'm adopting a wait and see approach

    2. Sedemuda
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Having played in all 46 regular league matches, Toney finished on 31 goals & 10 assists and became the first player since the competition was renamed at the start of the 2004/05 season to reach that many goals.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Yeh - in the Championship. Not sure, I'd rather wait see

    3. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Main man in team, on pens, cheap

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

      Im not buying in just yet. I think people are over rating Brentford. I dont see them staying up and being a huge threat. I would rather spend extra 1m and get a premier league proven player.

      1. The Big Fella
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Yeah - I've got Watkins, Antonio & Iheanacho

    5. Yes Ndidi
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      It'll come down to how Brentford approach life at the top table. They either play much as before, and hope he can carry on where he left off, but against a much higher level of defending, or go all defensive in the hope that they can finish 17th, in which case will he have the opportunities? Wait and see for me.

  20. Paqueta Rice
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Chong goal

    1. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      he's a bit rubbish though...probably best to sell him as he'll never make our first team

      1. Paqueta Rice
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Already agreed to go on loan to Birmingham I believe

        1. jia you
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          yeah he needs to move on and good luck to him

  21. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Afternoon everyone!!! I shall probably start with three 7.5 forwards, currently on Antonio, Watkins and Nacho!! Out of interest what Order would you rate these below?????

    A- Nacho
    B- Antonio
    C- Watkins
    D- Wilson

    Cheers all!!!

    1. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      D
      C
      A
      B

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

      C...B....A.D

    3. Aurora Borealis?
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      C, B, A, D for me as well

      1. Carlton P
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Me too

    4. mixology
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      if owning three, I'd leave Nacho out only because I'd be unsure of his minutes (i.e. being subbed off at 60'). But if he plays regularly then he's obviously a great option

    5. Thomas Magnum
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      To start the season or longer term?
      If a mix of both then C, D ... B, A.
      Not much between C, D then gap then not much between B&A

      1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers folks!!! Thankyou for you input, really good to here other’s opinions, for me it’s close between all 4 and I’d be quite happy to start with any of them. If I had to choose it would be Watkins then Nacho and Antonio equal and the Wilson, but really close!! Thanks everyone!!

  22. Jonnyb40
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Trying to decide who to put in team. Either Bruno or kane? Can get both in but that would leave me with four 4.5 defenders and Robertson. And 1 4.5 mid and 1 4.5 forward. Thought's?

    1. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Have a look at fixtures and potential captains (which would you most like to have for armband purposes) and decide from there

      1. Jonnyb40
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers

        1. jia you
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          don't worry about leaving one or both out...so many options this season...GL

    2. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Kane if he goes to City, Bruno otherwise

  23. Well you know, Triffic
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    What do people think of the following defence

    Shaw Digne Tierney Doherty Targett

    1. Dynamic Duos
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Quality, playing 4 at the back? Coufal over one of Doherty or Targett

    2. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Wouldn't leave TAA out

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

    Haaland is a must for me if he joins Chelsea. Would even pay 13m for him.

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I'd say there's almost no chance of that this season.

    2. Thomas Magnum
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Would love just from a PL perspective if we could somehow get to watch Haaland and Lewa join the already class strikers that are in the league right now

    3. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      He'd be the biggest no brainer ever if he was to join Chelsea or City for me

  25. Joyce1998
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    hows this looking?

    sanchez/foster
    Taa, Shaw, Coufal, Fofana, Williams
    Salah, Grealish, Havertz, Foden, Gilmour
    Watkins, Calvert- Lewin, Bamford

    1. FC Hakkebøf
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      No Bruno?

  26. Aurora Borealis?
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Watkins and Bowen or Antonio and Buendia?

    1. CONNERS
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Not too keen on the WH mids (unless Lingard returns), therefore A & B.

  27. FC Hakkebøf
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    I am seeing Jota in a lot of teams. Isn't he a bit of a rotation risk?

    1. Aurora Borealis?
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Yeah, I was in him but switched to Robertson for that exact reason

      1. Aurora Borealis?
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I think a lot of people are going there to cover a price point

    2. FPL Theorist
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Yes, he generally looks really good on the eye test, so many people are willing to overlook the downsides.

    3. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      no Firmino for opening games so he'll likely start first couple...no interest myself really though

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

      Yes, but that's accounted for in the price.

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        You think so? Considering downgrading him to Harrison / Sarr and get more premium defenders

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

          If he were nailed, I think he would rival Mane for points and price, and probably come out on top.

    5. CONNERS
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Think I'd prefer to have Robbo over Jota.

    6. farmerfat
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Willing to have him for the first few games while Firmino is getting back into fitness. Easy transfer out when he starts getting rotated and very high ceiling

  28. Lovren an elevator
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Speaking to Watford fans, the money seems to be on this being the nailed starting 11 (barring new signings)
    Bachmann
    Femenia Troost Sierralta Masina
    Cleverly Hughes Zinckernagel
    Sarr King Pedro

    Potential front 3 of:
    Sarr Pedro Sema (probably depending on how King settles in)
    Midfield could become more defensive with Chalobah coming in for either Cleverley or Zinckernagel

    1. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Did Deeney play much last season out of curiosity?

      1. jia you
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        my bad...just noticed the article lol@me

      2. Lovren an elevator
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Hardly any starts. Surprised he got that many goals tbh. Most were pens, likely from sub appearances.
        King arrival just forces him further down order. Pedro played no.9 alot but prem might not suit him in that role, always looked sharp ok the left (Think Rocharlison)

        1. jia you
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          good info cheers

    2. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Interesting if Pedro at 5.5 is nailed. I'd be taking a close look at Femenia if nailed.

    3. Thomas Magnum
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Very interested to see if both King and Pedro end up being both nailed, would be perfect for my side as I pretty much need a 5.5 forward cause not keen on any 6.0 forwards.
      I just worry who'll be the creative spark in that side...

      1. Lovren an elevator
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Pedro is very well regarded by the manager and club have just inveted in him quite heavily with an improved contract. He played no.9 alot last season, but also looks good on the left (Think Richarlison)
        King has obviously been brought in with a view to playing. Deeney barely played last season, so don't see him being anywhere near nailed now. Sema is the one that is a wait and see, started last season as LWB, had most of his attacking returns whilst in that role

  29. CONNERS
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone know who starts in central defence for Brighton alongside Dunk?

    Was kind of hoping we'd get a 4.0m starter in Duffy...

    1. Andy_Social
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      nope, not him

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

      Arsenal will probably loan White back to them, don't worry.

    3. jia you
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      probably Webster

    4. FPL Theorist
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Webster, Veltman (if Lamptey is fit to play RWB; otherwise probably Burn).

      Potter doesn't like Duffy except possibly as a defensive sub late in a game to protect a lead.

      1. Thomas Magnum
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        This!

  30. FC Hakkebøf
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    A) Digne + Robbo (4-3-3)
    B) Jota + rotating 4.5's (+0.5 itb)

    1. Thomas Magnum
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      What formation would B be? I'd lean A though but not keen on 4-3-3

      1. FC Hakkebøf
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        3-4-3