Scout Notes

Ziyech hits hat-trick as Tavares scores on debut

Having reported on the latest pre-season friendlies involving Crystal Palace, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur – all of whom are under new management – in our first set of Scout Notes from the weekend, we now turn our attention to six more games involving Premier League clubs.

Norwich City, Arsenal, Brentford, Watford (twice) and Chelsea were all in action on Friday or Saturday and we’ll round up the key Fantasy talking points in our article below.

RANGERS 2-2 ARSENAL

Nketiah straight back in Arsenal team after suspension
  • Goals: Nuno Tavares (£4.5m), Eddie Nketiah (£5.5m)
  • Assists: Rob Holding (£4.5m)

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (£10.0m) may have been handed a £2m price cut by Fantasy Premier League but he has plenty to do to worm his way back into the thoughts of FPL managers come Gameweek 1.

Aubameyang was at least mostly stationed centrally, rather than out wide on the left, in a 4-2-3-1 in Saturday’s draw with Rangers.

But the Gabon international, who had his worst FPL season for attacking returns in 2020/21, was in profligate form at Ibrox at the weekend.

Aubameyang wasted a succession of chances against the Gers in his hour-long showing, the worst miss being a blocked effort from four yards with only a defender to beat on the line.

Emile Smith Rowe (£5.5m), deployed in the hole in Glasgow, continues to impress, while Joe Willock (£6.0m) was thrown on in a deeper role as speculation mounts on a potential loan return to Newcastle.

Ben White‘s (£4.5m) seemingly impending arrival might have negative implications for fellow right-sided centre-half Rob Holding (£4.5m) but the latter defender claimed the cross-field assist for Arsenal’s debutant Nuno Tavares (£4.5m), who despatched the chance with confidence and generally impressed at left-back.

Given Kieran Tierney‘s (£5.0m) injury record, Tavares is one for the long-term watchlist.

Eddie Nketiah (£5.5m) scored the Gunners’ second goal, while Mikel Arteta’s side – who have had a change in dead-ball coach this summer – worryingly conceded their second and third set-piece goals of pre-season.

Arsenal XI: Okonkwo (Hein 46), Cedric (Bellerin 46), Holding (Kolasinac 62), Pablo Mari (Chambers 46), Tavares (Tierney 46), Elneny (Willock 62), Partey (Maitland-Niles 62), Smith Rowe (Willian 62), Pepe (Nelson 62), Balogun (Lacazette 46), Aubameyang (Nketiah 62)

CHELSEA 6-1 PETERBOROUGH

  • Goals: Tammy Abraham (£6.5m), Christian Pulisic (£8.0m) pen, Hakim Ziyech (£7.5m) x3, Armando Broja
  • Assists: Baba Rahman, Armando Broja

Thomas Tuchel gave 45-minute run-outs to his available squad members in a behind-closed-doors win over Peterborough on Saturday.

No footage of the game has been made available, nor were the exact line-ups released.

We do know that Marcos Alonso (£5.5m), Ross Barkley (£5.5m), Ruben Loftus-Cheek (£5.5m), Hakim Ziyech (£7.5m), Christian Pulisic (£8.0m), Tammy Abraham (£6.5m) and Callum Hudson-Odoi (£5.5m) were involved at Cobham, with Ziyech coming off the bench to bag a second-half hat-trick.

Pulisic had earlier won and scored a penalty, with Abraham also on target before the break.

Armando Broja found the net in between Ziyech’s treble, having also assisted one of the Moroccan winger’s strikes.

WIMBLEDON 0-1 BRENTFORD

Who are the most-owned FPL players so far and who is flying under the radar?
  • Goals: Joel Valencia
  • Assists: Fin Stevens

FPL’s most-owned forward got his first taste of pre-season action on Saturday as Brentford edged out Wimbledon by a single goal.

Ivan Toney (£6.5m) sits in more than one in three Fantasy squads and was handed a 45-minute outing at Plough Lane, failing to make much of an impression in front of goal but almost connecting with a Bryan Mbeumo (£5.5m) inswinging free-kick shortly before being replaced at half-time.

Mbeumo had earlier shot wide from another set-piece situation.

Two Bees assets without FPL prices combined for the only goal of the game, with Joel Valencia reacting quickest to nod home after a Fin Stevens shot struck the crossbar.

Head coach Thomas Frank, who sent his troops out in his usual 4-3-3 after a late-season dalliance with a wing-back system, confirmed that Vitaly Janelt’s (£5.0m) hamstring injury wasn’t serious when interviewed after the game.

Brentford first-half XI: Raya, Roerslev, Russell, Pinnock, Gordon, Ghoddos, Janelt (Stevens 13), Gilbert; Mbeumo, Toney, Valencia.

Brentford second-half XI: Gunnarsson, Stevens, Goode, Racic, Thompson, Baptiste, Oksanen, Haygarth, Fosu, Mogensen (Gordon 87), Canós.

KING’S LYNN TOWN 1-3 NORWICH CITY

  • Goals: Kieran Dowell (£5.5m) x2, Adam Idah (£5.0m)
  • Assists: Jordan Hugill (£5.5m), Todd Cantwell (£5.5m)

Norwich City opened their pre-season account with a 3-1 at nearby King’s Lynn.

With first-team regulars such as Teemu Pukki (£6.0m), Grant Hanley (£4.5m), Tim Krul (£4.5m), Max Aarons (£4.5m) and Ben Gibson (£4.5m) missing either through injury or because of a post-EURO 2020 break, there was an experimental feel to the Norwich side.

That started with the formation, with Daniel Farke moving away from his usual 4-2-3-1 and trialling a wing-back system involving both budget FPL defender Andrew Omobamidele (£4.0m) and utility man Jacob Sorensen (£4.5m) at centre-half.

One of the most popular bargain-bin Fantasy midfielders, Billy Gilmour (£4.5m), made his debut and saw a lot of the ball in the middle of the park, with goalkeeper Angus Gunn (£4.0m) and trigger-happy new winger Milot Rashica (£5.5m) also making their Norwich bows.

Todd Cantwell (£5.5m) stood out in a second-half appearance and assisted Adam Idah‘s (£5.0m) late strike, while Kieran Dowell (£5.5m) – who ended last season with five goals in 10 Championship appearances after a stop-start, injury-hit campaign – struck twice from an attacking midfield role.

Farke confirmed after full-time that Aarons missed the game with “a minor knock”, while left-back Dimitris Giannoulis (£4.5m) has sprained his hamstring and is expected to be out for “12 to 14 days”. 

Norwich City XI: Gunn (McGovern 45), Zimmermann, Omobamidele, Sørensen, Mumba (Giurgi 88), Gilmour (Cantwell 45), Rupp (Nizet 62), Placheta (Tomkinson 62), Rashica (Idah 45), Hugill (Dickson-Peters 76), Dowell (Adshead 76). 

WATFORD 2-1 COLCHESTER UNITED
WATFORD 2-0 COLCHESTER UNITED

Assessing Ismaila Sarr and Watford’s midfielders and forwards upon FPL return
  • Goals: Ismaila Sarr (£6.0m) pen, Dapo Mebude (£4.5m) | Cucho Hernández (£5.0m), Dan Gosling (£5.0m)

Watford beat Colchester United in two 60-minute friendlies on Saturday, with both games played behind closed doors and no line-up or assist information available.

The Hornets’ four goals were shared across the two fixtures, with Ismaila Sarr (£6.0m) on target from the spot in the first game.

Sarr was one of two Watford players to win and score a penalty in the closing stages of the promotion-winning Championship campaign, with regular taker Troy Deeney (£5.5m) off the field in both instances.

Dapo Mebude (£4.5m), Cucho Hernández (£5.0m) and Dan Gosling (£5.0m) also found the back of the net against the Us this weekend.

311 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Soto Ayam
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Who can fill in the names of my boring template team.

    Bachman, 4m
    7.5, Cancelo, 4.5, 4.5, Omo
    12.5, 12, 6.5, 6.5
    7.5, 7.5, 7.5

    .5 itb

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

      And brown hill 4.5 mid

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

        Back, Fost
        Trent, Can, Lamp, Ayling, Omooooo
        Salah, Bruno, Raph, Buen,
        Antonio, Nacho, Watkin ?

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

      Bachman Foster
      TAA Cancelo Ayling Lamptey Omo
      Salah Bruno Raphinha Buendia Brownhill
      Watkins Nacho Wilson (Antonio)

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

      Yep, it really is that easy. Well done. No Antonio mind, so Wilson, iheanacho, Watkins.

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

    Ha, after reading this article and adding Omo as my 4m defender of choice, I see the 3 RMTs above have done the same. Just sit back and wait for the lad to be flavour of the day!

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

      I would like to state unequivocally that I had him in there already.

      Can’t wait for the next player everyone decides to get. I’m going to guess Harvey Barnes.

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

        Someone who scores in a meaningless friendly today and will likely not play a single minute in the PL this season.

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

        Already in my team . Lol

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

        Another hatty for Ziyech will be enough for a bandwagon 😀

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

      Omo start because Ben Gibson is injured.

      Ben and Hanley is the first choice. They in their peak (28 and 29 y.o).

      Omi (19 y.o) is a backup for Gibson. Gibson get a permanent deal after they win promotion.

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

        Hanley's injured too. I don't expect Omo to start in the PL. But he's a better alternative in my mind than Williams, or my choice for yesterday, Hoever. But really, it doesn't matter as whoever the 4m defender is, he's just decoration on my bench.

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

          Fair then.. gdluck

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

          So your final pick is Hoever then?

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

            Hoever was yesterday
            Omo is today

            I'll almost certainly finish up with a 4.5 as my cheapest defender. I've currently got Hojberg and Gilmour as 4th and 5th mids, so makes more sense to go Brownhill and a 4.5 defender really.

    3. Hangman Page
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Perhaps over cautious but I am thinking of not having a 4.0 this year and having a squad of 15 starters. COVID proof (ish).

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

    That Toney photo is annoying for some reason, might even get rid of him just because of that 😀

    1. The Wanton Trader
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I reckon it’s a pretty decent David Brent impression myself… 🙂

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

      Cool, confident, showing us that he's here to stay.

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

    Thoughts on the latest draft?

    pickford 4.0
    taa shaw targett lamptey 4.0
    salah bruno jota harrison bissouma
    dcl watkins toney

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      GK : okay
      DEF : okay
      MID : Jota is a concern due to gametime issue but could be a decent punt. Not sure about Harrison.
      FWD : okay

    2. Thinkering like a Boss
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Targett > 4.5m def (fofana/ayling)
      Harisson > Raphinha / Buendia/ Bowen

  5. Parthajitd
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Suggestions on this team please :

    Sánchez/ 4.0 GK
    TAA - Robertson - Coufal - Digne - Fofana
    Salah - Bruno - Raphinha - Buendía - Gilmour
    Wilson - Toney - Deeney
    0.5 in bank

    1. Thinkering like a Boss
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Deeney > welbeck perhaps?

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

      It's too early for drafts yet. It will all look very different before the season starts and there have barely been any friendlies

  6. Holmes
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Managed to get a frontline of Kane-Bam-Watkins in draft, (obviously at the expense of poor midfielder 😀 )

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Would anyone be interested in playing draft just for fun? Need only 6-8 members for FPL draft.

      1. Cheeseoid
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I have had to cut down my involvement in competitions this season I am afraid. Too many fingers in too many pies

        1. Holmes
          • 10 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          No problem, have always wanted to play draft but tough to find active community for that... Was fun when I played 4-5 years back.

  7. Eze Really?
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Posted to old thread.
    Raphina or Harrison?
    Buendia or Grealish?
    Torres, Foden or Mahrez?
    Mbeumo or Toney?
    Kane or Son?
    Coufal or Cresswell?
    King , Sarr or Welbeck?
    Wadkins, Antonio, Nacho or ?

    1. Men in green tights
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Raph
      Buendia
      Probably Foden
      Toney
      Kane
      Either going coufal
      Sarr
      Antonio at the moment
      Cheers

      1. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        More or less my choices.

      2. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        I might go Torres though.

        1. Silecro
          • 6 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          I personally have Gundo in my team. City's attack is a bit of a lottery on who will score, but Gundo seems to have a bit more secured starting place than Torres, at least from my view. And he can return even with Kevin on the field.

          1. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Gundo positioning vs Torres gametime.

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

      Raph long term.
      Buendia as Grealish transfer unsettling.
      Mahrez.
      Toney, main man.
      Kane, will bang wherever he plays.
      Coufal, good value.
      King.
      Antonio if fit.

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

        *not King, Sarr.

      2. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Tnks for the reply. Just think Antonio a tfr waiting to happen

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

          Gotta take advantage of his first 4 games before UEL starts and switch to Bamford in 5.

          1. Men in green tights
            • 5 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            My thoughts too

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

            This.

          3. Eze Really?
            • 9 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Provided tammy doeas not arrive

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

              Can't see that happening. They have no ambition at all, didn't even want to pay for Lingard.

    3. The 12th Man
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Raphinia but wouldn’t hesitate to change to Harrison if the 0.5m needed elsewhere.
      Buendia
      Mahrez but would still consider the other two.
      Toney
      Kane
      Coufal
      Sarr
      Watkins

      1. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers. Citeh are a pain

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

      Raphinha - better on every metric
      Mahrez - potentially on pens and most guaranteed game time
      Toney - nailed, defined role, pens, ability, talisman
      Cresswell - set pieces
      Sarr - nailed, pens, 90
      Watkins - best 3 fix, nailed for 90, great underlyings and Buendia + Grealish behind him atm

      1. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Cresswell numbers slip in a back 5. Coufal better in open play IMO

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

      Everyone saying Kane but Son is 2.5m less (can do a lot with that) and seems much better value if both remain at Spurs.

      1. No Professionals
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        yeah, Kane stays and they both remain integral to Spur's attack (if spurs score there is a decent chance both involved). Kane goes and Son gets penalties (but loses fixture proof-ness).

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

        If Kane goes to City, he'll be one of the only nail-on players there and will be first on my new draft teamsheet.
        While he stays at Spurs, I'm hanging onto Son instead - he dovetails superbly with Salah for captaincy options, allowing me to go without Bruno.
        HOWEVER, if Ings goes to Spurs and forms a front 2 with Kane, I'd go with Ings.
        If, as rumour has it, Nuno tries Dele Alli up top with Kane, at 6.5 in midfield, I'll be punting on him and going without Son.

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

          Kane to City would be a no brainer for me also...otherwise will stick with Son

        2. Sgt Frank Drebin
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Very interesting, if Dele will play as a forward, then he is a no-brainer for me. I thought that Nuno will try 2 man forward, but to be honest was pretty sure that's gonna be Kane - Son partnership. I'm curious where he sees Son in this case. Not as a wing-back, I guess?

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

            I wouldn't call it a no-brainer. Dele has yet to convince me he can still cut it.

          2. No Professionals
            • 6 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            we were here last season with Alli. Really popular pick at the start, didn't last long.

            1. Sgt Frank Drebin
              • 7 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              To be honest, throughout his career, he has performed very similiar stats-wise every season: around 0.5 xG+xA per 90 minutes (0.53 on understat, 0.45 on fbref, but the latter doesn't have data for his first 2 seasons). It was minutes that were the issue for FPL rather than performance imho (of course in fpl terms, that is goals and assists). If I can suspect that he will be nailed, and in the pre-season games will in fact tell that, then for me, he is a no-brainer. 0.5 involvement a game for 6.5m looks like a great value for me. It can be also boosted by him playing out of position.

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

                Well sure. If we have him in our starting lineups, it kinda matters that he gets the minutes. I'll be watching pre-season and any incoming transfer activity, but be mindful that it's common for players to get plenty pre-season minutes only to be left out when the season begins.

                1. Sgt Frank Drebin
                  • 7 Years
                  2 years, 8 months ago

                  Ok, after second thought maybe no-brainer is too much said. But I think he's a very interesting option and possibly a really great value. Gonna monitor him closely.

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

                    Yeh, agree with that. Me too.

      3. Eze Really?
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        All about next few weeks. Salah dovetail with Son for 10 mil looks good.

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

        It's not an either/or thing for me - Son is just immense value.

        If Kane stays, great. If he goes then Son becomes the spearhead (if he wasn't already, it seemed, certain games).

        Remember, he clocked his tally up last season without penalties.

        He's like KDB when they undervalued him two years ago.

        Bargain.

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

          See, I don't agree with that. If Nuno goes 2 up top with Kane and Ings/Alli, that's got to impact on Son's hauls. If, on the other hand, he puts Son up top with Kane, then Son will be golden.

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

            It's certainly what I'm banking on. I don't think in a million years Ings or Alli fill that void, should indeed that be the plan.

            Come to think of it, if Kane leaves who's actually on penalties for Spurs?

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

              It's what Nuno thinks that matters. I'm waiting to find out.

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

                True. True.

  8. OPTA FPL
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Raphina placeholder - best punt only for gw1 up to 6.5:
    A) Smith Rowe vs Brentford (one of worst defence in the league)
    B) Bowen vs Newcastle
    C) Sarr vs Brighton
    D) Trossrd vs Burnley

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

      B, looking red hot in pre season too. Finished previous season strong.

    2. Boywiththesoupdragontattoo
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I think Sarr has Villa GW1.

      Do you already have Buendia? If not I’d recommend him as option E.

      If you already have Buendia then I’d say Smith-Rowe from the options you’ve given, but I wouldn’t overlook just playing Raphinia as he could quite easily get something.

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

    Decided to get Virgínia as my 4.0 goalie because the colours are so pretty.

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

      Yes!

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

      Beautiful.

  10. Fatboy_Slim
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts please:

    GK: Robert Sanchez, (Ben foster)
    DEF: Fofana, Shaw, Konate, Target, Lamptey
    MID: Bruno, Buendia, Havertz, Salah, (Cleverly)
    ST: Toney, Watkins, Dominic Calvert

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

      Fofana not nailed, back 3 would allow him to play but I think Soyuncu and Evans in front of him. Similar for Konate, lets get more info in preseason to see if he can get ahead of VVD and Gomez.

      Love the different Havertz pick, just need to make sure Chelsea dont sign a top striker as will limit his mins (I think they will as they have sold Giroud and Tammy on way out too).

      1. Fatboy_Slim
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Awesome.. appreciate your input

    2. Hangman Page
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I like they way you’ve laid it out. My only qualm is the inclusion of first names for the keepers, inconsistent with the rest.

      All in all a solid effort.

      1. Fatboy_Slim
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Lol..thanks..what about your suggestions on the team?

  11. kobewan
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Who is probably the most nailed 5.5 m forward at Burnley? news Wood would not be participating Preseason as he is heading to Tokyo for the Olympics.

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

      Should be Vydra

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

    Have 2x4.5 Def on my bench s but for final squad member:
    A. King (or other 5.5 Fwd)
    B. 4.5 dud allowing 1.0itb

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

      I would go with the dud and use the 1m elsewhere in the squad.

    2. Differential C (Mark)
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Dud probably. Unless Emmanuel Dennis of Watford established himself in preseason.

  13. Differential C (Mark)
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Sanchez
    Alexander-Arnold Shaw Cresswell
    Salah Fernandes Jota Smith-Rowe
    Watkins Antonio Toney

    Gunn Doherty Gilmour B. Williams

    0.5m ITB

    > Shaw becomes Digne if Shaw isn't fit for GW1
    > Smith-Rowe and Doherty will rotate games.
    > Unsure on Cresswell or Coufal. Cresswell has set pieces but Coufal much better from open play. If Mattheus Pereira signs I'm on Coufal though.
    > Picked Watkins and Antonio but really I'm open to Wilson / Iheanacho as well to full in those 7.5m slots
    > Jota is also interchangeable, I'm a bit iffy on him, its 50/50. Maybe a City mid?
    > Salah and Trent are locked, non negotiable.

    Thoughts?

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

      ESR is not nailed. Jota as well but you know that already. Reguilon could be a better choice than Doherty.

      1. Differential C (Mark)
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Yeah hence my Jota doubt. I suspect ESR if continues his current preseason form will force himself into contention for the first XI, but I appreciate that i will always be a question mark Whichever Spurs fullback/wingback establishes themselves in preseason is getting in my team.

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

    Reckon the Kane saga will go on till TDD?

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

      Blimey. Don't say that.

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

        Why not? I'd rather this so we can switch to him later than try to fit 3 premiums from the start

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

          Sooner have a settled squad myself, so I can hold on to my wildcard.

          Nothing to say he goes berserk from the off anyway.

    2. Differential C (Mark)
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Its maddening that it hasn't had any advancement other than "City likes Kane and Kane likes City".

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

        Leevy likes (Pound) Sterling.

    3. No Professionals
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      if it goes to transfer day, there is no chance it happens.

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

        This, they will need couple of days for medicals - one for each ankle.

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

      I think a couple of very high-profile transfers won't be resolved until TDD.

  15. Differential C (Mark)
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Uncertainty on Henderson future. Talks to renew contract began weeks ago but no real progress. Both club and Henderson don't want a Wijnaldum repeat so he might be leaving.
    (Source: James Pearce and David Ornstein from the Athletic)

    Imagine not being able to offer your club captain an acceptable new contract. Laughable.

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

      Lets be real, it is bs

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

      American business model.

    3. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Not really Liverpool's fault if he is over-demanding.

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

      I hate James Pearce - snivelling little worm that he is.

    5. Baines on Toast...
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I think it's sensible. Look at the other end of the scale - Arsenal - who keep getting duped into handing long term deals (in Auba's case, their captain) then finding themselves with a dud they can't move on. I know Hendo is a very different personality but he's not Leo Messi, he could leave on a high and bring a lot to a side where he's more important.

  16. kobewan
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Anybody planning to get Sancho once he is added on to FPL?

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

      Probably couple of million United fans all over the world and in Essex.

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

        they probably well, this thing is dragging too long. Transfer market has been boring as of moment.

    2. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      If the price makes him really good value, of course.

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

        8.0m would be amazing, 10.0m would be overprice?

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

          Not me. He'll be fresh off a holiday and unfamiliar with his team mates and tactics. I'd expect Greenwood to fill in for 2 or 3 GWs. Once he starts, no I won't be jumping on until I've seen a bit.

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

            Agree with this. There are so many good, less-risky options. I think he's definitely one to watch, but after starting with Werner last year, I'm gonna wait and see.

  17. Thinkering like a Boss
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Which one do you like

    1) Son, Sarr, Fofana
    2) Mahrez, Buendia, Coufal

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

      2

  18. It’s gonna Ben Mee
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    A) TAA + DCL
    B) Robbo + Cavani

    1. Thinkering like a Boss
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      A

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

      A

  19. Chemical76
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Strong bench essential this season due to COVID? I.e. no more bench fodder

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

      I'm going for classic 2 x 4.5 and 1 x 4.0m - rather maximise my main 11 rather than spread funds just in case. We haven't had any games cancelled since Xmas.

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

        Maximise my starting XI rather than spread funds.

    2. Differential C (Mark)
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I think one bench fodder is fine, but the other two spots you have to at least expect cameos.

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

        Agree. Apart from a 4m keeper, I'll likely end up with 3x4.5 as first choice benchies.

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

      Helps to spread a million around regardless imo, unless there's another AWB doing the rounds. £4.5m defs aren't going to break the bank.

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

      Nope, it's not like they perform when we need them to.

  20. Jars458
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    How is this for bench boost in week one.

    Pickford
    Fofana TAA Robbo
    ESR Maddison Salah (C) Foden
    Nacho Wilson Bamford

    Bachmann White Raphina Ayling

    No-one playing against each other. High risk high reward. Triple Leeds a big gamble.

    1. Men in green tights
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Like you say high risk could pay off,
      My BB team at the moment is as follows
      Sanchez, bachman
      TAA, Robbo, Coufal, Wan Bis, Fofana
      Salah, Bruno, Sarr, Buendia,Bissouma
      Antonio, Toney, Welbeck
      Similar boat to you a couple if gambles .
      Cheers

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

      Crazy to BB in gw1 imo. Too many uncertainties

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

      You need 15 nailed and Foden isn't. Otherwise not a bad idea to use it.

  21. It’s gonna Ben Mee
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Brighton could be one good forward signing away from becoming a top half team. The Ben White cash should enable them that.

    Who should they get?

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

      There's talk today of Martin Braithwaite. That would be quite a coup.

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

        He's not that good - generally moments of brilliance mixed with complete brain facts and bad decisions.
        In the pace of PL he might struggle to make right choices quick enough, wouldn't expect too much of him.

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

          *brain farts.

      2. It’s gonna Ben Mee
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Could be. I think the Eddie Nketiah rumour is quite interesting too.

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

      Loss of Ben White can also seriously destabilise their defence, wait and see for me.

  22. Thinkering like a Boss
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    A) Buendia, Watkins
    B) Bowen, Watkins
    C) Buendia, Antonio

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

      A. Spread it out a bit

  23. Thinkering like a Boss
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    The first 4 fixtures clearly good for WHU attackers yet hardly anyone have them. Why?

    1. No Professionals
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      plenty have antonio. But at the price points, there are other teams with good fixtures (particularly at Antonio's and the 6.5m mids).

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

      AVL good fixtures as well, Toney looks like a goal threat, Raphina in form etc

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

      Ninth on the ticker below for the first 5 fixtures (attacking). My pick of Watkins, Nacho and Toney are more appealing to me.

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

        DCL over Nacho Perhaps?

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

          Dom has the fixtures; Nacho had the form at the tail end of the season. I'm happier with him.

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

            Fair enough

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

        Hard to believe they're actually 9th. I consider Leicester as an easy fixture as well, they scored 6 past them last season.

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

    A: 4-3-3

    Sanchez
    TAA Robertson Shaw Digne
    Salah Bruno Raphina
    DCL Watkins Toney
    ____
    Steele Gilmour 4.5 Manquillo

    B: 3-4-3

    Sanchez
    TAA Shaw Lamptey
    Salah Bruno Jota Raphina
    DCL Watkins Toney
    ____
    Steele Ayling Gilmour Manquillo

    0.5 itb (Grealish over Jota and option)

  25. Walter White (WW)
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    It seems Lingard is staying at Utd this season.

    Bruno, Martial, Lingard, Greenwood, Sancho, Cavani. Ole’s roulette?!

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

      Plenty to pick from. Would expect only Sancho and Rashford to be nailed on

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

      I don't think he'll stay. There's probably a Mexican stand-off with West Ham concerning transfer fee or wages. It'll probably be resolved on TDD.

    3. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Long way to go in the transfer window yet.

  26. Bavarian
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Your thoughts please !!!

    Bachmann
    TAA-Shaw-Coufal
    Salah-Son-Raphinha-Maddison
    DCL-Watkins-Cavani

    Foster-Lamptey-Ayling-Bissouma

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

      You think Cavani is nailed on?

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

        Very solid draft. I think Cavani will get enough minutes in the first few games, before CL and Rashford's return.
        Maddison's not a terribly popular pick and I might prefer Barnes myself.

    2. Walter White (WW)
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Prefer Sanchez over Bachmann & Cavani isn’t nailed imo but not a bad punt tbh

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

    First draft before doing any form of research. Thoughts?

    Sanchez (Foster)
    Shaw, Digne, Fofana (Duffy, Aarons)
    Salah, Bruno, Buendia, Fraser (Bissouma)
    Antonio, Toney, Kane

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

      No TAA is a risk. Otherwise decent. Better 4.5 than Fofana imo

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

        Only way to get him in would be to drop Bruno

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

          I would drop Kane

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

            No chance unless he moves

  28. mcginnntonic
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Thoughts please?

    Sanchez / (Steele)
    TAA / Robbo / Lamptey / Fofana / (4.0 - who's the best 4.0?)
    Salah / Bruno / Grealish / James Rodríguez / (4.5 - who's the best 4.5?)
    Watkins / DCL / (4.5 - who's the best 4.5?)

    Thanks all, still early days

  29. OPTA FPL
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    TAA Salah without Wijnaidum an Henderson