Scout Notes

Gomez and van Dijk set to remain Gameweek 1 doubts

The preparations for the start of the new season continued on Friday, with Liverpool, Newcastle United and Norwich City all taking part in warm-up games.

We’ve got all the goal, assist and line-up information in the article below plus brief Fantasy Premier League (FPL) flavoured notes on each clash.

Brentford and Crystal Palace were also in action but sent B-sides out to their respective matches, so we’ve omitted mention of those fixtures here.

Don’t forget to check out our comprehensive pre-season page for more information on the warm-up matches taking place ahead of Gameweek 1.

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

MAINZ 0-1 LIVERPOOL

  • Goal: own-goal
  • Assist: Owen Beck

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

Virgil van Dijk (£6.5m) and Joe Gomez (£5.0m) were once again absent as Liverpool sneaked a late win over Mainz thanks to an own-goal assisted by young full-back Owen Beck.

The two recuperating centre-halves have returned to training but didn’t feature in Liverpool’s first 90-minute friendly of the summer and look unlikely to be involved against Hertha Berlin next Thursday.

Speaking after the match, Jurgen Klopp said:

Yeah, it would still be a surprise [if they recovered for Hertha], unfortunately. But they look really good. Look, I think, they do everything, they play football, we keep them in training, we do the things we can do, they don’t do too much and stuff like this. We just have to be patient – we prepare for a full season, not for a pre-season game. I will not risk it for a game here, so we have to see. We have a lot of games still coming, pre-season games, but I don’t see them being involved for the next one.

Ibrahima Konate (£5.5m) and Joel Matip (£5.0m) were instead paired at centre-half as the bulk of Liverpool’s first-team got a 45-minute outing in Austria before making way for a more youthful XI.

The duo now looks likely to start in Gameweek 1, according to the Athletic’s James Pearce.

Mohamed Salah (£12.5m) and Sadio Mane (£12.0m) – who almost combined to break the deadlock after 32 minutes – once again flanked an ‘out of position’ Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (£6.0m) in the front three, although there was a first sighting of pre-season of Diogo Jota (£7.5m), who was an unused substitute.

Roberto Firmino (£9.0m) has yet to return to training after representing Brazil in the Copa America and subsequently being handed a three-week break by his club.

Oxlade-Chamberlain failed to make much of an impression up top, wasting the Reds’ best chance shortly before half-time after seeing a shot tipped wide when clean through on goal.

Liverpool XI: Kelleher (Adrian 46), Alexander-Arnold (N Williams 46), Konate (Phillips 46), Matip (Koumetio 46), Tsimikas (Beck 46), Elliot (Clarkson 46), Milner (Gordon 46), Keita (Morton 46), Salah (Jones 46), Oxlade-Chamberlain (Origi 46), Mane (Minamino 46).

DONCASTER ROVERS 2-3 NEWCASTLE UNITED

  • Goals: Ryan Fraser (£5.5m), Sean Longstaff (£4.5m), Callum Wilson (£7.5m)
  • Assists: Jamal Lewis (£4.5m) x2, Ryan Fraser

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

The old FPL double-act of Callum Wilson (£7.5m) and Ryan Fraser (£5.5m) reacquainted themselves as Newcastle United edged out Doncaster Rovers in a five-goal clash at the Keepmoat Stadium.

Wilson raced onto a Fraser pass to round off the scoring for the visitors, having minutes earlier been teed up by his former Bournemouth sparring partner for a blocked effort.

Injury deprived the pair of too much shared pitch-time in 2020/21, while the Scot’s ill-fated final year with the Cherries ended in an acrimonious parting of ways.

Fraser has to first nail down a place in Steve Bruce’s 3-5-2 set-up before he seriously re-enters the Fantasy radar – a tall order given the winger-less system.

But deployed at Doncaster on the left of the central three in midfield, he was at the heart of Newcastle’s attacking play.

As well as his assist for Wilson’s strike, Fraser curled home a beautiful opener and should have bagged a brace when spooning over from close range in the second half.

Injury and illness once again meant that Newcastle were without four goalkeepers, with rookie Dan Langley not covering himself in glory with Doncaster’s two efforts

Altogether more impressive were Jacob Murphy (£5.0m) and Jamal Lewis (£4.5m) down the flanks, with the latter laying down the guantlet to Matt Ritchie (£5.0m) with two assists.

Newcastle United XI: Langley, Murphy (Allan 81), Dummett (Clark 70), Lascelles (Watts 81), Hayden (Fernandez 58), Lewis (Bondswell 85), Hendrick, S. Longstaff, Fraser (Young 76), Saint-Maximin (Gayle 66), Wilson (M. Longstaff 66).

NORWICH CITY 2-0 HUDDERSFIELD TOWN

Assessing Teemu Pukki and Norwich City's attacking assets ahead of FPL return 2
  • Goals: Teemu Pukki (£6.0m), Adam Idah (£5.0m)
  • Assists: Lukas Rupp (£4.5m)

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS

Teemu Pukki (£6.0m) and Tim Krul (£4.5m) made their first appearances of pre-season as Norwich City won another training-ground friendly in East Anglia.

Pukki – whose FPL ownership is less than a third of that of Ivan Toney‘s (£6.5m) – was the spearhead of Daniel Farke’s usual 4-2-3-1 and raced onto a Lukas Rupp (£4.5m) pass to chip the Canaries into an early lead.

There was another 90-minute showing for budget defender Andrew Omobamidele (£4.0m), although Farke had previously signalled that regular centre-half duo Grant Hanley (£4.5m) and Ben Gibson (£4.5m) would soon return to training.

New signing Pierre Lees-Melou (£5.0m) was stationed in the double pivot after scoring on his debut in ‘the hole‘ but still got forward to register the hosts’ first effort of the game and was part of a move that saw number 10 Kieran Dowell (£5.5m) fire over.

Farke said of Lees-Melou after full-time:

I watched it live and I enjoyed the performance as well. He has shown from the first day his experience, quality and calmness on the ball. He’s also competitive and when it’s time to set a sign he can do this as well.

In possession, he played slightly deeper in midfield today and although he hasn’t fulfilled this that often in his career, he fulfilled all my expectations today and he’s already an important, integral member of our squad so we’re all pleased that we have him.

Todd Cantwell (£5.5m) was lively again down the left flank, while substitute Adam Idah (£5.0m) – Pukki’s back-up this season – added a second goal shortly before full-time.

Norwich City XI: Krul (McGovern 46), Mumba (Aarons 65), Zimmermann, Omobamidele, Płacheta, Rupp, Lees-Melou, Rashica (Idah 46), Dowell, Cantwell (Hernández 46), Pukki (Hugill 46).

790 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Emiliano Sala
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Yay
    There is community shield match between leicester and city.
    We will have great information about their line up. At least for leicester
    Hope barnes is fit by then.

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

    Hey all,

    Which one would you prefer?

    a) Coufal / Digne or
    b) Cresswell / Ayling +0.5ITB

    Cheers

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

      Toughie, probably A

      1. BERGKOP
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Thanks Holmes

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

      I would flip a coin. A for me but I love Cresswell. So i'm useless lol.

      1. BERGKOP
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Cheers Gunneryank. I'm right there with you re: Cresswell.

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

    Will you start with Kane and bench him GW1?

    Not sure I'd want to book transfers right now by getting him for GW2/3

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

      I'm going to wait until my wildcard. This might run until transfer deadline day which is around GW3. Other transfers might happen, like Varane and Lewandowski after GW1 has started.

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

      Nope, can survive without him for few weeks.

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

      My team is set to get him with 2 FT just in case anyways so I'm good.

    4. BERGKOP
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Not going with Kane

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

      No Kane for me. That may bite me in the bottom but i'm all in on the fancy shiny midfield with reasonable forwards. I fancy Nacho to smash it.

    6. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      lol

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

      He will stay at Spurs, have said this ever since there was talk of him leaving

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

    Anyone going for the ol Leeds triple in Raphinha, Harrison, Bamford?

    1. BERGKOP
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      No. Just Raph for now.

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

      None at the moment

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

      I'm looking at a Leeds triple: Bamford, Raph and Ayling. Not set yet.

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

      I can't justify 3 Leeds players...but i can justify their 2 best attackers. I'm leaning into their mystique a bit from last season. Makes me a touch nervous.

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

        They went into last season without their 2 first choice CBs. With a fully fit defence, they were pretty tight. I expect more clean sheets, and Ayling to get the rub of the green with a few assists this time. For me, he's the best-value 4.5 defender right now. I wouldn't play him GW1 v Man United though.

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

          Well cheers then, you just changed my mind. Ayling on the bench it is!

          And yeah, I'd like a 4-3 shootout in that fixture. Would suit me right down to the ground. Shaw assist of course.

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

            Awkward. Expecting a goal glut myself, I've got Shaw on the bench for that game, whether he's fit or not!

            1. Haa-lala-land
              • 3 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              Really? I'm expecting 0-0! Leeds and Man Utd, second half of last season at least, played to not concede when facing top attacking teams.

    5. Gross Blank Point
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Yes

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

    How will Brighton defensive line up look like?

    Veltman Webster Dunk Duffy Burn - is this right?

    Which player can we start with who is nailed?

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

      Not Duffy. I'd put Veltman there and have Lamptey WB.

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

        Lamptey wont start few GWs

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

        Someone posted earlier on lamptey still out injured

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

          Oh, just seen that. Interesting. So Fofana and Ayling in my squad.

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

            As far as Brighton are concerned, they were using Solly March as WB before his injury, so I still wouldn't assume Duffy plays.

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

      Based on current team it looks like Burn CB and March LWB, but they’re signing a new CB and LB

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

        Right. Will monitor. Just replaced Lamptey with Dunk, but would prefer to save 0.5 if a 4.5 is nailed on.

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

    A. DCL & Toney or
    B. Iheanacho & Antonio ?

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

      Toney & Antonio frees up cash & other uncertainties imo

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

      B

      Nacho is your man.

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

        Why not Watkins and Nacho?

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

          Perfectly reasonable of course. I'm just lukewarm on the Villa attack outside of one of their dynamic attacking midfielders. If I'm wrong I'll eat the crow pie.

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

            Not wrong at all. I see it as those dynamic midfielders supplying Ollie with golden chances. Nacho gets supplied by Foxes midfield. Antonio without Lingard could come up short in that department.

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

              I mean, you're probably totally on point with the service to Watkins, which secretly scares the excrement out of me. Watkins and Nacho might be the golden ticket, as it were.

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

                It's like Callum Wilson too. He'll score most of Newcastle's goals, but how many will that be? He'll be starved of service.

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

                  Will Toney be same as Wilson? I have no idea myself, not having watched Brentford. I've only got him as a punt 'cos he's cheap!

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

                  Yeah, i mean, I'm avoiding the Magpies like the Coronavirus. Wilson is a talent, sure, but like....meh.

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

    Just gonna keep Kane on my bench, ready for gw 2 & limit unnecessary transfers. Thinking of perma cappin Kane if he moves to City same as everyone & their dog

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

      I can see Kane with his 'mind not in the right place' through GWs 2 and 3

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

        Possible but I would rather take the risk. If his mind is in the right place, it could be a massive differential. Solid captain option for those gw in particular whether at Spurs/ City

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

          Okay. My concern is primarily with Levy. He will take it up to TDD to squeeze every last penny, not concerning himself with the effect his haggling will have on Harry, knowing he's going to leave anyway.

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

      A super premium forward on the bench for GW1? Is it worth it to have such an expensive asset not playing? That seems like a huge risk.

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

        Psychological thing.
        Transfer is a precious thing too. Save transfer is a good thing.

        Its not gonna bench Premium for six week, maybe only one...

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

    Many going with Antonio to start the season?

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

      Around 187,000 people given his current 11.5% ownership

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

      Should be fine unless Hammers get Abraham, but for me the likes of Watkins and Nacho edge ahead.

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

      The Hammer fans i've interacted with the past couple weeks have steered me away due to his unreliability.

    4. Nate(U)dog(ie)
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I'd love to but he's a transfer waiting to happen (as happened many times to me last season) and I actually would be further put off by seeing him getting a decent few preseason minutes, he only lasted around 3-4 PL games before breaking down again most times last season

  9. Pirlø's Pen
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Sort by rotation feature taken off the ticker?!

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

      Hasn't been right for best part of a week. I'm assuming it will be restored in full. Very disappointed if it isn't.

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

      works fine in the members section?

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

        Is that what they've done? I pay my fee but never go there. If they've taken it away from the free section, I'd regard that as pretty mean.

  10. Christina.
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    So Lamtey Banjowagon lost some wheels.
    🙄

    1. Steve The Spud
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Lamptey wagon is fitted with a powerful v8 turbo and you look forward to driving it all year - problem is it has no wheels

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

      Permanently flagged forever...

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

      That can be fixed with some duct tape.

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

        Dunk tape?

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

          You have won the interweb this day. Well done.

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

          It's what I've done.

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

          I just can't justify 2 Brighton defensive assets. Am i wrong and a poor excuse for an FPL manager?

          (Spoiler: I am)

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

            These subjective decisions are what the game's all about.

  11. Steve The Spud
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Kane usually takes About 5 games to get going after a break

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

    Unsubstantiated rumors that are fun to talk about:

    Gunners have a gigantic bid for White in the works?
    Pool have huge Chiesa bid turned down!
    Spurs target Martial!
    Teddy Sheringham says Kane is definitely leaving for City!

    Discuss.

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

      Chelsea after Berardi!

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

      The first one isn't unsubstantiated. It should be completed and announced any day now. 50M is the price.
      The rest is bog-standard daily transfer gossip.

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

        I will defer to your expertise here...is 50m worth it for him though? That seems crazy to me. Maybe i'm just out of touch. Ugh.

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

          Transfer fees are bonkers these days. Seems like stupid money for me for an uncapped player. But it is what it is. What's more relevant for our purposes is he's 4.5m in FPL - is he worth it as part of an Arsenal defence? Many will have him in their squads - me, I prefer Fofana to start with.

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

            As a longtime Arsenal supporter, i can only hope he has an effect, but i haven't seen him play, and for anyone out there considering using Arsenal defensive assets:

            Don't. We will concede. Stay away.

    3. FPL Joker
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      The Liverpool rumour is absolute nonsense.

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

    Anyone looking at Pukki over Toney? He's proven in the prem and Norwich will invariably attack

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

      I can't bring myself to use a Norwich attacker at the end of the day. But maybe he goes on the watchlist? I honestly don't know how attacking the Canaries are, but maybe worth watching.

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

      Also they just lost Buendia. That has to be a factor, right?

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

      Seen Norwich's opening fixtures? It's something to think about later.

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

      Will get him in from GW5

    5. Dogs Of War
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I’m taking a punt on Pukki. I want a third playing striker and once the first two are out of the way he becomes a good option.

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

        Welbeck fits the budget and has easier fixtures.

  14. Phlajo
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Which combo do you prefer:
    A) Henderson + Coufal
    B) Sanchez + Creswell

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

      B just so

    2. Rassi
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      A

    3. WHUFCSmith23
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      A

  15. FPL Joker
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    From what I’ve heard, Daka turned down Liverpool and joined Leicester because Leicester guaranteed him first team football. With this in mind, I’d expect him to be starting over ‘nacho.

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

      Nonsense, no professional manager\club will ever guarantee starts.
      They might have told he'll get his chances but that's something else, he also could look at Origis case at LFC and decide not to be another player glued to bench for several years.

      1. FPL Joker
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        It’s not nonsense, it happens all the time. A player wants to know how often they’ll play.

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

          Of course it's nonsense, Ikenacho was absolutely on fire in the run in, Vardy is a clubs legend why any of the dropped just because new guy came in ?
          What do you think it would do to the dressing room and results ?
          Sure he could have been told that he'll get his chances but then it's up to him to prove he's better than Ikenacho and\or Vardy, I simply can't imagine Rodgers compromising his results & position only because something been said in negotiations.

          1. FPL Joker
            • 6 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            You’re being naive. They clearly have a lot of belief int he guy and had to give him certain assurances to sign over Liverpool. But believe what you want to believe.

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

              Funny you calling me naive, I'm not the one suggesting that no name player from mickey mouse league is going to put on the bench Ikenacho or Vardy without even having to prove himself first.

            2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
              • 14 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              “People believe what they want to believe”

              I think this is exactly the point he’s making mate 😆

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

          Nacho is very good, very prolific. Better than Vardy. Why should Nacho's place to lose? If only Daka threaten someone place, its Vardy.

          I know he is club legend, but manager should be aware about his low performance recently.

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

      Really? So soon? Nacho is in his ascendancy. I hope you're wrong (because i have him of course).

    3. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Did you hear this from the Liverpool maniac?

      The one that sometimes pops up on here ranting & raving about how Liverpool going into a 60 game season with only 3 centrebacks (one of whom was well known to be made of glass) *wasnt* shocking management?

      Because of so - we debunked that particular “rumour”’s origin in a thread here a while back:

      https://www.fantasyfootballscout.co.uk/2021/07/01/the-best-mid-price-fpl-midfielders-for-2021-22/?hc_page=1&hc_sort_by=comment_date#hc_comment_23869735

      He goes from “turned down Liverpool because he wouldn’t start” to “well i think Liverpool might have tried to sign him” in the space of a few posts lol

      1. FPL Joker
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        No, mate. My dad works at LFC. But people will believe what they want. I’m just saying be careful because Daka hasn’t been signed as a squad player but as a first team regular

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

          Ladies and Gentlemen, we have Klopp Jr. in our midst!

          1. FPL Joker
            • 6 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Ha ha ha, no. He’s just in admin! Not very ‘posh’ so I’ve disowned him.

            1. Stranger Mings
              • 3 Years
              2 years, 8 months ago

              I thought nacho was a great pick but bit worried now but surely nacho is the main man now

        2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
          • 14 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          I see - So it’s all still total speculation then basically?

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

      Or Liverpool didn’t want him.

    5. Dr. Rog
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Daka Maddy Barnes Nacho Vardy
      5 players into 3, and probably 4 slots against weaker opposition

      Maddy offers something the others dont, Barnes & Nacho are a cut above the others but Barnes is a walking injury.
      Vardy is 34, Daka is new and an unknown quantity. Will he be eased in and will he actually be any good?

      Nacho's pp90 last year was 6.8. Thats elite level. In fact his pp90 is always at those levels. His underlying stats also support those levels. For me its a no-brainer to start with him (form, fixtures all align) and if he doesnt realise his potential there are many other 7.5 options for an easy switch.

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

    Sober assessments:

    Brighton: Yes they have a good run of initial fixtures. Will they score a bunch of goals? Sanchez covers the potential of points. Lamptey or Veltman or both...neither a good alternative...Dunk is cemented and can provide but is it worth 5M?

    Everton: Hyped for fixtures. Siggy is on "parental" leave...Richarlison on Olympic leave...Bernard shipped...new manager...who will supply Calvin?

    Brentford: Will go straight back down to championship. Toney doesn't score against Arsenal and then price will tumble...I predict less than 10 goals...

    Advice:

    Digne will benefit from Siggy taking family leave and get more set pieces. He is the 1 from Everton you must have...

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

      Brentford could also light Arsenal up. You know it could happen.

      Also, DCL in a Benitez team? Attacking isn't really the gaffer's thing.

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

        Gunneyank: I agree. No trust in Benitez going offensive. I Had DCL Watkins and Toney until today...

        Now I have decided and settled for Watkins Antonio and Nacho...

        If needed there is options at same price point to swap for...

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

          Solid choices i would think. I was on DCL until i recently had a good solid think on the matter. Digne is who i really want.

          If i'm wrong, more crow pie for me.

    2. Haa-lala-land
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Does JRod take set pieces or penalties? He looks like he could.

      1. Dogs Of War
        • 2 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        If he is still here he’ll take corners and free kicks. Maybe not so many direct ones, that’s likely to be Digne. DCL will be the focal point of the team and could even be on pens. Currently Gylfi takes them. The other candidate is Richarlison.

    3. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Yeah with Siggy in the slammer Digne really does start to look appetising

      If we could just get JRod out of the club too now he’d have a set piece monopoly

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

      No need to pre-assess the whole season, just the first few games, by which time of us will have re-assessed and wildcarded.
      My opinion is Brighton are good for defensive points with their opening fixtures. I wouldn't tip them to score much. I'm fine with Sanchez and a defender.
      Everton - exactly the same with the squad as it is just now. I'm good for Digne to open the season, but no one else (well, except for Begovic's kit to decorate my bench).
      Brentford - fair chance of early returns from Toney before clubs figures them out.

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

        nb What would give me some confidence in DCL and Rich is if a certain chappie is added to their midfield. Jesse Lingard. Perfect bit for both sides.

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

          What is a chappie? American still learning the slang here.

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

            chappie, chap, bloke, geezer... oh, DUDE!

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

              Understood. Only Chappie i know is Doug's wingman from Iron Eagle. 😀

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

                Uh, as a Brit, that's one's gone right over my head!

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

                  Unless it's connected to your 'Loki'. Watched that yesterday - sort of Doctor Who with a few American accents! 😉

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

                    American in a fighter jet rescuing his dad from the bad Arab General man. (Libya analogy, 80's action film).

                    Haven't watched Loki, but i watched Dr. Who as a kid here in the states...Tom Baker!

    5. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Prefer drunk assrssment

  17. FPL_trail_runner
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    My midfield is currently

    Salah Son Mahrez Havertz Harrison

    Very nice value options and some good captains for weeks 1-6
    Salah/Havertz Mahrez Son Son Salah Salah

    Also have an option to change before the deadline Mahrez and a striker to 4,5mil and Bench fodder

    I may very well go without Kane in the early weeks if his week 2 start is not assured

    1. Haa-lala-land
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Same as my midfield. Except I'm umming and ahhing whether to get Foden over Mahrez?

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

        I dont see any of the England players starting week 1 or 2

        1. Haa-lala-land
          • 3 Years
          2 years, 8 months ago

          Ah okay thank you. If I can, I'll try and switch Mahrez to Foden when Foden starts somewhere round GW3. Mahrez is a great player, I just think that Foden could out point him this year.

  18. tom66
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Seeing lots of love for Nacho. However, with Vardy and Daka is he not a rotation risk?
    (currently going with Maddison for Leicester)

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

      As a Fox fan, i would simply say this: BRog likes to play 2 up front. Nacho and Vardy are proven. Daka needs time to bed in. Vardy is going to have his minutes curated here soon. Nacho is in line to play more than a new signing i would think, as he has proven himself beyond all doubt.

    2. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I don’t think Rodgers can bench him - Nacho was too incredible

    3. Haa-lala-land
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      There will be rotation, yes. But not at the start of the season, so it's safe to start with Nacho. I hope!
      My FPL team will have Nacho and Vardy.
      The safer options, with no risk of rotation, will be BamBam, DCL, Watkins and the injury prone Antonio.
      Thing is, if Nacho can start the season where he finished the last

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

        You really are a Fox fan then! Up the Foxes 🙂

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

        That's how I see it. Nacho a great pick for the early part of the season. Daka blooded in the Europa before getting PL starts.

    4. Dr. Rog
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Nacho has premium striker stats - im talking 10m+ value.

      Sure is a rotation risk to our eyes but Rodgers knows this as well. I would expect him to take the #1 spot this year with Vardy taking a step back.

      If he nails the place come the end of the season he will be sitting on 200 points and this time next year y'all be trying to fit him in your teams because he has been seriously "underpriced" at 9mln next time around!!

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

        Agree. But Daka's profile suggests he's been brought in as Vardy's successor. I don't see any threat to Nacho so long as his form is maintained. If it isn't, we'll all be dropping him before Brendan does.

  19. LangerznMash
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Newcastle and Palace rotate fair well early doors with home games against WHU, BRE, SOU, TOT, LEE, BHA. Jamal Lewis (paying wingback) and a £4.5m def from Palace would be a decent alternative rotation pairing.

    1. The Son-dance Kid
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      Newcastle and Palace defenders - you're having a laugh, surely!

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

      Wasn't he playing fullback?

    3. Rasping Drive
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I would rather shove wasps up my arse than pick a Palace defender.

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

        This, with Roy Hodgson gone I wouldn't be surprised if Palace got relegated.

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

        My favorite comment of the day. My thanks.

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

        Haha, yeah i'm not going with this combo, just highlighting it as an option.

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

      Spurs and Leeds will light those defences up like a Christmas tree. Plus BHA and WHU still fairly strong defensively.

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

        Palace need to make some signings, or resignings at the back. It wouldn't surprise me if they make a couple of decent ones and are alright at the back. But I'd want to see first. Ashley's Toon also need investment. Won't get it.

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

          Re my Fulham comparison we are apparently close to Joachim Andersen and Lookman isn't impossible either for the attacker we are likely to get

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

            Wondered when you'd be along 😉
            Have to admit, the signings Palace are making are impressive. Might look at a defender after all.

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

              I posted that before looking at their run of fixtures. Ouch. Good luck anyway!

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

              Hold off mate for a while 🙂

              The signs from preseason are that the low block will be gone and we will have fullbacks pressing upfield in a 4-3-3. It's a system that will take a while and more to bed in - overturning 9 years and more of history. We are still one right back short but it is Clyne - yet to sign - that is getting minutes and he could be 4.5 interesting come WC half possibly.

  20. Steve The Spud
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Whats the plan for you guys if shaw misses the first 2-3 game weeks for example ?

    Straight swap to AWB/slab/other or restructure your defence ?

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

      Cresswell or Digne. Sorted (as the Brits say). 🙂

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

      Wan Biss

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

      With Telles out, that leaves a 4m defender to fill in!

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

        Brandom Williams?
        Just watched the QPR 4-2 highlights and Williams should have done much better for 3 of the of the goals.
        Can't see Man Utd keeping a clean sheet GW1 against Leeds.

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

    Will you pick White if they sign Ramsdale? XD

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

      I will pick White if they sign White XD

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

      It's not like he will play

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

        Oh he's a back up?

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

          Has to be (unless Leno is leaving)

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

          Ramsdale probably is, but White may challenge for a first XI spot, especially considering his fee, and he's, you know, good. But with Arteta, who knows.

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

        I don't rate Ramsdale at all, but are they spunking stupid money to put him on the bench??

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

          Not over Leno surely?

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

            Leno is leaving. Ramsdale will be no.1 lol.

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

    Looks like Cristian Romero coming to Spurs with lower price/salary than Varane ffs

    Only 23, best defender in Seria A last season, lead Atalanata to 3rd, Copa winner. He is very aggressive, perfect fit for slow Mcguire

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

      If he's 5m, he's in my squad. Prob 5.5 though.

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

        Nope, will strongly consider their wingback

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

      Vidic style

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

      He's good but Varane is way better imo

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

        ...if Spurs managed to get Laporte to partner him that would be a solid central defence!

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

          Can't see Laporte demeaning himself. If he moves, it will be for CL. Quite a coup to get Romero though.

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

            don't see it either tbh and if Laporte was made available there'd be a queue of teams in for him

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

        Maybe was better, out of form last 2 season
        Romero stats destroy every CB on fbref

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

          could be one that got away on us so...be typical if we fail to sign a top DC now

    4. Steve The Spud
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      paretic doing bits

  23. Big dog
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    One plays, one on bench

    Brownhill and welbeck

    Or

    Harrison and obefami

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

      First option - both will get minutes for their club, should you need to call on your sub.
      Second option - most weeks, Oba won't get anything, leaving you short.

      1. Big dog
        • 2 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Obe would default to 3rd sub. I'm on option 1 currently but thinking maybe Harrison outscores welbeck long-term, tho I like Brighton early fixtures

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

          Harrison will easily outscore Welbeck long-term, but are you setting up your squad to be season-keepers?

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

      Harrison because he’s younger, proven, and Leeds are very attacking. Welbeck is Welbeck playing for Brighton.

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

      B - Harrison nailed and proven for attack returns. Obafemi is fine as a 3rd sub, he will get 25 mins most matches and chip in with the odd goal.

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

      Harrison better imo

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

    Joachim Andersen close to Palace, join after Guehi, both more solid than their old CB. Looks like Vieira is no joke

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

      Yeh, that would be very sound business.

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

      It's not the manager. Credit should go to the owners

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

      Thought Joachim Andersen was close to the pick of the CBs outside of the top 5 clubs last season - bar White and Godfrey perhaps. He won't come cheap but could be great value even if he is in the 20 mill range.

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

        Wonder why the likes of Spurs didn't go for him.

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

          It is Spurs where he was supposed to go until very recently - apparently the man they hired from Juve as director of football had other ideas.

          They do seem to hiring well at the back if their proposed transfers come off - just looking at different markets.

      2. Nate(U)dog(ie)
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Agreed, he was very impressive last season in an otherwise very poor defence

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

    130m (+20m add-ons) bid for Haaland from Chelsea

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

      can't see it happening but would make for some interesting season if they do land him

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

      Fabrizio Romano
      @FabrizioRomano
      ·
      9h
      Erling Haaland has no agreement on personal terms with any club, as of today. But the real issue to sign Haaland this summer is Borussia Dortmund position.

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

        BVB insist NO official bid received from Chelsea yet - not even discussing about players included in the deal.

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

      If Haaland has a clause of 75 million next season they can't keep him now after a 150 million bid. Not a single player is worth 75 million + salary for 1 year.

    4. Dr. Rog
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      the problem with the clause is he will go to Madrid, so I would have though Chelsea need to act now if they want him.

      will make Mount amazing I think.

  26. FCSB
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Which two from:

    1. Watkins
    2. Iheanacho
    3. DCL
    4. Antonio

    Cheers

    1. Big dog
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      1 and 2 (don't forget Wilson though - on pens and goals per game ratio pretty good)

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

      First 2 for me. Both are at clubs I'm tipping to have a very good season. Hammers for me peaked last season and Toffees need a bit of sorting out.

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

      1 and 2

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

      The order you have listed them.

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

    Any clue if Kane will miss more than 1 GW?

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

      Looke like people finally forgive his August curse

    2. Big dog
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      If he stays at spurs they generally flog him at 75% fitness as other options so poor

  28. Christina.
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Kane wont play GW 1 and the transfer saga will drag on up to transfer window.
    Dont people learn?

    1. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGeniusâ…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      No.

      Hi Christina - I trust you're keeping well? 🙂

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

      Yes I have him pencilled in for GW4

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

      I'll wait for my wildcard

    4. Haa-lala-land
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 8 months ago

      I don't think any of the England players will play GW1

  29. Jonesfromthere
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Sanchez | Steele
    TAA | Digne | Lamptey | Fofana | Manquillo
    Salah | Son | Sancho | Raphinha | Gilmour
    Cavani | Wilson | Toney

    Decided I don’t want a City defender with their fixtures, might pick one up later. Everton’s fixtures are crazy so thought going with Digne seems a shrewd pick. Also gone for Callum as a bit of a punt on Newcastle - his record for them is excellent and their first 10 games are pretty damn good. Hopefully they get Willock back as they’re a much better team with him.

    Opinions appreciated, a bit too punty?

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

      Btw Lamptey will miss the start of the season. I don't think Cavani is worth the 8.5 with great options at 7.5 (Watkins, Nacho, Antonio)

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

        Agreed.

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

      Lamptey injured. Shame as he is young, have hight GI per90 and play for a good defensive team too (at least before White leaves).

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

      Other than Lamptey's fitness, it seems fine. I personally think Sancho needs a look first before we throw down on him. But it may be a beating for those who don't have him.

  30. Babit1967
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 8 months ago

    Anyone think KDB doesn’t start? Seen a lot of fitness comments recently but surely he’ll be okay in a few weeks

    The plan is to captain Salah gw1 and KDB 2

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

      So many injury record in recent times.

      For 12 mill its hard to pick him tbh

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

      I'm sure he will start but in terms of FPL assets there are just better options at that price point. Pepception is just too much of a factor.

      If i'm wrong, then crow pie is in order.

      1. Babit1967
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 8 months ago

        Yeah it’s between him and Bruno at the moment but KDB edges it as I would like a City player and if anyone avoids Pep rotation it’s him

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

          I've got a plan to go upside Chasing with him and Bruno. If Kev isn't fit for GW1, Bruno starts, then gets subbed out (I have Sancho) for Kev.

          1. Babit1967
            • 7 Years
            2 years, 8 months ago

            Good plan