FFS International

FFS International: Best FPL Wildcard picks per position

With so many Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Wildcards active over this international break, we asked FFS International for their best player picks across all positions.

FPL Poet

Robertson and Watkins injury latest as Son starts up front again in Kane absence 3

Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa (£5.0m) looks like a standout option going into Gameweek 4 as his team play none of the top eight from last season in the next 11 matches. For me he is a ‘set and forget’ goalkeeper, at least till Gameweek 14.

Liverpool play Leeds, Crystal Palace and Brentford in their next three games, which makes Diogo Jota (£7.6m) an option that cannot be overlooked. The Portuguese midfielder should be among the goals and can return FPL points from the bench if needed.

Bendito Fantasy

Hugo Lloris. Esta opción les parecerá completamente fuera de lo habitual en cuanto a porteros, la portería parece que perdió todo interés y solo buscamos a hombres de 4.5 m. Sin embargo Hugo ha acumulado la máxima cantidad de salvadas y está en 3er lugar en número de tiros en contra. Sin embargo continua con su portería invicta. En sus próximos 5 partidos solo CHE ofrece verdadero peligro.

Marcal. Wolves está a punto de entrar en una de las mejores rachas de partidos de toda la premier en los próximos 5 partidos. A su vez, Marcal ha sido el defensor de WOL con más toques lo que le aumenta su potencial de bonus. Saiss probablemente ofrece algo mejor en ataque, pero el precio de 4.5 será importante para completar a un equipo de Wildcard.

Cristiano. No hay que darle vueltas al asunto. Cristiano ha roto prácticamente todos los records de goleo que se le han puesto frente a él. Manchester United fue el segundo equipo mas goleador la temporada pasada, atrás del City por solo 10 goles. Ronaldo contra equipos de media tabla para abajo suele ser un martillo y con toda la motivación de su regreso a la premier vendrá inspirado. Si eres de los que consideran el precio de los jugadores, querrás subirte rápido a este tren, el precio subirá inmediatamente después de que haga su debut.

FF Titan

In his first three games, Trent Alexander-Arnold (£7.5m) already has two clean sheets and an assist, and tops most creative statistics among defenders. He is essentially fixture-proof and will be in my team as long as he is fit.

It is becoming clear that Ferran Torres (£7.1m) will likely be City’s alternative number 9. He has already scored twice and assisted once. Whilst there is no certainty he will start all of the games, at just £7.1m, he is well worth a punt as a City centre-forward.

There is no escaping Ronaldo-mania, for the Portuguese is grabbing headlines everywhere, every day. On a Wildcard, it seems odd not to select Cristiano Ronaldo (£12.5m). His favourite opponents of all time are Sevilla (27 goals), Atletico Madrid (25), Getafe (23) and Barcelona (20), showing that he is the man for the big games and therefore the fixture swing for Manchester United shouldn’t impact him.

FPL Hangover Podcast

With three clean sheets in the opening three fixtures, it’s easy to see why Sergio Reguilón (£5.2m) has already seen two price rises this season. With a question mark over several positions across the Spurs defence, Reguilon provides an assured starter in a backline that is already proving itself to be a tough nut to crack.

It feels strange to recommend a forward from a team who have yet to find the back of the net this season. Regardless, the newly managed Wolves have looked impressive at times and Raul Jiménez (£7.4m) has registered 11 shots inside the box. With only one of these attempts being on target, the Wolves frontman still looks to be shaking off a little ring rust after last season’s devastating injury. But with the pedigree that Jimenez has demonstrated in previous seasons, I sense a Mexican wave is imminent.

FPL Side Net

I think at his price, and with Brighton’s fixtures still looking good for the foreseeable future, Robert Sanchez (£4.5m) still looks like a solid pick in goal. Going with Sanchez also frees up key budget which enables more of the incoming premium assets that all FPL managers want.

While the Chelsea fixture swing doesn’t key in until Gameweek 7, managers are probably looking at targeting the solid Blues defence and so bringing one in on a Wildcard makes sense as it means you don’t need to book in a future transfer. Moving for Antonio Rudiger (£5.5m) now makes sense as he is, in my opinion, the most nailed-on of the Chelsea backline.

FPL Froggies

FPL Gameweek 2 round-up: Sunday goals, assists, bonus and injuries

After three Gameweeks, it is hard to ignore the fact that Everton seem really well organised under Rafael Benitez. Abdoulaye Doucoure (£5.5m) is playing very high this year and has license to shoot. He also seems to be a nailed-on starter.

Romelu Lukaku (£11.5) has the experience, the ability and looks very hungry. Lukaku’s ‘back to the goal’ game enables him to create big chances for his teammates and this might have a very big impact when it comes to BPS calculation and armband selection. His assist potential also offers a little more protection against a potential blank, which is also important for captaincy selection, week in, week out. 

FPL Rabbi

Scout Notes 14

Trent Alexander-Arnold (£7.5m) would be the obvious pick, but if you’re looking for a budget option in order to stack up on those heavy-hitter premiums, you could do a lot worse than Joel Matip (£5.0m). With two clean sheets, seven attempts inside the box and two big chances, he was somewhat unlucky not to hit a big haul by now. You could potentially save £2.5m, cover those Liverpool clean sheets and who knows, maybe next time Alexander-Arnold gets an assist from a corner, it will be to a Matip goal.

A player I’m looking to bring in, in order to fund a move for Ronaldo, is Adama Traore (£6.0m). Even though I have the funds to get the likes of Ferran Torres (£7.1m) or Mason Mount (£7.5m), I can’t look past the numbers that the Wolves winger has produced since the start of the season. Even though Bruno Lage’s troops haven’t scored yet, Traore is fifth for xG among all midfielders while only the Liverpool duo of Mohamed Salah (£12.5m) and Sadio Mané (£11.9m) have had more shots inside the box than him.

Fantasy Football South Africa

Scout Notes 7

Nélson Semedo‘s (£4.9m) clean sheet prospects could be boosted by the return of Wilfred Boly (£4.9m) in the coming weeks. Only Chelsea and Man City have conceded fewer shots than Wolves across the opening three games despite facing Leicester, Spurs and Manchester United. Semedo could profit at both ends of the pitch over the next three games against Brentford, Southampton and Newcastle.

With his speed on and off the ball, Ismaila Sarr (£6.0m) gives managers the opportunity to select a nailed-on player that could be on penalties as a bonus. His price tag is appealing especially if you consider the next four fixtures against Wolves, Norwich, Newcastle and Leeds. Selected by 4.6% of Fantasy managers, Sarr could be the ultimate differential.

Leeds face Newcastle, West Ham, Watford, Southampton, Wolves and Norwich after the Liverpool match in Gameweek 4. These opponents have kept zero clean sheets between them over the opening three games. Patrick Bamford should, therefore, bring good returns over the next four to six matches.

FPL Updates and Tips

 1

Whilst Luke Shaw (£5.0m) has kept just one clean sheet and so far recorded no attacking returns in the first three Gameweeks of the season, we believe he is very close to his first double-digit return of the campaign. David de Gea (£5.0m) is back to his best and produced some amazing saves against Wolves, while the addition of Raphael Varane (£5.5m) makes the United defence stronger. Shaw’s potential for clean sheet points looks good and he is also on set pieces; he assisted his teamate Harry Maguire (£5.0m) from a corner whilst on international duty. With his set-piece threat and with Cristiano Ronaldo (£12.5m) on the field, Shaw should soon start rewarding managers who have invested.

Ferran Torres (£7.1m) has started all three of Manchester City’s matches so far this season, scoring two goals and registering an assist. As Man City didn’t sign a forward this summer, Torres will likely be the focal point of their attack and with the return of Kevin De Bruyne (£11.9m) and Phil Foden (£7.9m), he will only receive more goalscoring chances. 

Many FPL managers activated their Wildcards as soon as Cristiano Ronaldo‘s (£12.5m) FPL price was revealed. His record against Manchester United’s next three opponents makes owning him a must have, in our view: he has been directly involved in 12 goals in 12 appearances against Aston Villa, eight goals in 10 matches against Newcastle and six goals in seven against West Ham.

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Sam FPLFamily <p>Fantasy Football Scout's General Manager. Half of the FPLFamily. Pundit on the FPL Pod, Fantasy Show and Sky Sports News&nbsp;</p> Follow them on Twitter

338 Comments Post a Comment
  1. hammersp2000
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Which is the best combo?

    1) Rudiger, Gray, Dennis
    2) Coady, Gray, Armstrong
    3) Coady, Benrahma, Dennis

    Will probably rotate the Fwd & mid depending on fixtures

    1. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      1

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

    Can't wait for another hattie for Torres this GW against a poor defensive Leicester side. Bargain of the season.

    1. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Fudgy > Inazuma X1 (-8)?

  3. Gameweek 4 Q&A
    Az
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Morning all!

    Sam and I are live on YouTube in about an hour.

    https://youtu.be/t9kH36uBWno

    Any questions you'd like us to answer?

    1. THE SHEEP HUNTERS
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Are Spurs gonna win 1-0 this week?

    2. jackruet
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Barnes + bruno + mahrez to
      Raphinha + allan + Ronaldo
      (-8)

      Or wildcard?

    3. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Mine questions never get answered. I sit by the wireless, helmet cocked, waiting patiently. But nothing.

      1. Drexl Spivey
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Bless.

      2. The Knights Template
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Who is the one, and you may only choose one, non-template player you rate over the next three GWs?

        1. The Knights Template
          • 10 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          Tis a fine question!

      3. Az
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Forsooth. Your question will be answered today.

        1. The Knights Template
          • 10 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          Tis a fine day! I shall turn the wireless up!

    4. tuvok
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Not a question per se but I posted a summary & link below to an article about how Bruno & Ronaldo will fare together, something you mentioned on blackbox last night. Loving blackbox btw!

      1. Az
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Thanks for that Tuvok, much appreciated!

    5. Pacer.
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      AWB and Shaw double up over TAA/4.5 with the united approach this year being 'kick it at Ronaldo's head'

    6. Drexl Spivey
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Dennis or King over the next three?

    7. Pacer.
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      who's gonna be the biggest troll of the year

      Toney to make an early bid after dropping, scoring, and Brighton at home up next

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

      Best mid option under 5.7m

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

      Assuming Firmino out for a couple of games is it worth additional -4 to make Livramento out move to be able to make Bruno to Jota and Ings to Ronaldo move for -8 in total. Getting Torres would save additional hit but concerned at rotation risk given he has played all IB games

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

      Hi mate, yeah...

      Most people are talking about having 2 premiums for the season and chopping and changing when the fixtures are kind .... Ronaldo, Kane and Lukaku ... but nobody is bringing in Salah to the equation? If you went Ronaldo and Lukaku for a few gameweeks and say had a Jota in midfield, with 2 Free Transfers you could easily still get Salah back by doing a Ronaldo down and a Jota up.

      Isit wise just to have Salah set and forget and just change the forward line? Or can we bring Salah into the equation aswell.

  4. Modest Bob
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    With Lukaku injured .....

    Lukaku>DCL ?

    Money isn't an issue 14.2 m itb

    1. CrouchDown
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Source?

      1. Modest Bob
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Wut?

      2. The Tinkerman
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Widely reported he has a thigh injury and is having a scan. The player said it himself in an interview.

        I would guess he would play, but who knows. Wait for presser.

        1. Modest Bob
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          My ML rival says he 100% won't play.

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

            Well that is just speculating. He said he has had the injury for a while in the interview. So it can’t be that bad.

            DCL is also injured.

            In both cases wait for pressers

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

      You can't come on here and spout stuff like that with absolutely no evidence. Lukaku has been playing with this same injury all season so far, he told reporters he's been playing with a niggle and thats why hes been flagged. As for your pal telling you he's out, he's the same pal that come deadline will have the armband on him.

  5. Boz
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Would you go Gray if you also have DCL or spread the love with Sarr or Traore?

    1. BeWater
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Sarr.

    2. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Gray

  6. The Tinkerman
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Anybody else getting Ronaldo and still going to C Salah this week?

    1. BeWater
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      No. If I get Ronaldo I'm going all in.

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

        3 days of training? Can see him coming off early in the second half. Arguably any other player than Ronaldo wouldn’t be starting in this situation (maybe Messi)

        1. BeWater
          • 3 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          I haven't brought him in yet. I'm waiting for the press conference. Someone will ask Solskjaer if Ronaldo is going to start. Want to see what his response is.

    2. Boz
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Nah the risk of FOMO is too much. I don’t mind him coming off after 70 when he’s already bagged a brace

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

        Yeah agree FOMO is a factor, but his ownership is less than 20%, even if all of those C him, just owning him is still a differential.

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

          Id maybe check ownership saturday morning again, you might be suprised haha

  7. Arteta
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Today's and tomorrow's press conferences are so important people don't even realise yet. Wildcards can still change completely, patient FT holders will probably be rewarded, some early moves punished, fresh news connected with virus will be revealed. Plenty of action before the deadline incoming 😀

    1. Rassi
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      This. We may even get to know if Ronaldo starts or not.

    2. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I don't even listen to your press conferences anymore, let alone watch the soulless rabble you purport to manage.

  8. Do Bruno and ronaldo lack chemistry?
    tuvok
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Some interesting points on possible impact of Ronaldo on Bruno & their relationship in this article:

    - 'During qualifying for the European Championship, the pair scored 12 of the 22 goals by Portugal players - Ronaldo with 11, Fernandes with one. But the two men did not directly combine for a single goal. Fernandes' two assists were for others. The trend repeated itself at Euro 2020. Fernandes has not even been on the pitch for any of Ronaldo's goals in World Cup qualifying so far. The spark is not there just yet.'

    - Bruno's best performances have come when Ronaldo is not in the side (eg on Tuesday vs Azerbaijan where he recorded 2 assists in a 3-0 win).

    - For Utd Bruno is allowed play freely & take risks (only Trent & Robbo have lost the ball more times since Bruno's Utd debut) but this doesn't happen for Portugal as he is required to play a deeper role - will he also have these duties at Utd now?

    In terms of FPL I think this simply just affirms what most people think already, Bruno's output will decline & Ronaldo will hog the chances. But from a broader perspective it raises questions about how Utd will accommodate Ronaldo and if it will be at the expense of their best player, and maybe overall team output. Juve's overall output declined with Ronaldo in the side, even though Ronaldo's individual outputs were incredible (perhaps all we care about in FPL)

    https://www.skysports.com/transfer/news/11096/12402250/bruno-fernandes-and-cristiano-ronaldo-will-they-gel-for-manchester-united-better-than-with-portugal

    1. Az
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Excellent! Thank you!

    2. Nate(U)dog(ie)
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      They certainly haven't gelled well for Portugal. Bruno was subbed against Hungary in the first Euro group game and then against Germany and was then dropped for the two games after that, and he never really looked like creating much and was very sloppy really. His role for ManUtd is of course very different, he's box-to-box, has a lot more freedom especially in terms of risk-taking on the ball and with Portugal he generally plays in a 3-man midfield so he can be pretty restricted. The question I'd have is whether he'll still make as many runs forward as he would before. Ronaldo won't really press or do any defensive work so there won't always be space for him to run into, and the likes of Cavani and Greenwood in particular are better at interplay and bringing those around them into attacks in leaving gaps behind them up front. I think they certainly could work together but I can't say I'd ever have faith in Solskjaer being the one to work that one out.

      1. tuvok
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Yeah I don't doubt both Bruno and Ronaldo will deliver, but as you say deploying a system that gets the best out of them both is a trickier task for Ole than it perhaps looks at first glance

        1. Gunneryank
          • 2 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          It's only logical.

    3. Bennerman
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      So Man United are going to be worse with Ronaldo. Ok, sure, cheers

      1. tuvok
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Eyeroll. It's not about them getting worse, it's about how they adapt to get the best out of a 36 year old megastar who has sustained his longevity by playing in a very particular way, and what the consequences of that may be

      2. Tarby
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        @Bennerman did Juventus get better with Ronaldo? Their decline has actually coincided with him joining them, They won 2 titles but each with less points than the previous season and then finishing only 4th. I don't know what else changed in that time to be able to judge it but he almost certainly didn't make them better.

        It's worth noting that considering the teams Ronaldo has played for he hasn't won many league titles. The Cups are where he has absolutely destroyed it.

        So absolutely there is a debate worth having as to how he'll impact the team I think. Bruno's position will be interesting to see and as always how will Pogba fit in!

        1. I Member
          • 8 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          As a Juve fan I can definitely say that we did not get better with Ronaldo. Not only did we fail to make it past the quarterfinals of the CL and lose the league title for the first time this decade, our goals numbers per season also decreased. Everything was about him and it did not improve the team as a whole.

          1. ktk_interista
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            2 years, 6 months ago

            He carried you on his own in CL. The hattrick against Atletico a few years back comes to mind. Juve's fall is more about the managers they had and signings they made in the last 2 seasons. The only good signings made were Chiesa and De Ligt

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

        No one said that. What a stupid comment.

    4. diesel001
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      All depends on where Bruno plays. If he still gets a creative role then fine. If he is forced deeper then bad times. I would like to see:

      De Gea
      AWB Varane Maguire Shaw
      McTominay Fred
      Sancho Fernandes Rashford
      Ronaldo

      Henderson
      Dalot Lindelof Bailly Telles
      Matic Pogba
      Greenwood VDB Martial
      Cavani

      They should sell Pogba, buy Rice or Phillips, and drop Fred into the second team.

      What a team that first XI would be if they did that. That defence would be rock solid with Rice protecting them. Allow Shaw and AWB to get forward. McTominay can still fire off his long shots and passes. And you got Fernandes feeding some proper finishers in Ronaldo, Sancho and Rashford.

    5. Maximus Bonimus Pointimus
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Personally can’t wait to see how this pans out

      At first glance it seems a no brainer match made in heaven, Bruno’s eye for a pass from #10 feeding Ronaldo’s eye for a goal at #9, they could even play as a quasi-two man forward line, one deep and one advanced etc

      But the Portugal thing is pretty stark, although it could just be Portugal’s tactical setup which has Bruno playing more as a withdrawn central midfielder with more defensive responsibilities than the advanced midfielder/withdrawn striker/free role he’s made his own at Utd

      The personality mix is another side of it that should in theory work well - Bruno is such a team oriented rated player, his work rate without the ball is phenomenal when it comes to pressing etc he never stops, sometimes to his detriment

      Whereas CR7 is at the other end of the scale with complete OCD about his own goal count & individual accolodate tally… that should in theory again point to a Bruno supplies/Ronaldo finishes type setup

      Since Bruno came in 55-or-so league games ago he has been the undisputed attacking hub & focal point for Utd - Ronaldo’s arrival may ultimately lead to a bit of a shift in that dynamic where CR7 now assumes the mantle of goalscorer in chief, and Bruno takes more of a supporting role

      There were already murmurings that Bruno’s output dipped a little when Cavani played, and we may see the same with CR7 etc

      Can’t wait to see how it pans out

      My personal prediction: Ronaldo does a Salah first season type job and sucks up 75%+ of Utd’s chance creation & scores an absolutely obscene amount of goals, with Bruno & every other Utd player more than happy to humour him & play creator roles for his benefit

    6. Twisted Saltergater
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      How many times has Ruben Dias assisted for Ronaldo?

      Your stat sounds incredible as we consider Bruno to be a CAM. As he is required to play a different (and deeper) role for Portugal, then perhaps it’s not so sensational.

      For Man Utd, Ole may play Bruno close to Ronaldo. We just don’t know yet.

      1. tuvok
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Yeah perhaps it isn't sensational, but it is intriguing given he is one of the most creative players in world football. When he plays with Ronaldo for Portugal he isn't stationed that much further back, he just becomes one of two 8s like a City mid (which is also where he played his last game for Utd vs Wolves, when he and Pogba were stationed in front of Fred)

    7. RichardNixon
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      It's going to be hilarious watching Man Utd build their team around a 36 year old (as good as he is). Prior to his arrival I thought they were good to go with the forwards they have. Their glaring problem is in midfield. As long as Fred is running around the opposition will always have a chance.

      What are Man Utd's expectations for this season? They brought in Sancho, Varane and Ronaldo. Their expectation should be to challenge for the league I reckon. I also think they'll fall well short of that. Solskjaer isn't up to it.

    8. sully29
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I can't see any way Ronaldo *wouldn't* diminish Bruno's output.

      Obviously losing penalties is part of that. But it's also down to the way both Bruno and Ronaldo get their open play points.

      Bruno's open play goal threat comes from the fact that he dominates shooting within his team. Unfortunately for him, that's also true of Ronaldo to an even greater extent. With United only having so many possessions per game, Ronaldo will inevitably cannibalise Bruno's shooting opportunities, because that's how Ronaldo does Ronaldo things.

      The other point is that using Bruno as their prime attacking threat wasn't without cost for United. The very advanced positions he was taking up gave him more goal threat but it also separated him from the United's midfield two quite regularly, which was a factor (though not the only or even main one) in some of their disjointed build-up play. With the burden of being the prime goal-threat eased with Ronaldo's arrival, United don't *need* Bruno in those advanced positions any more, but can instead have him play deeper to help address what is their problem position, midfield.

      This HT asks if accommodating Ronaldo will be at the expense of United's best player. The more glass-half-full way to look at it is that they now get to to have their best player playing deeper to help solve their weakest position, except without their team suffering from the loss of his goal threat that would have occurred without Ronaldo. It will inevitably mean that Bruno's own individual output diminishes but it may be what's best for the team as a whole, because their midfield really does need support.

      It's also worth noting that this prospective change in Bruno's role may not be entirely a sudden reaction to Ronaldo's arrival. We saw reports during the summer that United were contemplating a switch to a 4-3-3, in which Bruno would inevitably play deeper. These reports were since corroborated by comments from VDB's agent (who referred to potential formation changes that had been intended but abandoned last season that would have benefitted VDB) and the recent behind closed door friendly against Stoke, where a 4-3-3 was used. A lot of the commentary around the 4-3-3 speculation highlighted the fact that a DM would be needed, but it often seemed to ignore the fact that such a switch would also increase the burden on the CF to provide goals. In the end United may have solved one of those two problems this summer, just not the one people anticipated. Whether we see that switch in formation or just see Bruno used as a more midfield-orientated #10, the idea of him becoming moved deeper doesn't come completely out of the blue, I think.

      1. sully29
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        So in short it's less that Ronaldo and Bruno don't have chemistry and more that Bruno's United role becomes somewhat redundant when Ronaldo is in the team, so that role changes.

        But that role change may bring additional attacking benefits for United if the increased midfield support from a deeper-lying Bruno allows them to be less conservative with their midfield shape.

        1. tuvok
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          Yeah this is a really good point and I like your theory of Utd looking to change to a 433 long term. I guess from an FPL perspective all we care about is attacking output, so the question then becomes: is there any evidence Bruno can continue to supply from a deeper 8 position a la KDB? He has cut a frustrated figure at times in that role for both Portugal and Utd (eg the last game against Wolves, where he created only 1 chance in the game, and it wasn't a big chance)

          From a broader Utd perspective though, yeah, maybe his industry and passing abilities solve a problem for them and lead to higher ball retention etc.

        2. Tarby
          • 4 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          You make some very good points SULLY29, and I agree that Bruno's role is bound to change (especially his likely lack of pens) and off some free kicks as well no doubt. Last season Bruno took 16 of their 21 shots from direct FKs (Rashford the other 5), although last season he scored none of them in the EPL anyway (2 of 43 goals have been FKs though). With 21 penalties that could mean with Ronaldo in the side 23 of his 43 goals wouldn't have happened

          I'm not sure if he's volume of 3 shots/90 will change or not though as that's only about 20% of the shots Man Utd average. Ronaldo averages more like 6 sh/90 but the teams he has played in average c.18 /90 so he's likely just adding to the total volume Man Utd will have.

          I've taken Bruno out my side and have Ronaldo in. Remove just Bruno's penalties and certainly Son at 10m is far better value.

          For me the premium players for captain over the season will likely be Salah, Ronaldo and Lukaku but I won't ever have more than 2 in the team I think

    9. The Real Big Vern
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      lol different team, manager and games. Totally irrelevant.

    10. ktk_interista
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      It just surprises me the amount of stick Ronaldo gets for his time at Juve despite his numbers and records. I assume not many here are Serie A followers. First of all, Juve's decline is happening in spite of him being there rather than because of him. That is because the past 2 seasons, their manager has been an average Sarri followed by a clueless Pirlo. The current squad is also coming to an end of a cycle after some dominance over the past decade and the club has not bought wisely (See Ramsey, Arthur).

      Another important reason being overlooked is how much Inter and Atalanta have stepped up and grown over the past 2 years. Even AC Milan last year to some extent.

      The truth is Ronaldo bailed Juve out on many occasions.

  9. sumatera
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Everyone going DCL for Everton. Is Richarlison potentially better option? Cheaper too...

    1. Rassi
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      No.

    2. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      No

    3. Halftime
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      DCL is on penalties

  10. Little Frank
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Which option:
    A. Sanchez - White - Semedo - Greenwood
    B. Sa - Shaw - Tierney - Sarr

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

      B

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

    Best midfielder under 7.6 except Jota?

    1. Thanos
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Torres, Greenwood, Sarr, Gray, Benny... there are a literally a whole bunch to choose from

    2. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Gray

  12. Thanos
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Best defensive option from Wolves? Need only one on WC

    1. Sa
    2. Marcal
    3. Semedo

    Thanks in advance 🙂

    1. Yav
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Sa

    2. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      1

  13. CrouchDown
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Have presser been confirmed for today yet?

    1. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Posted previous page I think.

  14. YoungPretender
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Traore or Sarr?

    1. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Gray.

    2. The Knights Template
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Traore is an apprentice troll.

    3. Boz
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I think Sarr over Traore but considering Gray too

  15. Mince n Tatties
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Premier League managers to face media
    Here are the times to keep an eye out for:

    Ralph Hasenhuttl - 11:00 BST
    Mikel Arteta - 12:00 BST
    Sean Dyche - 12:45 BST
    Graham Potter - 13:30 BST
    Brendan Rodgers - 13:30 BST
    Thomas Frank - 16:00 BST

  16. Paddyburns
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Sanchez - Sa
    Shaw, TAA, Reguilon, Livra, Coady
    Jota, Torres, Gray, Mount, Bissouma
    Lukaku, Antonio, Ronaldo

    On a WC.

    GTG?

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

      Good enough

  17. Powerplay
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Alonso or Rudiger on WC?

    1. Breaking FPL
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Rudiger 100%

      Alonso will start losing minutes/starts to Chilwell

    2. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Stop your messing around (ah-ah-ah)
      Better think of your future (ah-ah-ah)
      Time you straighten right out (ah-ah-ah)
      Creating problems in town (ah-ah-ah)

  18. Modest Bob
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    ML rival has told me there will be a last minute surge from all recognised ff players switching armband to Gray ( everton)

    A. Yes

    B) No

    C) Wait

    1. Breaking FPL
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Na not my mini league rival, he told me he's captaining Hojbjerg

    2. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I heard it was Shelvey

    3. THE SHEEP HUNTERS
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      A

    4. Pep bites Kun
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      lol - what are you two smoking?

  19. trafalgarlaw
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    On WC
    GTG ?

    Sanchez
    TAA Diaz White
    Salah Jota Torres Gray
    Ronado Jimenez Antonio

    Foster Marcal Livramento Gilmour

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

      Is Jiminez allowed to play this week? Thought he was one of the guys banned by fifa

      1. trafalgarlaw
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        i hope he’ll play for diferential, still wait news

    2. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Good enough

      1. trafalgarlaw
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        cheers mate

  20. Fpl_Ludwig
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Who’s the better option out of Sarr and Gray?

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

      Sarr but hes 0.5 more

  21. Fpl_Ludwig
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    My current WC team, Thoughts?

    Sanchez
    TAA - Coady - Duffy - Christensen
    Salah - Gray - Jota
    Ronaldo - Lukaku - Antonio

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

      Forgot the bench
      Steele - Ayling - Allan - Mendy (4.4 mid)

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

      Im not a fan of the 3 premiums and trent route but if you're confident go for it ! good luck

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

        Yeah that’s my biggest issue, not very good balance

  22. Tomas_brolin
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Think this is the WC I’m going with depending on injury updates. If Raph ruled out then White comes in. Marks out of 10?

    If DCL out then 3-5-2 with Torres

    Sanchez
    TAA Shaw Coady
    Salah Raph Jota Sarr
    Ronaldo(c) DCL Antonio

    Steele White Allan B Williams

  23. sumatera
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    It will be funny if Ronaldo only plays a fews mins. Well funny for those who haven't bought him...

    1. Harry the Hack
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Pretty sure those paying 2500 for a ticket will find it hilarious

  24. gooberman
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Interesting that Ronaldo isnt in the predicted line up here that was only updated yesterday. Neale is normally quite accurate as well.

  25. Fadi AMJK
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Is DCL worth dropping to embark on the good fixtures of Wolves and Leeds?

  26. FantasyFooty01
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Schmeichel
    TAA- Dias- Digne
    Fernandes- Salah- Barnes- Raphinha
    Wilson- Toney- Antonio
    Subs- Foster- omobamidele - Gilmour- Amartey
    2 FT 0.0 ITB
    Comment suggestions!
    Smith Rowe in for Barnes?
    Jiminez in for Wilson?

  27. More Cowbell
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Is there a way to find out how many managers have activated their wildcards so far in GW4?

  28. cmorris22
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    On WC

    A - ronaldo, torrres, Gilmour
    Or
    B lukaku, Raphinia, traore?

    Cheers guys!