Scout Notes

What Solskjaer said about United’s penalty situation and Shaw/Maguire injuries

We continue our Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Gameweek 6 Scout Notes with analysis of Manchester United v Aston Villa.

For a summary of all seven of Saturday’s games, click here.

MANCHESTER UNITED 0-1 ASTON VILLA

  • Goal: Kortney Hause (£4.4m)
  • Assist: Douglas Luiz (£4.5m)
  • Bonus: Hause x3, Emiliano Martinez (£5.5m) x2, Tyrone Mings (£5.0m) x1, Luiz x1, Harry Maguire (£5.4m) x1

WHO IS ON PENALTIES AT UNITED?

FPL Gameweek 6 round-up: Saturday review, injuries and lessons learned

Bruno Fernandes (£11.9m) skied a stoppage-time penalty as Ronaldo watched on in Manchester United’s defeat to Aston Villa.

Naturally, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was plagued with questions on spot-kicks in his post-match press conference and didn’t give us a completely clear-cut answer on who will take them in future, although comments that Fernandes would “step forward again” could be construed as backing for the midfielder.

“The decision [on who will take penalties] is made before the game, yeah.

“No, [Aston Villa players’ behaviour prior to the spot-kick] didn’t get into Bruno’s head. He’s strong mentally and he’ll step forward again.

“Bruno has been excellent, he’s such a good penalty taker and today, you’d back him with your mortgage. He’ll step forward every day of the week, for the club and the team, sometimes it just doesn’t go your way.

“This is going to be the headline isn’t it? Bruno has been excellent and Cristiano is probably the one who has scored the most penalties in world football. So we’ve got great takers here.” – Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

Fernandes himself added:

“Nobody is more frustrated and disappointed than me for missing the penalty and the consequent defeat.

“I’ve always assumed my responsibilities and I’ve always embraced them under pressure in moments like this.

“Today, I failed. But I took a step forward and faced the challenge with the same ambition and responsibility as when, on the many other occasions, the ball ended up in the net.

“Criticism and contrasting opinions are a big part of football. I’ve learned to live with it, even using them to drive me on, and I consider it all a very important part of my commitment to never stop trying to improve and to become the best player I can possibly be, for me and the team.

“Today I once again took the responsibility given to me almost since I joined United and I will take it again without any fear or dread whenever called upon.

“The most important thing for me is to win together and I’ll always do everything I can to help my teammates and the club to be the best we can be.” – Bruno Fernandes

Even accounting for Saturday’s miss, Fernandes still holds a better penalty-taking record at club level: he has a 90.7% success rate after converting 39 of 43 spot-kicks, while Ronaldo has scored 85% of his efforts (125 from 147 penalties).

SHAW/MAGUIRE INJURY LATEST

What Solskjaer said about United's penalty situation and Shaw/Maguire injuries 3

Luke Shaw (£5.5m) and Harry Maguire (£5.4m) came off with injuries on Saturday but there was no clarity from their boss after full-time, with scans on the pair to follow.

“Sorry, I can’t give you any updates. We will have to use today and tomorrow and Monday or when we get the scans done and see how we are.” – Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

We should get another update on the pair from Solskjaer on Tuesday, when the United head coach faces the media ahead of the Champions League clash with Villarreal.

UNITED PLAYERS – TIME TO SELL?

What Solskjaer said about United's penalty situation and Shaw/Maguire injuries

Four consecutive below-par performances in league and cup competitions, a favourable fixture swing for Chelsea, plus potential injuries to Shaw and Maguire means that United assets will be on the chopping block for many FPL managers ahead of Gameweek 7.

Five of the seven most-sold players of the upcoming Gameweek are on the Red Devils’ books, with Shaw leading the charge:

United’s fixtures also stiffen considerably over the next two months, leaving them bottom of our Season Ticker.

Shaw/Maguire are easy sells for the likes of Antonio Rudiger (£5.6m) or Ruben Dias (£6.1m), while even Mason Greenwood (£7.7m), who has offered excellent value so far, may be considered expendable given the number of cut-price midfielders doing the business elsewhere.

Ronaldo out for Romelu Lukaku (£11.7m) won’t be as palatable for some, particularly as Everton and Leicester City have just three clean sheets combined in 2021/22.

But the form of United as a collective and Saturday’s result may have made the decision a little easier, with Ronaldo well shackled and starved of service, reduced to just one shot in the opposition box.

There were some eye-catching numbers posted by United assets on Saturday, with Greenwood racking up eight shots and Fernandes creating a remarkable ten chances, but the fact that those two players’ non-penalty expected goal involvements (xGI) were 0.51 and 0.72 respectively indicates that most of those opportunities weren’t clear cut.

Villa, indeed, had the more glaring chances despite United registering four times as many shots (28 v 7).

VILLA SOLID AGAIN – BACK THREE HERE TO STAY?

What Solskjaer said about United's penalty situation and Shaw/Maguire injuries 1

Villa have been impressive over their last three matches, even catching the eye in the 3-0 defeat to Chelsea.

That has coincided with a move to a 3-5-2, with the formation not only making the defence more robust but allowing Dean Smith to include both Danny Ings (£7.9m) and Ollie Watkins (£7.3m) in his starting XI without moving one of them wide.

Watkins, who has looked more threatening more than Ings over the last three, spurned two very presentable chances on Saturday, while Matt Targett (£4.8m) skied a Matthew Cash (£5.0m) cross from point-blank range – a chance that highlighted just how attractive those two FPL options could be if they are continually deployed at wing-back in a system that heightens the Villans’ prospects of clean sheets.

Since Cash took up that role in Gameweek 4, only one FPL defender has registered more penalty box touches.

“At times it was 4v4 at the back, we look at their players, (Paul) Pogba, (Cristiano) Ronaldo, Bruno and (Mason) Greenwood, and I thought they had smaller chances than we did.

“We blocked really well. When called upon, Emi (Martínez) has made good saves and we’ve had some good chances.

“Matt Targett missed one from the cross from Matty Cash and I think that chance just epitomised our bravery coming here and trying to get the win.” – Dean Smith

Kortney Hause (£4.4m), always a threat from set plays, was the match-winner on Saturday, although very likely wouldn’t have started had Axel Tuanzebe (£4.5m) not been ineligible.

Villa’s backline and Emiliano Martinez (£5.5m), a BPS magnet who collected bonus points to supplement his clean sheet for the second successive week, will be moving high up the FPL watchlist, although whether Smith sticks with a 3-5-2 in the easier fixtures ahead is another question – particularly with the likes of Emiliano Buendia (£6.4m) and especially Leon Bailey (£6.4m) to crowbar into the team. It goes without saying that Villa had looked more suspect at the back without a third centre-half and three across the midfield, so that has to be a consideration.

Further forward, Watkins is re-emerging onto the mid-price forward radar.

Despite facing Chelsea, Everton and United in his last three, he ranks comfortably among the top ten FPL forwards for shots in the box, penalty box touches and efforts on target since his return to the Villa line-up in Gameweek 4.

Manchester United XI: De Gea, Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Maguire (Lindelof 66), Shaw (Dalot 34), McTominay (Cavani 81), Fred, Pogba, Fernandes, Greenwood, Ronaldo.

Aston Villa XI: Martinez, Cash, Konsa, Hause, Mings, Targett, Ramsey (Archer 85), Luiz, McGinn, Ings (Buendia 77), Watkins.

564 Comments Post a Comment
  1. aidmata
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Got 2FT with 0.9 ITB - already taken a few price drops, which is frustrating but can't decide whether to WC or not.

    Sanchez Foster

    Shaw Ayling TAA White Livra

    Salah Jota Torres Sarr Raphinha

    Ronaldo Antonio Obafemi

    Thoughts guys?

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

      Use 2FTs even if the team doesn't look perfect, then WC for GW8. This is what I'm leaning to.

    2. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Jota + Torres (both together) don't make it easy. If you only had 1 of them, then it would have been less of a risk. I would say 50/50 as to whether to WC.

      Does Shaw + Ayling > Alonso + Rudiger -4 work?

      Problem is, don't know how much sense it makes to take a hit the week before you WC (assuming you do it in 8 instead)

      1. Stormbringer22
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Sorry, didn't see you have 2FTs. Does the suggested transfer work for free then? Feel like you would be £0.2 short

        Maybe Torres + Ayling + Shaw > Rudiger + Alonso + midfielder -4?

    3. Camzy
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Patch your team up with 2 FTs this week and hit WC immediately after the deadline passes for GW8.

      Your team looks a lot like mine. Would do Torres + Ayling > Benrahma + Alonso

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

      Don't waste 2FT by WC ing..
      Ron to Rom..Shaw to Chels def..Torres to Saka or someone with a good fixture for a minus 4 will do..
      If needed WC during IB..

      1. acidicleo
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Chels def and torres out priorities..
        You can keep Ron to avoid hit and if you don't need extra cash..

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

      Cheers everyone - great advice

    6. Gazza2000
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Got a similar squad as you but one FT, think you are fine with 2FT though, Torres and Shaw/Ayling to Benrahma and a Chelsea defender.

  2. Lilac Breasted Roller
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    A) Alonso & Sarr
    B) Rudiger & Benrahma

    1. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      A

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

      probably a.

    3. antis0cial
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      A

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

      I will go B as chilly is knocking on the door after that poor performance from alonso..

    5. HAL_9000
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      B for me - Hammers are a better attacking unit than Watford. Will create more chances. While Alonso is at risk from Chilwell.

  3. Stormbringer22
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Anyone changed their plans from GW8 WC to a GW7 one instead?

    1. Lord of Ings
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Gw8 is much better
      I’d advise not to do it this week

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

      Gw8..

    3. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Nice one lads. Appreciate the feedback. Sticking to my guns to WC in 8 as well, was just curious.

    4. Lilac Breasted Roller
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      8 probably safer, went with 7 as I wanted to do too many transfers right now already to fix some issues

    5. Hangman Page
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I was forced into doing so by injuries and some poor transfers in GW5. I think 8 is a much better time to do it but its when your team needs it I think. No need to overthink it.

  4. Lord of Ings
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    A)Taa+Armstrong+Jota
    B)Dias+Jimenez/DCL+Jota
    C)Taa+Jimenez/DCL+saka(-4)
    From gameweek 8.
    If I do A/B can do jota to saka for free in gameweek 9.

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

      probably prefer c.

    2. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Is this a WC?

      1. Lord of Ings
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Wc used have to take hits now..
        Plenty of them sadly.Rank is decent but team’s a mess.

        1. Stormbringer22
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 4 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          I like C. I assume you already have some Chelsea cover. I would prioritise getting a Man City defender in there next week

    3. acidicleo
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      If Jim.or DCL is 3rd striker I would suggest 5 playing mids or 4 def as more value at those positions..

  5. Miguel Sanchez
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Chelsea Burnley GW 11 tickets sorted.

    1. Lord of Ings
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Great! Where do you live?

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

        Outside of London now in Buckinghamshire, takes me just over an hour to get to the ground now.

    2. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Kaku captain for you then! 🙂

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

        Got tickets for the Southampton game next GW too so might need to captain Lukaku there too but it's close between him Antonio and Ronaldo.

  6. Gunners in Haaland
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    No WC and no FTs.
    How's it looking?

    Sánchez
    TAA Semedo Rüdiger
    Traore Gallagher Salah Townsend
    Lukaku(c) Antonio Ronaldo

    Steele Sissoko Jansson Williams

    1. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Looks good. Traore the only stinker in that team, but I don't think a hit would make things that much better. GTG

      1. Gunners in Haaland
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Thanks Storm!

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

      Amazing!!

      1. Gunners in Haaland
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Cheers mate!

        1. acidicleo
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          Team value??

          1. Gunners in Haaland
            • 4 Years
            2 years, 6 months ago

            101.9

            1. acidicleo
              • 7 Years
              2 years, 6 months ago

              Great..I would struggle to fit that front 3 plus taa and salah...

  7. mcsteely
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Morning all, How's this wildcard looking so far?

    Sanchez
    TAA, Alonso, Rudiger, Cancelo,
    Salah, Jota, Raphina, Sarr
    Lukaku, Antonio

    Bench: Steele, Gallagher, Livramento, Archer

    1. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Lovely, but are you sure you still want to keep Jota on a WC?

    2. antis0cial
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I'd be tempted by Ramsdale over Sanchez and maybe downgrade Jota but otherwise looks great

    3. acidicleo
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I would consider saka over jota..

      1. Stormbringer22
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        This ^

      2. mojoindojo
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        This

    4. Gunners in Haaland
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Very nice draft! Personally I wouldn't keep Jota.

    5. Camzy
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Not going Ramsdale?

      I don't like Jota - tough fixture this week + a rotation risk. Would rather go Grealish or Saka.

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

        Thanks for the feedback, yeah I like Jota while he's playing up top. Ramsdale is a good point as well.

    6. Hangman Page
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I'd prefer a playing option at third striker but otherwise it looks OK. I wouldn't retain Jota, though.

    7. Eh, just one more thing ...
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Ramsdale instead of Sanchez
      Saka instead of Jota
      Dennis instead of archer
      Foster instead of steel

      Means Better fixtures … excellent bench cover

      1. Eh, just one more thing ...
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        If you have enough .. maybe king instead of Dennis.

  8. Stormbringer22
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Did my first early move of the season last night - Shaw > Alonso

    Sanchez
    TAA - Alonso - Ayling*
    Salah - Jota - Raphina - Benrahma
    Ronaldo - Jimenez - Antonio

    (Sissoko - Livramento - B.Williams)

    Does Ayling > Christiensen -4 makes much sense if I would WC in 8 anyway? Can't stretch to Rudiger unfortunately, so Christiensen would be in for this one week only.

    1. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Would obviously do that only if Ayling is confirmed out by Bielsa later in the week. Not doing it tonight or anything

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

      nope with christensen's ceiling of 6 points.. maybe 5 with a yc..
      if ayling is out livra or williams could fetch you 1 or 2 points atleast..

      1. Stormbringer22
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Cheers mate!

  9. Lord of Ings
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Counting my lucky stars since TAA has only managed 13 points in the last 3 weeks and this week he faces city
    I need to get him for gameweek 8 right?
    Watford and Brighton in the next 2/3 and Man Utd away has 0-0 vibes.

    1. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Trent is my favourite player (as a Pool fan), but I must admit - even I am toying with the idea of going with a back 4 of:

      Dias - Cancelo - Rudiger - Alonso on a WC in 8.

      City + Chelsea defences are immense this season. Trent is a monster though...

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

    I have a separate transfer plan for each of these scenarios.

    Which do you think is most likely?

    A) Bamford fit, Shaw out
    B) Shaw fit, Bamford out
    C) Both fit
    D) Both out

    Literally 4 entire different plans according to their availability and that's not even taking into account Raphinha who I'm assuming will be fit in time for the weekend.

    1. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      In terms of likelyhood I think:

      C - B - A - D

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

      I really hope Bamford is fit. I really wouldnt worry about getting rid of Shaw, regardless of his fitness. There are so many defenders that can match/outscore him at a lower cost.

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

        I think I do have to worry about him this week unfortunately.

        My bench is Ayling, Livramento which is a bit dire for this week (assuming Ayling is still injured ofc).

    3. Fish up a tree
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Probably D if your luck is like mine.

      Just off track but what is your midfield going to be on WC8?

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

        Salah Grealish Raphinha Brownhill XX

        That last slot will depend on how much money I have.

        Considering:
        Saka, ESR, Foden, Torres, Gallagher, Sarr, Son

    4. Gomolon
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Should change your name to Dr Strange, seeing all possible future outcomes! 😉

  11. Hazardous1983
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    is alonso nailed

    1. Lilac Breasted Roller
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      It's a guess with Chilwell back

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

      As of now, it looks like that.

    3. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      No clue mate, but he is definitely the most exciting defender of that lot to own. I took a risk and got him in last night before the rise.

    4. Miguel Sanchez
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      No - but there is more to the Ben Chilwell situation than I think we are fully aware of. He didn't look fully fit in the Aston Villa game in the league cup last week, Tuchel reprimanded him very early into the game for a misplaced pass and his demeanour after missing the penalty was of someone whose confidence is shot at present.

      Think he will be given the Malmo games in the Champions League and Southampton games in the League Cup to build his way back into contention.

    5. acidicleo
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      looked like pre city match...but he was awful this weekend...so who knows?

  12. Lilac Breasted Roller
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    How's this WC instead

    Sa
    Alonso (can move to Rudiger), Cancelo, TAA
    Salah, Raphinha, Sarr, Benrahma
    Jiminez (move to DCL when fit), Antonio, Lukaku

    Foster / Liv / Duffy / Luiz

    Decided not to take a risk on GKs with Ramsdale as Foster isn't reliable. With DCL in place of Jimi it's at 0.0 ITB.

    1. Stormbringer22
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Sa to Ramsdale
      Benrahma to Saka

      I would personally prefer a system with 4 defenders and double Chelsea def.

      1. Lilac Breasted Roller
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Yeah playing with that, or downgrading TAA to one of the other chelsea defs and upgrading attacker to Vardy

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

    https://mobile.twitter.com/BenDinnery/status/1442421289935798274

    Rashford could be cleared to join contact training on Friday and is targeting a return after the IB against Leicester in GW8 or Liverpool in GW9

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

      This is one of the reasons I've shipped Greenwood out on my wc. There is going to be too much competition.
      If pogba moves back to cm, it still leaves Sancho/Greenwood/Lingard/Rashford, maybe Martial (discounting Mata/vdb) for 2 spots out wide.

      GW will still get minutes, but not enough for my liking, would have been a better option had Utd not signed Ronnie!

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

    On the WC, sacrificed TAA last night, but not sure its worth it!
    Went from:
    TAA & Manquillo (with ESR as a starter in this case)
    vs now:
    Rudigar & Alonso for the chelsea double up.

    Current Draft:
    Guaita
    Cancelo - Alonso - Rudigar - White (Livramento)
    Salah - Sarr - Doucoure - (ESR - Brownhill)
    Ronaldo - Lukaku - Antonio

    Looks ok-ish to me, but is it crazy to try the 3 premiums, and sacrifice TAA to get in the chelsea defenders?

    Can always bring TAA back in down the line.

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

      I'm not convinced on the 3 premium route - you end up with a lot of cheap mids and minimal routes to getting a mid priced mid who emerges. Would sacrifice Ronaldo (you wont be captaining him for the next few weeks over Lukaku/Salah) to get TAA and a mid priced mid

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

        It’s literally 2 transfers to move to anyone.

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

          This is my thinking, at any point Ronaldo/Lukaku can be downgraded, and can have TAA upgraded with 2FT's.

          Much harder to go the other way if funds are split all over the team.

        2. Gomolon
          • 9 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          And you get 1 ft a week...

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

            So what happens if you have Havertz as a placeholder for a mid-priced mid, and he blanks then is rotated. Should you keep him in case another 8m player becomes desirable?

            If there’s an abundance of 6m mids, that’s where your placeholder should be.

            Pricing is very different this year.

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

              It's 1 ft from a Havertz to a mid priced mid. It's 2 ft's from a Sarr/Doucore/ESR to a mid priced mid. 1 ft a week, they're a valuable commodity

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

                Yes, but you’re keeping a non-optimal player for the sake of being able to transfer him out with one FT.

                Show me an 8m mid that’s better value than 8m striker or 6m defender.

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

                For someone who values a FT, you appear to have taken back to back -4’s.

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

                  You're seriously asking me to predict the future by picking out the next 8m mid that's gonna be in all our teams?

                  Bit stalkerish but yeah i have, that's why i know the value of them and am advising to not be so flippant about "i can 2ft my way out of anything that comes at me"

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

                    You’ve advised the OP they should have a mid-priced mid “in case one emerges”. That’s what I’m contesting. He doesn’t need to do that at all because all the form is in the 5.5m to 6.5m range.

                    It’s nonsensical to get an 8m mid just in case he wants to transfer him out to another 8m in the future.

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

                      Okay then, enjoy having all your mids in the same price range? Like I dont get why you care so much about this lol. I said that it *might* be harder to get in a Havertz/Grealish/etc in the future, that's all. If you want a team with 3 premiums and 3 cheapish mids, go for it.

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

                        Why wouldn't you want 3 cheapish mids though?

                        Raphinha, Sarr, Gallagher, Saka, ESR, Gray, Townsend, Doucoure are all in form with good fixtures

                        And there's an ever growing queue of others like Soucek, Mbuemo, Harrison, Traore, Odegaard etc waiting on the sidelines for their chance

                        There's no reason to be spending more than 6.5 on any midfielder who's not Salah for the forseeable

                      2. Gomolon
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        As I said, if you want a team with 3 premiums and 3 cheapish mids, go for it.

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

                        You didn't really answer the question...

                      4. Gomolon
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        I've already explained that it can make your team less flexible to moving onto mid priced mids. I thought you were the "make your own decisions" account - why do you have a problem with people making their own decisions now?

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

                        Implicit in the making of a decision is the logic that underlies it

                        I was interested in the logic underlying your decision to be averse to 3x cheapish mids - "Not being able to move onto a midprice mid" just doesn't really seem to have a lot of logic to it in the current environment

                      6. Gomolon
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        I just find it weird that before gw1 you were encouraging people not to follow the template and make their own decisions, and now you seem to be encouraging rigidly sticking to the template - what is your thought process behind that?

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

                        My thought process would be that I've literally never once said "don't follow the template" - it's not something I would say because it's a gross over-simplification and an empty, meaningless generalisation

                        Similar to "you need to be able to move to a mid-price mid" - when you take a step back and look at it - you need to hope (a) the single chosen "mid-price mid" scores well (b) he scores better than the cheapish alternative and (c) the sacrafice you've made elsewhere to accomodate the "mid-price mid" don't come back to bite you

                        If there was a glut of "mid-price" mids in great form, it would be more of a conversation (but the cheapish guys would still have an edge due to their form), or if there wasn't a crowd of literally 7-8 cheapish mids in good form with good fixtures... but when "mid-price mids" are out of form, fixtures and/or certainty of start and the game is overflowing with cheapish mids with all three, the logic just didn't really hold water for me is all

                      8. Gomolon
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        You were literally spamming replies to people with an identical message to make their own decisions before the gw1 deadline.

                        The template right now is to stock up on 3 or more cheapish mids. I'm saying the cost of that is you put all the budget into premiums, at a cost of team flexibility. That's the price you pay for that team structure, which people are prepared to pay right now. If managers want to make changes down the road, they might feel stuck and unwilling to sell a Salah/Lukaku/Ronaldo to free up the funds the rest of their team needs.

                        That is the price a 3+ premium team pays, like I saw a 4 premium meme draft before gw1 lol (Salah Bruno Son Kane)

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

                        Ah i see - you're getting confused, that makes more sense 🙂

                        "Make your own decisions" is very different to "don't follow the template". And "Make your own decisions" carries with it

                        (a) the implicit assumption that some supporting logic will drive the decision (captaining a 4.0 defender every week would be a person's own decision for example - do you think that would be a good idea?)

                        and

                        (b) isn't mutually exclusive with questioning the logic underlying the decision to be averse to 3x cheapish midfielders in the current game environment

                      10. Gomolon
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        You want everyone to make their own decisions, but also to follow the same thinking that leads to identical outcomes? That's called the template.

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

                        Not at all - there isn't a finite quantity of good decisions that people can make in the game

                      12. Gomolon
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        So let me make my decision then. If you want a team with 3 premiums, go for it. I don't see the value in having three when you only need 2 to rotate the armband (+ most will have Antonio too as a captaincy option). I'd rather invest that money in the rest of my team.

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

                        I don't know why 3 premiums keeps coming into this - can you stick with the original question which was aversion to 3 cheapish mids?

                        And I will of course let you make your decision - as I said above you can captain a 4.0 defender every week & that would be your own decision as well (albeit it also wouldn't make sense in the current environment, and would be a similarly egregious misunderstanding of the sentiment of independent decision making) 🙂

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

                        The original post is about a 3 premium team.

                        If you want 3 cheapish mids, then do it. I've said I want one who is a bit more mid-priced like a Grealish, who is off the template and can give me a bit more flexibility (he can always go down to a cheapie/bench fodder if needs be, but at least I have the option rather than being stuck like many 3 cheap mid teams who then invest all the money with £0 itb)

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

                        Oh yes I'm well aware of the original post and it's content - but my original question to you was around aversion to 3 cheapish mids, which is different (Put quantity of premiums off to one side - it's a completely separate topic)

                        And it sounds like you're advocating Grealish over a midprice mid + 2.0m - it's not a jaw-droppingly ridiculous position to be fair, but I don't think it's a particularly strong one either

                        Pep can only start 5 of [Grealish, Mahrez, Sterling, Foden, Torres, Jesus, KDB, Gundo, Bilva] every week - and in the 6 games Grealish has started, he has seriously underwhelmed compared to the cheapish midfielders - so I don't get the attraction there

                        But I wouldn't get the attraction to captaining a 4.0 defender either, you're free to do that also 🙂

                      16. Gomolon
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        I don't know why captaining a 4.0 defender keeps coming into this. If you want to make that decision, you can, and good luck to you.

                        If it's as good as "not a jaw-droppingly ridiculous position" then can you leave me to make that decision for myself, please?

                        I don't understand what you hope to gain from continually replying and being condescending towards me. Have a nice day 🙂

                      17. Now I'm Panicking
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 6 months ago

                        You've been Bonered! 😀

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

                        Captaining a 4.0 defender keeps coming into this because it too (like aversion to 3x cheapish mids) would be your own decision - whilst simultaneously being something I wouldn't advocate - even though I am an advocate of making your own decisions 🙂

                        It's an illustration of how badly you misunderstood when formulating the original insult you defensively threw at me about being the quote-unquote "make your own decisions account" instead of answering the original question about aversion to 3x cheapish mids 🙂

                        I always have a nice day 🙂

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

        Yes - am left with 2 cheap starting mfs in Sarr and Doucoure, with ESR as back up, but if they keep playing as threatening as they are, I dont have a massive problem doing it. TAA is one concern, think I held him for 38 weeks last term, so wont be nice watching liverpool and not owning him.

  15. Gomolon
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Think I've nailed my WC Draft?

    Ramsdale / Foster

    TAA / Cancelo / Walker / Rudiger / Livramento

    Salah / Grealish / Raphinha / Saka / Brownhill

    Lukaku / Antonio / Armstrong

    £0.0m itb

    1. Lilac Breasted Roller
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      High faith in Grealish for the coming games I take it

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

      Want to hear your thoughts on Armstrong. Went with him this week rather than Jimenez or ASM.
      Think he'll get some returns in the next 3?

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

        Would love a Toney or someone but don't have the money. Chelsea is tough ofc, but I have a strong enough bench to leave Livra and Armstrong on the sidelines. After that Southampton have 5 good games (LEE, BUR, wat, AVL, nor)

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

      Not a fan of Armstrong. Something like him to cheapie, Walker to Dias and Brownhill to Gallagher can work.

      Alternatively, you can go for Christensen over Walker, Toney over Armstrong. Walker probably wont provide much over Christensen and you have Livramento to cover surprise benching.

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

        like the sound of the second move, not a fan of first one just because i hate having a 4.5 striker, but Christensen and Toney is v tempting 😀

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

      442 i guess..
      Looks good to me..

    5. jason_ni
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Are you planning on 4-4-2 or 4-3-3?

      In either case Saka/Armstrong are "pricey" options to be missing out every other week, but it looks decent enough. Guess it gives a bit more bench depth if you ever need it.

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

        With Pep, Tuchel, Covid and congested fixtures incoming having a decent bench could be handy!

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

      It’s decent team and great depth
      Kind of a perma 4 at the back and even some games Livra would be a good play.
      Agree above it’s tough to bench one of Saka and Armstrong most weeks but in saying that an easy enough fix in 2 moves to downgrade one of them
      Haven’t looked at the fixture ticker but do these 2 rotate well?
      Also Gilmour a likely 2 pointer most weeks whereas Brownhill potential risk
      Lastly if wc’ing this week, def not ideal to own 5 in the city Liverpool match

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

        Brownhill > Gilmour is for the 0.1, and he will be 3rd bench option

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

          Cool didn’t realise there was a price difference

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

            Neither did i at first! V handy though 🙂

  16. _Gunner
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Team for next GW: 3.2 itb, 0FTs

    Sa'
    TAA Rudiger White
    Salah Jota Traore' Raphinha
    Ronaldo Antonio King

    subs: Steer Sissoko Williams Livramento

    Sell Jota for a hit? To Benrahma perhaps?

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

      Not for a hit, Jota may blank this week but could return against Watford, I don't think there is a rush to get him out.

      Can have perfect fixtures every week.

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

        *Cant

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

      3.2 itb
      Why would you consider selling Jota ahead of Traore??

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

        He could be playing the fixtures.

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

          Seems the logical answer

      2. _Gunner
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        am playing the fixtures
        both Podence and Hwang were poor yesterday. Traore' has Newcastle home next which is a very good fixture for him.

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

          Trincao, Podence, Hwang, Traore into 2 slots does not go

          And even when Traore plays, he is a specialist in avoiding attacking returns

          He might fluke something against Newcastle, but even in the unlikely event he does, it'll likely just be followed by another 5 or 6 blanks

  17. George James
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Best move here? 1FT 0.2ITB

    A) James >> Rudiger

    B) Ronaldo >> Lukaku

    C) Both A+B -4

    D) Something else?

    Sa
    TAA James* Semedo
    Salah Raph Doucoure Jota
    Ronaldo Antonio Jimenez

    Steele / Williams / Sissoko / Livramento

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

      A

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

      B, and wait on update on James. If out then yes id do both.

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

      Do you know Reece James?

  18. acidicleo
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Have 1 FT
    2.2 ITB
    Possible WC in GW8
    Ready to take a minus this GW.
    Best 2 moves guys?

    Sanchez
    Shaw* TAA Semedo
    Raohinha* Salah Sarr Benrahma
    Roanldo Antonio Toney

    Foster Coufal Livra Gilmour

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

      Ronaldo, Shaw > Lukaku, Rudiger

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

      Consider Alonso after CL game if looking for a short term punt.

  19. Arfaish
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Currently have two FT's, does the below plan make sense:

    Sanchez, (£4m)
    TAA, Semedo, Marcal, (Duffy, Livra)
    Salah, Jota, Benrahma, Raphinha, Gray
    Lukaku, Ronaldo, (Archer)

    This week Ronaldo, Gray > Antonio, ESR
    Next week Marcal, Archer > Cancelo, DCL (-4)

    1. acidicleo
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      i think antonio could find it difficult vs the bees...
      maybe just gray to esr this week..
      having 2 fts maybe gold during IB if you dont have WC..

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

        Yeah definitely can delay on of the transfers into next week, good point. Plan overall decent though?

        1. acidicleo
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 6 months ago

          it will be a popular move...but for some reason i don't like dcl although he is on pens..
          the only strikers i like are ron, rom and antonio.. well i like vardy too but dont like his price..
          so personally my template would be ron/rom, antonio, cheap fwd..

  20. jackx13
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Which one you'd rather have on a WC?

    A) Vadry + Saka + 1.1 ITB
    B) Jimenez + Son + 0.2 ITB

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

      A but not sure id be too keen on either. Don't think Son is worth the money.

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

      A

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

      B

    4. mojoindojo
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      A

  21. Maverick 11
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Reckon I’m gonna captain Sarr again this week

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

      way to go...

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

      Didn't do it last week but definitely thinking about it this week. Could get a lot of joy against them with the spaces he gets into and the way he drives at defences, not too sure what to expect from Soton against Chelsea

    3. FPL_Crisis
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Gw6 was a good time to do it given no standout options.
      Don’t think it’s the time to be maverick when Lukaku will be the #1 choice for the majority

      1. Maverick 11
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        Captained him in GW6
        Don’t have Lukaku waiting until GW9

  22. Kodap
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Anything worth a -4 hit here? 2.6m in the bank.

    Sanchez
    Trent - Rudiger - Marcal
    Salah - Jota - Gray - ESR
    Antonio - Cr7 - Bamford

    Bench: Steele - Sissoko - Livra - Williams

    1. Maverick 11
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Would get rid of jota but not sure who for

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

        For a hit?

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

      No guaranteed 4 point move here to me, so I'd keep.

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

      Bamford Jota looks an awkward combo with Firmino back in

      Can't see anyway Klopp plays the fab 4 against City. He said he played them together against Brentford as midfield was an irrelevance with so many long balls. That won't be the case this week. Bamford must be touch and go.

  23. Lord of Ings
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Right so gonna go one of
    A)Taa + Armstrong
    B)Dias + DCL/Jimenez
    Who to go for? Armstrong can be Toney as well which I can easily switch to if Armstrong fails.
    Leaning towards A at the moment.

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

      You need some West Spam players.

  24. The Mentaculus
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Any Trent owners a bit concerned about the last performance? (Wish I'd caught that incredible game live but just catching up on MOTD now. Loving Brentford so far!)
    Not quite thinking of shipping him yet, but I'd expect to see opponents trying to overload him for aerial balls more often now..?

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

      Not concerned at all. One game is not a trend

  25. UnitednationsXI
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Morning all, suggestions with 2ft? Will WC gw8

    Sanchez
    Taa Semedo shaw — veltman tsimi
    Salah raphinha Gwood benny
    Ronaldo Antonio Bamford

    A: shaw + Ronaldo >> alonso + kaku
    B: shaw + salah + Bamford >> alonso + 1week punt mid + Lukaku (-4)

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

      Hi UN, here to help out? We've got a lot of questions to answer.

    2. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Don't mind B there actually

      Don't see City Liverpool playing out tin the same way as the Chelsea match did but think it's fair to back Kaku to make up the 4 points in principle. I guess Sarr is the rational mid to get in.

  26. Ajax Hamsterdam
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    keep armstrong and save transfer or sell for jimmy? thanks

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

      Save for now.

      1. Ajax Hamsterdam
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 6 months ago

        thanks

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

      Save. I’m sure you brought him in for the run after Chelsea.
      I just brought him in myself this week.

  27. Boom XhakaLacaSaka
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Which 2 would you transfer out of these lot? Or 3 if its worth a -4 before WC8
    a) Digne
    b) Shaw
    c) Jota
    d) CR7 (to Lukaku)

    1. Lilac Breasted Roller
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Not worth to take hits before WC, very unlikely you make back the -4.

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

      Ab

    3. Lilac Breasted Roller
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      in order

      A
      C
      B
      D

    4. Boom XhakaLacaSaka
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Thanks

  28. Puntillimon
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    In a dilemma with James Injury

    A) James —> Christensen this week, Ronaldo to lukaku next week
    B) James and Ronaldo —> cancelo and Lukaku for -4 this week
    C) James and Ronaldo —> cancelo and lukaku next week for free, play Duffy this week

    1. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      a but cant you stretch to rudiger?

    2. Lilac Breasted Roller
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      A if you can get rudiger instead
      Otherwise would go with C

    3. Puntillimon
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Sorry wasn’t clear. I alrdy own rudiger, Trent and James.

  29. as33
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    Ronaldo>Lukaku? for free

    1. Lilac Breasted Roller
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Sure, no other pressing transfers?

    2. Ajax Hamsterdam
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      not this gw

    3. Gomolon
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      Any other fires to put out/captain options ?

    4. Eh, just one more thing ...
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      I’d save the transfer and do it next week

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

      Not for me.

    6. Joey Tribbiani
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 6 months ago

      yup

  30. Lilac Breasted Roller
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 6 months ago

    G'Noon, last release candidate WC:

    Ramsdale
    TAA Cancelo Alonso Rudiger
    Salah Raphinha Sarr*
    Jimi/DCL Antonio Lukaku

    Foster / Brownhill / Liv / Doucoure

    * Doubting for Sarr vs. Benrahma and Saka