Frisking the Fixtures

Who has the best and worst upcoming FPL fixtures?

Our regular frisk of the fixtures sees us assess the Premier League clubs and players with – in theory – the strongest and weakest runs of league matches over the coming weeks.

The primary focus in this article will be on the next six Gameweeks but we will scrutinise the longer-term prospects where appropriate.

Our colour-coded Season Ticker is the primary source for this piece; using this tool as a Premium Member, you can sort by difficulty, rank by attacking and defensive potential or find budget rotation pairings. You can also set your own difficulty ratings, should you disagree with our own.

BEST FIXTURES

CHELSEA

Next six: bre | NOR | new | BUR | lei | MUN

Lukaku on target as Chelsea assets prosper at Arsenal 4

Wildcard or not, Gameweek 7 was seemingly the week to go all-in on Chelsea assets ahead of a fantastic run of fixtures. Over 2.8 million of last week’s transfers brought in Thomas Tuchel’s men, two million of which were for Antonio Rudiger (£5.8m), Marcos Alonso (£6.0m) and Romelu Lukaku (£11.7m). Saturday’s 3-1 win over Southampton disappointed many, with no goals or clean sheets for the trio – and Alonso didn’t even play, as the anticipated rotation with Ben Chilwell (£5.6m) begins.

Newly-promoted Brentford are up next but, such has been the Bees’ impressive start, it’s the three games after that which are worth targeting. Gameweeks 9-11 pit the European champions against the three teams currently in the relegation zone – Norwich City (H), Newcastle United (a) and Burnley (H). Lukaku will be the most popular captaincy choice, despite not scoring in his last three league matches.

Cesar Azpilicueta (£6.0m) set up two goals against Southampton for a 10-point return and he isn’t just the safe option: he has scored more points than any defensive teammate since Tuchel’s January arrival. His 118 pips the 112 of Rudiger thanks to one goal, four assists and 12 clean sheets.

SOUTHAMPTON

Jimenez ends goal drought as Arsenal claim convincing north London derby win 7

Next six: LEE | BUR | wat | AVL | nor | LIV

A fortnight after getting a draw away to Manchester City, the Saints were about to snatch another point at Stamford Bridge until James Ward-Prowse’s (£6.4m) 77th-minute red card. Two goals in the final ten minutes brought about a defeat but they will relish home clashes against Leeds United and Burnley.

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side have struggled to score this season. Only twice have they found the net in open play, with their ‘goals for’ tally supplemented with two penalties and an own-goal. Yet they face a Leeds defence which has conceded the most shots of any team so far, boosting the appeal of cheap striker Adam Armstrong (£6.0m). The former Blackburn man scored 28 Championship goals last season and his 21 shots is beaten only by Michail Antonio (£8.0m) amongst forwards.

At the back, Alex McCarthy could be a solid £4.5m goalkeeping option should he continue to start ahead of Fraser Forster (£4.4m), with popular cheap pick Tino Livramento (£4.2m) getting forward regularly from right-back. He won the penalty at Chelsea and has delivered returns in three of his last four matches.

MANCHESTER CITY

Kane missing for Spurs as Guardiola starts Grealish

Next six: BUR | bha | CRY | mun | EVE | WHU

Pep Guardiola will be pleased to have gained four points from back-to-back away games at Chelsea and Liverpool. Man City have already won two of their three home matches 5-0 and up next is Burnley – an opponent who they have beaten by that same 5-0 margin on four successive home meetings, with an aggregate score of 30-1 over eight matches in all competitions. It’s a remarkable record but one that is hard to interpret from an attacking viewpoint, as 13 Man City players shared the goals and 14 provided assists. That general trend has continued this season, as no player has scored (or assisted) more than two of their 14 goals so far.

Despite Gabriel Jesus (£8.6m) quietly becoming the third highest-scoring forward, only Jack Grealish (£7.9m) compares well to others statistically, with his 51 penalty area touches and 18 chances created ranking highly. He has played most of their minutes but has contributed just one goal and one assist. It’s difficult enough predicting who Guardiola selects, never mind whose turn it is to score.

However, at the back, their defensive brings more reliability. They kept five clean sheets in a row before going to Anfield and have conceded by far the fewest goal attempts (43), shots in the box (26) and tally of expected goals conceded (4.01). Ruben Dias (£6.1m) and Joao Cancelo (£6.2m) will be popular transfers to make – maybe both – ahead of Burnley (H), Brighton and Hove Albion (a) and Crystal Palace (H). But this defence is so dominant, they can shut out any opponent.

ARSENAL

Next six: CRY | AVL | lei | WAT | liv | NEW

Gameweek 4 was a turning point for Arsenal. Bottom of the league after losing all matches without scoring, Mikel Arteta handed debuts to goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale (£4.6m) and right-back Takehiro Tomiyasu (£4.6m). The match against Norwich also saw Ben White (£4.4m) and Gabriel (£5.0m) back from injury and so, with a new-look defence in place, it must be satisfying for Arteta to see the Gunners keep three clean sheets from the subsequent four games.

This continues a similar finish to last season and facing Crystal Palace (H), Watford (H) and Newcastle (H) over the next six games will provide a great chance for more. In midfield, there’s another promising cheap option in Emile Smith Rowe (£5.3m), although some managers may prefer to spend an extra million on Bukayo Saka (£6.3m), given his more frequent shots and chances created.

BRENTFORD

Brentford injury latest as budget FPL midfielder Mbeumo impresses 1

Next six: CHE | LEI | bur | NOR | new | EVE

Just like their Gameweek 8 opponents Chelsea, Brentford face the bottom three in succession – Burnley (a), Norwich (H) and Newcastle (a). Yet Thomas Frank’s bold side will be confident of breaching Chelsea and Leicester City, having scored two against the statistically strong Wolves defence, three against Liverpool and another pair in an impressive away win at West Ham. Ivan Toney (£6.3m) dominated Virgil van Dijk (£6.6m) in the air, is on penalties and has four goal involvements from the last five matches, with out-of-position bargain Bryan Mbeumo (£5.5m) playing beside him and finally converting shots that hit the woodwork (four so far) into goals.

David Raya (£4.6m) and his defence rank favourably in terms of shots conceded (85) and expected goals conceded (7.99). They have two representatives – Pontus Jansson (£4.6m) and Ethan Pinnock (£4.6m) – within the top five defenders, who have aadded a handful of assists to three clean sheets. The west Londoners have been a wonderful addition to the top flight and look strong at both ends, combined with a fearless mentality and highly-regarded transfer policy.

ALSO CONSIDER

Leeds will also be confident of beating Southampton, followed by Wolves (H) and Norwich (a) afterwards. This pair also has good games, with Wolves four fixtures through an 11-match streak that avoids last season’s top five. Despite being rooted to last place, Norwich have a chance of making this season competitive by soon facing Brighton, Leeds, Southampton and Wolves at home.

WORST FIXTURES

MANCHESTER UNITED

Ronaldo scores again, Shaw blanks, budget defender Duffy impresses: FPL notes

Next six: lei | LIV | tot | MCI | wat | che

If the two blanks of Cristiano Ronaldo (£12.6m) already had you nervous, look away now. Here are the Red Devils’ next opponents: Leicester, Atalanta (twice), Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur, Man City, Watford, Villarreal and Chelsea. Lots of fixture congestion, lots of travelling and their only home league matches are against arguably the two strongest teams in the division.

Luke Shaw (£5.4m) lost almost a million owners before Gameweek 7 and there is set to be similar mass sales for Mason Greenwood (£7.6m), Bruno Fernandes (£11.9m) and Paul Pogba (£7.7m). Just one clean sheet has been kept so far and Greenwood hasn’t scored in four matches. It could be added that – after removing Watford – last season’s equivalent meetings with the five sides yielded seven goals and only one defeat.

Fernandes scored, assisted and brought home 12 points at Leicester, eclipsing his 11 points from the previous visit.

READ MORE: Is it time to sell Man Utd assets?

WEST HAM UNITED

Vestergaard injury latest as Antonio and Benrahma haul again 2

Next six: eve | TOT | avl | LIV | wol | mci

Michail Antonio is a classic FPL debate of form versus fixtures. He has five goals and four assists from six matches, narrowly coming second to Mohamed Salah for attempts (27) and shots inside the box (23). The third most-owned player in FPL has been outstanding but is about to be tested with some tougher fixtures. Four of West Ham’s next six league matches are away, with Liverpool and Tottenham at home.

Then sprinkle in three Europa League nights and an EFL Cup clash with Man City and it looks demanding, even for Antonio. Selling him would still be difficult to proceed with, despite a promising set of alternative strikers in Toney, Armstrong, Raul Jimenez (£7.5m) and Callum Wilson (£7.3m). The sale of Said Benrahma (£6.6m) may not be as difficult, having only provided one goal in five matches.

WATFORD

Vardy scores at both ends, Tielemans’ advanced role, Sarr and Saint-Maximin return again: FPL notes 9

Next six: LIV | eve | SOU | ars | MUN | lei

It had been a respectable start for Watford back in the Premier League. Points were dropped against Newcastle and Leeds but two wins over Aston Villa and Norwich put the Hornets in 15th position. True to form, the club sacked Xisco Munoz on Sunday and replaced him with Claudio Ranieri. The Italian has been dropped into a terrible run of fixtures, facing Liverpool (H), Everton (a), Arsenal (a), Man United (H) and Leicester (a) during their next six.

Yet to keep a clean sheet, the only defensive asset with any appeal is Ben Foster because he’s the only £4.0m playing goalkeeper. Whilst strikers Joshua King (£5.5m) and Emmanuel Dennis (£5.3m) can be cheap enablers, the club’s talisman is Ismaila Sarr (£6.3m). Although he has already scored four times and ranks second for shots on target throughout the league, combining upcoming fixtures with the quality of his teammates may suggest it’s a good time to sell.

However, being on penalty duty does add a slight fixture-proof factor.

READ MORE: What FPL managers can expect from Claudio Ranieri

ALSO CONSIDER

Leicester have had an underwhelming start to the season and are about to face Man United (H) and Chelsea (H) in upcoming weeks. Newcastle are seemingly devoid of hope, despite scoring in all-but-one match so far. Their games are about to turn, going against Tottenham (H) and Chelsea (H) in their next three.

FPLMarc Newcastle fan that spends far too much time thinking about FPL.

205 Comments Post a Comment
  1. TheBiffas
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    a) Trent, Saka
    b) Laporte, Foden

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

      a

    2. House Frey Wedding Planner
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      A if TAA passed fit for gw8

      1. TheBiffas
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        cheers

    3. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Laporte Saka

    4. Snooze ya lose
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      A

    5. EugeMurts
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      A Laporte is not nailed

  2. Black Knights
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    I had a dream last night that I brought Lukaku in -4 for CR7 and he blanked during the Brentford game. Very frustrating.

    I'm still gonna do it though.

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

      I am keeping one more week, he could easily score against LEI

      1. Black Knights
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Yeah he definitely could. And Brentford away isn't that easy a game.

    2. Snooze ya lose
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Last chance saloon for Lukaku

      1. G-Whizz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Not for me, yeah last week was disappointing but there's no way I'm letting him go before NOR, new and BUR...

      2. Tempestic
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        That is a ludicrous thing to say. This is the time to get him in, don't even contemplate selling!

        1. Amartey Partey
          • 4 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          GW9 is the time. GW8 is too early.

  3. mcginnntonic
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Who is the best keeper on WC?

    talk to me

    1. House Frey Wedding Planner
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Ramsdale seems the popular choice

    2. TheBiffas
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Toss up between ramsdale and raya martin

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

      Raya

    4. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Ram or Ray

    5. Snooze ya lose
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Ram

      1. mcginnntonic
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        perfect thank u

        1. G-Whizz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 6 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          You're welcome 🙂

  4. House Frey Wedding Planner
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Bottomed in last article....

    Thoughts on my current WC draft?

    Ramsdale Foster
    Dias Cancelo Azpi Rudiger Livra
    Salah Foden Saka Raph Luiz
    Lukaku Toney Antonio

    Strategy to get TAA back in gw10 for 2 premium defenders or 1 premium defender plus Foden.

    Really want to find a way to get Vardy in my team.....only way I can do this is to replace Toney, Foden, and Dias for Vardy, Mbuemo and Duffy. Plus it makes getting TAA back in a bit more tricky

    1. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      I like the replacement better

      1. House Frey Wedding Planner
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        So you think i should do the moves to get Vardy in? Then it comes down to difficulty on fitting 3 premiums plus Trent

    2. Snooze ya lose
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Not bad. Needs vardy imo

    3. Pegboy
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      In some ways it might make getting TAA easier, but would mean moving on one of Lukaku or Vardy

    4. Cruyff's Eleven
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Imma go 3 premium DEF, and Son over Foden.

      But I like it.

  5. pablo discobar
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    “I can confirm that, unfortunately, I will not be joining up with the Jamaica national squad for the World Cup qualifying matches this week.

    “Myself, West Ham United, and Jamaica have all agreed that, given the logistical and travel difficulties involved at present, it is better for me to remain with the club in London at this time.

    “I remain fully committed to Jamaica and look forward to representing my country in the future.”

    1. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Is that Adam Cresswell?

    2. Ask Yourself
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Makes him hard to ignore still on WC

    3. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Cool Runnings?

    4. Now I'm Panicking
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Jamaican fans hate him - continually doesn't show up, and when he has played he was awful.

    5. Cruyff's Eleven
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Buffalo Soldier...

    6. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Jaysus. 6th Street in Austin is a rocking spot too. Must be teetotal 😉

  6. Rupert The Horse
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Today the Horse turns 38. Man it zips along quickly. Going to an Adam Handling restaurant today so I’m pretty excited.

    1. Steve The Spud
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Feed well

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        What would you get?

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

          A junior burger.

    2. Ask Yourself
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Happy birthdayneigh

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Thanks fat cow.

    3. Fulchester's New Centr…
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Still a whippersnapper. Congrats.

    4. lilmessipran
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Boy, the years seem to be galloping on

    5. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Aahh another '83 son

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Whoop whoop

    6. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      what would recommend to those in 20s?

      1. maglia rosa
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Always care, look after your family and look after yourself.

      2. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Take advantage of every day. Everyone will tell you how quickly it goes but you’ll never believe it until it’s gone. Study, do not be lazy, and please get off social media; it’s a complete waste of life.

        1. LikeItLoveIt
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          Wear sunscreen

      3. Holmes
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Cheers both. Simple yet so important! 🙂

      4. Tired and weary
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Travel as much as you can

    7. Black Knights
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Happy birthday Rupes! Hope they have a decent trough set up for you there.

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Oh they do mate. Goi f Portland tonight who have a great wine list.

    8. G-Whizz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Happy birthday!

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Ta duck

        1. maglia rosa
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          You from Stoke Horse?

          Happy Burp Day Laddo.

          1. Rupert The Horse
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 11 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            Nope. But love the phrase.

    9. Jordan.
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      happy birthday rupert ,horses rule...

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Thanks mate.

    10. Pep bites Kun
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Happy Birthneigh Rupert. The menu looks superb! Get the nose-bag on & enjoy! 🙂

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Heheh.

    11. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Happy Birthday man. Don't do anything sensible when you celebrate!

    12. Ógie
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Happy birthday Rupert. 🙂

    13. Skonto Rigga
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Happy birthday, Rupert, have a sugar cube on me

  7. Ask Yourself
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    How about this for a cheeky penalty taker set up? Armstrong > Toney GW9/10

    Ramsdale // Foster
    TAA Cancelo Rudiger // Livra Manquillo
    Salah Zaha Sarr Raphinha // Brownhill
    Lukaku Auba Armstrong/Toney

    1. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Kaku Raph not necessarily on PK

      Nice team though

      1. Ask Yourself
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Thanks x

  8. xtina
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Raphina or Foden?

    1. NABIL - FPL otai
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      R

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

      Raph

    3. Eze Really?
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Both

    4. Rupert The Horse
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Depends on whether Raph plays next game.

    5. G-Whizz
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      The thing that puts me off Raphinha is all the International business. Could still be the pick over Foden though...

      1. Rupert The Horse
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Yeah same. Last IB there was non stop talk and speculation both in the run up to and during. This time round seems to be polar opposite. Any chance of a write up? Having said that, I was thinking of doing one myself.

        1. G-Whizz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 6 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          I'm sure Neale is on the case and has that base covered but by all means, feel free to do a HT on it if you so wish 🙂

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

      Raph

    7. EugeMurts
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Foden. More explosive and will play more games this season. One of city’s best players

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

    If TAA is out...

    A) KdB, Chilwell, ESR
    B) Son, Foden, Tierney

    Hmm... maybe KdB isn't out of the equation yet. A looks better to me short-term.

    1. Ask Yourself
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Knew you wouldn’t shake KDB off for good, he still looks like a mental good pick especially with the next 3. ESR is struggling to excite me tho

    2. Konstaapeli
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      I like B. Alonso big threat to Chilly.

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

        For some reason, I really want to double on Chelsea defense with Chilwell - Rudiger for this next run of games. I think Chilwell is back. He played well vs Southampton even though he gave the pen away, he should get a run of games now and when he plays he has TAA potential for 2m less.

        He has like 18 pointers in him which makes me willing to risk a benching or two. If he gets 18, 10, 0, 1 he's doing better than 6, 6, 6, 6.

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

          I would steer well clear of both Chilwell & Alonso - Tuchel will rotate them across league & champions league, and you can bet your bottom dollar there'll be plenty of pre-60th minute subs off/on, and 1 pointers from both the bench and the start, even in games where Chelsea clean

          Absolute FPL fool's gold imo

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

            More or less the same incidence of Chilwell and Cancelo cameos last season - both low risk if history is a guide. Alonso a slightly dodgier prospect but nowhere near James territory.

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

              Last season not a good comparator imo

              Half of it was Lamps who signed Chilwell, and city had more left backs available than they do this year

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

                More or less agree that Cancelo is the one to be on actually if it's a straight choice.

                He's very much my City defender of choice right now but I'm also eying Laporte slightly curiously. Historically he's a very decent source of those irregular attacking returns - not so long back that he and VVD were essentially level pegging after all. Would need to see consistent evidence of Stones on the backburner though so a that'd be longer term play if at all.

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

            And what makes Cancelo better exactly?

            Zinchenko can come in just as easily. In fact, that was the CL final team - Zinchenko, Walker as the FBs and yet I don't see anyone being worried about picking Cancelo.

            High risk, high reward on both.

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

              If Cancelo could only play right back he’d be in the same boat

              But he actually can play in 2 positions so is in a completely different risk level - then take Mendy out of the equation and it improves even further

              Laporte & Zinchenko between them will probably get 10-ish starts at LB over the remaining league games, but Cancelo will probably start 5-ish of those at right back

        2. Tonyawesome69
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          I probably would've taken a punt on Chilwell if there was a league game this weekend instead of Internationals. Both Alonso and Chilwell called up for their respective country. Not sure I would go there after being burnt with Alonso

        3. Jordan.
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 14 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          agree with maximus ,surely mendy is a double up option

    3. mox81
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      I'm tempted by KDB! Could get there for -4 else Foden for free. Probably A as not sure of Son value from a team and fixtures perspective. Although I have Tierney and he's done well/ hasn't even fulfilled his attacking return potential yet. Also put Chilly in last week as a bit of fun as I have a strong bench feat Livra who I'd be happy to come in.

  10. Kodap
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Any thoughts on this team for the next week? Already made my move to bring in Cancelo, thinking about Jota > Son or Cr7 > Lukaku, both would be for a -4 but then would be really happy with the side. Can I hold off on either of those moves? Have 2.5m in the bank so have exact funds to do the Son move.

    Sanchez
    Trent - Rudiger - Cancelo
    Salah - Jota - Gray - ESR
    Antonio - Toney - Cr7

    Steele - Sissoko - Williams - Livra

    1. FPL_Crisis
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      I think Jota to Son long term works out
      Firmino not playing for Brazil so you'd imagine has a good chance to start vs Watford

  11. drughi
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Team for gw 8

    Sanchez
    TAA Alonso Rudiger
    Sarr Benrahma Salah Townsend
    Antonio Lukaku Jimenez

    steele livramento shaw gilmour

    A. Shaw> Dias/cancelo (bench sarr/benrahma)
    B. TAA and Benrahma > Tierney and Son -4
    C. Sarr/benrahma>Saka
    D. Save ft

    1. Tonyawesome69
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Probably the Shaw transfer but not sure on benching Sarr or Benrahma though

      1. drughi
        • 14 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        I cant see who else to bench, maybe I dont need to make a choice with TAA and alonso

        1. Tonyawesome69
          • 5 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          I'm not sure either. Sarr/Watford v Liverpool who will most likely not have Alisson and Fabinho could have returns. Maybe save FT instead. Bench is fine for any rotation/injuries in TAA and Alonso

  12. cheese XL
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    A

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

      duck walks into a bar....

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

        sounds painful that

        1. G-Whizz
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 6 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          😆

  13. FCSB
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Ramsdale 4.0
    TAA Cancelo Rudiger Duffy Livramento
    Salah Foden Raphinha Mbeumo Allan
    Lukaku Antonio Jimenez

    0.0 itb

    How’s this WC draft??

    Thanks

    1. Tonyawesome69
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      looks fine.

  14. Kodap
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Who's more of a priority to bring in/move out this week?

    1. Jota > Son
    2. Cr7 > Lukaku

    1. Tonyawesome69
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      If you already have Salah and will bring in Son and Lukaku at some point, probably Son for GW8 V Newcastle then Lukaku GW9 v Norwich

  15. cheese XL
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Wildcard choices:

    A) Ramsdale, Mbueno & Jesus

    B) Sanchez, Foden & Toney

    Thanks

    1. drughi
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      B

    2. Tonyawesome69
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Jesus not likely to be available for GW8

    3. mox81
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Ransdale Foden Toney?

  16. Tonyawesome69
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    What are people's views on 4 v 3 premium defenders?

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

      2

      1. Tonyawesome69
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Which 2 are you favouring?

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

          Rudiger Dias. Then TAA back gw12-ish.

    2. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      *Moth violently ignites in flames*

      1. Hotdogs for Tea
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        reply fail

    3. Boom XhakaLacaSaka
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      3

    4. We Go Again
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      3 is the sweet spot

      1. G-Whizz
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        It wasn't last week for me with Salah, Lukaku and Ronaldo lol

    5. TheBiffas
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      got 3 plus christensen

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

    Everybody got a FT ready for Nacho?

    He's about to fck shiz up up & hoist Leciester a few places in the table

    1. Tonyawesome69
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      I hope so. Can be a great option at 7.0m

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

      Nah

      Have gone Vardy instead. In form Vardy might leave him a few scraps I guess.

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

        Ooof - that sounds like one of Mo/Kaku/TAA/City def omitted to fit in JV?

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

          Actually had cash to burn so moved on from Antonio - still enough for 3 premiums at the back. Currently double Chelsea but I expect to switch into Liverpool Chelsea City from Ron to Rom cash in a week possibly two.

          Could easily be burnt of course but Vardy is a special case for me 😉 Spent most of the second half of last season preaching about how bad he was statistically from open play but he's very dear to my heart and I'm quite willing to go down with him if he goes off the boil.

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

      From the bench?

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

        Only if Rodgers is insane - he’s not in a position to mess about with his team selection anymore (hopefully)

        1. I Member
          • 8 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          Well he's started by far his best player from the second half of last season only once so he may well be insane.

    4. Hotdogs for Tea
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      *FPL Moth violently ignites in flames*

  18. Boom XhakaLacaSaka
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    1FT 3.8 ITB
    Sanchez
    White Shaw Azpi
    Sarr Salah Raph Saka
    Antonio CR7 Toney

    Foster Digne Brownhill Williams

    A) Shaw > Dias/Cancelo
    B) Wildcard

    Annoyingly 0.1 off doing Sarr > Son

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

      A - Cancelo

    2. TheBiffas
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      shaw to trent

  19. aleksios
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    A little off topic. Stay married for sake of kids or seperate?

    1. The Rumour Mill
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      As with any RMT, how much money itb?

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

        Money doesnt make us happy,only nice feelings.

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

      Separate, and stay civil.

    3. AC/DC AFC
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      It's tough, depends on your kids age, schooling and future location and housing options.

      Best of luck. Try to make it work for your kids but but not at any cost, including theirs as well as you two too.

  20. dshv
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    On WC

    son or grealish/foden

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

      Son

  21. DavvaMC
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Hi

    Looking at replacing Jota and Benrahma what do you think of the below replacements and which two?

    A. Doucouré
    B. Saka
    C. Mbeumo
    D. Anyone else I have Raph

    Much appreciated.

    1. TheBiffas
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      foden and doucoure

      1. DavvaMC
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Thanks, I am put off Foden for obvious reasons, it's a shame as he is one hell of a player!

    2. Boom XhakaLacaSaka
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Townsend

    3. Jordan.
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      C
      townsend ,looks like benitez loves him and its getting rewards

  22. FOO FIGHTER
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    How is this team looking?

    Raya
    Trent Matip Cancelo
    Son Doucoure (S)alah Gray
    DCL Vardy Antonio

    Foster Duffy Livra Bissouma

    Thank heavens there are two great options with Duffy and Livra for bench this season. We have been spoiled.

    Only slight rotation risks would be Matip and Cancelo. Obviously DCL and TAA still doubts but they would have had enough time to recover by the end of the IB.

    Not being template may be an issue but need to be bold with selections to try climb being at 976k. Other than that, quite happy.

    1. TheBiffas
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      triple everton attack is... bold.

      1. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Doucoure and Gray are ticking over nicely and wanted to be ahead of the curve with DCL as he will be flavour of the week if he hauls GW8 and vs WHU defence, triple up on EVE not the worst case scenario.

    2. Boom XhakaLacaSaka
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      No chelsea?

      1. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Chelsea defence is a lottery. Rudiger an option but going to stick with Matip for now. I may move him to Dias though.

    3. GreennRed
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      DCL will be nicely rested but it's a big ask for him to go full bore without match fitness. No doubting his ability or the Toffees Rafalutionary improvement.

  23. The-Red-1
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Any changes here folks? Think I'm set on the WC:

    McCarthy Foster
    Azpi Rudi Cancelo Dias Livramento
    Salah Son Raph Mbeumo Luiz
    Lukaku Vardy Toney

    Benching headache some weeks, but rotation in the defence / the Brazil thing might help that I guess!

    1. The-Red-1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Woops. My bad, sorry - no way I can afford that LOL

      1. The-Red-1
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Vardy was Hwang

  24. Ask Yourself
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    City defence double up with Cancelo and Dias/Laporte instead of Cancelo and Rudiger anyone?

    1. FOO FIGHTER
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Dias and Cancelo for me.

    2. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Im tempted

  25. Jinswick
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    I keep coming back to this WC team (assuming Trent is out) - whatcha think?

    Ramsdale, Foster
    Cancelo, Laporte, Chilwell, Rudiger, Livramento
    Salah, Son, Raphina, Mbeumbo, Brownhill
    Lukaku, Antonio, Hwang

    Bank 0.0m

    1. Karan14
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Great!

      But according to Klopp TAA should be fit.
      I would do Son, Laporte & Hwang to Saka, TAA & Toney if he's fit.

  26. Westfield Irons ⭐️
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Any Ultimate Fan experts out there?
    How do you swap players from your 'collection' in to your 'active 24 card squad'?
    Thanks!

  27. FOO FIGHTER
    • 4 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Spanner in the works for Ronaldo is Ole benching him GW7 for Cavani.

    Not going to happen every GW but clearly Cavani will get starts or subbed on 2nd half. Not the ideal situation owning the most expensive player in the game.

    I am quite comfortable loosing both Ronaldo and Lukaku. Not only are the proving to be not worth their price, their blanks have made my rank stagnate.

    Having Son and Vardy instead of Lukaku and Ronaldo should cover their absence.

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

      You can keep posting trying to convince yourself. But it doesn't change the fact that Chelsea's fixtures are insanely good.

      I agree on Ronaldo being a poor option and Son being a good one but I'm definitely going Lukaku over Vardy.

      1. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Convince myself?

        I believe I have made the right choice to move away from Lukaku and Ronaldo.

        If Lukaku was posting the same stats as Werner I may have considered keeping him. I read an article yesterday which was talking about Lukaku not being the right player for Tuchel's system and the more I ponder about it, the more agree that he is not the right fit for CHE. Not many may know but he missed 19 big chances in Serie A last season, damning numbers for what is apparently the 'best striker' in the PL. His current situation has not provided with any reason to keep hold irrespective of his 'easy' fixtures.

        Yes he could haul vs Norwich but I have made moves getting rid which are more than capable of covering any hauls he may have lined up.

        1. Rassi
          • 9 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          Guess who missed 19 big chances last season in PL? Your beloved Vardy and a certain Mo Salah.

          1. FOO FIGHTER
            • 4 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            PL a different ball game compared to Serie A.

            The fact that Lukaku is struggeling does not make your point look any better for Lukaku 🙂

            1. Rassi
              • 9 Years
              2 years, 5 months ago

              A big chance is a big chance in both leagues. Getting to those situations may be more difficult in PL than in Serie A but the odds of scoring from one should be roughly the same.

            2. Rassi
              • 9 Years
              2 years, 5 months ago

              My point is: if you use stats, use them honestly and forget your obvious bias.

              1. FOO FIGHTER
                • 4 Years
                2 years, 5 months ago

                What bias? I owned Lukaku from GW4. GW7 for a player eating up two spots from other assets who are doing well and sitting with 3 GW's worth of blanks.

                Some do not even have Lukaku yet so again not sure where you are trying to go with your point.

                1. Rassi
                  • 9 Years
                  2 years, 5 months ago

                  I call that bias if you deem Rom's 19 missed big chances damning numbers and yet dismiss the same stat for Vardy.

                  1. FOO FIGHTER
                    • 4 Years
                    2 years, 5 months ago

                    Well, he has had very little big chances as yet. Where is my bias?

                    Do you or don't you have Lukaku yet.

                    Many only getting him in from GW9 but I am biased? If I was biased I would not have owned him already.

                    1. Rassi
                      • 9 Years
                      2 years, 5 months ago

                      I don't have Lukaku.

                      1. FOO FIGHTER
                        • 4 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        Why?

                      2. Rassi
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        Me not having him has zero relevance in this discussion. I don't care who you have in your team or not. I just hate people abusing stats. Something that happens here all the time unfirtunately.

                      3. FOO FIGHTER
                        • 4 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        I am not abusing stats.

                        Calling me biased for owning him for 3 GW's and getting rid makes your point ridiculous.

                        In fact, your point is leading to a dead end if you do not own him already.

                      4. Rassi
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        Ok, you just refuse to understand my point.

                      5. FOO FIGHTER
                        • 4 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        Uhm no, you are avoiding the question of why you have not owned Lukaku yet.

                        I have so please you are making things difficult for yourself.

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

                        Ok, I suggest you read my posts one more time with a thought. I am not going to waste my time here anymore. You have a good day.

                      7. FOO FIGHTER
                        • 4 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        Cheers, you too.

                      8. Now I'm Panicking
                        • 9 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        In a battle of attrition, do not engage with a user with over 2700 posts on FFS in the last 30 days.

                      9. AC/DC AFC
                        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                        • 8 Years
                        2 years, 5 months ago

                        He said in a post a week or two ago that he hasn't watched football for a few seasons, so it's all stats and discussion based.

                        Lukaku is obviously leading the line for Chelsea and like Man City it's a crucial role for the team.

          2. GreennRed
            • 12 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            It's all about points banked in FPL. There're a few sides to any argument though. Better missing chances and taking plenty than having a few attempts, head drops, confidence goes. Salah and Vardy look improved on last season, both thrive in front of a full house.

        2. GreennRed
          • 12 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          The best thing that could happen Lukaku is a dubious injury oraiing for Belgium and he has to rest for two weeks and be back nice and fresh for GW8. Looks tired to me and he's not the forward for constant high press.

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

          I don't think you can conclude so early that Lukaku is not going to be a good FPL option at Chelsea. He's an elite forward who has a proven goal scoring track record in the PL. Styles can be adapted, players can improve. Just because you didn't play well in one game, or even 3 games (which were against Spurs, City and Southampton mind) doesn't mean you will never play well again.

          And an undisputed fact is that the fixtures are perfect for him to regain his form. Ignoring fixtures is not how I play FPL. Fixtures matter. Historic data says they matter. Players score more points against weaker opposition. And Lukaku has a history of being a big points scorer.

          But as you say 'I believe I have made the right choice to move away from Lukaku and Ronaldo.'

          That's your opinion. I don't agree with it and have given my reasons. But if you think you have better reasons or that those other reasons have more weight, than go for it. We're all out here trying to draw our own conclusions from the data we're given and we'll often not come to the same ones.

          1. FOO FIGHTER
            • 4 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            I never mentioned anything about him not being a good option.

            I have owned him, 3 weeks, 3 blanks.

            Now I am being called 'biased'because I felt it was a good move getting rid.

            Many who are having wetvdreams about Lukaku do not even own him yet and waited forv'easy' fixtures.

            Oh dear.

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

              "I never mentioned anything about him not being a good option."

              Then why are you getting rid when his fixtures are about to be amazing? You're not making sense I'm afraid. 3 blanks doesn't mean he won't score points in the next few games.

              1. GreennRed
                • 12 Years
                2 years, 5 months ago

                Because he prefers other options at this time.

    2. Cok3y5murf
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Two players that most people own haven't made your rank stagnant lol. That's due to your entire team and your FPL management.

      1. FOO FIGHTER
        • 4 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Oh dear, as if you are the best FPL manager in history.

        What a fooking stupid comment.

        1. Cok3y5murf
          • 7 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          Do you see any other Lukaku or Ronaldo owners complain that they have made their rank stagnant? If you're at 1m rank, that's on you.

          1. FOO FIGHTER
            • 4 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            I am not complaing about being 976k so you are being like a child sitting infront of the tv with your team losing with in Fifa 22.

          2. GreennRed
            • 12 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            Spot on. Some with both might complain but similar to your post up there Ronaldo and/or Lukaku in a team hindering some teams. It's not those one or two, it's insisting they're in your team without looking at alternative 15s without the or with one rather than both. Paying too much heed to 'must have player X for upcoming Gameweeks' articles and not doing a bit of research, picking their own players, learning from their own mistakes and patting themselves on the back/annoying other others here when those picks work out.

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

      Lukaku is interesting one

      Norwich week 9 looks a slam dunk selection. Beyond that I think it's less clear if EO is no worry. He has a very decent record as a striker but his PL record is less stellar than his Italian record - there were few gripes when United sold him on and his great Everton season is his real calling card in PL terms.

      What we're yet to see is whether Chelsea can successfully make him the focal point of their attack and become a potent attack. There isn't much history of Chelsea being a prolific attack or of maintaining a talismanic striker. He should be on for a 20 goal season but that isn't in and of itself cause for a slam dunk selection - there'll be others in that range.

      Imminent fixtures surely say yes though. Spurs look an utter mess right now if you're looking Son.

      1. GreennRed
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Spurs don't look great. Son can still do well. One of the most underrated PL players and FPL picks.

        If Lukaku relies on Norwich and Malmo to boost his confidence so be it. Prolific is one way to describe but he rarely does it in the big games. A great FPL pick and an overrated striker.

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

          By no means writing Son off - he's just a really tricky pick right now given Spurs imo.

          Amusingly my zombie team is now ahead of my real team on the back of GWR of around 1000 last week and he and Jim are mainstays there as is captain Mo of course.

  28. mojoindojo
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    The Also Consider section for Worst Fixtures should be renamed to Also Don't Consider.

  29. Kodap
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Sticking with TAA in the squad, want to make one of these moves this week and one next week.. which is a better move to do this week?

    1. Jota > Son
    2. Cr7 > Lukaku

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

      2

  30. GreennRed
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    https://www.empireofthekop.com/2021/10/06/liverpool-suffer-major-selection-blow-as-request-to-move-watford-tie-to-accommodate-key-starters-denied/

    What's the story with Mane's chances. This 10 day quarantine rule isn't clear to me. Is it 10 days isolation whe they arrive back home or are they grand to play if they pass a COVID test?

    A Tinkerman ambush perhaps?

    1. Tonyawesome69
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Mane doesn't have to quarantine when travelling back from a red country as long as he is double jabbed. Klopp stated 99% of his squad is double jabbed.

      10 day isolation if he isn't double jabbed and travelling back from a red listed country

      1. GreennRed
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Cheers. Alisson and Fabinho also double jabbed will miss Watford game.

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

          They're missing the Watford game because the Brazil match is extremely late not because they have to isolate.

          1. GreennRed
            • 12 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            Yeah, it's mad late. Argentina too. Hopefully Ranieri picks Foster. Not expecting close to a CS but more than a benched Martinez.