Scout Squad

The Scout Squad’s best FPL players for Gameweek 9

***NOTE: This article was written on Wednesday afternoon before Romelu Lukaku picked up an injury in Chelsea’s UEFA Champions League tie against Malmo***


The best Fantasy Premier League (FPL) goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards for Gameweek 9 are debated by Fantasy Football Scout contributors Az, Sam, Neale and Tom.

For those new to this feature, it’s a weekly piece that always takes the form of a ‘Free Hit’-type selection for the upcoming Gameweek.

All of our panelists have put forward an 18-man long-list of Fantasy players and will explain their notable inclusions and omissions below.

It also serves as a precursor to the Scout Picks, as the players listed will then be narrowed down to a squad of 15 (with the starting XI not exceeding a total cost of £83.0m) for final our weekly selection.

Each writer must meet the following requirements:

  • At least one goalkeeper costing £5.0m or less
  • At least one sub-£5.0m defender
  • At least one midfielder listed at £6.5m or below
  • At least one forward priced at £7.0m or lower
  • No more than three players from the same club

SCOUT SQUAD’S PICKS OF THE BEST FPL PLAYERS FOR GAMEWEEK 9

AZSAMTOMNEALE
GKJose SaEdouard MendyEdouard MendyEdouard Mendy
Vicente GuaitaJose SaJordan PickfordVicente Guaita
Jordan PickfordAlex McCarthyAlex McCarthyAaron Ramsdale
DEFReece JamesTino LivramentoBen ChilwellRuben Dias
Ben ChilwellJoao CanceloJoao CanceloBen Chilwell
Ruben DiasCesar AzpilicuetaLucas DigneLucas Digne
Trent Alexander-ArnoldLucas DigneTino LivramentoTrent Alexander-Arnold
Tino LivramentoNelson SemedoTyrick MitchellTino Livramento
MIDMohamed SalahMohamed SalahMohamed SalahMohamed Salah
Kevin De BruyneSon Heung-MinKevin De BruyneAndros Townsend
Bryan MbeumoDemarai GrayBryan MbeumoRaphinha
Demarai GrayBryan MbeumoSon Heung-minConor Gallagher
Son Heung-minPhil FodenRaphinhaBryan Mbeumo
FWDRomelu LukakuHarry KaneRomelu LukakuRomelu Lukaku
Michail AntonioRomelu LukakuIvan ToneyOdsonne Edouard
Odsonne EdouardJamie VardyMichail AntonioPierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Raul JimenezOllie WatkinsRaul JimenezJamie Vardy
Armando BrojaIvan ToneyOllie WatkinsArmando Broja


Most popular picks: Tino Livramento, Mohamed Salah, Bryan Mbeumo, Romelu Lukaku (four), Edouard Mendy, Ben Chilwell, Lucas Digne, Son Heung-min (three)

AZ SAID

How the world's best FPL maangers set up for Gameweek 7 7

The battle between Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City for this year’s Premier League title looks set to be a cracker, with Liverpool’s offensive strength and Manchester City’s defensive resolve looking hard to ignore. But this week, all eyes will be on Chelsea, who have flattered to deceive in terms of their performances of late, but sit top of the table with 19 points out of a possible 24. Few are expecting Norwich to pull up trees against the Blues, and I’m featuring the marauding wing-backs at the top of my defender selections, although predicting who exactly will start is not an easy task. Romelu Lukaku will be my captain, too, despite Thomas Tuchel’s slightly worrying comments about his need for a rest.

Elsewhere, there are some fun picks that I am backing to deliver this week.

Tino Livramento is surely pushing FPL managers to start him rather than relying on his points off the bench and plays Burnley, who have scored fewer goals than all teams bar Norwich this season.

Bryan Mbeumo and Demarai Gray are carrying their sides’ chief attacking threat and are up against questionable defences, while Kevin De Bruyne looks the pick of the City midfield after scoring against Burnley and having an early withdrawal in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

Up front, I fancy Michail Antonio to terrorise the Spurs backline and Odsonne Edouard, Raul Jimenez and Armando Broja all have good-looking games from an attacking point of view against Newcastle, Leeds and Burnley respectively.

SAM SAID

Calvert-Lewin injury latest as Everton's FPL midfielders Gray and Doucoure catch the eye

Last weekend’s Pep roulette played havoc with some of the players that we thought were safe, such as Ruben Dias, but I expect him to be back this weekend and up against a Brighton attack who haven’t been scoring a huge number of goals. Joao Cancelo gets my vote, however, with his additional offensive threat.

Whilst Norwich have started to find more defensive solidity with their new formation, I don’t expect them to register a third consecutive clean sheet against Chelsea, hence why I’m picking Romelu Lukaku as the best captaincy option even after five blanks in the last six Gameweeks. In attack, Norwich have offered very little and therefore I suspect that the double-up in the Chelsea defence with Edouard Mendy and Cesar Azpilicueta will be a wise decision.

Mohamed Salah is in the form of his life and so choosing him feels essential. However, there is some fun to be had with the other midfield slots.

Everton’s fixture against Watford feels prime for attacking potential, especially if the Hornets defend like they did in Gameweek 8, so Demarai Gray will surely have a valuable role to play this weekend. Alongside him are two players high on confidence and in good form in the shape of Phil Foden and Son Heung-min, who both have a good fixture to do well. Son has registered two 13-point hauls and one six-pointer against West Ham in his last four Premier League matches against them. Foden, meanwhile, recorded an assist in Gameweek 9 as well as in the Champions League, where he was rested from 64 minutes onwards.

Up front, I am expecting the Jamie Vardy party to continue this weekend as Brentford will attack as they have over the opening eight Gameweeks of the season and leave the veteran striker some space. Having said that, I fully expect Brentford to give Leicester a great game like they did against Liverpool and therefore both Bryan Mbeumo and Ivan Toney make my picks too.

Harry Kane‘s opening goal of his Premier League campaign came in Gameweek 8 and I expect he will continue to build on this run on Sunday. Since the 2015/16 season, Kane has registered four double-digit hauls against the Hammers and has returned in three of the last four fixtures between the sides. With Arsenal having very little turnaround time between Monday’s Premier League draw against Palace and Friday’s game against Aston Villa, as well as knocks to some key Arsenal personnel picked up in that match, I think Ollie Watkins could do well in the opening fixture of the Gameweek. The Gunners have failed to win any of their last three Premier League Friday evening kick-offs, losing twice and drawing once, which bodes well for the Villa attack this weekend.

TOM SAID

The Rudiger injury latest as Lukaku's FPL appeal 3

Chelsea’s clean sheet prospects look as good as any this weekend, with Gameweek 9 opponents Norwich City failing to find the back of the net in six of their eight Premier League matches so far. And if you remove penalties, they’ve scored just one goal from open play all season. Edouard Mendy has already kept four clean sheets this term, while Ben Chilwell is averaging 11.5 points per match over his last two appearances. However, tonight’s Champions League XI will surely shape my final picks, with Cesar Azpilicueta and Antonio Rudiger on standby at the back.

Southampton’s home fixture against Burnley also stands out. The Saints improved against Leeds United last time out, restricting their opponents to just two shots in the box and 0.42 expected goals (xG). Tino Livramento has provided either a clean sheet or an assist in four of his last five appearances, and during that time, ranks top amongst team-mates for take-ons and second for passes received in the final third. It’s also worth noting that their opponents have conceded 97 crosses from their left-hand side this season – only Norwich have allowed more – and are averaging just over three shots on target per match. As a result, I’m more than happy to double up with Alex McCarthy.

Joao Cancelo makes the squad again after a classy midweek performance in the Champions League, and is joined by Everton duo Jordan Pickford and Lucas Digne, plus Tyrick Mitchell. The Crystal Palace full-back is perhaps something of a left-field inclusion but has looked the part this season, and has been one of the standout performers in Patrick Vieira’s improving side. I also think Newcastle United looked way too open down their right flank in Gameweek 8, with Sergio Reguilon afforded plenty of space in the final third.

Further forward, the inclusion of Mohamed SalahKevin De BruyneSon Heung-min and Romelu Lukaku largely speak for themselves, so I’ll dedicate a bit more time to some of my other picks.

Brentford duo Bryan Mbeumo and Ivan Toney are about to embark on a kind run of fixtures, particularly from Gameweek 10 onwards. However, I’m happy to back them now, given that this weekend’s opponents Leicester City have conceded more goals than all teams bar Leeds, Watford, Norwich and Newcastle. Mbeumo hit the woodwork for the fifth and sixth time against Chelsea last time out, and will surely add to his tally soon, while Toney’s creativity will be key in unlocking the Foxes’ backline. Interestingly, the no. 17 ranks top amongst all forwards in the division for expected assists (xA) this term.

Meanwhile, Raphinha also gets the nod in midfield, having sat out Gameweek 8 after arriving back late from international duty. And despite missing that match, the Brazilian still features amongst the top five midfielders this season for crosses and efforts on goal. I also think he’ll get some joy down Wolverhampton Wanderers’ left side, especially if they persist with Marcal in a 3-4-2-1 formation.

The forward list is completed Michail AntonioRaul Jimenez and Ollie Watkins, with the latter chosen given how vulnerable Arsenal looked when being pressed high up the pitch on Monday night.

NEALE SAID

‘Pick and hope’ is the mantra when it comes to selecting Chelsea and Manchester City defenders these days, with even the usually dependable Ruben Dias being benched for the reigning champions last weekend. The Blues have the best fixture of the Gameweek from a defensive perspective, up against a Canaries side with just two goals to their name; Josh Sargent’s tame effort against Brighton last Saturday, when the goal was gaping, epitomised their impotency. Who do we go for from the division’s two best backlines, then?

The truth is, despite our best efforts, there is no formula, no algorithm, no lasting, genuine insight into how Messrs Tuchel and Guardiola think with regards to their line-ups. A midweek rest doesn’t always equate to a weekend start (and vice-versa) with these two, although in the west London side’s case, a Wednesday night-Saturday lunchtime turnaround will surely have a say in how they set up against Norwich. Tuchel’s teamsheet at Malmo, then, will partly shape our Scout Picks selection, but until then, Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy are my placeholders. Whoever is playing at left wing-back for Chelsea is averaging two shots and three penalty box touches per game this season, while an atypically open Blues backline are allowing Mendy plenty of efforts to save of late to bolster his clean sheet numbers.

Norwich are one of five teams who we seem to be routinely targeting for all the wrong reasons this season, with Burnley, Newcastle, Watford and Leeds the others in question. While we may be a little wary about a ‘new manager bounce’ as the well-moneyed Magpies enter a post-Brucean era, it sounds like it will still be the same coaching staff at the helm at Selhurst Park, so it’d be a surprise to see any fresh tactical innovations. Newcastle are still without a clean sheet and up against an ever-improving Crystal Palace side who should have defeated Arsenal on Monday, so Conor Gallagher – the Eagles’ lively leading shot-taker in 2021/22, who was again in the thick of it at the Emirates – and Odsonne Edouard are backed.

There was no new manager bounce at Watford last weekend, more of a ‘replacement boss faceplant’ as the Hornets slumped to a 5-0 defeat; anyone who saw the displays of Adam Masina and especially Danny Rose will know why I’ve gone for Andros Townsend over any other Everton midfielder, with Claudio Ranieri’s side butchered down their left by Liverpool. The winger himself is also the Toffees’ leading shot-taker and chance creator over the last four Gameweeks.

It’s probably too soon to get over-excited about Armando Broja given Ralph Hasenhuttl’s predilection for rotation and his somewhat lukewarm praise of the Albania international to date but at £5.0m, any game-time and goal threat is a bonus – something that can’t really be said when you’re a mid-price forward like Adam Armstrong. The towering Broja was the leading FPL forward for shots, efforts in the area and penalty box touches in Gameweek 8, capping off his fine display with a goal. With Burnley one of the worst teams for headed chances conceded, I’m willing to take another punt on him this weekend.

1,143 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Flynny
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    As a james owner, I'm hoping he starts at the weekend

    And then likely to ditch either way

    Wildcard mistake I feel

    1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Yep if he doesnt play Norwich theres no point anymore. Though he will likely get hooked at 59 or find some othet troll move

    2. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Same here with Alonso mate, will move him to Cancelo next week

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

      Gets subbed on 2nd half tonight and impresses the manager. Then hopefully starts at the weekend. That would be nice.

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

        Indeed.....and then get rid for a more nailed player

    4. Mr. O'Connell
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Was gonna bench him this week if he started tonight. But probably in my XI now (for his 59 minute appearance this weekend).

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

      I think he starts and gets you a return on the weekend. Don't worry. He's a good pick.

  2. Corona is not good 4 U
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Is this team good to go?

    Foster (Sánchez)
    Cancelo, Alexander-Arnold, Rüdiger (Marcal) (White)
    Salah, Benrahma, Greenwood, Raphinha (Gilmour)
    Lukaku, Antonio, Saint-Maximin

    Which player I should transfer out?

    Thank you!

    1. Mmm mmm
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      How many FTs and ITB?

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

      I'd look at Benrahma out. Read the article above for some options 😀 Mbuemo looks good.

      1. Mmm mmm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Agree

  3. Athletico Underachieving
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Tuchel comments trying to protect Lukaku? Or trying to play him in to form here? Either way I’m twitchy about Saturday!

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

      Anything more than 60 minutes starts to get into dodgy territory….

      But hopefully he’s off before 70.

      75 at the latest.

      1. Athletico Underachieving
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        We live in hope…Norwich was the plum fixture for Lukaku so would be vintage if he was rested

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

      "I feel he is a bit mentally tired. For me, he's overplayed. It's difficult to judge if he needs a break, or is it better to keep him on the pitch?"

      Tuchel believes Lukaku is not the only one of his players struggling as a result of their commitments to their national teams this year, saying: "It's the same with Mason [Mount] and Jorgi (Jorginho) - they struggled.

      "They have a lot of weight to carry for their countries - they love it and they're competitors. But if you play 1,000 matches a year it can feel heavy."

      Read it both ways tbf.

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

    FFS Tuchel why for you have to start Kaku?

    1. Paqueta Rice
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Ronaldo to Lukaku off the table now I think

  5. bench boost for every gamew…
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    5 at the back vs Malmø. Jeez. What the hell is the point when you have Havertz, Zieych, Hudson Odoi in your squad.. When you have no playing style or philosophiae you revert to reactionary tactic.

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

      It’s mad - the insistence of 5 defenders when he has that type of attacking talent is bonkers

      1. Andy_Social
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Chilwell at least will spend most of his time in the final third.

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

      The logic that five defenders is a defensive formation is just incorrect....

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

        It's a 3-5-2

      2. Philosopher's Stones
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        It's a risk aversive tactic in it's core nonetheless. No matter how well the team is drilled for the wing backs to provide the width and what not, it won't match the flair of having 2/3 attacking mids floating around a striker upfront.

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

        Especially with Lukaku having to fit in without being the main man 🙂

      4. bench boost for every gamew…
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        I dont have the motion that is a defensive formation, but it is still 5 defenders there and every team that plays this formation is not having an own style or progressive philosophiae, just pragmatism

    3. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Managers whose natural instinct is to prioritize the team's defense even at the cost of attacking flair, especially when there's so much attacking talent in the squad make me a bit sick.

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

      The way Chelsea can play, it's not really a flat 5 at the back though is it?

    5. F4L
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Norwich play 5 at the back. Chelsea don't.

    6. Ginkapo FPL
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      No playing style? Its the same every game

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

    Armstrong to Toney for a hit?

    1. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      No

    2. Mmm mmm
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Yep

    3. alsybach
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Do you reckon that toss pot Armstrong is dropped then?

      1. Mmm mmm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        SOT fans seem to think so

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

      I would. Toneys good long-term- nailed, pens, fixtures & good stats (last season & decent this season) so that hit will pay off in the end. If Armstrong was nailed maybe I'd consider it a bit more but big yes for me.

  7. Paqueta Rice
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Seiwald on my bench with 6 already and Baku with his 1 glaring at me in my starting XI

    1. DARK SIDE OF THE LOON
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      All my points are coming from my defense. Got two defenders who have scored - Cancelo and Pique. Alex Sandro and Azpi to play!

      1. Paqueta Rice
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Nice, well done. My 2ft were Dzeko and Gueirrero out (Dzeko done great unfortunately) and Cancelo and Adeyemi in! So not bad. I was driving home from work and heard about Wolfsburg terrible defensive record of late and forgot to take Baku out 😳

  8. Tinfoil Deathstar
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Will use the FT for the planned CR7 to Lukaku (C) move. Anything else here worth a hit? £1.2 ITB. Bit of a benching headache with Sarr/Livramento anyway, so thinking probably not.

    Sanchez (Gunn)
    Trent - Cancelo - Christensen
    Salah - Raphinha - Sarr - Benny
    CR7 - Antonio - Jimenez

    Subs: Livra, White, Allan

  9. Magic Zico
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Wondering whether I can save FT here:

    Ramsdale
    TAA Cancelo Azpi Livra
    Salah Foden Mbeumo Saka*
    Lukaku [C] Antonio

    Raya ESR Hwang Duffy

    A. Saka > Raphinha
    B. Save FT

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

      Think you need to wait for news.

  10. Paqueta Rice
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    United need to play Cavani. Just throw caution to the wind, forget about the defensive mids and go for a good awld 442 😆 😆

    ————DDG————
    Awb-Varane-Maguire-Shaw
    Mason-Bruno-Pogba-Rashford
    ——Ronaldo-Cavani——

    Ps - I know this won’t work

    1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Would work perfectly mate if Giggs was on the left and Beckham on the right!! Two cultured wingers!!! Haha

      1. Paqueta Rice
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Aye, but even they had Roy Keane breaking people up in midfield 😆

        1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          With Paul Scholes in place of Pogba too!!! Haha

          1. Paqueta Rice
            • 3 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            Nice !

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

      I want them to try this with Bruno as a false 9

      ————DDG————
      Awb-Varane-Maguire-Shaw
      Mason-----McTom----Pogba
      Rashford--Bruno---Ronaldo

      1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Do you think Greenwood could play that roll mate?? I’d swap Bruno and Greenwood, like against Leeds Greenwood crested loads of space for Bruno to get his hat trick

        1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          *created

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

          you're probably right.

          I really want to see Bruno as a false 9 - maybe with Lingard next to him actually. Feels like that would solve the creativity issues - and also Lingard's directness from the middle would be super welcome.

          (should say i'm not a MU fan and don't care if they win - i just wanted watch good vibes football)

          1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            That’s a great idea mate!!!! You could seen Bruno and Lingard starting a really good partnership, could compliment each other’s games and would be a nightmare for defenders!! United a bit too predictable at the moment, need to mix it up a bit!!

      2. Paqueta Rice
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Interesting. Just heard some stats about Ronaldo only averaging a press / pressure the opponents 3 times per 90mins compared to Cavani averaging 16 times per 90 last season.

        Ronaldo’s days playing wide are over if he is that lazy as it is.

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

          probably shouldn't play Ronaldo against serious teams if we're all being honest...

        2. Paqueta Rice
          • 3 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          I think Bruno flourishes best in the hole / Kdb role

  11. The Red Devil
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    So, what do we think about that LWB spot? Alonso this weekend?

    1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      I really hope so mate!!! Haha Alonso hasn’t played since I brought him in!!

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

      Very short turnaround so baring a Chilwell subbing, I'd be confident of an Alonso start.

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

        Sheesh that's confident Rainer!

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

      Got Alonso and thinking of also getting Chilwell- saves problem!

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

        The trouble is that's a spot you could use for a city mid instead...

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

          City Def!

          1. The Red Devil
            • 9 Years
            2 years, 5 months ago

            what if both the city & chelsea defs are benched on the same day

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

          I have Cancelo so backline would be

          TAA Cancelo Chilwell Alonso Livramento

      2. The Red Devil
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Hahahah i'm also considering it, but 1 mil short

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

      You'd think so but no guarantees

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

      I was also thinking of switching Alonso out for Chilwell this week but now I'm not so sure. Whatever I do the opposite will happen!

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

    Need a keeper replacement ASAP! Have schmeichel and Leister don’t look like they’ll keep a clean sheet ever again. Any suggestions? Only asking as I think the only 2 good keepers are mendy and Ederson!

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

      Raya has a good run of fixtures...

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

      Agree on Raya

  13. My heart goes Salalalalah
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    James(C) this weekend will be a shrewd move

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

      30 points or 2 points.

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

      i’m on james currently

    3. alsybach
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Well 2 points are better than 1 tbf

  14. Walter White (WW)
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Tuchel to spin that roulette & bench Lukaku this gameweek for wild scenes

    1. Paqueta Rice
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Could do

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

      It would be worth it for all those who have been planning Ronaldo to Lukaku faithfully.

      If you hold do you sell for Vardy or Lukaku tho?

      1. Walter White (WW)
        • 2 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Vardy but I am biased

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

      I'm feeling a sneaky Kane move instead.

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

    Lukaku needs to be the main.man according to Conte's recent comments about his struggles at Chelsea.

    I concur.

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

      He is the main man! Suppy is the issue, starting 4 CBs and two DMs at home to Malmao is just laughable but Tuchel clearly doesn't trust his CBs to play a back 4 and that has a knock one effect for Lukaku...

      People think Mount helps though so we might see clues of that tonight.

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

        He is not the main man otherwise he would have scored over Chelsea's last 6 fixtures in all competions.

        1. Nate(U)dog(ie)
          • 3 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          So a player can't be a central figure in their team if they have a short barren run?

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

            Lukaku is not a Messi, Suarez or Salah type of player.

            Those are the type of players mentioned other than Lukaku which will thrive under Tuchel, Pep and Klopp.

            Reason why Chelsea were after Haaland but for some reason splahed a whopping amount on a player which does not fit.

            I may eat my words but at this point, Conte cannot be argued against.

    2. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      He’s missing Reece James!! That Arsenal game showed how devastating they can be together, surprisingly it’s not happening atm

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

        80 million player who needs James to score goals? That is a massive fail unless you use Lukaku to his strenghts.

        Conte made it clear.

        Will be good for Lukaku to get onto the score sheet tonight though.

        1. 1912 F.A Cup Winners
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 6 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          What I meant was they had a good partnership and wonder why James hasn’t played more, you still need service how ever good a player you are or how much you cost, the manager needs to lock the team that’s going to get the maximum output from a player, ole struggling with it too with Ronaldo

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

      They should have gone all out for Haaland

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

      “His struggles”. He has 3 goals in 7 games. The reason is he could go 3/4 games in the Serie A without scoring and nobody would mention it. He goes 2 games in England and he’s “struggling”. It’s laughable really. He’s had 2 offside goals in his last 2 and has held up the ball really well. I don’t know what people expect from him. He’s not going to bag 30+ goals in the prem that was obvious before he joined. People just have unrealistic standards

      1. TheSteel
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        How much points do offside goals get?

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

          Excuses get you nothing.

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

        Nothing laugable about a 80mil player blanking in the last 6 matches.

        Clearly being "mentally tired" is his problem?

        No doubt, a goal tonight will relieve Lukaku.

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

        Err 4 games

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

          All competitions. Learn to read.

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

            Didn't reply to you. Learn to read.

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

              I do not have automatic replies.

              Sorry about that 😉

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

        Spot on Jon. He is what he is. Don't expect 250 points people.

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

    lukaku is playing today to build his confidence. If he scores today he will 100% start on the weekend. Tuchel will want him to build on it and get on a streak

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

      What if he scores today and then gets injured?

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

        still better than werner

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

      What if he gets rested v Norwich?

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

        then that means he didnt score today

  17. Gazza2000
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Would you play ESR or Dias this GW?

    1. Mr. O'Connell
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Dias. ESR doesn't do anything.

  18. Drogo
    • 11 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    WC-Team

    Schmeichel - Ward
    TAA - Chilwell* - Jansson* - White - Duffy
    Salah - Greenwood* - Raphina - Townsend* - S.Longstaff*
    Lukaku* - Toney - Antonio

    * = new player.
    1.6 million in bank.
    Happy to take feedback

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

      Looks good, not sure Schmeichel is worth the money, Raya, Sanchez or even Ramsdale better picks imo.

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

      You can definitely improve on the goalkeeper picks there. And midfield too.

    3. Mmm mmm
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Alonso for Duffy and ride the wave

      1. Drogo
        • 11 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Both won't play. Perhaps Duffy for Azpl?

    4. alsybach
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Did you use auto pick?

    5. DBW - Slug's Mortgage …
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Only 5 new players and two of them bench fodder not worth it

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

      Glad I never activated WC. Lukaku was the main reason, but with him out, I am keeping my team.

  19. Mmm mmm
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    On wildcard and have Chillwell, Alonso, James, Laporte with a strong budget bench. Thoughts?

    1. TheSteel
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Id like TAA over one if your premium defenders

      1. Mmm mmm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        Also have TAA

        1. El Presidente
          • 4 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          Crazy, too much money

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

      3 of them could easily miss out on any given GW and it wouldn't be a surprise...

      1. Mmm mmm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        True hence bench

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

          You need to field 3 defenders. Chilwell/Alonso leave you with 4 playable, Stones back in contention hurts Laporte and James is another wingback under Tuchel...

          GL with it!

        2. Tinfoil Deathstar
          • 3 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          Who is your fifth defender? Livramento? I think it's far too risky personally. Don't mind the Alonso/Chilwell double up so much, but I think the other three need to be fairly nailed to absorb the knowledge that at least one of your defenders will be missing out every week. So having James AND Laporte (rather than say Rudi and Cancelo) means you could very easily be down to two playing defenders quite a bit of the time. I'd also add that Cancelo is probably a better pick than James, Alonso, and Chilwell if on a WC.

    3. Mr. O'Connell
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Reece James doesn't care who's on your bench. He will cameo whether you like it or not.

      1. Mmm mmm
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

  20. Tinfoil Deathstar
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Bench one of the following this GW?:

    A) Sarr (eve)
    B) Benrahma (TOT)
    C) Livramento (BUR)

    1. Mmm mmm
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      B

    2. alsybach
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Sarr

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

      B

  21. jackruet
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Chelsea squad vs malmo anyone?

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

      google.com

    2. The FPL Units
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Previous page

    3. g40steve
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Mendy
      Rudiger
      Christensen
      Jorginho
      Thiago Silva
      Kante
      Lukaku
      Werner
      Mount
      Chilwell
      Azpilicueta

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

        Thank you

    4. DBW - Slug's Mortgage …
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      You can’t look it up yourself?? Do you ask your friends to wipe?

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

        If you dont want to tell, just ignore

      2. Philosopher's Stones
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        There are friends who wipe? I need some of those.

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

          Lol

  22. alsybach
    • 14 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Oh sweaty bollox!
    Nobody wanted to see chilwell, rudiger AND lukaku starting did they !?!

  23. REDMOND IN SANDALS
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Alonso Captain vs Norwich?

    1. dunas_dog
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      If he stays on bench tonight I would seriously consider it.

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

    So do we think James starts v NOR or has Rucehl just got his face defenders now that he will play in the CL and prem?

    1. dunas_dog
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      I think James will get minutes under his belt and play 25 minutes tonight and start Saturday but just guessing!

    2. Mr. O'Connell
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      If he starts, he'll get subbed pre-60

    3. Sun Jihai
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Reckon so

    4. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
      • 13 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Same side as tonight I reckon

  25. ‘Tis the Season
    • 5 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Lukaku does far more than just score goals. He holds up play, links players, draws players to make space…some in here don’t understand football…tsk tsk

    1. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Very good points, but this is a fantasy football site, and only goals and assists count in this game. The aspects you mentioned, though very vital in a modern day striker, won't get you fantasy points.

      1. ‘Tis the Season
        • 5 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        This relates to the ridiculous comment that he is struggling but with such a small sample size best look holistically

        1. Philosopher's Stones
          • 3 Years
          2 years, 5 months ago

          Ah, yeah, I agree with you on that. He's done quite well over the last few weeks with the only missing thing in his game being the absense of a measurable output, though even on that front, he's been a bit unlucky with hitting the posts and offsides. Think he's still the best C choice this GW given he doesn't play full 90 today.

  26. Meechoo115
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 2 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    As a James owner I think this gives me comfort he definitely plays on Saturday. But also firms up my decision I need to get rid asap thereafter. Sound about right ?

    1. DaisyDaisyDaisyDaisy
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Till he gets a 12 pointer and you then you cant. This is how he rolls.

      1. Meechoo115
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 2 Years
        2 years, 5 months ago

        I know!

  27. Hazardous1983
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    What to do with this mess

    Sanchez (steele)
    Taa cancelo livra coady (shaw)
    Salah jota saka sarr (sissoko)
    Antonio ronaldo (maupay)

    1 ft no wildcard

    1. Meechoo115
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Ronaldo to lukaku

      Rest fine for now

  28. sirmorbach
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Two questions, friends, please:

    Ramsdale (Foster)
    TAA, Dias, Cancelo, Azpilicueta (Livramento)
    Salah, Foden, Raphinha (Townsend, Luiz)
    Vardy, Antonio, Toney

    1. Save, right?
    2. Who to bench: A. TAA (mun), B. Townsend (WAT), C. Toney (LEI), or D. one of Cancelo/Dias (bha)?

    1. Meechoo115
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 2 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      1. Yes
      2. Could bench Cancelo as may cameo.

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

        Good point. Cheers, mate.

  29. Abusive_Sgt_Daelrhos
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    1) Is Cancelo likely to be rested this GW?
    2) Play Antonio vs TOT or Mbeumo vs LEI? (Got Toney)

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

      Decent chance but could also have a full week off next with Carabao. It's Pep, no point overthinking or worrying about it, have to start him

      Antonio, if he makes it through tomorrow night.

  30. Eh, just one more thing ...
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 5 months ago

    Werner goal line clearance LOL

    1. Eh, just one more thing ...
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Was easier to score … jeez.

    2. Mr. O'Connell
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Just Werner doing Werner things.

    3. g40steve
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 5 months ago

      Nothing new though?