Technical Area

The Technical Area – Assessing Coutinho’s Reds Return

A return to the Liverpool starting line-up for the first time since Gameweek 4 last weekend failed to produce the Fantasy points for Philippe Coutinho. With the Brazilian installed wide left, Brendan Rodgers moved from 3-4-1-2 to 4-4-2, allowing the winger to drift inside and dictate matters centrally.

In this latest Technical Area article, we cast an eye over last Saturday’s Anfield encounter and assess Coutinho’s role as the Reds prepare for a favourable run of games. With showdowns against Hull, Norwich, West Ham and Cardiff in four of the five fixtures directly following their Gameweek 12 trip to Goodison, Rodgers’ side are handed the chance to continue the form that sees them sit just two points off the summit.

Average Positions – Liverpool Gameweek 11 and Coutinho 2013/13

LiverpoolGW11
Coutinho Av Pos 2013

Looking at Liverpool’s average position map (left) in the 4-0 mauling of Martin Jol’s men, it’s clear to see how much leeway Coutinho (10) had to impose himself in the middle. While Jordan Henderson (14) played a more conventional role on the opposite flank, the Brazilian continually shifted inside to find possession and was as central as Daniel Sturridge (15) when on the ball, allowing Luis Suarez (7) the chance to push forward and wreak havoc on the visitors’ defence.

Compared to his previous average positions for the season (right), Coutinho’s role against the Cottagers was very similar. Crucially for Rodgers, the Brazilian’s first four Gameweeks were on the left of a 4-2-3-1, with Suarez still suspended at that point in time – the fact that Coutinho still found so much time and space playing with a front two, as opposed to a lone forward, bodes well for Liverpool’s attacking potential, then.

Although Rodgers has talked up the Brazilian’s chances of a role in “the hole” in a 3-4-1-2, it’s noticeable that, in all of the five games Coutinho has started, Liverpool have played with a back-four – indeed, even his second-half introduction in the previous Gameweek’s defeat at Arsenal saw Rodgers move to 4-4-2.

Coutinho Gameweek 1-4 Versus Gameweek 11

TchsTchs Final 3rdPass Rcvd Final 3rdSucc Pass Final 3rdChances CrtdTchs BoxShotsShots Box
GW1-461.830.514.212.21.522.80.8
GW111126336352994

Coutinho’s Gameweek 11 performance, in comparison to his four appearances prior to sustaining a shoulder injury at the Liberty, is hugely encouraging for his owners and would-be Fantasy suitors. Certainly, the stats should be taken in context – Liverpool averaged 48.4% possession in those first four fixtures, whereas on Saturday, a dominant display allowed them 68.4% of the play.

Nonetheless, in his first appearance in the same side as Suarez this season, the upturn in overall performance is marked. Coutinho had 112 touches of th ball at the weekend, a massive improvement on his 61.8 beforehand. His number of touches in the opponents’ final third more than doubled (up from 30.5 to 63), as did his passes received (14.2 up to 36), while the number of successful passes made in this crucial area almost trebled; a total of 35, up from 12.2 beforehand.

In spite of his time on the ball, Coutinho’s creativity remained relatively similar – he produced 2 “key passes” against the Cottagers, just up on his previous average of 1.5. Goal potential, though, is another matter entirely – his total of 9 touches inside the area was more than he managed over the first four Gameweeks altogether, with an average of 2 per appearance. Coutinho fired 9 attempts on goal in the 4-0 rout – once again, this is a huge improvement on 2.8 per game – whilst his close-range menace saw him register 4 shots inside the Fulham penalty box, up from 0.8 per appearance beforehand.

Such a significant upturn can be partly put down to Fulham’s defensive stats, though. Prior to last week’s encounter, Jol’s side were second most porous for shots inside (99) and outside (83) the box; faced with such a weak opponent, Liverpool were always likely to run riot – indeed, Rodgers’ side registered a total of 32 shots in the 4-0 win.

Liverpool Attack Versus Fulham

TchsTchs Final 3rdPass Rcvd Final 3rdSucc Pass Final 3rdChances CrtdTchs BoxShotsShots Box
Coutinho1126336352994
Suarez81643123620107
Sturridge352315101643
Henderson1064840316331

While Fulham’s dismal display undoubtedly affected Coutinho’s stats, a comparison with his team-mates is perhaps the fairest way of assessing his performance in context. The move to 4-4-2 allowed Henderson plenty involvement on the Reds right, with a total of 106 touches almost on a par with Coutinho’s 112. Inside the final third, the Brazilian was on the ball more or less as much as Suarez, with 63 touches to the Uruguayan’s 64 – Sturridge, on the other hand, had just 23; less than half Henderson’s tally of 48.

Henderson’s impressive contribution is again highlighted with the number of passes received inside the Fulham defensive third – a total of 40 was more than any home player. While Coutinho (35) and Suarez (31) were again relatively similar, Sturridge’s peripheral performance saw him manage less than half his strike-partner, managing just 15 before being subbed off late in the second-half.

In terms of distribution in the final third, Liverpool’s wide men made exactly double the number of successful passes as the front two (66 to 33), with Sturridge again the weak link – he made just 10 against the Cottagers, less than half Suarez’ 23. Despite making more successful passes in this area than any of Rodgers’ main threats, Coutinho was left behind by Suarez and Henderson when it came to teeing up goalscoring opportunities for team-mates; the latter pair made an impressive 6 “key passes” apiece.

Inside the box, Suarez’ extraordinary display saw him make 20 touches – more than the other three combined – though what also catches the eye is that, in the trio’s first match together in the XI, Coutinho managed more than Sturridge, by 9 to 6. Suarez leads the way for shots, with a total of 10 but, once more, Coutinho proved superior to Sturridge, registering more than double the number of attempts (9 to 4) and also bettering the former Chelsea star for efforts inside the area, by 4 to 3. Yet again, though, Suarez proved superior to his team-mates with a total of 7 harvesting a couple of goals.

When assessing the overall impact, it’s obvious that Fulham’s dire defence played a real part in such an improvement. At the same time, though, Coutinho’s stats, relative to his fellow Liverpool players, bode well for future returns and clearly show the weekend blank was somewhat unfortunate.

The data merely emphasises Suarez remains a phenomenon and is head and shoulders above his team-mates but the fit-again Brazilian not only looks a real differential option for our five-man midfields (at 8.5 in Fantasy Premier League, with a 5% ownership) he may well prove an alternative to Sturridge as a route into Rodgers’ side ahead of that upcoming schedule.

*The Technical Area is put together using the statistics and maps available in our members area. For access to such data and tools on every player, team and match of the 2013/14 season, and for exclusive members articles like this, click here for details.

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925 Comments Post a Comment
  1. Scottys Army
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    3-0

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    1. Smurf
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      4-0

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  2. Most Spectacular Post Fail Ever
    The Missing Link
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    The Erik Lamela Conundrum

    Basically we all know Lamela isn’t getting the game time he deserves. People are saying the French league is completely different and can’t be compared to the premier league so I compared some top players to come out of the French league and compared their stats in England and France respectively. This should give an indication to whether the top players can produce the goods in any league or if they play better in a ‘weaker league’.
    Samir Nasri

    In France (Marseille 2006-2008)
    - 80 games started
    - 0.13 goals per game ( 10 goals)
    - 1.83 shots per game ( 147 shots)
    - 0.25 assists per game ( 20 assists)

    In England ( Arsenal/Man City 2008-present)
    - 224 games
    - 0.18 goals per game (40 goals)
    - 1.53 shots per game( 344 shots)
    - 0.15 assists per game ( 34 assists)

    Olivier Giroud

    In France ( Montpelier 2010-2012)
    - 79 games
    - 0.45 goals per game ( 36 goals)
    - 3.15 shots per game ( 249 shots)
    - 0.15 assists per game ( 12 assists)

    In England ( Arsenal 2012-present)
    - 63 games
    - 0.38 goals per game ( 24 goals)
    - 2.89 shots per game (182 shots)
    - 0.23 assists per game ( 15 assists)

    Loic Remy

    In France (Nice/Marseille 2008-2012)
    - 180 games
    - 0.39 goals per game ( 71 goals)
    - 2.34 shots per game ( 422 shots)
    - 0.08 assists per game ( 15 assists)

    In England (QPR/Newcastle 2012-present)
    - 23 games
    - 0.57 goals per game (13 goals)
    - 2.83 shots per game (65 shots)
    - 0.04 assists per game (1 assist)

    Erik Lamela

    In France (Roma 2011-2013)

    - 67 games
    - 0.31 goals per game (21 goals)
    - 2.03 shots per game (136 shots)
    - 0.16 assists per game ( 11 assists)

    Conclusion
    Lamela’s French leagues stats are up there with the premium talent bought in from the French league in the previous couple of years. Remy, Nasri and Giroud have shown that they can produce almost the same stats they did in France in the Premier League.

    There are obviously exceptions like the mighty Gervinho(only 10 million in fairness) but at least he was given time and was given chances in the premier league. You can’t pay 30 million for a guy and not give him chances especially with his stats. If he starts nailing down a spot in the Spurs team he could be quite a handy player to pick up if he gets back to the form he showed in the French League.

    This language barrier excuse that AVB is saying is the reason he is not playing is an absolute joke. When AVB sees the light and has a look at Townsends appalling stats and Lamela nails down a spot, I will strongly consider him for my team with all his drops in price.

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    1. The Missing Link
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Apologies, I did not realize it would be this long 😀

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      1. Laserface
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        say this to a girl and you're golden

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        1. Theseus
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          Lol 😉

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    2. Scottys Army
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      gaston ramirez is another disappointmemt from italian league.

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      1. The Missing Link
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I'm an idiot 😀

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    3. In Tommy We Trust
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Not to ruin your whole work but Roma play in Serie A 🙁

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      1. The Missing Link
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I've said some dumb things on here but this one takes the cake.

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        1. J0E
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          Would you like me to completely re edit it and remove Lamela....wierdly its a great post about cross channel sickness or lack of it once you remove your key point from it.

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          1. J0E
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • Has Moderation Rights
            • 14 Years
            10 years, 4 months ago

            actually maybe I should keep it up as it is. Everyone seems to like this version more.

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          2. The Missing Link
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 4 months ago

            That would be great thanks, need to get some sleep I'm not thinking straight 😀

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            1. J0E
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • Has Moderation Rights
              • 14 Years
              10 years, 4 months ago

              Er....I've tried something else re the editing seeing as its an international break and its actually proving more popular because its such a brilliant fail.

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              1. The Missing Link
                • 10 Years
                10 years, 4 months ago

                Out of all the posts and comparisons I've done people appreciate the one that is completely pointless. Gotta love this site 😀

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                1. J0E
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • Has Moderation Rights
                  • 14 Years
                  10 years, 4 months ago

                  🙂

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                  1. The Missing Link
                    • 10 Years
                    10 years, 4 months ago

                    My Townsend, Hazard, Lallana posts all didn't make community round up but I think I might have finally cracked it 😀

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        2. HuttonDressedasLahm
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          I was wondering that.. All those sstats and you got the wrong league 😳 😳

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      2. Laserface
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        haha

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    4. Bolasie
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Lamela played in Italy, Roma.

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    5. Kostja
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      You often overlook who therse players are playing with. Nasri had to do it all himself in france. If the team is shaite than you score less goals overall.

      Just look at Ribery for an example, scoring double to what he did in france every season. Remy also often played as a winger in france

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    6. The Missing Link
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      The worst thing is that I visited Rome this year 😀 😀 😀

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      1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        😆

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      2. The Missing Link
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Back to the drawing board to find some Italian players 😀

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      3. Lawrø
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        😆

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    7. Kerrazy
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      um Roma ? italy ??

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    8. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      But Lamela played for Roma, which is in Italy

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    9. Whazza
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Haha :DD Sorry but you're Roma-France fail is epic 😀

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      1. Scottys Army
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        no worse than people yesterday thinking seamus coleman is english or welsh

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    10. applebonkers
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      please don't delete or edit this anyone

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      1. The Missing Link
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I deserve so much abuse for this 😀

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        1. applebonkers
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          it could be the most brilliant troll ever, albeit time-consuming. i'll running a UV light over the whole post to look for fish puns

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    11. Raddy
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Upvote for effort here 😉

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    12. The Missing Link
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      So basically I found that the French players haven't flopped in the premier league, Lamela never played in france and I'm a complete idiot 😀

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      1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Upvote for the humor & the effort though 😉

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        1. The Missing Link
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          This has got me more upvotes than my post saying that Townsend was a one hit wonder and would flop 😀

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      2. A.
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Plenty of up votes around though 😉

        On the plus side it was a well thought out and well-researched post, but for that one tiny detail

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    13. In Tommy We Trust
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Lamela could well be the flavour for the Jan WC once he's had a quick loan spell in France somewhere 😉

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    14. Dr Dream
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Top post all round...Despite the mistakes and humour the point is made...good job.

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    15. applebonkers
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      i would have upvoted if you included gervinho. although his links to roma may have rumbled the whole operation

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      1. The Missing Link
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I didn't include his stats because he is playing for Roma now and I still didn't realize my mistake 😀 I literally went on holiday and visited the Stadio Olimpico this year. Epic Fail!!

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        1. applebonkers
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          sacre bleu

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    16. GoonerByron
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      This post is superb... It couldn't possibly be better.

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    17. The Missing Link
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      That was 30 minutes of my life I will never get back 🙁

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      1. In Tommy We Trust
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        but will be reminded of it for years to come 🙂

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        1. The Missing Link
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          Oh the joys 😀

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    18. Lawrø
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      😆 😆 😆

      I would've loved to see the dread and regret in your face when you realised Lamela has never played in France, brilliant!

      +1

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    19. Granville
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Must go down as one of the classics. Your gravatar suits you sir. 😉

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      1. jurgenizer | TRIPEIROS
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        ^^ this -_-

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    20. Scottys Army
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      a shame none of the above played JUST 66 games

      a nice number ,,,,,,,

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    21. elkunaguero
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      are you American?

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    22. Breadbin
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Finally a post worthy of replacing "Faye or Roseinior" in the post of the year award.

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    23. 2nd Man
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Surprisingly this is more accurate than most posts on here! Brilliant, thanks for posting.

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    24. Woeisme
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Too good. Up vote for you 🙂

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    25. Lateriser 12
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Made my morning this.

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    26. jameswestport
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Hahaha brilliant

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    27. Just A Hat
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      hahaha

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    28. 7shadesofsmoke
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Amazing.

      Not been on the site so much lately so i am really glad i caught this.

      You sir, are a comedy genius.

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    29. Joburger
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Sensational.

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    30. Thomass
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      One word. Sensational

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    31. beepingmeeping
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Lamela will get into the starting XI eventually. He had a great run to win a penalty in the Europa cup. It also took AVB a few weeks to start Lloris over Friedel last season. This isn't anything new. If AVB did it for keepers, then all the more so for outfield players.
      (and yeah... ridiculous fail with the countries... not that it matters... all these stats you posted have nothing to do with Lamela, regardless of country...)

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    32. Piggs Boson
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Oh my. This will be a famous FFS landmark for some years to come.

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    33. HVT
      • 13 Years
      9 years, 8 months ago

      Classic stuff!
      🙂 🙂 🙂

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  3. Laserface
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Will it be the worst idea to captain Ozil this Gameweek ?

    Aguero - no silva, spuds defensively sound
    Suarez - Away game,fatigued
    Remy - meh

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    1. GoonerByron
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Could be great and a good differential but I'd definitely go with all of the above 3 over him.

      I currently plan to go with Aguero over Suarez and Rooney.

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    2. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      But vs Southampton though..

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    3. Raddy
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Not sure id captain against a very strong Southhampton defense.

      Can see Arsenal getting only 1 past them really.

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      1. Laserface
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        well , there has to be a game where saints will concede more than one .. and in all probability , this will be it

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  4. Alejo - CFC
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Uruguay 3-0 up and no Suarez goal ?..

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    1. Smurf
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      4-0

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    2. Pasqualinho
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Nope. 4-0 and no Suarez goal.

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      1. Laserface
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        good ,, let him return HUNGRY

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        1. Pasqualinho
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          I was hoping he'd get sent off so he misses the 2nd leg. No luck there - he's been subbed.

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          1. Scottys Army
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 4 months ago

            he wont get 90 in leg 2 no chance

            their through already

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            1. Raddy
              • 12 Years
              10 years, 4 months ago

              I agree.
              Unfortunately it's not fatigue from playing time that is worrying imo, but the just fatigue from the long flight and jetlag once he is back.

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            2. Pasqualinho
              • 14 Years
              10 years, 4 months ago

              Unless Tabarez wants to make a point to Rodgers, who, after all, didn't sub him when 4-0 up vs Fulham.

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            3. NATSTER
              • 13 Years
              10 years, 4 months ago

              Great.

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  5. A.
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    After doing a bit of tinkering on the transfer page, season ticker and RMT tool I have come to the realisation that the defender I most want in is McAuley, and the midfielder I most want is Sessegnon.

    Unfortunately, they both play for West Brom, should I be willing to double up on West Brom assets?

    They have a decent next 6 fixtures: AVL, new, MCI, NOR, car, HUL

    My current thinking is Clyne and Michu to McAuley and Sess.

    Is doubling up a valid strategy? I'm just slightly wary of it

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    1. Laserface
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      sess for now , mcauley after the MCI game

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      1. A.
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I have a shit defence this week, so fancy McAuley this week for his home game vs Villa. Have plenty of good defenders next game week to cover McAuley on the bench then.

        Clyne's fixtures have turned, so i'm thinking of just getting rid early

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        1. Whazza
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          Benteke won't stay quiet for long, I guess he will score against them.

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          1. A.
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 4 months ago

            Hmm, good point

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  6. Lizard Lips
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Anyone thinking of going to France for their holidays, I now a lovely little city out there, Roma, ask Lamela. tee hee.

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    1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      My wife and I are thinking of headed to the South of France, is Naples a decent option?

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      1. A.
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        These jokes could go on indefinitely 😛

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        1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          The Missling Link has provided us with a bit of humor to make the international break go by faster 😉

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      2. Lizard Lips
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Yeah, it's very nice down there. tee hee/

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    2. Absinthe 42
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      I hope Italy make it past Ukraine in these play offs.
      Would be strange to have a World Cup with no Azzurri.

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  7. Back to Back Ballacks
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Here it is folks the first ever Back to Back Ballacks RMWCT
    Pantillimon
    Skrtl Merteslacker Rat Chester Baker
    Nasri Gerrard Nasri Walcott Sess
    Suarez Remy Rooroo

    Draft 1 / lots

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    1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Let me be the first to say that having two Nasri's may be a bad idea, two Brunt's on the other hand...

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      1. Raddy
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I like the the two Nasri move- super duper differential.

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      2. Back to Back Ballacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        🙂
        Woops!

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          1. Back to Back Ballacks
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 4 months ago

            are you saying half of one of my players is good?

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    2. Pasqualinho
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Try again with less Nasris.

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    3. Parm
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      More Aguero.

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    4. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      First ever?! Wow.

      Its certainly different, i'll give you that, 5 decent midfield options (who's the second Nasri?)

      Who's the backup keeper? You do have a backup keeper, right? Pantilmon is not a long term option.

      With Reid out the West Ham defence is a bit less appealing, not sure on Baker either despite Villa's recent clean sheets. Chester isn't fit yet, will he be back by the end of the intl break?

      The front line is great, not sure about your lack of Aguero, but if you don't think he's worth the cash, fair enough, you have Nasri as cover.
      Is Walcott actually going to be fit after the break too? He keeps having set backs.

      Personally I'd prefer a Spurs defender over Mert too. Skrtel has been playing great, and doesn't deserve to be dropped, but with 4 CBs to keep happy there's always the chance he could be rotated out for a game.

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      1. Back to Back Ballacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Harper, both short term but I can handle them for a few weeks until they need to be changed.
        Chester should be back, not overly worried about 5th def spot, Baker will be ok for the 4th spot unless I go punting on Evans.
        you have a point might be better to go GJ in scouse defence if I can afford it.

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    5. GoonerByron
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Are people seriously confident in going with Panti? I would consider him as I'm on WC but surely he's nowhere near guaranteed to keep his place for very long?

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      1. Back to Back Ballacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Im going in with him and Harper, once they both dont get dropped same week then you will have the oppurtunity to get rid when needs be. 4.9 City keepers dont come round that often, grab it while its hot, then again i did get stung numerous times by Hilario over the years!

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    6. Gimli son of Gloin
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      I don't really like it.. the defense doesn't look like one that will work.
      Skrtel for rotation, Mert because it's Arsenal, Rat because no Reid, Chester and Baker because Chester and Baker.
      Nasri is a decent option. Gerrard is a pretty good option. Too soon for Walcott imo. Sess is good.
      Good front three. Not keen on Pantillimon.
      I'd downgrade a mid and beef up at the back.
      Sorry to be blunt - just an honest critique.

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      1. Back to Back Ballacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I hear ya, I need differentials big style so I gotta mix it up tho.

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  8. King Kohli
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Best replacement for Oscar from next gw upto 9.5m?

    Have a midfield of Hazard / Ozil / Brady / Whitt

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    1. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Sess?

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    2. GoonerByron
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      I'd keep Oscar... Think a double up on Hazard/Oscar could be very worthwhile for at least the next 5 weeks.

      If you really want rid, I'd go with one of Sess, Coutinho, Snodgrass in that order.

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  9. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    MOST SPECTACULAR POST FAIL EVER

    😆

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    1. Raddy
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Haha brilliant.

      Let's hope it gets an honorable mention in the community round up.

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      1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I am sure it will

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    2. Lizard Lips
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      (A) 🙂

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    3. Lawrø
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      It's probably my favourite post in the two years I've been on the scout, priceless! 😀

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  10. caio89
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Can anyone link me to the Snodgrass v Sessegnon comparison that a user posted? Thanks!

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  11. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    did suarez play full 90 mins?

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    1. Scottys Army
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      no subbed off

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    2. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      80 minutes, had to have at least 10 minutes of Diego Forlan's hair grace the International Stadium in Jordan

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    3. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      thanks

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  12. Crouch Potato!
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Uraguay 5 now, Cavani quality fk.

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    1. Scottys Army
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      nice they may use reserves for leg 2

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    2. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      5 goals and 0 for Luis, he must be livid

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      1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        suarez rested now for 2nd leg?

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        1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          They have no shortage of forwards at their disposal, either rested of subbed off early, don't think it matters much.

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      2. Crouch Potato!
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Didn't look it, will be delighte it is all done an dusted.

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  13. vodkapad
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Who do I play, Terry or Shaw?

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    1. Alejo - CFC
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Terry, Arsenal will at least get 1 at home v Soton

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    2. Raddy
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Terry by a billion miles.

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    3. Red Viper
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      are you sure you are asking this? Terry..

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    4. PGR
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Terry of course. No brainer

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  14. Raddy
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Since Uruguay have crushed Jordan already do you think there's any chance he might be let off the second leg and not have to travel to Uruguay giving us a nice rested Suarez?
    Or is this a fruitless pipedream?

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    1. Scottys Army
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      he may get 45 mins and then be rested

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      1. ⭐ Bemba_Da ⭐
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        no point playing him

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        1. Scottys Army
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          im being realistic

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    2. HuttonDressedasLahm
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Why would Uruguay "save" him? What for?

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      1. Raddy
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Who knows. Maybe club and country have an agreement where if Suarez isn't needed he doesn't need to be with the squad for the second leg.
        As i say a pipedream..can't imagine it happening

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    3. applebonkers
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      maybe he wont play, i think he'll want to travel home though for the 2nd leg, the match will be like 1 big party

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  15. applebonkers
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    last time jordan got stuffed this much dwight yorke became a father

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    1. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      😆

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    2. J0E
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      🙂

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    3. Crouch Potato!
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      🙂

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    4. Crouch Potato!
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      The first thing Joran saidto him was, my your a guy!

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    5. A.T
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      😀

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    6. Jordan.
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      😯

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  16. Back to Back Ballacks
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    OK OMG LOL PMSL RMWCT

    Pants Harper
    Baker GJ Mert Evans Chester
    Nasri Gerrard Walcott Sess Ravel
    Suarez Remy RooRoo

    (Brunt club skipper/trophy lifter)

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    1. Lizard Lips
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      This team looks superb to me, but not sure on Pants long term and Nasri to Silva is a must I think once Silva is back. For right now though, it looks brillant L D. 🙂

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      1. Back to Back Ballacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Prettay prettay prettay goood 😉

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    2. PGR
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Lacks some Aaaaaagtguuerroooooooo

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    3. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      I like it, though I would actually prefer McAuley to Evans, though he is slightly more expensive.

      How nailed on is Evans?

      Nice midfield and strike force though

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      1. Back to Back Ballacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Evans would be a big punt but.... thems the risks u gotta take when you ranked 1.8 mill!

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        1. A.
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          Wow, thats quite some rank.

          Bit of a comedown from the highs of the last 2 seasons, but i'm, sure you'll turn it around

          You've got to take a few gambles here and there

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          1. Back to Back Ballacks
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 4 months ago

            Sure is, I said I'd head down and sign a few autographs, my visit is over tho 😉

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    4. Phaze 1
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      No Aguero?

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  17. Lizard Lips
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    The hot topic of the day.
    The proverbial hot potato.

    Pantimillion.

    CAN WE INVEST?

    What do fellow Scouteers believe? Is this tall man tall enough to keep Hart from regaining his place? Is he there until he makes a mistake or is this a Sir Alex Lindegaard De Gea situation we've had before, there for a few games but just an example to say, hey Mr Hart, I like you a lot but you're concentration is damn lazy at times, stay focused and fight in every match your place is not guaranteed but we want it to be!

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    1. In Tommy We Trust
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Missing link has that accolade

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      1. Lizard Lips
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        8-|

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  18. Alonso The Great Midfielder
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    suarez to fly back early??? captain him now...

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    1. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Nope, he'll stay with the squad and go to Uruguay. Won't have to put a proper shift in in the game though

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  19. Mr. Perfectionist
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    On my WC.

    If you were on your WC which 2 players from DEF, MID & FWD would be the 1st to make your team??

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    1. Lizard Lips
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      DEF vert gj and kos
      MF Wally Lallana
      FW Suarez Kun

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    2. rohan
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Glen Johnson and John Terry

      Eden Hazard and Aaron Ramsey

      Sergio Aguero and Luis Suarez

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    3. PGR
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      FWD- Aguero, Suarez
      MID- Hazard
      DEF- Terry, GJ

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    4. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Vert, Williams
      Ramsey, Sess
      Suarez, Aguero

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    5. Mr. Perfectionist
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      DEF is my biggest issue atm. Chelsea are not convincing defensively atm and im not looking at Vert as an option for the next few weeks or so. I already have Mignolet so not sure whether to have him or GJ.

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    6. Gimli son of Gloin
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Coleman - Vert - McCauley
      Sess - Lallana - Ravel - Ramsey - Hazard
      Suarez - RVP

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    7. Reedy
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Fwd: Suarez Aguero
      Mid: Walcott? Brady
      Def: Can't pick two in isolation, since I'm a fan of 5-way rotation now
      GK: Boruc/Guzan amazing rotation but Guzan may have a knock

      BTW I think it's great that both you and Arvin are on your wildcards. Be very afraid, Spain 🙂

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      1. Mr. Perfectionist
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Yeah hoping to bounce back. Cheers Reedy 🙂

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    8. Mr. Perfectionist
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Thanks for the responses! 🙂

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  20. Back to Back Ballacks
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Here's a little clip of me trying to unlock the midfield conundrum

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HubZInAs0-A

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    1. Back to Back Ballacks
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      wowsers, nearly copy pasted the url from the youporn window I have open 😯
      😆

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    2. Lizard Lips
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      I see this scene and it instantly reminds me of

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8k0k6RcXg90

      🙂 🙂 🙂

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      1. Lizard Lips
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        kung fuiing that ass for a while now

        brilliant!

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        1. Back to Back Ballacks
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          Oh Ballacks where art thou?

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          1. Lizard Lips
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 4 months ago

            fancied a name change and let there be only 1 ballacks 🙂 i kind a like dr claw too 🙂

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      2. Back to Back Ballacks
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        😆
        "We are LEGO, We are interlocked in this shit Larry"

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        1. Lizard Lips
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          we f***ed her !!

          genius 🙂

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  21. Ich bin Klopp
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Does anyone here think that Lamela will finally oust Ribery from the France squad?

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    1. Scottys Army
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      he will get 66 caps imo

      pure class is eric

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    2. Back to Back Ballacks
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Don't you mean La Mela?

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    3. rohan
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      No because Lamela is Argentine

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      1. Ich bin Klopp
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Rumour has it he played in France.... he must be French!

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        1. Scottys Army
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          lol

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  22. Raddy
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Chester to get back in the first team just in time for Liverpool and Arsenal to troll those of us who had him since GW1...

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  23. Alejo - CFC
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Best choice Arsenal defender?

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    1. Jax
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      very inconsistent.

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      1. Alejo - CFC
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Im thinking of getting an arsenal or a spurs defender

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    2. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Kosc

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    3. applebonkers
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      koscielny or sagna. the italians have excellent pedigree when it comes to defending

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      1. A.
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        This is going to run and run isn't it 😀

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      2. Granville
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Ever tried spaghetti on crossaints? mmmm fusion breakie

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    4. LewanGOALski
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Why people are saying that Kosc ? Mert offers way more attacking threat, especially now with Ozil being on FKs

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    5. caio89
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Mertesacker, scores more BAPS than Koscielny.

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  24. FORCA INTER
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    think i will do checky Ivanovic ➡ Jones transfer

    big differential and UTD hitting some form

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    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Could be tough without Carrick.

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      1. FORCA INTER
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        even better , he will be more nailed on as DMF and nailed on for festive period

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        1. A.
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 4 months ago

          Why is it a good idea to get a DM though?

          Jones may be OOP in midfield, but I'd say that makes him less likely to get points than at RB.

          He got forward a couple of times vs Arsenal, but didn't look very threatening

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    2. rohan
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Good transfer. I feel you need to get Iva out from your team.
      Jones/ Evans is another debate but I feel Ivanovic out is a good transfer.

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    3. Jinswick
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Nah, dont like it

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  25. applebonkers
    • Has Moderation Rights
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    incredible, di matteo still being paid by chelsea http://www.theguardian.com/football/2013/nov/13/chelsea-still-paying-roberto-di-matteo-130000-week

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    1. Scottys Army
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      heard he was considering a job offer from his homeland

      bordeaux i think .....

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      1. theloveburglar
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        homeland? he's Italian lol

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    2. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      You can see why he turned down the Sunderland job, and hasn't taken another yet.

      Chelsea have given him £6m to piss around doing nothing for a year. Not a bad life.

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  26. A.
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Ok, so a serious point on the comparison tool for members.

    With the new emphasis on certain stats for bonus this season, e.g. Pass completion rate, making over 30 passes, and the others that come into it, could these be incorporated into the comparison tool stats.

    It would be handy to see how well the bap hungry players (Vert, Jags etc) do on these stats vs their teammates.

    Eg. Currently the Comparison tool says Walker is a better pick than Vert, as he gets forward more, more touches in opposition half etc, but due to the consistent baps claimed by Vert he is the better option.

    Anyone else want to see this included? If none of the team see this I might email Mark about it

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  27. Jinswick
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    Seen a lot of people say Kos is a better option than Mert - is this purely for the 0.2m saving?

    From what I can see, Mert has by far the bigger goal threat and also hoovers up more BPs....

    Pen area touches: Mert 16, Kos 2
    Goal attempts in box: Mert 6, Kos 1
    BPs: Mert 7, Kos 4

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    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      5.3 for Kosc is good value imo with their tasty fixtures coming up.

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      1. Jinswick
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I agree, but isn't Mert for 5.5m better given the bigger goal threat/more BPs?

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      2. LewanGOALski
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        I'd rather spend that 0.2 more and have Mert's goal attempts

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    2. LewanGOALski
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Exactly!

      Mert is way more better option than Kosc and the price difference is minimal. Ozil provides a lot of balls to Mert from FKs and corners. He will score some goals sooner than later

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  28. cruzex
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    who will rise first? Hazard or Lallana?

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    1. A.
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Lallana, both on ~70%, but Lallana is rising much quicker

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      1. cruzex
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        nice 🙂

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  29. cruzex
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    i want to buy hazard and sell lallana, but i am waiting for rising price lallana 😉

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    1. cruzex
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      fail

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    2. Whazza
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      Have you checked that your SV will increase?

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  30. Eboue
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 4 months ago

    This page has to go down as one of the greats. Lamela France fail and one of the greatest jokes I've ever seen grace these halls from AB! 😆

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    1. FORCA INTER
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      i've just seen that post

      and i am truly shocked , no comment for that error really

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      1. Eboue
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        He embraced it so admirably 🙂

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    2. Pepin - RIP Absinthe
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 4 months ago

      The Dwighte Yorke one? Epic 😆

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      1. Eboue
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 4 months ago

        Yep 😆

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