With a trio of Premier League teams switching managers ahead of next season, and possibly others to follow, we are in the midst of a managerial merry-go-round that could have a significant impact on Fantasy selections. Changes to line-ups and style of play can certainly have a serious effect on Fantasy assets, as we saw last season with the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. Here’s a brief round up of how the key changes at the top are set to effect our Fantasy teams next season.
Man Utd – Louis Van Gaal appointed
– He is likely to rebuild around Robin van Persie, so he won’t find others in his space and with pens and free-kicks surely this would make him essential?
– Defensive rebuild apparent but Van Gaal does like an attacking full-back
Spurs – Sherwood sacking
A lot of decent players but would expect further ins and outs. Regardless it must raise questions on the acquisition of any players at the start of teh season as much will depend on who is appointed but, should Soldado & Lamela quickly assert themselves, where will Eriksen slot in, and will the new guy motivate Adebayor?
West Ham – Sam on the brink
We have all enjoyed Demel and the rewards he brings as Sam has opted to play 6-4-0 or 4-6-0 at times, thus rewarding owners of defenders decent returns with clean sheets, albeit boring the pants off the “happy Hammers” fans. It’s looking as though his time is up, even if allowed pre-season, he will be first sacked after few poor results.
Losing his experience and defensive style of play may have detrimental consequence on clean sheet points as the board will be looking to appease fans with an appointment that brings a more attacking style – which may bring Andy Carroll onto the radar.
WBA – Mel out and much of the squad out of contract
Club in need of major surgery and will have to weigh up the appointments and squad after the surgery.
Aston Villa – For Sale
Who will be in charge? Will the owner invest over the summer whilst looking for a buyer? Surely no players worthy of serious consideration (Benteke may need time after lengthy injury) unless the club is sold?
Newcastle – Is Pardew staying? Is the Club up for sale?
If the Club were going to sack him, they had the opportunity after he lost his head and found it planted into a Hull City player.
Lack of investment and asset-stripping has been clear, and with fan unrest this is another club in need of change, and will have to be monitored before deciding if Fantasy investment is worthwhile.
One other thing to consider….
Liverpool in Europe
Brendan Rogers never had to rotate this season and selected from a small core of players with Stevie G and Suarez playing 90 minutes nearly every match – this wont happen next year!
Whilst they will start many of the games, during the group stages of the Champions League, Rogers will be forced to save his top players to keep them fresh enough to compete in both competitions. This will hamper Fantasy points, especially if Suarez’ price increases to £14.0 and rotation will be more frequent for the likes of Sterling and co.
