Technical Area

The Technical Area – Fabregas and Costa’s Chelsea Debuts Analysed

Chelsea’s Monday night meeting with Burnley saw a trio of players handed their league debuts for the Blues, with Thibaut Courtois, Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa afforded their first starts for the club. After racking up an impressive 3-1 win over the promoted side, the London club are already picking up plenty of new investors ahead of three very favourable home matches in the next five, with Leicester, Swansea and Villa all poised to make their way to Stamford Bridge.

In our second Technical Area piece of the 2014/15 season, we take a look at just how Costa and Fabregas fared as Jose Mourinho’s title favourites got their season up and running.

“chelsea”

As the average position map from Chelsea’s win at Burnley shows, Costa (number 19) was less advanced when in possession than either of the widemen, Andre Schurrle (number 14) and Eden Hazard (number 10). The summer signing’s hard work up top meant both Hazard and Schurrle managed more touches in the final third (45 and 34 respectively), while Costa’s 32 was just six more than Fabregas’ (number 4) tally of 26 – highlighting how advanced the Spaniard found himself on the ball, in spite of a starting berth in the double-pivot. Indeed, his central midfield partner Nemanja Matic registered just six by comparison.

The conductor in the centre of the park, Fabregas was ever available to his team-mates – he registered 111 touches and received a pass every 1.2 minutes, quicker than any other Blues player. Impressively, Fabregas and Costa were first and second respectively for passes received in the opposition half (44 and 40); an indication of just how crucial they will both be to Mourinho’s gameplan.

Unsurprisingly, Fabregas created more goal-scoring opportunities than any Chelsea team-mate – three key passes and a couple of through balls helped him serve up a pair of debut assists. Like Hazard, he failed to register a single attempt at Turf Moor, though did manage four touches inside the box (only one fewer than Hazard and Costa) and still endeavoured to serve up an 11-point return for his Fantasy Premier League owners, with his creativity looking difficult to ignore.

When compared to other forwards, Costa’s stats indicate he is exactly the type of industrious character required to lead the line for Mourinho. A total of 72 touches was second amongst strikers for the Gameweek behind Marouane Chamakh’s 73 for Palace – to put that into perspective, he averaged 1.3 minutes per touch, compared to Fernando Torres (1.8), Demba Ba (2.2) and Samuel Eto’o (2.4) from the previous season.

Amongst forwards, Costa’s 24 passes received in the final third was equalled by Saido Berahino and bettered only by Steven Naismith’s 25 – two players who were fielded in “the hole” behind a lone forward for their respective clubs at the weekend. This is a by-product of his tendency to drop into the deeper positions and led to him making just five touches inside the box, though there’s an argument that, after going 3-1 ahead, the Blues went into cruise control and simply contained their opponents for the rest of the match.

Whilst Andre Schurrle managed five attempts over the 90 minutes thanks to some speculative long range efforts, Costa kept his efforts constrained to inside the area – the Spain international fired two shots against The Clarets and sparked Chelsea’s comeback by bagging the equalizer after Scott Arfield had fired the hosts ahead. This backs up last term’s stats, where he scored all but one of his 27 goals for Atletico from inside the box, again highlighting an unselfish streak that is likely to see him find a team-mate rather than take a chance from distance. Indeed, Costa chalked up a highly impressive 95.5% pass accuracy in the final third on Monday.

Surprisingly, in spite of his physical presence, Costa isn’t too great in the air. Last season in La Liga, he won just 26% of aerial challenges and this continued at Turf Moor, with just three successful from 10 attempts.

Nonetheless, the pair’s overall contribution to the team cause shows exactly why Mourinho was so willing to splash the cash over the close-season. Fabregas’ stats underline his Fantasy potential regardless of that deep-lying position alongside Matic and, although it’s early days, Costa’s disciplined displays as the lone forward could well prove beneficial to the likes of Hazard. The Belgian had the freedom to torment Burnley with nine successful dribbles on Monday evening but, as mentioned, failed to fire a single attempt. With Costa alongside him, though, Hazard’s involvement in the final third certainly wasn’t diminished, which suggests he will be as potent as ever once his match sharpness is up to scratch.

*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 2014/15 season, and for exclusive members articles like this, click here for details.

Paul Is certain he won't make the same mistakes next season. Follow them on Twitter

1,232 Comments Post a Comment
  1. #NumbersGame
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Krul (Begovic)
    Bruce Caulker Chambers (Wisdom Lovren)
    Sterling Nasri Siggy Fabregas Ramsey
    Rooney Costa (Bojan)

    Open Controls
  2. Volk
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Name your Dream PL XI. Mine:

    .......................... P.Cech

    Coleman ... Koscielny ... Terry (c) ... Baines

    Alexis ..... Fabregas ... Silva ... Hazard

    .............. Agüero ... Rooney

    ...

    van Persie
    Courtois
    Sterling
    Sturridge
    Vertonghen
    Ramsey
    Ivanovic

    Open Controls
    1. Venom Snake
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Is that your fantasy or actual premier league dream team?

      Open Controls
      1. Volk
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        It is what I think is the best possible team from players in the Premier League. Nothing to do with fantasy football.

        Open Controls
        1. Saniul
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Then where is Yaya? 😯

          Open Controls
          1. Volk
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Overrated, overweight, no place for him.

            Open Controls
    2. Saniul
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      ----------------------------Courtois-------------------------------
      ---Zabaleta----Kompany------Mertesacker--Baines--
      -----------Yaya-------------------------Ramsey----------------
      ---------------------------Fabregas-------------------------------
      ---Walcott--------------Rooney------------------Hazard----

      Just my opinion. 😉

      Open Controls
      1. Az
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • Has Moderation Rights
        • 15 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        this looks pretty bloody good 😛

        Open Controls
        1. Az
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • Has Moderation Rights
          • 15 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          although would definitely definitely take a fully fit aguero/rvp over roonpig

          Open Controls
          1. Saniul
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Yeah, probably.

            Open Controls
      2. Mr_Partridge
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Cortoise you've see for one game 🙄

        Open Controls
        1. Fine, keep changing my name…
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Unless you happen to have watched any Spanish/European football these last few years...

          Open Controls
      3. Stoic Creme
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Strong! Definitely wouldnt want to be playing right back for the opposition w/ baines, hazard and ramsey running at me.

        Open Controls
        1. Stoic Creme
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Would probably take this instead though

          ----------------------------Courtois-------------------------------
          ---Zabaleta----Kompany------Mertesacker--Baines--
          -----------Fabregas-------------------------Ramsey----------
          ---------------------------Silva-------------------------------------
          ---Walcott--------------Aguero------------------Hazard-----

          Open Controls
          1. Stoic Creme
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            ----------------------------Courtois--------------------------------
            ---Zabaleta----Kompany------Mertesacker--Baines---
            --------------Fabregas---------------Ramsey------------------
            ------------------------------Silva-----------------------------------
            ---Sanchez--------------Aguero------------------Hazard----

            Final revision for me...

            Open Controls
    3. SW6
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      .............................Lloris
      Coleman......Vertonghen.....Koscielny........Kolarov
      ................Yaya...............Ramsey
      Silva..............Fabregas.................Hazard
      .......................Aguero

      Open Controls
      1. Saniul
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Kolarov ➡

        Open Controls
      2. Billy Gilmore
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Any team with Kolarov in it is good enough for me!

        😎

        Open Controls
    4. Wilshere Knowledge
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      ------------------Courtois
      Zabaleta Kompany Koscielny Kolarov
      ----------------Ramsey Matic
      -------------Silva Ozil Hazard
      -------------------Aguero

      Open Controls
    5. Shaps
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      ---------------------LLoris----------------

      Zabaleta - Kompany - Terry - Baines
      --------------Yaya ------Ramsey ----------
      --Sanchez-------Silva----------Hazard--
      -------------------Aguero-------------------

      Open Controls
    6. meeark
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      No Kompany, start again. 🙂

      Open Controls
    7. Dušan Citizen
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      -----------------------------------DDG------------------------------------
      Zabaleta---------Kompany-------------Skrtel------------Baines
      --------------------Ramsey-----------Fabregas---------------------
      ----------Tadic------------------Silva---------------Hazard----------
      --------------------------------Aguero------------------------------------

      Open Controls
    8. Lucy.
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Courtois
      Zabaleta - Kompany - Vertonghen - Baines
      Matic - Fabregas
      Silva
      Sanchez - Aguero - Hazard

      Open Controls
  3. Mindless Freak
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    How do they decide what goes in the community roundup? Is it the +'s or...? 😛 - Might have a chance this time, feeling excited.

    Open Controls
    1. RoysCallerAnne
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Don't think it's based on +1s. I once had a +52 on a post, but it was not strictly FPL related.

      Open Controls
      1. Mindless Freak
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Oh right. Hmm i thought maybe i had a chance 😛 Oh well.

        Open Controls
    2. TorresMagic™
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • Has Moderation Rights
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Jonty decides.

      Open Controls
      1. Mindless Freak
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Right, cheers. I'll wait to see if my post might be included then 🙂

        Open Controls
    3. Saint Steve-O (@EliteFPL)
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Simply put, if your post is an insightful piece addressing an issue/problem we as the community need an answer too... That should help

      Open Controls
      1. Mindless Freak
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Right, i'm not too sure tbh, it was more a fun take on the Mata/Fabregas/Sterling transfer issue.

        Open Controls
    4. Just A Hat
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I was in the roundup once and all I posted was who do you think will come out on top this season, Mark or Granville?

      Open Controls
    5. Scoredelario
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I got a few last season but they didn't have many +1s.... i think jonty just happened to be online when i wrote them 😀

      Open Controls
  4. Saniul
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Am I the only one who thinks the Germans won't be straight back to the XI against Everton? They would be rather eased in, I guess, and probably Mertesacker and Ozil will start the Fenerbahce game ahead of Chambers and Ramsey.

    Otherwise, from the last PL game, Monreal for Gibbs and Campbell/Giroud for Sanogo will be the only likely changes for Everton.

    Open Controls
    1. pundit of punts
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      You need to mail me your gw 2 team for Thomass' comp. 🙂

      Open Controls
      1. Saniul
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        What happened in week 1, PoP?

        Open Controls
        1. pundit of punts
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          We lost. 🙁

          Didn't get your team so I had to bench you.

          Open Controls
          1. Saniul
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Well, I couldn't tell you my team because I was chopping and changing till the last minute. Wasn't sure myself till the deadline.

            Will do this week.

            Open Controls
            1. pundit of punts
              • 11 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              No problems.

              Open Controls
        2. Zombie
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          We (MI) won 😉

          Open Controls
          1. pundit of punts
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            😡

            Open Controls
            1. Zombie
              • 11 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              KKR is my favorite team in real IPL though 😉

              Open Controls
          2. Saniul
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Congrats 🙂

            Open Controls
    2. CostaCoffee
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      When are Arsenal playing Fenerbache

      Open Controls
      1. Saniul
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Wednesday.

        Open Controls
        1. CostaCoffee
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Wow there playing 2 games in one day ?

          Open Controls
  5. RoysCallerAnne
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Hands up if you're Siggyless

    o/

    Open Controls
    1. Saniul
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      o/

      Bought Tadic instead. 😉

      Open Controls
    2. The Chosen One...
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      learned my lesson last season with Ramsey. at worst he'll make u a ton of money

      Open Controls
      1. Fine, keep changing my name…
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Maybe not with what appears to be the new price rise system.

        Open Controls
    3. quarry_settling
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      o/

      Open Controls
  6. Pinoche
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Play Krul(ast) or Foster(sou)? Ta

    Open Controls
    1. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      lol

      Open Controls
      1. Nabs Kebabs
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        lol

        Open Controls
    2. Scoredelario
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      krul.

      Open Controls
    3. CostaCoffee
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      lol

      Open Controls
    4. Billy Gilmore
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      loser

      Open Controls
    5. mojoindojo
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      why the lols?

      Open Controls
  7. Dynamic Duos
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Coutinho to score this wknd, hit double figures, the sterling band wagon is underway n he is 8.6, I think coutinho will shine this wknd, he score in both fixture last term n he has been called up to brazil, a really confidence booster, coutinho to out perform sterling this wknd?

    Open Controls
    1. piquiblanco
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      No

      Open Controls
    2. CostaCoffee
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Good luck

      Open Controls
  8. Kings of Lyon ★
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Anyone considering WCn in GW3 to get RvP Aguero and Walcott?

    Open Controls
    1. RoysCallerAnne
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I'm going with RVP ahead of Aguero. Based on fixtures. No hits.

      Open Controls
    2. Podge
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      After week3 yeh

      Open Controls
    3. Chu Young Ping Pong
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Theo won't start before GW6

      Open Controls
    4. Scoredelario
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Not me. I might get aguero in gw3 if he starts this week though.

      Open Controls
    5. Timtastic03
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Don't see how RvP justifies his price tag over Rooney, expect similar returns from both.
      Yes for Aguero.
      Theo is a hard one, he'll probably be eased back to a 90min appearance and easy to swap a 9mil midfielder for him (don't need a WC)

      Open Controls
  9. Jimbo123
    • 14 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    In my draft league I have the option of bringing in RVP in GW3, otherwise it means going without a UTD player..........

    a.) Get RVP

    b.) go without Utd player and spend elsewhere (bearing in mind the best forwards have been snapped up by my mates' teams)

    ???

    Ta

    Open Controls
  10. gravless
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    FAO HAZARD OWNERS / CAPTAINEERS

    Chelsea's team against Leicester will see several changes to the one fielded in the Burnley game, of that I feel there is no doubt.

    Now obviously Mourinho won't make 9 changes and many players will end up starting both games.

    But the ONLY 2 who are 100% stone cold certainties to remain are Nemanja Matic & Cesc Fabregas.

    Thanks for listening.

    😉

    Open Controls
    1. The Chosen One...
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Ramires to come back in a double pivot with Matic and Fab in the hole 😎

      Open Controls
    2. BurnySizz
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Source or opinion?

      Open Controls
      1. BurnySizz
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Because it reads as opinion and frankly cannot see it in the slightest

        Open Controls
    3. RyanC
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      The first two lines there had me worried for a moment!

      Open Controls
    4. pompeyfan
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Hazard will start

      Open Controls
    5. Bubz
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      What are you implying? That Hazard might not be in the team? If so, I respectfully disagree.

      Open Controls
      1. BurnySizz
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Exactly

        Open Controls
    6. Not Irish
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      :rollseyes:

      Open Controls
      1. Christina.
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        🙄

        Open Controls
    7. Takedog1
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      LOL

      Open Controls
    8. FPL Daniel
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      R u ok man?

      Open Controls
    9. Arvin-ation
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Schurrle not?

      Open Controls
    10. Big Col
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      How does Hazard get match fitness if he doesn't start then?

      Open Controls
    11. Doosra - ☭DeclanMyGenius…
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Not your finest post, Katie. 🙂

      Open Controls
    12. Heydudes13
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Are you daft?

      Open Controls
  11. JayBomb
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Pick One to Cap have both but uncure. Haz on peno's may tip the scale ?

    A Haz

    B Costa

    Cheers ???

    Open Controls
    1. RyanC
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I'm going Haz. Seems a nice semi-differential. Both solid options though.

      Open Controls
    2. t4thomas
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      B for safety, A for differential.

      Open Controls
    3. quarry_settling
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      A

      Open Controls
    4. Tinmen
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      My only decision and i'm absolutely torn

      Open Controls
  12. hazza44
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Ramsey out or playing this week?

    Open Controls
    1. RyanC
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Playing, almost certainly.

      Open Controls
    2. Saniul
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Will surely play, especially with him being out for the return leg.

      Open Controls
    3. mipola
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      he's not suspended in premier league

      Open Controls
      1. hazza44
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        yeh thanks

        Open Controls
  13. hazza44
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    People think Felipe Luis will play this week?

    Open Controls
    1. La Roja
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Yes I think so, but the again rotation will always be on the cards for him.

      Open Controls
    2. vova
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      It's possible as he would be a more attacking option at LB.

      Open Controls
    3. Reedy
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I'd guess he will, whether he gets 90mins on his debut remains to be seen though.

      Open Controls
  14. Mick
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    RMT if you'd be so kind

    Begovic/ Myhill

    Cahill, Chester, Clyne (Dummet, hutton)

    Ramsey, Siggy, Sterling, JWP(Routledge)

    Rooney, Aguero, Costa

    Open Controls
    1. WestHam14
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Have you played your WC to get that team, because it's looks quality mate 😀 literally that's the same team I want after a couple of weeks!

      Open Controls
    2. XhakaCan
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Very good, good luck with Aguero!

      Open Controls
    3. merdok04
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      looks great

      Open Controls
  15. Fifa las vegas
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    I wonder will Rojo be ready for the weekend?

    Open Controls
    1. Chu Young Ping Pong
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      ofc

      Open Controls
      1. Saniul
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        not

        Open Controls
    2. Bubz
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Doubt it, he hasn't played any football since the World Cup

      Open Controls
      1. Not Irish
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Yup. And LVG is somewhat obsessive about training and fitness.

        Could got to LWB but I doubt it this week.

        Open Controls
    3. La Roja
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Roja will be I dunno about Rojo

      Open Controls
      1. Fifa las vegas
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        What ?

        Open Controls
  16. Takedog1
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    when is RVP due back?

    Open Controls
    1. pundit of punts
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Probably this weekend. Expect a cameo.

      Open Controls
      1. Takedog1
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        ah ok thanks mate. aguero or rvp u think?

        Open Controls
  17. Not Irish
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    So what's the word today? What do we think is going on with the thresholds ie Siggy not rising?

    Open Controls
    1. XhakaCan
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Siggy should rise today, he's now on 233.4%, over twice the NTI.

      Open Controls
      1. Not Irish
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        He was at 205% before the rises this morning. 😯

        Open Controls
        1. Woy of the Wovers
          • 14 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Actually he had less than 100% of the price-rise threshold.

          Open Controls
          1. Not Irish
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Expound, if you will.

            Open Controls
            1. Pasqualinho
              • 15 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              I see 3 possibilities.

              1. The theory that we are back to 2011/12 price change rules is incorrect
              2. The theory is correct, but the threshold for the second price rise is more than double that of the first.
              3. Although estimated at 205% of target overnight, the actual calculation was less than 200%, based on the fact there hasn't been enough price rises to accurately calculate the threshold.

              I wouldn't rule any of them out, but I think no 3 is most likely.

              Open Controls
              1. Not Irish
                • 11 Years
                10 years, 2 months ago

                But then we could still be talking about the threshold being staggered as they were before in scenario 3. The most likely for me.

                Open Controls
            2. Miracallas
              • 12 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              Have a look in hot topics

              Open Controls
        2. XhakaCan
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Really 😮 I suppose FISO and TotalFPL get a better idea of the NTI of players as the season goes on and they're always up to a few percent off anyway. It does seem like the price system has been changed though.

          Open Controls
  18. La Roja
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Ok so this is my wildcard team, please rate this gang

    Vito 4.0

    Clyne Chester Hutton dummett Wisdom

    Cesc Siggy Rambo Sterling 4.5

    Kun Rooney Costa

    Open Controls
    1. waitinginthelonggrass
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Wouldn't go with Dummet, Haidara started all the pre season games and linked up well with midfield, whereas Dummet didn't against city. I suspect he was favoured for city as sits back more.

      Open Controls
    2. Ghost Ship
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      dummett out when santon back in a few weeks? Thin in defence but I guess you know that - would you consider Debuchy or a Chelsea player at the back and downgrading Rambo or Sterling (I'm having that dilemma).

      Open Controls
      1. La Roja
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Santon back middle of September, chuck in there couple of week for getting fit too.

        Open Controls
        1. waitinginthelonggrass
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          With a light defence you are better off going with a certain starter

          Open Controls
      2. waitinginthelonggrass
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        I'd rather have Rambo and sterling than Debuchy to be honest

        Open Controls
        1. La Roja
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          This

          Open Controls
    3. Kevin Twine
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Why are you wildcarding?

      Open Controls
      1. Kevin Twine
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Nice team, btw. I think I'd switch Aguero -> Bony, though, and upgrade the defence a bit - think It'll cause you problems.

        Open Controls
      2. La Roja
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        That's because I can...
        And I already have

        Open Controls
        1. Kevin Twine
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          🙄

          Open Controls
    4. Heydudes13
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Moore for Wisdom, more nailed.

      Gonna look at your original team, that team does look sexy though.

      Open Controls
      1. La Roja
        • 12 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        My original team sucks, do not look.

        I thank you sir

        Open Controls
        1. Heydudes13
          • 12 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Hm, can see why you were tempted to with Coutinho, Lamela.

          Pretty decisive about it too, no messing.

          Open Controls
          1. La Roja
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Yep, I wasn't feeling the team and not happy with decisions. Never afraid to wc if u ain't happy with it

            Open Controls
    5. The Chosen One...
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      surely 3 4.0's is asking for trouble especially on a wc

      Open Controls
    6. S.Kuqi
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Would have been nice team for gw1.

      Open Controls
    7. Takedog1
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      really like this team. altho i think wildcarding this early is pretty much madness. good luck tho mate

      Open Controls
  19. Scoredelario
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    I had a link to the contributors and mods leagues but forgot to save it. Someone post the link please!

    Also, mark wasn't in it... how come?

    Open Controls
    1. FPL Daniel
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      He was relegated due to last year score

      Open Controls
    2. Scoredelario
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      edit... i found it, and he is now in it.

      Must've been waiting to make sure he didn't fail in gw1 😀

      Open Controls
      1. Just A Hat
        • 15 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        can you post it here please? 🙂

        Open Controls
          1. Rohan304
            • 12 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            can we join this league

            Open Controls
  20. FPL Daniel
    • 15 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    "CRYSTAL Palace caretaker boss Keith Millen has delivered a timely boost to himself and possibly the club’s new manager ahead of Saturday’s game with West Ham.

    The likes of Scott Dann, Adrian Mariappa, Jonny Williams and Jerome Thomas could all be contention despite their recent injury problems"

    I guess FPL will finally realize and give Williams a price? Fecking amateurs they are mixing in with the midfield player (I think).
    We should e-mail them

    Read more: http://www.croydonadvertiser.co.uk/Crystal-Palace-given-quadruple-injury-boost-ahead/story-22783735-detail/story.html#ixzz3AwHeED4D
    Read more at http://www.croydonadvertiser.co.uk/Crystal-Palace-given-quadruple-injury-boost-ahead/story-22783735-detail/story.html#7v2B4lTbQkM1BMLb.99:

    Open Controls
    1. Demí
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Wot

      Open Controls
    2. pompeyfan
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      pretty sure he has a price, and it's 4.5m

      Open Controls
    3. Reedy
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      He's 4.5m, was added a while back. Wouldn't want him now they have Kelly though.

      Open Controls
    4. pundit of punts
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Lol

      FPL already priced him at 4.5m before the deadline.

      Open Controls
      1. FPL Daniel
        • 15 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        About time then. Good

        Open Controls
    5. Billy Gilmore
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      He's been in the game for ages 😆

      Open Controls
    6. Scoredelario
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      So he isn't jerome williams?

      Open Controls
  21. piquiblanco
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Is it possible that Young won't fall this week?

    Open Controls
    1. Just A Hat
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I doubt it, he goes down sometimes without being touched

      Open Controls
    2. Pasqualinho
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      *cue Young diving joke

      Open Controls
  22. gg1314
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    A) Cahill debuchy PVAh Yoshida
    B) Cahill chamber/monreal PVAh Clyne
    C) Cahill debuchy Clyne Hutton

    Open Controls
  23. Mr_Partridge
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Hazard is the best (c) choice this week imo

    Fabregas won't do it every week, think Hazard will explode this week but Fab is better value

    Open Controls
  24. Southampton Options
    Lucy.
    • 11 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Just wanted to say how overwhelmed I am by the support I received for my post on sexism last night. The huge majority have been encouraging and supportive and it's really renewed my faith in the community. Cheers to all concerned! For those that don't like the 'BS' and the 'PC brigade', maybe you'd like to reassess your position on gender equality 🙂

    Now back to FPL, now that's all out of the way. My latest on Saints:

    Out on the wing

    Isgrove is a definite no-no. I did warn before kick off of GW1 but I did see one or two posts about people asking if Liverpool was a one off. It wasn't and he's likely to fall even further down the pecking order if we're successful in signing the winger that Koeman wants. That might be Townsend (I hope now as I would like genuine width), it could be someone else. That is definitely worth monitoring.

    How does a new winger and Long work?

    I am yet to work out what the purchase of a winger means for Long. I assumed that he would work on the opposite wing to Tadic, as part of a 4-3-3 but the purchase of a winger would imply otherwise. I am left to conclude that he will either provide competition directly to Pelle or work just behind him as we lack a natural CAM. I think our lack of a natural CAM was underlined on Sunday as Pelle sometimes looked isolated.

    Gardos fitness

    Gardos won't be available for a fortnight, I don't think. So Yoshida owners are alright for now. Gardos has spent a few weeks overcoming a hamstring issue and hasn't trained properly yet.

    JWP vs Davis

    I thought Davis was more nailed on than JWP at the beginning of the season. I think that balance may well be tipping, owing to JWP's brilliant set pieces (and we all know how much Koeman loves a set piece) and overall energy in midfield on Sunday. However, I don't know if that's just my dark memories of Davis practically passing to Mignolet from 12 yards.

    Schneiderlin?

    Schneiderlin looks set to stay and I saw some suggesting that he might be worth investment at 5.5. It is true that our midfield lacks any obvious options, with Gaston struggling for fitness and a first team place and Tadic being that good bit more expensive. I would think it is worth waiting to both make sure Schneiderlin stays and in order to assess JWP and Davis. At this moment in time, I would rather have a nailed on JWP (should that happen) than Schneiderlin. Morgan plays in the double pivot but not in the way Ramsey or Fabregas do, rather more restrained, and he's not a natural shooter. I remember being at a game at Forest in our promotion season and someone, as Morgan lined up a shot, yelling 'NO OH GOD MORGAN, DON'T SHOOT'. He scored but that was incredibly unusual 😉

    Open Controls
    1. The Chosen One...
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      what, there was actually a hot topic on sexism on FFS

      Open Controls
    2. pompeyfan
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      nice post. I'd like to add that due to Tadic's brilliance from set pieces that JWP can't rely on that to stay in the side. Not saying to won't stay in the side tho

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Dunno if you saw the match against Pool but I would suggest that JWP was A) getting more of the set pieces and B) looked more dangerous from them.

        Open Controls
        1. pompeyfan
          • 15 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          no, only saw the highlights. Still the point remains, no one can stay in a team based on deadballs, especially when there is a great alternative there too.

          Open Controls
      2. Not Irish
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        There is absolutely no chance he hits them as well as JWP. His delivery is the best in the league already. Beckhamesque.

        Open Controls
        1. pompeyfan
          • 15 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          not sure if serious as I haven't seen that many of his fks - perhaps because he hasn't played that many games.

          I have on the other hand seen loads of Tadic and he has great delivery

          Open Controls
          1. Not Irish
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Very serious. JWP's ball striking is just epic.

            Open Controls
            1. Lucy.
              • 11 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              Yeah Southgate likened him to Beckham for the U-21s. It's very much like Beckham in the way his whole body almost wraps around the ball… that sounds weird. But I agree, JWP has the potential to be lethal from dead balls.

              Open Controls
              1. Not Irish
                • 11 Years
                10 years, 2 months ago

                Indeed. That ball he whipped into the back post Sunday was quite something.

                Open Controls
                1. Lucy.
                  • 11 Years
                  10 years, 2 months ago

                  Good corners too!

                  Open Controls
    3. RyanC
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Great post last night, Lucy.

      And cheers for the Saints rundown. I've opted for Tadic and Pellè going into the next few fixtures. I figure I'll probably drop one of them based on performances if necessary, but it'll be good to see how Tadic does against weaker opposition (I was very impressed with him against Pool). Same for Pellè, with better service/against a weaker defence.

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        I think Tadic could be a great investment in particular 🙂 I'm monitoring him closely.

        Open Controls
        1. CarelessGenius©
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Sounds creepy that.....

          Open Controls
          1. Lucy.
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Not THAT closely 😛

            Open Controls
            1. Scotty Pippen
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 10 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              All about JWP

              Open Controls
    4. Scoredelario
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Hello. Nice post! I was at the match at anfield on sunday. My first match for ages though because I now live in HK and was only visiting UK.

      In the past I was a regular at away matches, and I do wonder if you were one of the trio of ladies (related i think) singing "we are southampton girls" at a few matches I went to? 😀

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Alas no. Glad to hear there are vocal ladies at Saints games though! I go with my brother, boyfriend and dad mostly. I shout a lot and they look really embarrassed most of the time 😀

        Open Controls
        1. Scoredelario
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          I took my dad to his first ever match (he isn't a big football fan but decided to try it out). He said he was surprised how much swearing there was.

          Bless him haha

          Open Controls
          1. Lucy.
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Hahaha. Yeah we took my mum once to an U18 game, quite a while back now, to see if she got on with it. She spent so much time gazing at the seats and the stadium that she missed a ball coming straight in her direction and got hit in the face. But we always remind her because the shot came from Theo Walcott 😉

            Open Controls
      2. Elniñorules
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Hey! Any tips on scouting for cheap accommodation in HK?

        Looked at airbnb and found a hostel for very cheap in Mong Kok area. Hear it's not a particularly safe locale?

        Open Controls
        1. Scoredelario
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Come to lamma island. That's where i live and hotels are cheaper here. lovely place in my biased opinion - 25 mins ferry to the IFC

          Open Controls
          1. Elniñorules
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Thing is I'm around for only 3 days, so was hoping to be close to the main things to see around haha...also was hoping to pop in to win some money in Macau through a day trip.

            Open Controls
        2. Scoredelario
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          PS Mongkok is not dangerous, there's very little crime or trouble in hk, but it is extremel crowded and not a particularly nice place given the stinky tofu, cramped pavements etc. Saying that, maybe a true HK experience!

          Open Controls
          1. Scotty Pippen
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            One Night In Mongkok is a decent film

            Open Controls
          2. Elniñorules
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Oh haha that's just like some of the hawker centres here in Singapore then. Not as crowded here but I imagine what you say....Heard from a friend a bank around there got robbed amidst a gun fight couple of years back, so was starting to be skeptical haha...

            Open Controls
            1. Scoredelario
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              well i have been here 5 years and never even seen a fight except drunk gweilos (chinese word for white guys!)

              Open Controls
              1. Elniñorules
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 13 Years
                10 years, 2 months ago

                Hahahaha I was fairly surprised too. HK was a first world country I thought.

                Open Controls
                1. Scoredelario
                  • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                  • 13 Years
                  10 years, 2 months ago

                  I am also making it sound cheap and nasty because you asked for budget options... there are some ridiculously posh hotels too but they'll cost loads.

                  Open Controls
                  1. Elniñorules
                    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                    • 13 Years
                    10 years, 2 months ago

                    Lol that's the main reason I asked as the average price of a decent hotel was close to 50 Euros per night. Insane, that's as expensive as Singapore.

                    Open Controls
        3. Scoredelario
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 13 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          and finally - for the very cheapest option you could just head to chungking mansions and get a room for less than a tenner. It will be a very small room in an old, crowded building, but if you make sure you check the room before paying it'll do its job - has air con, a small shower ensuite and a single bed/ small tv. No need to book ahead there.

          Open Controls
          1. Scoredelario
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            PS Sorry lucy for hijacking your post a bit with talk of hk 😯

            Open Controls
            1. Lucy.
              • 11 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              Haha, not a problem. 😉

              Open Controls
            2. Elniñorules
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              😆 😆 I almost forgot amidst the excitement. Apologies Lucy!

              Open Controls
          2. Elniñorules
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Oooh great tip 😀

            I'm on the lookout for a place there already. Heard its kinda the redlight district of HK? Safe for girls to stay around there? Traveling with 3 other friends.

            Open Controls
            1. Scoredelario
              • Fantasy Football Scout Member
              • 13 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              well i would say you need to be outgoing and not too fussy. This applies to both men and women, although my wife is too fussy to stay there (damn why is this on the sexist thread? :P)

              Definitely head to chungking for a decent indian curry either way

              Open Controls
              1. Elniñorules
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 13 Years
                10 years, 2 months ago

                Haha you can vent all you vent on an online forum to strangers we know you'll probably never meet. That's why we're all here isn't it? 😉

                Top of the list this place then. Any top tips you have for a 3.5 day visit? Day trip to Macau should suffice or you recommend staying overnight? Into gambling et al. I hear not many things to do in HK apart from touristy destinations like Disneyland?

                Open Controls
          3. Kalix
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            I read "small tv" as "small team value"...going to take a break from reading now 😆

            Open Controls
    5. Reedy
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Good on you Lucy, saw that in hot topics this morning. Hope it changes a few attitudes.

      I'm interested in Long - it's a wait-and-see thing but someone mentioned the other day that Pelle's previous strike partner (though an average footballer himself) benefitted greatly from Pelle's hold-up play and knock-downs. Long could be his latest beneficiary.

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        That sounds to me like a very decent possibility. I haven't seen a great deal of Pelle but his hold-up play did seem extremely good. 🙂 Cheers!

        Open Controls
    6. Dr Dream
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Have you a link to the sexism post ?...Nice article on Soton as always. JWP will be an absolute steal if he nails a place...

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        It's a hot topic wakey 🙂

        And I agree. Almost too good for a 5th mid.

        Open Controls
      2. Olivier Bernards watch
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        I agree with this. I've even considered taking a hit to get him in for the west brom game, but thought better of it.

        Open Controls
    7. Heydudes13
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Tadic (C).

      Open Controls
    8. Olivier Bernards watch
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Just read your post on sexism on the forum. Well done. That was brave and it needed to be said.
      Out of interest, what's your PhD on? I'm just finishing mine this month (bites nails and vomits into a bin).

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Ah crikey! Good luck!

        Modern British History. 🙂

        Open Controls
        1. Lucy.
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          (no idea why I capitalised history)

          Open Controls
    9. Piggs Boson
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I must admit I was on the Isgrove wagon until Long signed. I thought he would play on the right of the 433. Strange that Koeman paid so much and yet he may be playing a bench role. You'd expect Scneiderlin, Wanyama, Taider in the middle. And if a new winger signs Long will be ousted to the bench.

      Open Controls
      1. Olivier Bernards watch
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        oh yeah, that's a point. Will Taider threaten JWP's place?

        Open Controls
        1. Lucy.
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Definite possibility, a fit Gaston too. It's nice to finally have depth!

          Open Controls
          1. Scotty Pippen
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 10 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Doesn't Taider play in a deeper controlling mid role?

            Open Controls
            1. Lucy.
              • 11 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              Yeah, I would assume he was Schneiderlin back-up but I don't know him well enough as a player. I heard he was a box-to-box midfielder but aside from youtube highlight thingies, I haven't really seen him in action.

              Open Controls
              1. Scotty Pippen
                • Fantasy Football Scout Member
                • 10 Years
                10 years, 2 months ago

                Fair enough,can't say i know too much about him either. Who knows what Koemann will do with his midfield. Hope he keeps playing JWP as his playmaker though he could have a great futire

                Open Controls
      2. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        I have no idea even what tactics he plans in the long term. Was the 4-5-1 just a temporary change for tough opposition or what? All needs a lot of watching in the next couple of weeks.

        Open Controls
    10. Not Irish
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Lucy surely you can't be excited about Townsend. Koeman is a serious worry for me considering that and the Long signing. Shame as I quite like Saints and you could be very good if you spend your money wisely despite all the departures.

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Not excited about him at all (as I tried to suggest above). It's not necessarily his level of skill that worries me but the type of player he is. He hogs the ball and cuts in all the time. Saints have built a reputation for fluid passing and great team play. I'm worried that he would upset the balance.

        I can't see Spurs accepting anyway because of the Schneiderlin situation 😉

        Open Controls
        1. Not Irish
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Oh. I misread/understood that then. You have the same concerns I do then. He's far too old to be so thick. He would most definitely be a poor signing. I for one hope you hold onto Schneiderlen and stay well clear of Townsend.

          Open Controls
          1. Lucy.
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            Oh I've just reread. In the original post I meant to put 'I hope not' and I put 'I hope now'. Hence our confusion. Apologies!

            Open Controls
    11. Comment removed. Please refer to our terms and conditions on posting comments.

      1. Piggs Boson
        • 13 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Yawn.

        Open Controls
        1. Lucy.
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Gosh, no idea how that disappeared. 😛

          Open Controls
          1. Piggs Boson
            • 13 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            The mods are evolving. Congratulations 🙂

            Open Controls
    12. Bubz
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I'm so tempted by a Jovetic to Pelle punt but I just do not know. He does have a touch of 'donkeyness' to him.

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        I guess it all depends on the service to him. I'd trust him to tap some in 😉

        Open Controls
        1. Bubz
          • 11 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          That's what I'm thinking, he is capable of putting a ball in the net if he gets enough opportunities. Didn't he hit the bar vs Liverpool or did I dream that?

          Open Controls
          1. Lucy.
            • 11 Years
            10 years, 2 months ago

            That was Schneiderlin. Good save from Migs actually (just). Then Long missed the follow-up.

            Open Controls
            1. Bubz
              • 11 Years
              10 years, 2 months ago

              Ah yeah. In that case Pelle did pretyt much feck all then 😆

              Open Controls
      2. Scotty Pippen
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        i've gone for that this week, giving Pelle a chance as I don't knwo how much longer Jov will keep his place in the starting XI

        Open Controls
      3. asquishypotato
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        It's on my list of things to do very soon, I'm just waiting for Pelle to bag his first goal or two before I jump on.

        I wasone of the few who had Van Wolfswinkle for his only goal last season, so I'm waiting before I go for any tall male imports.

        Open Controls
    13. 42towels
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Thanks as always! Very insightful. Glad to see your team proving the naysayers wrong.

      I had so much hope for Davis - he's my 4th rotating mid with Mutch. (rookie rotating mistake I hear)

      No transferring him out yet obviously, but do I play him (WBA) or Mutch (tot)?

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Ooooh no idea. I'd chance it and play Davis but maybe I'm biased. Maybe see what others think?

        Open Controls
    14. aquavit
      • 15 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Even before Sunday I was leaning toward Southampton, and even more now. The players I have are Clyne, Tadic, and Pelle. Could I do better?

      Open Controls
      1. Lucy.
        • 11 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Clyne and Tadic could be outstanding picks. The jury's out on Pelle but by no means a bad pick considering his price point. I don't think, with midfield an uncertainty, that you could do any better at this point. 🙂

        Open Controls
        1. aquavit
          • 15 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Thanks!

          Open Controls
    15. Exilizer
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Thanks for the great post. Overall that reads to me like I shoudlnt go near Southampton until things are a little clearer?

      Open Controls
    16. Daniel Porridge
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Whats happened to cork, saw him a few times last year thought he was decent.rarely played a wrong pass. Was he just filling n for someone?

      Open Controls
    17. Zep
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Good post...

      Think I'll be happy just to keep Clyne for now... but if/when budget allows, I'd be keen on JWP as a 5th mid... his delivery is amazing...

      Open Controls
  25. Test Eagles
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    is Naylor nailed on for Swansea?

    Open Controls
    1. XhakaCan
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Didn't have a great time v Utd but he should be.

      Open Controls
    2. Lucy.
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      After the United performance, I really wouldn't put my house on it. He had a torrid time.

      Open Controls
    3. Arvin-ation
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Not nailed on, but likely to start GW 2.

      Open Controls
    4. Scotty Pippen
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I expect him to start again this week, stillt he best option they have at LB

      Open Controls
      1. Twelve years a slave
        • 14 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        He was booked hence being hooked

        Open Controls
  26. merdok04
    • 12 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Check this out:

    Begovic (foster)
    Caulker-Ward-Azpilicueta (cameron-wasilewski)
    Ramsey-Mata-Hazard-Mutch (Puncheon)
    Costa-Rooney-Bojan

    Want to hang on to Mata through good fixtures

    Should I do the same with Hazard or > Fabregas

    Or downgrade Hazard and upgrade Bojan

    Open Controls
    1. Shaps
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Don't waste a transfer going haz to fab unless you're on youre wildcard. Looks a healthy team overall

      Open Controls
  27. Stoic Creme
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    After the City vs Liverpool game am contemplating one of these:

    a) Mata + Aguero
    b) Silva + Rooney + 1.5m to strengthen

    I think Silva will have a great and consistent season but wont offer the explosive captaincy potential of Aguero. Is that 1.5m extra worth it just to be able to put the armband on Aguero (whilst losing the potential to put it on Rooney)

    Urgh I think it's maybe better to have the 6m defender and no aguero =/

    Open Controls
  28. Mr_Partridge
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    Play Guzan vs Newcastle home? who haven't scored a goal, and villa had a clean sheet last game

    or Begovich vs Hull away? who was sloppy vs Villa against Hull who won away but may be tired after Europe

    My instinct says Guzan

    Also playing Vlaar

    Open Controls
    1. Drip Doctor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Lo, you've already made up your mind on this one, why ask?

      Open Controls
      1. Mr_Partridge
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        Scared doubling up on Villa, wondering what other people would do...

        Open Controls
        1. Olivier Bernards watch
          • Fantasy Football Scout Member
          • 10 Years
          10 years, 2 months ago

          Maybe I'm a bit biased, but I thought we (Newcastle) looked pretty good going forward against City, and we could easily have scored a couple. Also, last season, Villa's home form was a lot worse than their away form, so I certainly wouldn't be that confident of Guzan keeping a clean sheet.

          Open Controls
    2. Shaps
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Flip a coin then captain them

      Open Controls
  29. The Hindu Monkey
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    what are people's thoughts on Ince? Playing upfront and just 5.5 as a mid? Easy fixtures. Looks a potential massive dif?

    Open Controls
    1. Test Eagles
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 13 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      wait for him to do something frist methinks

      Open Controls
    2. Drip Doctor
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      I'd like to know this too, how nailed on is he?

      Open Controls
      1. The Hindu Monkey
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        trouble with waiting is because they have quite easy fixtures, people will pour on the bandwagon. Chance to steal a march now. I can replace him for Young in a team easy but I had Young on bench and Bojan starting. Would you rather start Bojan or Ince in that fixture?

        Open Controls
      1. The Hindu Monkey
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 10 Years
        10 years, 2 months ago

        I'm on it!

        Open Controls
    3. Arvin-ation
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      Nailed on for now IMO, especially with Snodgrass out.

      Open Controls
  30. CarelessGenius©
    • 13 Years
    10 years, 2 months ago

    After Snodgrass injury and Long gone, Hull going 4-5-1 or 3-6-1? 🙂

    Open Controls
    1. Shaps
      • 12 Years
      10 years, 2 months ago

      3-2-3-2 most likely

      Open Controls