481 thoughts on “Team Selection 2022/2023 – Final Team”

1. At 3m ake is very tempting now at Chelsea.

   1. Could be a good shout if the transfer goes through. I’ll be interested to see Eriksen’s price as well if he eventually signs on the dotted line. Elliot could be a potential bargain as well for Liverpool.

2. I think 433 seems best formation with defenders overall getting more points than Midfielders
   Going heavy defence and attack and going for some risks in midfield may be the play?
   I think Bowen and Creswell are a must for Aug to gain some points and money with there price and extra fixtures
   Think Walker at 4mil is a steal to
   Sancho bargain I fancy a risk with

   Good luck 👍🏼

   1. Talk of Cucurella (left back) joining City which would probably mean less playing time for Walker. With Cancelo comfortable on either side at full-back, I’d imagine it would mean fewer minutes for Walker rather than Cancelo.

      If City don’t make any further additions to the defence however then Walker does indeed look decent value.

      1. Not massively convinced on Walker myself, didn’t reach 100 points last season despite the season City had.

   2. I agree, I’ll be refining the team before we get started, was just dropping in a rough plan to start with. I’m liking Cresswell and Bowen but not sure against Man City. Not sure about Walker either, he didn’t reach 100 points last season, just doesn’t seem to get many ratings.

3. Allrite has the new WhatsApp group already been set up if it has how do I join ? I’ve just left the old group
   Cheers

   1. The link should have been in the email you got back when you signed up, if you didn’t pick this up, it is https://chat.whatsapp.com/JSxBjB2WhXrLx2reez6rrj

      1. Hi cheers thank you joined

         1. Thanks Gurdip, glad to see you back

4. Decent start I’d say. I notice you have gone for the 343. Midfield points were quite hard to come by last year with the big defenders scooping massive points

   1. It’s a tough one, I just filled the remaining spaces with the players that I think are good value. I’d love a defence of TAA, Cancelo and James but it’s just not going to be possible.

5. Looks decent Paul. I’d just be wary with the Doherty pick however. As much as I love the guy, especially during THAT season at Wolves, I would imagine he’ll be sharing playing time with Emerson Royal for that right side.

   Having said that, with the new five sub rule, there is probably always a very good chance he’ll make it onto the field even when benched and may pick up those lovely 5 clean sheet points now and again.

   1. I think Doherty is unlikely to make the final cut, as you say, just can’t see him getting enough game time. A lot of work still to be done on this team I think. Interestsed to see Eriksen’s price if he eventually signs.

      1. Djed Spence also signing so that’s even more competition for that right-back berth now. As much as I fancy Spurs to be fairly solid this season, it’s difficult to pin down those who are likely to play week in week out. Romero maybe?

         1. Yeah I’ve taken Doherty out now, three right backs isn’t going to provide any certainty in starters. Romero is probably the best option.

6. Any thoughts on Perisic instead of Kulasevski?

   1. Undecided on that one, if he was classed as a defender I’d be more interested for the clean sheets bonuses.

7. this season dream team have made it very hard to get
   players you want think maybe some prices are a tad high
   had a go last night got absolutely nowhere.

   1. I thought the same – really difficult this season which makes it more interesting but also makes it more of a lottery as we will all have to take punts on unproven point scorers.

8. JD you do get around son. Didn’t know you were here too thought I just saw you in that what’s app group.

   1. Not sure who this is lol which WhatsApp group is that?

9. pope
   Tripier
   A.A
   Maguier
   Boly
   Saka
   Sterling
   Courtnho
   Son
   Haaland
   Salah

   came up with this first go so hard to get
   Manny top pics in as you can see no Chelsea players
   what can you do.

   1. Looks pretty good, think we are all in the same boat, interested in Trippier – a lot of people seem to be going for him but I can’t understand why at 3m?

      1. think Newcastle could be a surprise package this
         season who nose.

10. oops sterling Chelsea.

11. United close to signing centre-back Lisandro Martinez from Ajax. Could this effect Maguire’s game time if the deal goes through? Gut feeling says he’ll probably start out as the under-study though.

    1. It’s a good point, I can see him starting as he’s kept the captain’s armband I think? Strange that they are in for so many defenders though. Would have thought they needed some more defensive minded midfielders myself.

12. Had a go at a first draft and this is what I’ve come up with:

    Ramsdale
    TAA
    Laporte
    Maguire
    Saka
    Sterling
    Neto
    Sancho
    Haaland
    Salah
    Rashford

    Feels a bit uncomfortable going triple United but I’ll admit I’ve been lured in with those prices. One thing is for sure, I don’t think anyone, hand and heart, will be able to say they are 100% satisfied with any one team selection. Very challenging but I welcome and relish the task.

    1. Looks good Chris, I think Ramsdale will be a popular choice in goal. I’m liking the inclusion of Rashford as well. He might be a player I look at given his value. I think growing team value will be more important than ever this season with us effectively being able to reset our teams during the World Cup.

       1. Yeah agreed Paul. I’m sure there will be a few transfers being made to jump on those bandwagons and maximise value rises.

13. ALLISON
    TAA
    BOLY
    ZOUMA
    SAKA
    STERLING
    BOWEN
    MbEUMO
    HAALAND
    SALAH
    JESUS
    FIRST DRAFT

    1. Looks good, I wonder if Boly will get enough game time this season but I think everyone is going to be stuck with a few players they will have question marks next to.

       1. If Boly is still a first choice pick, then at £1.5m he could rise very nicely in value over the first few weeks with Wolves’s decent fixtures.

          1. Absolutely – he did very well a season or two ago, I’m assuming he was injured for most of last season rather than out of favour as he didn’t play much

14. anyone interested in Kelvin Philips man city.
    only 2ml if he gets in and starts well.
    only problem with city is so rotation.

    1. Not for me, I think he will be too defensive to pick up enough points.

15. Hi DTT apologies if this is in the wrong thread but can’t find info on the wattsapp group for the season. Will this be out soon or available already?

    1. Hi John, there should be a link in the email when you signed up. But the group has been set up and can be joined at https://chat.whatsapp.com/JSxBjB2WhXrLx2reez6rrj

16. Ramsdale
    Tomiyasu
    Maguire
    Chilwell / James
    T.A.A
    Bowen / Stering
    Neto
    Sancho
    Salah
    Haaland
    Jesus / Havertz

    My first go at a team this season, could have James, Stering and Havertz instead, undecided what the better team would be.

    1. Very nice team that Gary. 👌🏼

       I find it interesting that nobody seems to be going for any City defenders? Do you guys think they’re overpriced?

       1. Wanted Cancelo but went for Trent instead, did consider Laporte but would prefer chilwell or James for the attacking threat, only able to get two higher priced defenders in my team, so hard this year

       2. I’d like a couple of them but struggling to fit them in. Feeling like I’ve got to pick between TAA or Cancelo and TAA edges it for me. Other than Cancelo, I don’t think I’d want to pay over 4m for any of the others

    2. It’s going to be tough settling on a final team for sure this season. Looks strong to me though considering we are all going to have to gamble on a few players. Tomiyasu stands out as a bargain but I worry about the double up with Ramsdale.

17. think this season I will be going with
    3. 4. 3. formation decent defenders are so exspencive
    you can get some half decent midfielders
    for reasonable prices. impossible to get
    certain players in like D Bruyne. Kane.

    1. I think De Bruyne is one I’ve already decided I’m going to have to leave out at that price.

18. Hey all it’s good to be back.

    Anyone read the rules where it says unlimited transfers while the world cup is on. Does this mean when the season ends in November then you could have a totally different 11 come boxing day?

    1. Just read the rules for myself looks like that is correct, will be very useful if your having a bad season and for injuries picked up in world cup

    2. Yep, it’s basically like having a wild card like in FPL but you can only do it in that window when the World Cup is on.

       1. Got ya lads, to be fair you would have 5 transfers in Nov and Dec anyway so not really that much difference to be honest

    3. Yeah that’s correct – think it will be important to build team value until the team and then be able to have a pick of more players during the reset period.

19. pope
    A/A
    Gabriel
    Rasmussen
    Bowen
    Diaz
    Jorginho
    Sterling
    Salah
    Haaland
    Jesus

    think after hours upon hours this is the best I can do.
    hardest season ever to get all what you want.
    thinks me needs a beer now.

    1. Nice one Don. I’m not sure Ramussen will be a starter for Brentford though so keep an eye on that one.

       Enjoy the beer Don! 🍺

       1. he is way ahead on on selection 4.7 the rest are 01 02 03
          I now where you are coming from Chris.
          its always the same just need 1 million more.

          anyway good luck this year cheers. 🍻

    2. Looks good Don, I’d only question Rasmussen but we are all going to have to gamble with a limited budget

       1. so frustrating Paul when we get to the end off selections
          just one more million will do.

          1. I’m finding that a lot – don’t think I’ll be anywhere near 100% happy with my team when the season starts but it will be the same for everyone.

20. Paul, is there any way you could remove the “get the password” banner when we’re already logged in mate? Cheers mate.

    1. I’ll be taking it off as soon as the season starts – my programming knowledge isn’t the best so I’ve had to make do with what I can at the moment but wanted the “get a password” option to be quite visible until the season starts. Is it quite distracting? I think you can cross it off but appreciate that it probably comes up on the next page you navigate to.

21. In the words of Dolly Parton, Here we go again, hope everyone is well, & looking forward to the new season, it’s definitely tough getting quality throughout the whole team, bargains are difficult to find, Kuslevski if secured game time, liking Guimarres at Newcastle silky player, Brighton keeper cheap, Erickson signed for Man utd today, also waiting on Kimpembe or Koulibady joining Chelsea, Romero at Spurs also decent price.

    1. Welcome back Dave, I’m interested to see Eriksen’s price in particular as a lot of the Man Utd players are fairly cheap. Not sure I trust them to get results still though.

22. wonder what price koulibady
    I say 4.5mil out of my price if it is.

    1. I think he will be around that price, out of my price range as well.

23. wonder why there is so much interest in Sancho.
    cant be his form from last year it can surly
    only be his price tag.
    not in my radar.

    1. His price dropped significantly part way through last season and I brought him at that low point with fixtures turning decent. He then scored me some very useful points for about 5-6 weeks and showed some of the potential we all know he has. He did fade again after that but I reckon at £3m he could be worth the gamble.

    2. It’s a hard one to justify I must admit, he’s in my team currently, I’m hoping Man Utd turn a corner and he could be pivotal to it.

24. Hey guys! Long term player of Sun dream team always love reading everyone’s write ups. Thought I’d chip in with my early thoughts.

    Some early thoughts on the prices and game this year.

    I agree that there seems to be more value in midfielders this year. Defenders starting price have really been notched up to reflect the unusual season last year. For me to start with it would make sense to really consider starting with a 343 formation purely due to value. I’m a big believer that the first month or two is very important, it can be extremely difficult to rectify a bad start with the game ultimately becoming city and pool 11. Team value is also very important in the first month or two, with you becoming very limited later on within the game.

    Goalkeepers – I think Ramsdale is very much sticking out at his value. Decent opening fixtures and quite liked by the WhoScored algorithm in what is an improving team.

    Defenders – I think it’s hard to justify the inclusion of more than one of Cancelo or Trent purely because of their price. Fixtures are pretty equal, could make a case for either. I would slightly lean towards Trent myself due to his greater assist potential. I do like Reece James and his price is slightly cheaper than both. When he was fit and playing last year he was as good as both, and at the slightly cheaper price I believe you could probably fit him in. His fixtures are slightly worse than city and pool, but still not bad.
    Value defenders – I think Cristian Romero at 3.5 will have a good season, with champs league which makes it more certain he will rack up the games. I also think Zinchenko at 3.5 if he goes to Arsenal, likely playing midfield could also be a shrewd pick. There’s a fair few mentioning Tomiyasu and at 2.5m the risk is low. For the first month could be a solid pick but I would be concerned about rotation in the Europa league with Cedric etc.
    Willy Boly at 1.5m if he does play, could be a very good enabler. I’m personally unsure if he is likely to start for Wolves?.
    I do feel as if the Template could be one 6.5 defender, one 3.5, and a further cheaper defender.

    Midfielders – De Bruyne as expected the most expensive at 7m. Not sure if I’d personally start with him at that price. I do think Mahrez isn’t being mentioned very much and at 5.5m with Torres and Jesus having left, there isn’t significant competition for places. I think Alvarez will play on the right a bit, but Mahrez will start. Also likely to be on pens in an extremely dominant team. I think he is good value.
    I think Sterling and Diaz are solid picks as well. Maybe slightly unknown in terms of Sterling at Chelsea and whether he will be back to his best or not. Diaz surely likely to nail down that left wing spot pretty regularly now, almost a forward really….
    Saka at 4m seems to be good value too. He is slightly inconsistent with his point scoring but I’d expect him to have another solid season.
    Sancho at 3m I really think could be the most obvious enabler. I personally think he’s going to have a very solid season. He’s started pre season very brightly too, and Ten Haag is renowned for his attacking style. He will be in most of my teams. Understandably people are still concerned about United. I think the signing of Eriksen will help.
    I also like Kulusevski, and he does represent pretty good value. My concern is that spurs have signed Richarlison and also have Lucas Moura. I think he will likely be rotated / come off early and it’s always very tough to compete with Son and Kane for MOM’s.

    Forwards – the obvious big hitters in Kane, Haaland and Salah. I think you could make an argument for any of the 3 over another. I think I’m likely to pick 2 and use the other spot to balance the team better.
    Jesus at Arsenal is the striker I’m leaning towards most as the third spot. I think he’s going to be a success at Arsenal. I also think Havertz, Rashford and Martial could be good choices too. A lot will depend on Ronaldo for the Man U guys.

    I’m going to continue to monitor pre season and the transfer market. Important to keep track of any injuries which could make players who wouldn’t usually play become great value. I think koulibaly will be 4 / 4.5. Eriksen maybe around 3.5 / 4.

    1. Thanks Eifion, some really good points mentioned here, thinking along the same lines myself with most of what you’ve said. Certainly think KDB is overpriced, Mahrez does look good value at 5.5m. Tempted by Maguire at 3m at all?

25. And just like that we go again…

    Great reading everyone’s thoughts.

    Definitely looks like it’s gonna be tough to pick a side. Tbf I’m glad you just can’t pick a block of defenders.

    Will jot my thoughts down when I get a spare day 😂 😉

    1. I think it’s going to be a tough season, glad it’s not easy but we will also have to ride our luck a bit.

26. Nice one Eifion. A good read.

27. Chances of United playing a back 3? Varnane, Martinez and Maguire…… could give Maguire the protection he needs.

    1. I hope so, I think Maguire is a potential bargain if they can tighten up at the back

28. Surprised that no one is considering Ake for 3m, unless I’ve missed something?

    1. I don’t think his move to Chelsea is going through so can’t imagine he will play much at City

       1. i thought it was a done deal, didn’t realise it hadn’t gone through. silly me!

29. I think United defenders do look to be value. I think for the first month I will be pretty cautious with them especially as they have quite a bit of depth at centre back now. I think Dalot is pretty nailed as RB and at 2.5m that represents value. At centre back they have a lot of genuine options now. Pretty sure Shaw will start at left back.

    Another goal for Jesus in pre – season and one for Saka. I think both could prove to be very steady choices this year and more importantly for the first month.

    I think as a whole Ake at 3m will be good value. However, to begin with I can see it being Walker and Cancelo mostly starting. Think he will be better value as the mid week games start kicking in.

    1. The only time where I’d consider Ake personally would be if his proposed move to Chelsea becomes reality. He will only be a bit part player again imo if he remains at City.

30. Ramsdale
    A/A
    Boly
    Coady
    Sterling
    Diaz
    Saka
    Jorginho
    Haaland
    Jesus
    Salah
    this is my second team just cant make any better
    no mater how I try.
    no one from Tottenham just cant fit them in.
    put in decent players takes so much funds
    it weakens your team big time.
    surly everyone else is in the same boat.
    glad to here teams and comments from punters
    please keep thoughts and team selections coming
    it does help big time.

    1. Looks good Don – first person I’ve seen with Jorginho, who for me is a bargain at 3m considering he reached over 100 points last season

31. Ramsdale
    C.Lenglet
    R .Diaz
    O.ZINCHENKO
    K.TRIPPER
    R.STERLING
    D.KULUSEVSKI
    R.HAALAND
    H.SON
    D.NUNEZ
    L.DIaz

    1. Looks good – I’d worry about not having Salah though and assuming Zinchenko is in if he moves to Arsenal?

32. Right after much deliberation, here’s my 1st draft team.
    Pope
    James
    Robbo
    Tomiyasu
    Dalot
    Sancho
    Mahrez
    Guimarres
    Salah
    Jesus
    Haarlind
    Prepared to swap Pope & Guimarres for Sanchez & Saka, not sure yet, waiting on Erickson’s price, & will be checking to see if Boly plays pre season, which could free up some funds, missing a Man city defensive asset but hoping Robbo & James can cover that.

    1. I do like the Robertson/James double up. Not sure I see the value in Guimaraes at 3.5m would be my only comment. Although his ownership does look quite high. What am I missing?

    2. Must admit David, I’m thinking of going for Dalot instead of Maguire for that £0.5m saving. From most sources it seems they think he’s nailed in that right back slot.

       1. I’d read that he was fairly certain to start at right back, it’s a tough one because surely Maguire is nailed on to start though.

33. Erickson only 3 million, do we keep Sancho as well, another well priced defender lenglet also only 3 million, should go straight into Spurs back line, from Barcelona so has to be quality.

    1. Eriksen is tempting but will he play a less attacking role at Man Utd? Liking the look of the Spurs defender as well at 3m

    2. Sancho has largely been starting in pre-season so is catching my eye a little more. Remains to be seen where/how eriksen slots in at United

       Instead of lenglet I’m preferring doherty as he is 0.5m cheaper and plays in a similar position to reece james so may offer some assist potential. just got to see if his position is secure

       1. I was keen on Doherty as well but I’m questioning if he’s going to start now – they’ve got Royal and Spence now as right back options.

34. D Gea
    Martinez
    A/A
    Tomiyasu
    Erikson
    Sterling
    Saka
    Jorginho
    Salah
    Jesus
    Haaland

    this is a revise of my ist team only
    regret is not having Diaz.
    cant get any spurs in. think this team
    looks good value.

    1. I like it Don, my only concern after last season is the Man Utd defensive double up

35. A word of caution maybe for those looking at Kulusevski as an option. Rumours about him reverting to a wing-back role. Below paragraph taken from FFScout:

    “Whilst early summer gossip suggested that the Swedish international could be the latest attacker to be converted into a wing-back, Victor Moses-style, it was Lucas Moura (£6.0m) who started there in Suwon.”

    1. Having said that, Spurs are not exactly lacking at full-back/wing-back so I don’t see it personally.

       1. My main worry is that his place will be on the bench.

    2. I’ve got him in at the moment but I’d worry about his game time as with Richarlison in the picture as well

       1. and perisic too

          1. Exactly, a lot of competition at Spurs now

36. RAMSDALE
    C.SOARES / BOLY
    CRESWELL
    SHAW / LENGLET

    STERLING
    DE BRUYNE
    J.BOWEN
    J.GREALISH / SAKA

    HAALAND
    SALAH
    JESUS

    Thoughts / ?
    Change grealish for Sancho-
    Change ramsdale for Mendy?

    1. Looks good, my only concern would be the Soares/Boly position, could be that neither of those start. It’s only my personal opinion but I think De Bruyne is overpriced as well.

37. Hi everyone, wondering if Jonny at wolves is likely to be a starter? Only £2m for an attacking wingback with great opening fixtures 🤔 Talking of wolves- Neto appeal to anyone? Will play as a forward but is a midfielder at £3m.
    Also…. What about Harvey Elliot as a cheap midfielder gamble? Will be see more game time this season?
    I’m trying to find a cheap midfielder. Harry Wilson of Fulham, on pens?? Brennan Johnson of forest, was immense in the championship last season. Any thoughts on any of these…???

    1. I’m liking Neto at £3m as well early doors Ian. I think if I were going for a Wolves defender I’d be tempted with Ait-Nouri at £2.5m or Boly at £1.5m. Jonny will face competition from Semedo for that right side but I see he’s currently coming back from injury so maybe Jonny could be a good early punt?

    2. I know Jonny had a good season a year or two ago but hard to predict if he will start. I know Chris is a fan of Neto so there’s definitely appeal within the community. Elliot is one that interests me, looks bright in preseason but I think he will start the season on the bench.

    3. Neto was one of the first names I had down! Big fan

38. OK, so I’ve tinkered with my team again and I’ve come up with:

    Ramsdale £3.0m
    TAA £6.5m
    Laporte £4.5m
    Dalot £2.5m
    Mahrez £5.5m
    Saka £4.0m
    Neto £3.0m
    Sancho £3.0m
    Salah £7.5m
    Haaland £7.0m
    Rashford £3.5m

    My concerns are having triple United. After a couple of decent fixtures, United’s fixtures stiffen slightly and I can see me wanting to possibly offload if United are slow out of the blocks. Also having no Kane is worrying me slightly too as he’s rattling the goals in pre-season.

    I think this pre-season is the most difficult to put a satisfactory team together by a long way from seasons previous.

    1. absolutely Chris trying getting in
       any top player is so hard.
       for me you will have to ditch haaland or Saha
       to get in Kane. its either top defensive players
       or top forward players with a week midfield
       to get anywhere.
       having balance in your teams means you have
       to ditch a lot of top dogs.
       we are all in the same boat as they say.

    2. It looks good to me Chris, any money in the bank if Rashford doesn’t get off to a good start? I’m considering him as well as it frees up 1.5m compared to Jesus.

       1. No money in the bank Paul which is a slight concern given the price point as I’m not overly keen on the other £3.5m strikers. Would probably have to change formation if his value dropped and I needed to get off him.

          Going to think positive though as he scored another in the last pre-season game.

          1. I think the biggest question is around if Ronaldo stays, if he goes suddenly Rashford looks an even better prospect at 3.5m

39. think I will be looking at Armando Broja if the move goes through
    to west ham looks exiting player 9 goals out on
    loan to Southampton last season. at 2.5 why not.

    1. They certainly need another striker. Antonio can be great on his day but they have no alternatives when his form dips or he gets injured.

40. With Zinchenko going to Arsenal, could free up City getting cucarella from Brighton, that’s a no brainer if he becomes a regular, 3 million.

    1. Do you think he will be a regular even if he signs? Quite a bit of competition at the back for City

       1. I think he’d be sharing game time with Walker and Cancelo would play either left-back or right-back. With the five subs rule though I’d guess that most wingers or full-backs have a decent chance of game time even if they don’t start.

          Pep did use the fewest subs out of all the PL managers last season however so bear that in mind.

          1. I don’t think he’s one I’d put on myself, could be a bit like Ake. I’d only really consider Ederson, Cancelo, Laporte or Dias from that City backline.

41. Anybody looking for a cheap midfielder, who plays regularly, is in the champions League, was majestic at the back end of last season, look no further than Alcantara at 2.5 million.

    1. It’ll be interesting to see how he scores from a SDT perspective now he’s had time to adjust to the PL.

42. Like Chris & Don’s ideas on Rashford & Broja, might start the season with Rashford &Dalot, for their 1st 2 games, then use 2 transfers, taking out Rashford & Dalot, for Cresswell & Broja, for the Europa conference games on the 18th &25th of August, so many decisions, just trying to think ahead.

    1. It’s tricky at this time of year, we are relatively close to the start of the season but also far enough away that it’s tricky to plan too far ahead in case we get an preseason injuries. Tempted by Dalot myself now

43. Hello again chaps. Back for another season. Love this first back and forth on the comments; like I said last year, worth the price of admission alone.

    Some feedback on team appreciated:
    Ramsdale
    Robertson
    Zinchenko
    Dalot
    Sterling
    Diaz
    Sancho
    Jorginho
    Salah
    Haaland
    Jesus

    Had to get Zinchenko in as midfielders who can get clean sheets are absolute gold! Jeffrey Schlupp won me my mini league a few years back and safe to say Zinchenko better player in a better team

    1. Looks good Ben, I’m tempted to get Zinchenko in as well, hoping that he plays in midfield for Arsenal. You’ve also done what I’m tempted to do – swap TAA for Robertson and then get Diaz in midfield.

44. Not a bad team that Ben, midfielders who got clean sheets used to get 2pts, but not any more, Zinchenko underrated, just not sure on the Arsenal double up in defence, missing a City defender like myself, keep an eye on cucarella moving to city.

    1. Agreed on Arsenal but like their fixtures. Had Tomiyasu but can’t triple up!

       What I meant with Zinchenko is that he’ll be listed as a defender but will still be playing further up the pitch and all that entails.

45. Tomiyasu, White and Tierney all picking up injuries pre-season so monitor that one guys. May need to reconsider Arsenal defensive assets if they don’t recover in time.

    1. That’s annoying because it will have an impact on Ramsdale. So many positions where I can’t settle for definite on a player I want at the moment.

46. Appreciate all these comments and tips we’ll done guys, I feel you guys are doing all the hard work while I’m just relaxing and taking notes

47. my thinking because this season is so hard
    to get a team you are happy with I reckon
    70 to 80% of punters in all leagues will
    be selecting the same players.
    I have been spending 4to 5 hours every day
    trying to get my team right.
    think i am there.
    watch this space. 🤞

    1. 4-5 hours a day?! I admire your dedication Don.

       I try to not to overthink nowadays (easier said than done though!) and not spend too much time deliberating. The number of times I’ve spoken myself out of a decision only for it to bite me on my arse is countless.

       1. being retired and sitting in doors in this heat
          not much else to do with. £250 up for grabs
          cant help myself. fishing twice a week for
          pools money its a habit.

          1. Do you play any other cash leagues as well Don?

             1. I also play our clubs super six league Chris.
                £10 I have 2 teams.
                we usually get around 70 for our dream team league
                and around 30 to 40 super six.

                probably exaggerated 4 t0 5 hours as you do
                probably around 3 through out the day. 😉

    2. It’s going to be difficult to get right from the off this season. I’ve been tinkering with my team quite a lot but still haven’t settled on a side I’m happy with.

48. has anyone looked at Arsenals midfielder
    Fabio Vieria instead of Saka
    he looks really good.only 3mil.

    1. 14 assists last season in the Primeira League last season is impressive. I’m always a bit cautious with most new arrivals to the PL personally though. If he hits the ground running though ala Diaz, then £3m could be an absolute steal.

49. I’m getting quite tempted to stick Lanzini into one of my other teams. He’s down as starting in most of the predicted line-ups, plays as an attacking midfielder and is actually down as the penalty taker on FFScout.

    Even if he doesn’t start every game during August he should get plenty of minutes with those extra fixtures. Potential bargain at £2m.

    1. It’s a shame they don’t all kick off at 3pm on the Saturday so we can check the line ups

50. Taken from FFScout:

    “Martial added to his strikes against Liverpool and Melbourne Victory with a composed finish from a lovely left-footed Diogo Dalot cross (£4.5m), while Sancho was electric on the right-wing and has arguably been United’s standout player of the tour so far.”

    Feels like Sancho should be an auto pick right now at that price…

    Also makes Dalot even more appealing.

    1. I think Sancho is a certainty in my team to start with, very tempted by Dalot as well given his value.

51. This is where I am at for now. Any thoughts please

    Pope
    James
    Robbo
    Maguire
    Sancho
    Saka
    Sterling
    Perisic
    Haaland
    Rash
    Salah

    1. Looks good, only question marks I’d have would be against Perisic and maybe Pope. I’m assuming he’s going to be first choice?

52. Perisic hasn’t been involved pre-season yet so there may be question marks over whether he’ll be fit for the start of the season. Rumours are that he may be playing wing-back too which isn’t ideal for a player classed as a midfielder in the SDT game.

    Looks good though that team mate. 👍🏻

53. Nunez 4 goals food for thought.

    1. Could potentially make a mockery of that £5m price tag.

    2. I think he’s going to be popular now but I wouldn’t take too much notice of friendly results.

54. Hey guys just came to a decision that there are too many players I want in my team, so decided to enter a second team into my work league.
    Ramsdale
    Maguire
    Dalot
    Zinchenko
    Marhez
    Eriksen
    Sterling
    Saka
    Kane
    Salah
    Nunez
    Any thoughts, possibly swap Eriksen for Sancho, bit unsure about slightly weaker defense ( no TAA or Cancelo ).

    1. Looks good on paper Gary. Just need to hope Arsenal get off to a good start defensively. I can imagine Nunez is finding his way into a few teams now.

    2. I like it Gary, I’m personally going to go for Sancho over Eriksen, tempted by Dalot myself as well. Not sure about the double up with Maguire, just because of how poor they were last season. I like Zinchenko as an option given that he should play in midfield.

55. Taken from FFScout:

    “while another new signing, Kalvin Phillips (£5.0m), slotted into defence as he replaced Nathan Ake (£5.0m) for the second half.

    And that’s a situation worth monitoring, too, with Ruben Dias (£6.0m) unwell and Aymeric Laporte (£6.0m) perhaps unlikely to be fit for the season opener.”

    Maybe we can consider going without City defensive cover if their two main centre-backs could be absent? Certainly need to re-think Laporte from my main team it seems…

    1. I think I’m going to stay clear of City defenders to start with, shame because of their opening fixtures but Cancelo is the main interest to me but no way I’ll be able to get him in.

56. Another “bargain” player I’m considering as an option is Martinelli at Arsenal. No real competition for that left side of a front three and scored again in the recent friendly.

    Could be a great enabler at £2.5m and a good way to get some early value into your team.

    1. If he was down as a midfielder I’d be keen but not sure as a striker.

57. He’s a great price Chris, & will torment most defences, should definitely start, only problem I see is if he doesn’t get off to a flyer his price drops & you don’t have money itb, it could be a problem, you could then take Saka out of team & put Bowen in from the off saving an enevetable transfer for the Europa conference.

58. Everyone seems to be overlooking Marhez. Always scores big…. Less comp for places this year.

    1. I’m certainly not JMc, he’s in my basket at the moment for my main team. He’s always scored well (if somewhat sporadicly) in SDT. A typical 6 GW score could be 0, 0, 18, 8, 0, 8. You just have to accept the blanks that he has from time to time.

       With potentially more game time he could very easily be the highest scoring midfielder at the end of the season. Who do we we think will be on pens? Mahrez still or will Haaland get the nod?

    2. I agree JMc, looks good value given he’s only 5.5m but I’m struggling to get him in

59. cant seam to be able to get A/A in any team of mine
    even K.D. putting them in weakens the whole team big time.
    think most off us in the same boat I presume.

    1. The sheer number of assists he gets makes him worth the money though imo. Takes the odd free-kick too which can end up in top bins. Add to the fact that he’s in one of the best defences in the PL for clean sheets then it’s hard to overlook him. Liverpool starting this season with a clean bill of health defender wise as well it seems which only further adds to his appeal.

       1. no where your at Chris but every time I put him in
          even with cheap defenders, money for reasonable
          mids drops right down. its a mine field out there.

    2. I’m struggling to keep him in my team as well. Robertson or James could save 1m so it’s a tricky choice.

60. Sanchez
    James
    Dalot
    Gabriel
    Sterling
    Sancho
    Saka
    Mahrez
    Salah
    Haaland
    Jesus

    after so much deliberation
    really like this team.
    satisfied at last. 🍺

    1. Looks good Don – I like James as an option with the saving of 1m on Alexander-Arnold

61. swapped Sanches to pope.
    and Zinchenco to Gabriel.
    now zinchenco has signed think he cant be ignored
    and it gave me extra 5ml to upgrade to pope.

62. Scamacca signed for west ham
    looks very useful on u tube.

    1. West Ham certainly needed more options up front. I’m a bit adverse to new arrivals to the PL in the main though until they’ve had time to settle. Lessens the appeal of Antonio now though and I doubt he’ll make any of my drafts now.

63. Has anyone else got Boly 1.5m in there teams? really managed to strengthen my midfield with him in, I’m liking Wolves fixtures but am a bit worried he won’t always play.

    1. I guess at £1.5m you don’t need him to play every single game as long as he maintains a reasonable PPM (points per million) return and the rest of your money is better used elsewhere in your team. I really like Wolves’s opening fixtures.

       If you want assurance of starts though and possible attacking returns, may I suggest Ait-Nouri at Wolves for £2.5m? Seems to have made that left side his own now and chipped in with 6 assists last season despite only being involved in 27 games. If Wolves play with three centre-backs he should be heavily involved when attacking.

       1. Yeah think your right about the points per million Chris still could be good value even if not always involved, I need to start looking at the game that way more.

    2. I’d have the same concern to be honest, I think he missed a lot of last season with an injury but doesn’t mean he’s going to slot straight back in.

64. Another player I’m keeping a close eye on is Harvey Elliott at £2m. If he’s playing most games, I guarantee that value will be much higher come the end of the season. Potentially THE bargain of the season.

    1. He’s definitely on my list as well, I’m also debating Mbeumo at the same price point. Didn’t do anything for me last season but could be good value.

65. Paul, when can we expect to see your next draft, interested to see what changes you have made.

    1. It won’t be too long but with 2 weeks to go, a lot can change with injuries and other team news so I try not to change it too much. Won’t be long before another revision though.

66. If you could offer one piece of advice to new-comers to the game, or old timers I guess for that matter, what would it be?

    Mine would be to not be too hard on yourself when a player selection or transfer falls flat on its arse. No FF manager is able to get every single call right. As long as your logic is good at that moment in time then just count yourself as a bit unlucky, shrug your shoulders, dust yourself off and go again.

    Mental strength and endurance certainly can’t be underestimated playing this game. Don’t let frustration get the better of you.

    1. Never, ever rely on players coming back from injury no matter how good they “look” in training or how appealing their fixtures are or how desperate the club are for them to return.

       Been burnt with this twice in the past two seasons.

       1. That’s an excellent one Ben. 👍🏻Especially if it’s been a substantial amount of time they’ve been sidelined.

    2. I’d agree with that, mine would be similar and not give up but in the most part if you just keep on top of your team management you’ll usually have a big advantage over people in most mini leagues who simply forget about their teams.

       1. And of course subscribe to Dream Team Tips! 😉

          1. 😂 of course, how did I not think of that one.

67. AHHHHHHHHHHH 😂 👍

68. Anthony Martial at 3M is Interesting choice and Under New Manager possible guaranteed starter. Dalot at 2.5M looks bargain and almost guaranteed starter. I’m tempted to leave Haaland out but ownership swayed otherwise price 7M cannot be justified when never kicked a ball in Prem. Salah was 4M when 1st signed for Liverpool

    1. in my second team i have left out Salah
       and put in Nunez with Haaland and Marshal
       with Diaz in m/f with D Bruyene and Mahrez.

       1. Re-draft time:

          Lloris
          Trent
          Ait-Nouri
          Dalot
          Saka
          Mahrez
          Neto
          Sancho
          Haaland
          Salah
          Jesus

          Reasonably happy to go without Arsenal and City defenders for now with possible injury concerns to key players. Chelsea’s centre-backs will not have played with each other much either so I’m not sure they will be solid just yet. I fancy Spurs to be reasonably solid with Conte in charge and fixtures are decent to begin with, not many Spurs defenders are 100% nailed though so Lloris seems the safe option for now. Liverpool are obviously the team to perhaps target defensively early doors but doubling up takes a huge bite out of the budget. Wolves have good fixtures and Ait-Nouri gets forwards we’ll too and I’ve discussed Dalot’s credentials previously.

          I’ve switched out Rashford for Jesus for now too. With Ronaldo seemingly staying for now and Martial having a bright pre-season, I worry he may have to share game time with Martial.

          Pretty sure I’ll be re-drafting soon though no doubt.

          1. I’m tempted by Lloris as well, Mahrez is also of interest. Need to revise my draft again soon. Haaland potentially got a few injury niggles, not putting you off starting with him?

             1. Yeah I’m certainly monitoring that as he can be prone to those niggles. The thought of not having Kane also terrifies me!

                1. I’m tempted to go with Kane to start and then see how Haaland gets on.

    2. I’m liking Dalot but not sure about Martial, he’s never done the business despite being at the club for a decent length of time. I’m tempted to leave Haaland as well as I’m hearing there’s a few injury concerns.

69. Looks good Chris. I’m just wondering if it would maybe be better to switch to a 433 and swap Mahrez for Robinson? That’s the main dilemma I have with my team as I’m still not sure Mahrez will be starting from the off. It’s a shame city aren’t playing until Sunday

    1. I’d imagine the community shield may provide a few clues for both Liverpool and City opening line-ups. If Mahrez is on the bench for that one then Robbo would be a pragmatic choice with the fixtures Liverpool have.

       1. It’s never easy to tell with Pep but I think Mahrez might get even more game time this season – new contract and less competition

          1. My thoughts too Paul but listening to Joe revealing his FPL team on FFScout, he spoke about Pep liking ‘most’ of his front players to press. Mahrez has never really been a player renowned for his pressing and neither has Haaland. Will there be room in Pep’s team for two attacking players who rarely press on a regular basis?

             Also, he mentioned that one of the main reasons that Haaland chose City, was that he knew his minutes would be managed and that he wouldn’t be flogged week in week out. This has started to make me want to start with Kane up front initially too until we see the lay of the land how City look to be setting up.

             1. I’m tempted to start with Kane as well and go for Mahrez in midfield. I think he’s decent value at 5.5m compared to 7m for De Bruyne.

70. I’ve had a go at putting together a team with the big three up front AND Trent. Certain things would have to fall into place BUT I don’t hate it if I’m honest. See what you think:

    Lloris
    Trent
    Dalot
    Ait-Nouri
    Mahrez
    Lanzini
    Elliott
    Sancho
    Kane
    Salah
    Haaland

    Obviously this team is reliant on Lanzini and Elliott getting minutes BUT at the price they are at do they NEED to play every game? Tempted to stick this selection in as a team to see how it gets on.

    1. Any interest in Mbeumo at 2m Chris?

       1. I have him in mind once they get those initial two fixtures out of the way Paul. Gets the tough fixtures out of the way AND we get to see how Brentford get on post Eriksen.

          1. I think even if he just gets a few 7+ ratings he might rise in value with the starting point being so low. Could be a good enabler.

71. Wow! Looks fairly potent! Well worth an entry! Bissouma for Spurs may be an option in midfield too at 2 million?

72. I’ve just had a little mess around with that formula too and came up with a 4/3/3 of

    Pope
    Zincenko
    Dalot
    Ait-Nouri
    Mahrez
    Sancho
    2 million man
    Salah
    Kane
    Haaland

    Definitely food for thought. Might be worth keeping an eye on Nathan Collins from wolves this season too. Has signed from Burnley but I’ve been very impressed with him playing for Ireland over the past few months

    I’m actually a bit torn now. I think that team could trump my original that I intended on entering to my cash league

    Pope
    Trent
    Robbo
    Ait-Nouri/Collins
    Zincencko
    Dias
    Sancho
    Bissouma
    Salah
    Mahrez
    Haaland

    1. Both look good, that’s the difficulty I also have. I tend to build 10 teams and have to pick one to be my blog team. It’s a bit of a lottery to be honest. Who do you think will be your 2m man in midfield? Any interest in Mbeumo at Brentford?

       1. I’ve gone with Mbuno. Regular starter and chips in, not many 2m players are going to start every week. He will.

          1. I might start with him as well, it’s not like he’s got much value to lose if he doesn’t start well.

       2. Lingard or Jacob Ramsay at Villa.

73. I’ve just had a little mess around with that formula too and came up with a 4/3/3 of

    Pope
    Zincenko
    Dalot
    Ait-Nouri
    Mahrez
    Sancho
    Lanzini
    Salah
    Kane
    Haaland

    Definitely food for thought. Might be worth keeping an eye on Nathan Collins from wolves this season too. Has signed from Burnley but I’ve been very impressed with him playing for Ireland over the past few months

    I’m actually a bit torn now. I think that team could trump my original that I intended on entering to my cash league

    Pope
    Trent
    Robbo
    Ait-Nouri/Collins
    Zincencko
    Dias
    Sancho
    Bissouma
    Salah
    Mahrez
    Haaland

    Any thoughts would be welcome

    1. With Chelsea, City and Arsenal defences losing appeal right now with injuries etc, it certainly makes it an option to go top heavy. Looks decent B.

74. Oops! Is there an echo in here? 🤣

    1. That was meant to be salah, Jesus, Haaland or Son with half a million spare. I’ve also been considering swapping Diaz for Bowen and putting Kane in with Jesus and Salah. I’m sure no matter what I go for it’ll backfire!

75. I was also tempted by having the big 3 upfront but just don’t want to leave Jesus out of my team, Arsenal having great preseason with Jesus scoring a few, did pick up a knock against Chelsea though

    1. I’m keen to have a 5m striker to have a bit of cash. I think this could be Jesus or Nunez depending on how they both get on early doors.

76. Thanks Gary. Yeah I don’t really want to leave him out either. Great potential to rise in value

77. I think the ten team allowance has never been more crucial this season to be able to cover all bases.

    1. I agree, it’s much easier with 10 teams, I partly wish everyone was only allowed 1 😂

       1. Now that would be the ultimate challenge. Really glad SDT have made it so much tougher this season. It’s really spiced things up.

          1. It certainly has, will be even more of a lottery for those just running one team though.

       2. I’d absolutely love that! 😂

78. Re-draft no. 3428 😉

    Couldn’t bring myself to go without Kane initially (although I’m sure in will in a few of my other teams). Had to find that extra £0.5m from somewhere though so I’ve downgraded Trent to Robbo (which I found quite painful to do in all honesty). Just didn’t like any other downgrades in my XI either. Anyway, now looks like:

    Lloris
    Robbo
    Ait-Nouri
    Dalot
    Sancho
    Saka
    Mahrez
    Neto
    Kane😇
    Salah
    Jesus

    Leaves £0.5m ITB.

    1. Hey Chris, I’ve been reading your many drafts and you’ve given me food for thought.

       First question; what’s your thinking behind the Wolves selections??

       Second: why Lloris, far cheaper keepers out there?

       Other than that, I’m liking your latest team.

       1. Hi Steve. Wolves are top of FFScout’s fixture ticker for the first six GWs. After that period I would be looking to move them on to get those players involved in Europe when it kicks in.

          Neto is essentially an OOP midfielder as he quite often is the furthest player up the pitch for Wolves. I know the Wolves fans love him and I expect him to have an excellent season if he can stay fit.

          I went for Ait-Nouri because he has very little competition down the left and likes too get forwards especially when playing three centre-backs. Boly could be a great enabler if he plays too and could rise I value considerably IF he plays and Wolves pick up a two or three clean sheets along the way.

          With regards to Lloris, I don’t like to use a lot of transfers over a season when it comes to the goalkeeper position. Conte has a rep for having well-drilled teams when it comes to defending so I expect Spurs to be pretty solid, especially when you see the additions they have made to the defence as well. He’s not the cheapest but I don’t necessarily think he’s overpriced either. Spurs have good fixtures to start with as well and he’ll of course have those Champions League games to participate in.

          1. Good info there re: Wolves. They’ve had a decent preseason to be fair. Neto was out most of last season wasn’t he, only played 13 games?
             I’d never heard of the left back, but again has had a good preseason and has the number 3 shirt.

             Lloris is a great keeper to be fair. Definitely food for thought.

    2. Looks good Chris, I’m currently looking to have 5 of your front 6 as well

79. Having looked at Guimaraes’s stats from last season I think I’ve been a bit hasty to discount him as an option. To pick up five star man awards from just 17 appearances is highly impressive. 5 goals during that time as well, so in a more buoyant and progressive Newcastle team there could be more to come.

    1. If he was cheaper it would be more tempting but I think he’s 3.5m isn’t he?

       1. Yeah he is, feels £0.5m too expensive but time will tell I guess. Worth a punt in one team maybe.

80. All doesn’t appear to be quite right at Chelsea at the moment. Tuchel really laid into his players after the 4-0 defeat to Arsenal pre-season, questioning the commitment of his players, both physically and mentally.

    I’m guessing he hopes to get some kind of response by dishing out some tough love. Making me slightly wary when pondering Chelsea players though.

    1. Tuchel doing what he did at PSG, in falling out with everyone. Why he hasn’t replaced Lukaku is a mystery.

    2. I agree, seems a bit odd, I’m thinking about going Mahrez instead of Sterling for that very reason.

       1. Not touching Chelsea players with a barge pole……needs to get a settled team first, which I way off.

          1. I agree, was tempted by James but I’m going to see how they start first.

81. I feel he is testing the new owner ‘look I need new players’. That kind of attitude would get you the sack under Abram…. Tuchel is famous for falling out with the boss

82. Pope
    Botman
    A/A
    Cash
    Mahrez
    Saka
    Gulimaraes
    Sancho
    Jesus
    Nunez
    Haland

    after looking at fixture list, have now come up with this team.
    no Zaha, have gone for Nunez, I no it was only a friendly
    if you watch it he looks as sharp as a razor.
    and it also leaves me with 2.5ml in the tank .
    I will keep an eye on every weeks fixtures to
    adjust the team as required.

    1. My big worry would be not having Salah.

       1. its a worry i no but have the funds to bring him in if need be.
          not having Kane is as bad.
          hopping I have the strength in depth to counter act not having
          Salah.

83. flipping heck.
    take a look at west hams expected signing
    after medical tomorrow.
    Scamacca. god our selections are going
    to the wire.

84. Hi DTT

    My team so far any tips would be great!

    Pope
    Maguire
    Coady
    Robertson

    Greyish
    Diaz
    Sterling
    Sancho

    Harland
    Slash
    Jesus

    Really wanna win my mini Leauge this year help!

    Thanks mate

    1. Looks good Scott, my biggest question mark would be against Coady, he doesn’t traditionally score overly well in Dream Team. Dalot or Cresswell might be a better option for the longer term.

       1. Agreed on Coady. He tends to be the one defender who just gets a 5 when the keep a clean sheet whilst his fellow defenders score 8+.

    2. Like the Grealish pick too. Haaland talking after the last game about how much he enjoyed linking up with him. I predict Grealish’s price to rise quite a bit this season.

85. Hi guys ,

    I’ve come up with-
    Ramsdale
    Dalot
    Romero
    Konate

    L.Diaz
    Saka
    Sancho
    Coutinho

    Salah
    Kane
    Haaland

    Opinions be great! :))

    1. Looks good Steff. Obviously Konate May face stiff competition for his place from Matip and Gomez so just keep an eye on that one.

       I’ve been quite surprised to not see any teams with Cancelo in them. When you consider City only conceded 26 goals in the PL last term we’d be daft to ignore their defence and he should play most weeks. Also, keep an eye out for Curcurella joining them from Brighton. Exciting left-back (who can also play centre-back if required). He’ll no doubt face rotation but he could be a cheap way into that City defence for £3.0m.

       1. *Cucurella

    2. That’s one of the strongest I’ve seen with the big three up front. I’d question if Konate will start though.

86. Could Linguard be a good 2m option. 1 year contract so will want to impress.

    1. He could be, but I’m not 100% convinced.

87. I think Jesse Lingard for Nottingham Forest at 2M cannot be Ignored. Guaranteed Starter Considering and did well on Loan at West Ham season before last.

    1. Do we think he’s got the mentality to do well? I think he had a point to prove when he was on loan but seeing him with his Instagram name on the back of his shirt for them announcing his singing is making me think he’s not all about his football 😂

88. Great team selection DTT, I’m sure it will change again before 05/08, and to the rest of you guys great input and plenty of headaches before the start 👍

    1. 🤕

    2. It’s definitely going to be an interesting season given how difficult it is to get the big names in.

    3. What’s people thoughts on positions to get most points. I’ve always typically loaded up strikers but last year defenders got lots of points which cost me in my mini league. HAALAND got 66% ownership currently. Actually think Maguire looks good value 😂

       1. Other than the goalkeepers, I think the other positions will be fairly equal. We could probably pick the top 10 point scorers now – TAA, Cancelo, Salah, Kane, Haaland, De Bruyne, Mahrez, Diaz, Sterling. I’m personally favouring have two premium strikers, a premium defender and a couple of good midfielders.

89. I’ve got a very similar team. I think lingard at 2million is maybe a better option and I’m taking a punt on grealish over saka can see him having a big season

    1. I’m tempted by Lingard or even Elliot. I’m also toying with dropping Zinchenko to a 2.5m defender and upgrading to another 3m midfielder. So many options

90. Surprised no one had mentioned Odergaard at 3m. Has looked good pre-season, has goals and assists in him and Arsenal have favourable opening fixtures

    1. He’ll be in one or two of my alternate teams JJ. Needs to add more goals to his game though but I’m in no doubt he’s capable.

    2. I think I’d be more tempted if he was 0.5m cheaper. The problem is having too many Arsenal players and I think Saka and Jesus are good value as well.

91. I’ve been reading some interesting comments from Conte surrounding the signing of Djed Spence. He basically said that it was the “club” that wanted to sign him and not him personally. Considered as “one for future” by all accounts.

    Now considering Emerson Royal fell out of favour with Conte last season and Doherty played most games towards the end of the season, my boy Doherty has come into my thoughts again, at least for this first month of the new season. Absolute steal at £2.5m if he plays that first month with those fixtures.😍

    1. He was in my first draft but I don’t like starting with a player who might not even start the first game. With 5 subs this season, he might get on anyway.

    2. Kinda cooling off on Doherty again now. Moura has been utilised quite often as a wing-back on the right side pre-season. Too much competition to allow me to feel comfortable with that selection now.

92. On your team Paul, I like the look of it especially the price points you’ve got there. Those first two fixtures are quite tough for Arsenal but after that they have a lovely run.

    Looks like Zinchenko will probably start at left back with Tierney once again suffering with injuries. Once he moves into midfield he becomes even more desirable.

    1. It’s a tricky choice, I may downgrade Zinchenko to move away from the 2m midfield slot. 3.5m is still a little pricey for me.

93. Hey guys, haven’t had much input recently, on holiday & not back till 7th August, but checking in now & again to see people’s ideas & suggestions, I’m currently having a problem putting another team in a cash mini league, I have the pin number but it keeps directing me to another mini league not of my choice, I’m basically selecting team name, choosing formation, & selecting team, from their I have no option but to press save, & then join mini league, & lastly entering pin number, is that the step by step process everyone is using, I’m sure theirs a simple solution, I don’t want to use up my full allocation of teams, if their being entered into a mini league not of my choice. thanx in advance for any help.

    1. Sounds like a strange one that David. Maybe contact SDT direct if it’s not letting you get the correct ML. Is the pin 100% correct?

    2. Have you managed to sort it Dave? Seems a stange one

94. I’ve compiled a list of players that interest me (for anyone interested) and have broken them down into Levels, with 1 being the most desirable. Not sure if KDB needs bumping up to level 1 with the pre-season he’s having. Please feel free to comment and make suggestions. All input very much welcome.

    Level 1
    Kane 7.5
    Salah 7.5
    Haaland 7.0
    Alexander-Arnold 6.5
    Cancelo 6.5

    Level 2
    De-Bruyne 7.0
    Son 6.5
    Mahrez 5.5
    Robertson 5.5
    Fernandes 5.5
    James 5.5
    Chilwell 5.0
    Sterling 5.0
    Mount 5.0
    Dias 5.0
    Maddison 5.0
    Diaz 5.0
    Jesus 5.0
    Foden 5.0
    Allison 4.5
    Ederson 4.5
    Bowen 4.5
    Grealish 4.0
    Saka 4.0
    Mendy 4.0
    Lloris 3.5
    Kulusevski 3.5

    Level 3
    VVD 6.0
    Nunez 5.0
    Koulibaly 4.5
    Vardy 4.5
    Laporte 4.5
    Silva 4.5
    Rashford 3.5
    Chalobah 3.5
    Zinchenko 3.5
    Guimaraes 3.5
    Romero 3.5
    Schmeichel 3.0
    De Gea 3.0
    Trippier 3.0
    Maguire 3.0
    Ake 3.0
    Martial 3.0
    Lenglet 3.0
    Odegaard 3.0
    Sarr 3.0
    Sancho 3.0
    Fornals 3.0
    Ramsdale 3.0
    Neto 3.0
    Cresswell 2.5
    Doherty 2.5
    Coufal 2.5
    Castagne 2.5
    Dalot 2.5
    Justin 2.5
    Tomiyasu 2.5
    Johnson 2.5
    Martinelli 2.5
    Ait-Nouri 2.5
    Lanzini 2.0
    Elliott 2.0
    Mbuemo 2.0
    Lingard 2.0
    Boly 1.5

    1. Can’t argue with that list Chris – looks very comprehensive. Not sure about KDB, I keep writing him off as being too high in price but if he stays fit, he’s going to be up there as one of the highest scorers this season.

95. interesting list Chris.
    think pope deserves a thought 2.5ml.
    he is definitely on my radar. 👍

    1. Yeah, decent price to be fair. I’ll add him to my level 3. It’s just those fixtures after the initial two that put me off Newcastle slightly.

       1. yes after the first 2 matches will be looking to off load
          any Newcastle players in my team.

    2. Never thought I’d ever have Martial on a shortlist again that’s for sure!😂

96. Come on Lionesses! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

97. Podence from wolves might be worth a look too. At 3 million not so much a bargain but he’s having a blinding pre season and from what I’ve read he’s going to be wolves main man if they switch to 4 at the back

    1. Wolves look a decent bet in general early doors. I’ve not got him in any teams but I’d love to see Jimenez regain his form. Hasn’t quite been the same since he came back, which is understandable to a degree.

    2. Is he down as a midfielder or a striker? Could be more tempted if he’s a mid

98. It appears Ronaldo going anywhere so does he come into the equation now? He’s not had a preseason though so I’d imagine he’ll have to hide his time initially.

    1. *bide his time

    2. I won’t be considering him anytime soon I can’t imagine but you never know. He will probably start scoring straight away if he does stay.

99. was hoping he was of.
    bad news for those wanting
    to use Rashford or Martial.

100. I’ll be putting my final team into a mini league soon, contact sdt if theirs a problem, I may include Coufal in that, & possibly Dunk/ Lamptey as well, all competitively priced.

101. Evening All

     I’m a few drafts in and I thought it was about time I asked for everyone’s advise.

     Ramsdale

     TAA
     Dalot
     Cancelo
     Doherty

     Lingard
     Elliot
     Jorginho

     Kane
     Salah
     Haaland

     I want the big 3 up front.
     I feel like the back 4 is strong.
     Not the best midfield but with the defence out scoring the midfield. I feel quite happy with my team atm.

     Any thoughts?
     Creswell maybe for the West Ham coverage in the first month.

     Jesus for Haaland which frees cash for the midfield.

     So many options.

     Thanks

     1. I like the team DC, I’ve personally opted to only have 2 of the big 3 up front in my main team. I personally want to invest those funds in a stronger midfield. I’d be worried about having Lingard and Elliot in the same team.

     2. I like Cresswell but fixtures are a bit mixed, although they do have the extra games. Also is Jorginho going to play week in week out? Quite often Kante and Kovacic play in that double pivot role.

        I’m reasonably happy to steer clear most of that Chelsea team for now. Obviously the big three could score absolutely crazy.

102. Another player having a good preseason and with nice opening three fixtures is Bailey at Villa. Proving to be quite popular amongst the FPL community.👀

     1. Should play part of a three-pronged attack of Watkins, Coutinho and himself.

        1. He’s gone a bit under the radar for me, must admit I’d prefer Coutinho for the extra 0.5m

103. Jimenez is “expected to be out for a number of weeks” with an MCL strain and an adductor strain, according to team Doctor Rob Chakraverty.

     This news has kinda made me cool off on Neto a little. Like the idea of Neto playing off Jimenez, not as appealing with someone else up front. Time to redraft again I think…

104. Re-draft:

     Lloris
     Trent
     Cancelo
     Ait-Nouri
     Dalot
     Grealish
     Kulusevski
     Sancho
     Kane
     Salah
     Martinelli

     Leaves £0.5m itb

     I’ve decided to simplify my decision making now with this draft. It now looks as though Dias is going to be fine for the start of the season now so that increases my confidence in City being solid from the outset. Also, Jimmy getting injured reduces the appeal of Neto for me so he comes out of this draft. I’ve basically plumped for the top points scorers of last season (by some margin) – Salah, Trent, Kane and Cancelo and tried to find the best, what I consider to be, value options to hopefully build that value. Grealish looking good pre-season (2nd most pre-season minutes under his belt in that City squad) and Foden hasn’t kicked a ball yet so I’m confident his game time should be decent, at least initially.

     1. not to worried about Chelsea then Chris.

        1. As daft as it sounds Don no, at least not initially and not from a defensive point of view. Tuchel really not happy with things, both from a playing staff AND those working above him situation. If/when Chelsea gets themselves together again, then obviously I’ll have to address it then.

           Cue the 7-0 demolition of Everton GW1…😂

           1. I think I overlooked them at the start of last season because of difficult fixtures and they started very well. Things don’t seem right at the moment though.

     2. Good team Chris, any concerns about upgrading Martinelli though?

        1. Yeah, normally it’s the kind of price point I’d like to avoid, however, as long as he stays fit and playing and keeps chipping in, then I’m happy to hold him until October. I’m hoping by that time his value may be around the £3.5m mark.

           All ifs and buts I know but I think he has the potential to be THE value pick. When you consider in FPL that he’s priced the same as Reece James, that tells you that he’s severely under-priced in the SDT game.

           1. He’s definitely underpriced. Just wish he was down as a midfielder.

105. This has been the most challenging start to date but reassuring to know that is the consensus view. Here is my first draft ( for what it’s worth) . Any comments welcome.
     Ramsdale
     Dalot
     A.A.
     Docherty or Ait Nouri
     Mahrez
     Sancho
     Saka
     Kane
     Salah
     Martinelli

     Leaves £ 2 m in bank. That being roughly the ammount I had left in previous seasons.

     1. Good team Alan, my only question mark would be against Martinelli, if he doesn’t start well, he will be hard to replace.

106. Sorry senior moment Also have Zinchencho in that team and £ 2M remaining.

107. Hi guys,

     Interested to read peoples opinions on my initial selection:

     Ramsdale

     Dalot
     Cresswell
     Trent

     Sterling
     Mbuemo
     Mahrez
     Sancho

     Kane
     Salah
     Jesus

     Question marks over Mbuemo, Sancho, Cresswell and Dalot

     1. I like it Dan. Given his value and ownership, I don’t think you need to question Sancho (just yet). I had Mbeumo but just took him out, thought it was a bit of a risk. I also had Sterling but with everything that’s going on at Chelsea, I’ve opted to start with Diaz.

108. Great team. But no Man City players does that not concern you? They are going to piss the league again

     1. It’s a slight worry but if Haaland starts well, I’ll be swapping him for Kane straight away. I’ve also gone for Bowen over Mahrez for the fixtures in August but Mahrez is as an option. Other than that, it’s a choice between TAA and Cancelo so I’ve gone TAA. Don’t fancy any of their other defenders at the moment. KDB is too expensive for me. Grealish is an interesting option but I think a bit of a punt at the moment based on last season.

109. 0 Man City players would scare me

     1. It’s a slight worry but if Haaland starts well, I’ll be swapping him for Kane straight away. I’ve also gone for Bowen over Mahrez for the fixtures in August but Mahrez is as an option. Other than that, it’s a choice between TAA and Cancelo so I’ve gone TAA. Don’t fancy any of their other defenders at the moment. KDB is too expensive for me. Grealish is an interesting option but I think a bit of a punt at the moment based on last season.

110. How sure are we that the West Ham European fixtures count? They are not currently on the fixture list but think draw is in early August.

     This came up before with Europe playoffs?

     It’s important for me as the difference between doubling up on Bowen and Creswell or leaving the well alone.

     1. As sure as we ever can be when it comes to Dream Team – they’ve counted every other year and I’m banking on them counting again as well.

111. Pope

     Robbo
     Dalot
     Cresswell

     Diaz
     Saka
     Sancho
     Coutinho

     Salah
     Haaland
     Kane

     Thoughts?

112. I see the sense of including Cresswell/Coufal from the start, yeah they will probably concede to City, but can counter the clean sheet loss with an assist and or a rating of 7+, you could always just go a Wolves defender for the 1st game, as for Bowen I believe he scored 2 against City at the back end of last season.

     1. I’m starting to question having them still. It’s a roll of a dice at the start of the season.

113. Folks, which of these teams is better to start the season with?

     Lloris
     Trent
     Cancelo
     Ait-Nouri
     Dalot
     Grealish
     Sancho
     Kulusevski
     Kane
     Salah
     Martinelli

     OR

     Lloris
     Trent
     Ait-Nouri
     Dalot
     De-Bruyne
     Grealish
     Sancho
     Kulusevski
     Salah
     Kane
     Martinelli

     I’m starting to get really uncomfortable not owning KDB for those lovely early fixtures. If he continues his pre-season form his value could be out of sight come October. I just have a feeling in my waters that he’s going to fly out of the traps this season.

     1. But I like what you’ve done. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

     2. I personally still think KDB is a little overpriced. Not sure on Kulusevski starting, had him in to start with myself but prefer someone like Coutinho at the moment with the extra EFL Cup game in August – although he might not feature anyway. I’d prefer Jesus over Martinelli as well, especially after today.

114. Chris.
     Is KDB gonna get more points than Cancelo? If he stays fit. Definitely.

     I’m just not sure about Kulusevski. At 3.5m, I just feel their is more guaranteed starters out there.

     Good Luck

115. I think you’re right about KDB Chris, if there are teams in my mini league that have him and he gets off to a good start he might become impossible to get.
     Your team with him in looks good, the only one I’m also uncomfortable with is Kulusevski.

     1. Yeah, I agree Kulusevski’s minutes are uncertain so i will move if needs be. Really like his price though. He had a great season last time though so I’m presuming his position is his to lose for now. Richarlison is also suspended for GW1. KDB is in then!

        So weird how psychology changes pre-season for a FF manager. When the prices were revealed I was adamant KDB was overpriced and I was gonna leave him out…….now I still think he’s probably £0.5m overpriced but I can’t seem to leave him out now.

        1. Really surprised by the ownership % of Mahrez. Less than 8% owned. More people owning Foden at the moment who hasn’t kicked a ball all pre-season.😳

           Mahrez is a great pick to start the season with.

           1. I must admit Chris.
              I’m tempted by KDB but did have Mahrez in before.
              Just depends on if he starts.
              He’ll always pick up points. He never stops shooting. Just hope his still on pens 🖊

              1. The pre-season reports suggest that KDB will be playing very advanced this season. That, along with Pep saying how much sharper he is going into this season than las, makes it all sound too ominous to ignore.

              2. Mahrez is on pens if he’s on the pitch.

           2. It’s his position that I can’t decide on, I had Mahrez in previously, and Saka and I’m now onto Bowen. Still can’t decide which one to start with

116. Arsenal running riot against Sevilla. Two goals apiece for Saka and Jesus. Looks like Saka is the man on pens, took (and scored) it in this game.

     1. I’m tempted to go with Saka over Bowen now, he jumped out to me straight away at 4m. Tough decision though.

117. Hat-trick for Jesus…👀

     1. Back to the drawing board for me I think, Arsenal won all there pre season games, and the last two games 4-0 6-0, definitely want to include Jesus and Saka in both my teams now.

        1. I’m tempted to come back to Saka rather than Bowen. Especially with West Ham starting against City. I’m also questioning if Haaland is a better option than Kane with the 0.5m saving. I took Haaland out because I didn’t think he would start but he did today.

           1. I’ve gone Saka as him and Jesus are gelling well.

              I took Haaland out for Kane today. I think Haaland will do well eventually but will need time to adapt. He’s making runs expecting through balls but that’s not how City play. I think the extra .5 is worth the second most reliable fantasy asset of the last five years.

              1. I was thinking about swapping Bowen and Diaz for Saka and Mahrez. Tempted to go back to Haaland as well.

           2. Me too Paul. Watched the Community Shield today and although it’s only one game, Grealish didn’t do enough to justify his place in my team at this moment in time, especially with Saka (and Arsenal) blitzing pre-season for the same price. On pens too it seems. Grealish out, Saka in.

              1. Does it leave you with any City coverage Chris? My biggest problem at the moment is no City players in my starting 11

118. Also, after seeing Trent’s level of performance today, if any of you haven’t got him in your teams yet, do yourself a favour and just put him in. Absolute class.

     1. Completely agree, got to be one of the first names on the teamsheet.

119. Laporte could miss as much as the 1st month of the season, Ake 3 million, if Jonny starts for Wolves could be a better option than Nouri, just when you thought you had your team almost finalised.

     1. Does Stones come into the equation at some point though? Must admit he’s tempting at £3m though.

        1. I thought the same Chris, surely Stones is ahead of Ake.

     2. Do you think Ake will start ahead of Stones for the whole of the month?

120. Was just coming on here to say Ake. I didn’t watch the game yesterday but surely he starts next week if he started yesterday.

     1. You’d think so, but not sure about the game after that or the game after that.

121. Can we pick say Ake in the team and if Stones starts put him in? As neither has played.
     Thanks

     1. Only if you enter your team AFTER the Arsenal game kicks-off (which would realistically have to omit Arsenal players from as you’d miss the boat by doing so after kick-off). By entering a “non-Arsenal” team though you get to see the line-ups on Saturday and can enter your team then.

        1. I think you could still make a transfer as well but it would cost you a transfer. That’s also an interesting approach Chris – I hadn’t considered putting a team in on Saturday so we can view line ups.

122. As much as I love KDB, I’m not sure I can justify the extra £1.5m over Mahrez when Mahrez is likely to be on pens. I do feel a bit uneasy about only having one player as City coverage but price makes it so difficult. Ake could be a decent punt as David says at least initially. Might have to give that one some thought.

     Here’s where I am right now though:

     Lloris
     Trent
     Ait-Nouri
     Dalot
     Sancho
     Mahrez
     Saka
     Bowen
     Kane
     Salah
     Martinelli

     Not having Jesus is a concern too but as long as Martinelli can get about half the points Jesus manages to haul, then it’s a justifiable pick as he’s half the price. Really interested to know if Lanzini is going to start the season for West Ham. Could be a great enabler at £2m and is down as having pens on FFScout. Even if he doesn’t play 90 minutes every game, with those extra early fixtures you’d assume he’d get some game time.

     1. I’m tempted to come back to Mahrez after swapping him for Diaz. Diaz seems a popular choice but not sure I see him reaching 200 points this season and could face rotation.

123. Also apparently Dalot got turned inside out by the winger yesterday. Plenty of comments about his defending against a proper fast winger.
     Food for thought 🤔

     1. That’s a tricky one – he was a good cheap way into the Man Utd defence. Don’t want too many players in my team with question marks next to their name.

124. Fixtures to attack game week 1
     C.palace Vs Arsenal Saka, Jesus, Martinelli
     Fulham Vs Liverpool TAA, Robbo, Diaz, Salah
     Spurs Vs Southampton Son, Kane, Kuslevski, Richarlison banned, Perisic Doherty
     Everton Vs Chelsea James, Mount hardly had a mention.
     Maybe week 2 Ake/Stones as West ham may well score against City
     Bowen, Cresswell/Coufal, better run of league fixtures & Europa conference games.

125. We’ll done Lionesses! Absolutely immense. So proud of those girls! Brilliant! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿⚽️🏆👏👏👏

     Also love all the “we know our place” ads leading up to it. Times are (finally) a changing and the correct funding is finally going into the women’s game. Look what happens when it does.

     Any friends or workmates who drop out any jokes about them “getting back to their ironing now” etc etc, tell them the 1980’s want their misogyny jokes back. Current and future generations deserve a hell of a lot better than hearing tripe like that.

     That’s how it’s done.

126. My daughter has played for 10 years now.
     No funding there what so ever.
     If this doesn’t change now. It Never will.

     Outstanding from the Ladies earlier.
     Totally Deserved.

     1. Amen to that DC.

127. Had a bit of a re-shuffle today:

     Lloris
     Trent
     Ake
     Zinchenko
     Sancho
     Mahrez
     Kulusevski
     Saka
     Kane
     Salah
     Martinelli

     I quite like the look of this team going into GW1, whilst I concede things may need altering if/when a few of these selections get benched etc (Ake, Kulusevski, Mahrez). Hopefully they’ll get enough of a run to maintain their place for most of the month though before re-working is needed.

     Sterling and Mount linking well for Chelsea in the latest friendly which puts them both back on my radar.

     1. Looks good Chris – I’m tempted to look at Ake but don’t see him starting much beyond the first week.

128. Anyone got any mini leagues available to join??

     1. You looking for cash leagues Steff or free?

        1. Cash ones mate

     2. Not forgetting the DreamTeamTips one as well.

129. Doesn’t look like Tomiyasu will be ready for game week 1, cheaper way into Arsenal’s defensive assets other than Ramsdale, Saliba 2.5, played 3 games pre-season Arsenal haven’t conceded a goal, receiving Arteta praise, consideration needed.

     1. I’m almost certainly going to start with Ramsdale, not sure about the defensive double up with Arsenal.

     2. Could Cedric at £1.5 be worth a punt? 5 subs so likely to feature..!!!!

130. My team so far:

     Pope
     Robertson
     Saliba
     Ait-nouri
     Sancho
     KDB
     Saka
     Coutinho
     Kane
     Salah
     Jesus

     Thinking to change Kane for Haaland for game week 2 as Man city have Bournmouth at home and Tottenham have Chelsea away. Short month so not bothered about using transfers so early.

     What’s everyones thoughts?

     1. Any team without Trent makes me a bit twitchy if I’m honest but at least Robbo gives you some cover. I’m genuinely considering doubling up on City defence now after reading about West Ham’s lack of creativity (and goals) during pre-season. Thinking Cancelo and Ake with the hope that Ake plays a big part during August and is able to hopefully rise in value before shifting on.

        I think I want to see City in action again before nailing my colours to the mast with their attacking options for my main team. A few unanswered questions for me during that community shield game. Looks good though Jamaine.👍🏻

        1. Thanks for the feedback Chris. I 100% agree about not having Trent, doesn’t sit right with me personally but to get him in I would need to swap KDB for Mahrez. I feel like this could be KDB’s season though.
           Chelsea haven’t looked great and don’t think they’ve kept a clean sheet pre-season but I still feel they will have enough to beat Spurs. If Haaland starts against Bournmouth he has more chance of scoring than Kane against Chelsea I believe.
           How would you manage to fit Cancelo and Trent in the same team? Would be ideal but find it almost impossible to have them both and still have a strong well balanced team.

     2. Just remember as well Jamaine, Chelsea away for Spurs THIS season could be a whole different prospect to a Chelsea away fixture from last season. Spurs could get some joy if Chelsea take a while to gel at the back.

     3. I’m thinking the same, might even start with Haaland ahead of Kane. Would you not fancy Alexander-Arnold over De Bruyne?

        1. That’s a hard one but I think having Robbo is decent cover for Trent. Both on corners, both get forward and provide assists. Trent will no doubt finish on more points but with the extra fund: can strengthen else where.

           1. It is a really difficult one because for 1m extra you’d want TAA finishing at least 50 points ahead of Robertson and I’m not sure he will do that. Just difficult to leave him out, especially when he scored at the weekend.

131. Every predicted lineup I have looked at, has Doherty to start, he played a large chunk of spurs last pre season game alongside Perisic.

     1. I’m gonna hopefully start with him David.

        Looks a good cheap option that can score points many ways.

     2. He was in my first draft. Could be tempted to put him back in to be honest.

132. I’m going to start with him aswel DC, not guaranteed to play every week, but if he hits the ground running it’s his place to lose, & 1 million cheaper than Romero or Lloris, Spurs will be strong at the back this season under Conte, torn between Bailey/Lingard as another cheap midfield enabler, 5.5 million to spend on 2 midfielders.
     Kuselevski & Lingard
     Sancho. & Bailey
     Undecided yet, Sancho didn’t play last pre-season game, but will almost certainly be available for game week 1.

     1. Not considering Mbeumo if you need a cheap 2m midfielder?

        1. Not for me Paul, prefer the 2 above I’ve mentioned.

133. Lingard has gotta go up in price.
     Sancho might not play this week so watch out.

134. Hi all

     So after all the chopping and changing I’ve settled on a team.
     Be interested to hear thoughts as have got allot form reading all your comments and looking at all your teams.

     Ramsdale

     TA
     Sessegnon
     Robbo
     Maguire

     Bren Johnson
     Sterling
     Courtino

     Haaland
     Jesus
     Salah

     Thanks and keep up the good work !

     1. I like the Liverpool double up at the back. Not sure about Sessegnon personally.

135. Ramsdale

     Trent
     Maguire
     Cresswell
     Doherty

     Mahrez
     Saka
     Kulesevski or lanzini

     Salah
     Jesus
     Haaland

     Hi all

     This my team atm

     Thoughts / recommendations?

     1. Looks good Matthew, I’m tempted to go back to Doherty as well. I’m also thinking I need a City player from the off and Mahrez could be a good one to own, he’s been in and out of my team a lot since the game launched.

136. Mahrez has bee in and out of mine a lot too. I’m not sure I can live without KDB from the start though. Here’s where I am atm

     Pope

     TAA
     Saliba/Doherty
     Ait Nouri

     KDB
     Saka
     Sancho
     Lingard/Bissouma

     Salah
     Kane
     Jesus

     All thoughts greatly appreciated

     Thanks

     1. Looks a decent team considering that you’ve managed to get TAA, KDB, Salah and Kane in.

137. Pope
     Tripper, Dawson, Matip, Trent
     Mount, Diaz, Odergaard
     Sarah, Haaland, Scamacca

     1. First team I’ve seen with Matip in, I think he will face quite a bit of rotation. Other than that, looks good. Scamacca a bit risky but could play in the additional games.

138. Here’s my current team:

     Ramsdale
     Trippier
     Alexander Arnold
     Zinchenko
     Sterling
     Saka
     Bowen
     Kulusevski
     Haaland
     Nunez
     Jesus

     Been contemplating switching Lingaard in as an enabler to free up some more funds but it’s risky. Any thoughts?

     1. I’d worry about not having Salah, I’m considering Mbeumo as a 2m option still.

139. My current team is…

     Lloris – should be a set and forget for the season.

     Romero – doubling up on spurs at the back as should be solid. Romero looks like a stayer at the back. Concerns with his discipline though.
     Gabriel – wouldn’t usually go with arsenal defence but have good opening fixtures so hoping for a price rise before moving on.
     Zinchenko – same as gabriel really.

     Saka – great opening fixtures and looks to be on pens.
     Sancho – cheap enabler but can do some damage and has looked decent pre season.
     Diaz – more good opening fixtures and could have a big season. Was tempted by mount also but I’m playing the fixtures here.
     Sterling – should be a key player for Chelsea and bring in a lot of points. Don’t like that he’s playing spurs in GW2. Might swap him out and bring him in at a later date. Time will tell.

     Haaland – I just think going without is too big of a risk. The guy could explode.
     Nunez – if he starts he could be like haaland and just have so many chances. Didn’t want to risk the price rise and not have him.
     Kane – have been tossing up having Kane or Salah. Purely went with Kane because I’ve already got nunez and diaz for liverpool cover.

     Tempting transfers… kane to jesus which would allow me to swap sancho to mahrez.

     Good luck all!

     1. Looks like a well balanced team, I’d worry about not having Salah but as you say, you’ve got Liverpool cover with Nunez and Diaz.

140. I like the idea of Salah. Jesus, and Haaland up front, can’t believe sterling is more favourable than Kane, but there you go

     1. That’s the front three I’m most tempted by but probably going to start with Kane

141. Ramsdale
     TAA
     Dalot
     Saliba

     Sterling
     Saka
     Guimaraes
     KDB

     Salah
     Jesus
     C.Wilson

     Still not happy with it, had to put Wilson in to accommodate KDB but he’s an injury threat, also took out Zinchenko and Boly for Saliba and Dalot, very hard this year! Any thoughts very much welcome

     1. Doing without one of Kane or Haaland is the risk so I guess you need KDB to outperform them to justify the hefty price tag. I think you’re rank will be excellent though early doors if he does.

142. Looks like Cucurella is Chelsea bound now…👀

143. Pope

     Trent
     Saliba
     Cucurella

     Saka
     Odergaard (or Sancho)
     Grealish
     Diaz

     Salah
     Haaland
     Jesus

     Not bad eh

     1. Looks good, only question mark I’d have is against Cucurella, not sure he will come straight in wherever he ends up.

144. Where do people think the points are coming from this year?

     Last year someone in my league loaded up on premium defenders and romped it.

     I usually have premium strike force.

     Thinking maybe having Taa & Robbo to start

     1. You know what you’re going to get with Trent and Robbo and you can probably predict what their points total will roughly be at the end of the season. Big chunk of cash though but with those nice fixtures you could make serious points hauls and value rises.

        1. Bournemouth are a team to target (in terms of opposition) for players early doors…..(taken from FFScount:)

           “Parker has been left frustrated by a lack of arrivals this summer, particularly at the back where the Cherries are crying out for reinforcement at centre-half. The Bournemouth boss said after the defeat to Real Sociedad on Saturday that he “wouldn’t want to” return to the back four that he used in the promotion-winning campaign, having favoured a wing-back system in pre-season. However, due to the dearth of trusted stoppers outside of captain Lloyd Kelly, Parker did add that a 4-3-3 “may have to be an option” against Villa. Joining Kelly in the back three against Sociedad were Chris Mepham, who mostly played second string in the Championship last season, and James Hill, a rookie signed from third-tier Fleetwood Town in January.”

           Serious consideration needed for going Kane to Haaland GW2 if you start with Kane. Or is starting with Haaland the way to go?🤔

           Think I’m gonna take a punt of Bailey for those first three Villa fixtures. Coutinho is also a great option as is possibly Watkins.

           Latest draft:

           Lloris
           Trent
           Ake
           Cancelo
           Sancho
           Saka
           Bailey
           Kulusevski
           Kane
           Salah
           Martinelli

           1. I’ll almost certainly want Haaland and Mahrez for game week 2 when City play Bournemouth. Tempted to start with at least one of them. Not worried about Sancho not starting? Hearing he’s been ill

              1. Most line-up predictions seem to be confident he’ll be fine but I’ll monitor it and watch out for the pressers.

145. Trying to fit in as many premium players is a real head scratcher – so after many permutations, I’ve come up with this effort.

     Pope

     TAA
     Dialot
     Doherty
     Cancelo

     KDB
     Mahrez
     Coutinho
     Sancho

     Watkins
     Salah/Kane/Haaland

     The 2 Villa players are in there to target Bournemouth ,who I feel will be the whipping boys this year. Hoping that they have a field day and then move one or both of them on.
     Like many on here, I’ve managed to fit 5 premium assets into the side. It’s anybody’s guess if they’ll be the best 5.

     I can see flaws in this side, as I expect each of you can see flaws in your own sides.

     Have a great season and feel free to comment .

     Rob

     1. Good idea targeting the early fixtures for Villa. Not sure about only having one of Salah, Kane or Haaland though.

146. GK Enabler, weak midfield loaded up on 3 star defenders and 2 star attackers.

     Meslier

     Trent
     Cancelo
     Robertson
     Doherty

     Sancho
     Kulesevski
     Coutinho

     Kane
     Haaland
     Rashford

     1. I’ve done a similar team as one of my 10, not my main team but could be high risk, high reward.

     2. Leeds’s fixtures aren’t too bad to be fair so you stand a good chance of a rise in value if they get the odd CS. Even if Leeds do struggle his value isn’t going to drop significantly anyway you would have thought as it’s started out so low.

147. Al.
     I don’t think Sancho or Rashford will start this Sunday.
     I’m also unsure about the game time Kulesevski will get.

     1. I think both will start looking at most sifted DC. I’ll be absolutely amazed if Ronaldo starts after infuriating Haag for leaving the last game early. Also puts Dalot’s selection in doubt as he went with him too. Dalot had had a pre-season though, Ronaldo basically hasn’t.

        I just can’t see Richarlison ousting Kulusevski. Richarlison likes to play from the left whereas Kulusevski plays on the right. Unless they completely change the shape they play of course.

        1. I picked up on that regarding Dalot, fingers crossed he still start.

148. going right to the wire for me. 🤕 🤕 🤕

149. Lindelof being tipped to start alongside Maguire first game. £2m. 👀

150. Hello All,

     Wishing everyone’ a good season!

     My lineup so far:

     Pope

     Cresswell
     TAA
     Ryan Ait/Saliba?

     KdB
     Lingard (Bound to rise in price?)
     Saka
     Neto/Eriksen/Sancho?

     Salah
     Kane
     Jesus

     Would be grateful for the advice.

     1. I personally took Cresswell out as I think City will score. I’ve gone Saliba (if he starts tonight). Good team though as you’ve managed to get De Bruyne in.

151. First draft

     Ramsdale/Lloris

     Robo
     Maguire/Dalot
     Romero

     Saka
     Mahrez
     Bailey
     Coutinho

     Salah
     Kane
     Jesus

     Still didn’t decide who I prefer
     Ramsdale + Maguire or Lloris + Dalot

     1. Not Maguire lol

     2. Looks decent to me, I don’t think you can go wrong with either option that you’re left with. Maguire is probably a more certain starter than Dalot but Lloris may outscore Ramsdale.

152. Breaking News!

     Schmeichel has been sold to Nice and Danny Ward has been entered into the game for £2m. Could this be a gift from the SDT gods that we were searching for?

     1. That’s an interesting one Chris, looking at their fixtures, fixtures 1 & 3 look ok, but fixtures 2 & 4 onwards tough, I knew yesterday Schemeichel had left the club but hadn’t considered his replacement, maybe a punt for someone.

153. Ramsdale
     A/A
     Gabriel
     Jonny
     Lingard
     Mahrez
     Sancho
     Sterling
     Salah
     Kane
     Jesus
     hope this is my final draft.
     hopefully picking players who should go up in value
     fingers crossed.
     this goes into my DDT and my clubs mini league.

     1. Looks a good team to me Don

154. Paul is there anyway if you make a mistake
     it can be deleted so you can then correct your error.

     1. No worries – all done.

155. Just wondering at this late stage whether it’s worth changing Kuselevski to Perisic, from week 2 onwards we all know Kuselevski will probably face rotation with Richarlison, have to bear in mind from week 2, I will have to fund Bowen & maybe Cresswell/Coufal somehow, think Perisic will get more game time, but tends to be subbed round the 70-75 minute mark.

     1. New draft:

        Ward
        Trent
        Robbo
        Ake
        Sancho
        Bailey
        Saka
        Mahrez
        Kane
        Salah
        Martinelli

        £0.5m ITB

        Quite like how the price points fit in around this draft. It helps to fund single moves simply. Only real stumbling blocks are Ward and Martinelli so I’ll have to hope they stay fit and selected for now.

        1. Hey Chris, i’d go Meslier over ward for me better fixures and 0.5m cheaper

           1. Yeah it could be a good option Studier, I’m just not confident on Leeds defensively now that Phillips isn’t sat in front of that back line.

              With no Europe this season I expect Leicester to improve and for the team to be more settled, especially that back-line. Fofana, Soyuncu and Evans are competent defenders usually and I think Leicester are a better team in general. Could easily be a coin flip who scores better though I’ll admit.

        2. Chris.
           I love the Liverpool double up at the back. Guaranteed points there in my eyes.
           You’ve just gonna hope 🤞🏻 The Bailey’s and Martinelli gets done game time.

           All the Best Fella

156. With it now being the night before it all starts again, it’s probably a good time time to wish you all good luck for your SDT endeavours this coming season. Hopefully you can all smash your mini-leagues this season and we can all help each other achieve that on Paul’s brilliant platform right here.

     Let’s do this!🤝💪⚽️

     1. Thanks Chris, good luck to you as well and everyone else who’s signed up.

157. Well said Chris. Best of luck all. I’ve just totally ripped up my team sheet and am currently rocking with this unlikely lot

     Pope

     Trent
     Doherty
     Cancelo
     Saliba

     Saka
     Sancho
     Mbeumbo

     Salah
     Kane
     Jesus

     .5 in the bank.

     It’s also easy to switch cancelo for robbo or Mahrez if Saliba doesn’t start tomorrow and slot zinchenco in.

     Please let me know what you all think

     1. Doherty is doubtful for the weekend

     2. Good team B, one of the first I’ve seen with TAA and Cancelo in.

158. Although I like what you’re saying Chris and am very tempted to upgrade mbuembo for Baily to leave me with nothing in the bank

     1. He’s had a great pre-season mate and I’m more than happy to give him those three initial games before moving him on. If he returns ten or more points in those three games then I’d be very content with that.

159. Yuck….you can just never relax having Mahrez in your team can you…

     Taken from FFScout Team News:

     Foden’s lack of game-time would seemingly hand the initiative to Jack Grealish and Riyad Mahrez on the flanks but Foden and rookie recruit Julian Alvarez were more effective than the starting pair after replacing them in the Community Shield, so the two slots out wide look to be the most at-risk positions.

     I’m tempted to just go Kulusevski for GW1 and then take a look at the starting line-up for the Bournemouth game before bringing in one or two City players. From the City mids (excluding KDB), my preferred choice is Foden as I thought he looked very sharp when he came on in the Community Shield.

160. Hi,

     Can anyone spot any problems with this?

     I’m happy with it for now but any comments welcome 🙂

     Ramsdale

     TAA
     Trippier
     Robertson

     Sterling
     Mahrez
     Bailey
     Saka

     Jesus
     Sala
     Martinelli

     Thanks and good luck everyone.

     1. Can’t see any problems in the short term GK. I’d have a slight worry about moving Martinelli on if he doesn’t start well but you can tackle that longer term.

161. New Team

     Ramsdale

     TAA
     Ake
     Doherty
     Saliba/Tomiyasu.

     Mahrez
     Saka
     Coutinho tempted to put Lingard in and hope his value goes up

     Salah
     Kane
     Jesus

     Ramsdale
     Gonna stick all season unless The Arse get off to a bad start.

     TAA
     He stays whatever

     Ake
     I think he’ll get a few games in before others are fit. Then I’ll move on.

     Doherty
     Hopefully his fit and I’m hoping he’ll stay the distance as well if he gets regular football.

     Saliba/Tomiyasu
     whoever starts gets the nod from me. If neither start. I’ll put Lingard in for Coutinho and upgrade to Zinchenko

     Mahrez
     hopefully stays all season

     Saka
     Hopefully links up with Jesus 🙏🏻

     Coutinho.
     Not sure on him. I like Odegaard but will this give me too much Arsenal coverage 🤔 Lingard is my other option. Surely his value can only go up

     Salah
     Stays Whatever

     Kane
     Can see me swapping him with Haaland

     Jesus
     Gonna see how he starts off. Also how Martial starts

     I’d be grateful if any input please.

     Not long now.

     Best of Luck 🤞🏻 Everyone

     1. Martial has done his hamstring. It’ll be interesting to see if Ronaldo starts now or whether Elanga will be drafted in.

        Sancho is expected to be back though.

     2. Very similar to what I’ll be starting with so can see the logic in all of the decisions you’ve made. I’ll be monitoring Ake myself but can see West Ham getting a goal.

162. From what I’ve read, Mahrez’s position in the team should be fine, with players being moved on he has to get more game time, I would say Grealish is in more jeopardy of losing his place to Foden, but Chris is right it’s always a worry owning Mahrez, he has a score to settle with West has anyway after missing a penalty at the end of last season.

163. Some Great teams out their being tinkered with ahead of the new season, not really heard much regarding Saliba especially being at Arsenal for 3 years and loaned out last year, but apparently doing well pre season, so good luck to all and hope everyone does well in their other leagues

164. And just like that.

     I have doubts about why I haven’t put KDB in.

     Never Easy

     1. He’s in three of my teams but they look a bit unbalanced. He’s got to seriously score well to justify the price tag…..he’s easily capable of it though.

165. Anyone’s guess who’ll be taking City’s first penalty it seems…

     (Taken from FFScout):

     “Guardiola was asked about the penalty-taking pecking order at City and Erling Haaland‘s potential position within it but effectively told us that there isn’t one.

     “Last season we improve. We rise a lot the quality of our penalties in terms of goals, in the past we missed a lot. Last season Riyad [Mahrez] was exceptional under incredible pressure to do it, of course he missed the last one but in general the penalties he took were really good. They will decide.”

166. I Heard other day Mahrez still taking penalties

167. Huge build up as always, best of luck to everyone in their respective mini leagues, let’s get off to a good start, & re-access after 1st round of fixtures has concluded.

     1. Best of luck Dave, hope you get off to a good start.

168. And to you Paul, I like the look of your team,if getting off to a good start was purely based on inciteful knowledge, common sense, & great thought process, then you would get off to a flyer Paul, but for those of us who are old enough to remember Saint & Greavsie, as grievsie famously said it’s a funny old game, I’m in 2 cash leagues one for 670 quid, & the other 370 quid, so as always both my teams will get the fullest attention.

169. I’ve gone with the big three up top

     Meslier
     TAA
     Walker
     Salina
     Bowen
     Sancho
     Saka
     Mbeumo
     Salah
     Kane
     Haaland

     Good luck all

170. if you want to do some transfers tomorrow
     as long as it does not involve c palace or arsenal
     can you do it without using any of your 5 transfers.

     1. Good to know Don. 👍🏻🤝

        1. sorry mate when i asked help line they said you could
           just tried it you cant you have to use a transfer.

           1. Ok Don, thanks for the update. I thought it would have been a first if they had allowed that.

171. Thought Arsenal looked impressive last night, Zinchenko especially caught my eye with his forward play.

     Palace gave it a good go to try and get back into the game and we’re perhaps unlucky not to equalise when it was 0-1. Ramsdale made some good saves.

     Thought Jesus was unplayable first half but faded a little second half. He close control and footwork was a sight to behold. He still needs to improve the finishing side of his game though. Martinelli looked bright and skilful and deserved his goal. Saka was largely quiet but came into it more in the last 20 minutes and forced the second goal. Odegaard was a little wasteful with his chances too but looked decent.

     Enjoyed the game. Let’s see what today brings.

     1. Saliba also looked very accomplished and I can see him retaining his place once Tomiyasu returns to right-back.

        1. Chris last season you talk a lot about
           Maty cash last season with there good fix
           thought he would be on your radar.
           he is in my mini league. good luck 2 one and all.

           1. But too expensive for my liking tbh Don and I think there are better options at £2.5m both in defence AND midfield.

        2. Should be a nice rise in value, hopefully by 0.3m

     2. I’m disappointed in some ways that I didn’t keep Zinchenko and Kulusevski in my team, both were in at some point, would have been a nice 30 points

172. Thanks for the update Chris. I missed yesterdays game.
     Wanted Zinchenko in but didn’t wanna sacrifice TAA

173. Wow, didn’t see that one coming with Fulham managing a couple of goals against Liverpool. Didn’t see the game but looking forward to how it played out on MOTD. Not a great start for my Liverpool defence double up but early days.

     Nunez with a goal and assist from the bench.👀

     1. That’s twice he’s done that now, definitely one to watch. Could easily make a case for having him over Jesus.

174. Chris did not no that with 5 subs they have to be used
     in 3 sessions according to peter Walton on bt sport today
     does that mean 2 subs 2 subs 1 sub if you wanted to use all subs.

175. A total of five substitutions can be made in regular time (90 minutes plus added time) but each manager is only permitted three opportunities to make those changes, including halftime and hydration breaks. I’m thinking 2-2-1 or 1-1-1 or even 1-1-2, you probably don’t even have to use all 5

     1. Thanks for clearing up AT. I knew about the five subs for not about when and how they use them.

176. Not such a positive day today but not all bad from what we’ve seen so far.
     ✔ Clean sheets for Ramsdale and Saliba
     ✔ Goal for Salah
     ✔ No points for Diaz and Sterling, hopefully, they both drop in value

     ❌ -1 for Alexander-Arnold
     ❌ goal and assist for Nunez
     ❌ minimal returns for Saka, Jesus and Kane
     ❌ blank from Coutinho
     ❌ star man awards for both Kulusevski and Zinchenko, both were in my team at some point before the season started, really frustrating as they were so close to going into my team
     ❌ clean sheet for Chelsea

     Not the end of the world but hoping for better luck tomorrow.

     1. The Kulusevski one is hurting me the most as I was very confident about selecting him at one point and allowed myself to be talked out of having him with all then talk about Richarlison. Another one of those important rules we should all follow: “trust your own judgement”.

        Hopefully Mahrez will have a good day and soften the blow.

        1. He was straight in my team when the game was released but talked myself into taking him out as well. Really annoying, I’m half expecting Mbeumo to do something today as well, he was definitely on my radar as the 2m pick.

     2. Ake and Ward to the rescue today! 😂

177. Pretty inauspicious start, good PTS from Kuselevski & James yesterday see how the remainder of games go in game week 1, but will be looking to add Bowen, Cresswell/Coufal, & possibly a City defender for game week 2.

     1. It will be interesting to see how the City/West Ham game pans out. I’ll be watching Haaland closely as well with Kane not doing much yesterday.

178. how did most of trust united.
     what crap they look once more i no its
     the first game.
     should have gone with my own judgment like
     not touching united.

     1. I thought they might make a positive start with some good signings, a new manager to impress and a decent preseason. They picked up where they left off last season – embarrsessing.

        1. I think we can safely assume there hasn’t been the “new manager bounce”. Should we be stubborn and stick with or admit the error of our ways and get the hell off United assets? Fixtures turn a bit ugly after the next fixture too.

           1. I might give them both one more week, just because I need to get Haaland in and I’m not overly sold on Coutinho either.

     2. Yeah, kinda glad I only went with Sancho and not Dalot AND Rashford which I had at one point.

        I’ll give it plenty of thought but I’m already thinking of rectifying my error in not having Kulusevski from the outset. I know there will be some rotation risk with him but at £3.5m I still think he’s worth it. Considering two transfers:

        Kane —> Haaland
        Sancho—> Kulusevski

        Only pencilled in at this point so I’ll see where my head is at later in the week.

        1. I’m tempted to do the same or Coutinho out for Kulusevski. They do have a tough fixture against Chelsea though and I could see him blanking.

179. Mahrez benched laughable, ruthless approach for game week 2, 4 transfers to be made & probably made on Thursday, funds tight.

     1. It’s always gonna happen at some point with Mahrez though and it’s the risk we take. I never find it enjoyable owning him in SDT! 😂

     2. I am doing 3 transfers Martinez Cash and Sancho
        are you happy to tell us Dave your 4 you are unhappy with.

     3. I was shocked to see him on the bench to be honest. Foden hardly played preseason, Marhez just signed a new contract and appeared to be less competition in that position. Really annoyed me that one.

180. Fabianski off injured. If long/medium term maybe Areola is one to consider?

     1. If I didn’t have so many fires to put out, I’d be tempted by that one.

181. Only KDB from Man city midfield has almost no chance of rotation. The rest like Grealish Mahrez Foden etc will all be rotated week in week out so personally I would rather have Diaz from Liverpool. One thing for sure is I’m putting Haaland in. Kane will score goals but everytime I own him and watch spurs he does my head in, always drops so deep and is happy to be assisting others.

     1. We say it every year with Mahrez though Jamaine and more often than not he ends up being one of the highest scoring midfielders in the game. I feel your frustration though mate. I think you either have him and stick with him as long as you’re prepared for rotation, or just avoid altogether.

     2. I’m going to bring Haaland in as well. Thought Mahrez was nailed on to start today though, really irritating.

182. crap start for me 40 behind already.
     3 transfers straight away out goes 2 Villa players GK DF.
     out goes Sancho.

     team 2 – 3 transfers GK DF and Sancho.
     went with the crowed instead of my heart.

     .

183. Must be a fluke but being at top of league looks good, not sure I’ll be there long. I also went with the flow with another team entered in different league and am 27th, hope to see some good suggestions to change that. Best of luck to all

     1. Sounds like a cracking start for you, how many points are you on?

184. 86 points

     1. That’s a brilliant start – can see you’re top of the DTT mini league.

Comments are closed.