FPLZ 2012/13 Season Preview: Everton F.C.

Everton F.C.

The Toffees with their new home kit. Noticed the sleeves?

You can download the full analyzed squad data here.

Password: http://p-fplz.blogspot.com/

Last Season: Low Budget Miracle, Again
I simply have to salute the way the Toffees have survived in Premier League so far: low budget (in fact very low budget) yet managed to consistently place themselves in the upper half of the league table. After starting off their season terribly, they slowly progressed throughout the season, which ended with a 9-game unbeaten run. The impressive run was largely influenced by winter signing Nikica Jelavic.

This Summer: Attacking Reinforcements
Surely Everton would need to bolster up their offence to complement their impressive backline, and that is what they are doing right now. They have already signed forward Steven Naismith from Glasgow Rangers and also Steven Pienaar, who returned to Goodison Park after a poor spell at White Hart Lane.

On the other hand, Tim Cahill was sold to New York Red Bulls for a ridiculous price of £1m. What is Moyes thinking? Definitely a poor, poor business.

Upcoming Season: Same Story, Again?
I believe Everton will again be in a class of their own. They do not have enough strength and depth to challenge the big clubs, nor have any troubles to stay firm on the top half of the table. It is likely that they will sit above of their local rivals Liverpool for 2 consecutive seasons.

Jelavic's stats last season.

New Jewel: Jelavic (FI: 0.909)
Everton have only scored 25 goals in the first 23 gameweeks of the season, and managed to double that figure in the remaining 15 gameweeks. And the reason is no other than winter purchase Nikica Jelavic (£8.5m).

Goodison Park has never been short of excitements ever since the Croatian joined from Rangers. Jelavic is a very complete targetman - tall, calm and clinical. Although his price surged a lot this season, still he is one of the forward that you should consider getting, given the fact that he actually scored 9 goals in 10 games he started last season.


Second Spring: Pienaar (FI: 0.535)
Welcome home, son. Moyes took Steven Pienaar (£6.5m) back last winter after the South African failed to breakthrough into Tottenham Hotspur's starting XI, and he did not disappoint. 4 goals and 7 assists in just 1237 minutes of action was a fantastic return for the lad.

Given his budget price, Pienaar is one of the best budget pick you can get. You can really do much worse by spending your £6.5m on someone else.

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Kick-Off: Gameweek 5 Fantasy Preview

Fernando Torres assisted twice in the Champions League.

Overview
The Champions League started its new season as we saw Chelsea being the only English club who stroke 3 points in the first game of the group stage. Fernando Torres obviously was the spotlight after completing 2 assists in the 2-0 win over Bayern Leverkusen. Hope it's not another false positive by him.

Meanwhile, Van Persie continued his away dominance after striking yet another away goal against another German club Borussia Dortmund. Might be a good hint to get him as the Gunners are playing away to Blackburn this weekend.

Game of the Week: MANCHESTER UNITED v CHELSEA

Juan Mata will be looking forward
to sink Old Trafford.

The true test for the defending champion begins as Manchester United will play Chelsea at their own fortress Old Trafford.

The Red Devils were surprisingly drawn by Benfica despite playing a more experienced side whom Ferguson believed "experience will be important in such games". There were lack of command in midfield suggesting that they're starting to miss Cleverley already. 4-5-1 formation looked bad for Rooney as he lacked of support, but at Old Trafford it should be reverted back to 4-4-2 despite such strong oppositions.

But the midfield will still be the worrying department without Cleverley. Carrick was never "world class" enough to control the central midfield, while Fletcher might still need a game or two to recover his match fitness. Can a weakened United midfield hold off Chelsea's solid midfielders such as Lampard, Meireles and steam engine Ramires? Phil Jones might be deployed there so increase the strength.

Meanwhile, Torres' revival in linking with teammates give a caution sign to United - he has now what he called "faster" midfielders to cooperate with. Expect Mata-Torres-Meireles combo to give a lot of troubles with some great 1-2 passes.

Expect tough competition throughout the game. Play your Rooney, A Young, Nani, Meireles and Mata, and pray that they perform in this hardly predictable game.

Prediction: MUN 2-1 CHE
Pick: Rooney


Fantasy Game of the Week: FULHAM v MANCHESTER CITY

Can Silva repeat his
magnificent performance?

Frustrated City will divert all their focus to the Premier League and aim for three points in response to the unexpected draw against Napoli in the Champions League.

Mancini was clueless in his attempt to break the Italian club's defence, and it's a good idea for Martin Jol to replicate the same strategy to hold off against City's ruthless attack. The experience of Grygera might be useful here, so don't be surprised if he starts this match.

But I believe Mancini won't allow his mistake to repeat again, so expect players such as Silva, Nasri, Dzeko, Aguero and/or Tevez to open a big wound in Fulham's defence. City has simply too much class to lose.

Prediction: FUL 1-3 MCI
Pick and captain: Silva, Aguero
Pick: Dzeko, Nasri
Drop: FUL defence, Ruiz


Pick and Drop
Pick and captain:

1. Van Persie - Has a good away scoring record so why not against Blackburn?
2. Tim Cahill/ Baines - With no obviously one-sided games this week, the Everton duo represents good captain choices this week.
3. Klasnic - Norwich is a good chance for him to cement an ace position at Reebok Stadium.

Pick:

1. Martin Petrov - Influential in Bolton's attack.
2. BOL defence - Norwich aren't too much a threat in attack.
3. STO defence - Sunderland has trouble finding goals.
4. Adebayor - He can take advantage of Liverpool's shaky defence.
5. Shaun Wright-Phillips - Looks great last game and can replicate the same thing but added with goals/assists.
6. Walcott/ Gervinho - Salgado's weakness is for them to exploit.

Drop:

1. BLA defence - Seemingly impossible to keep a clean sheet against Arsenal.
2. Bent - Hardly on form with Newcastle a tough defence to beat.

Transfer Traffic

Green light (buy):

1. SWP - Easily the best player of QPR.
2. Adebayor - Will be the most important goal source of Tottenham.
3. Van Persie - Players like Gervinho and Song are freed from suspensions now.
4. Shawcross - Stoke's captain is at his best form now.
5. Hernandez - Superbly clinical.

Yellow light (watch):

1. Tim Cahill - Look if Everton discover their form.
2. Arteta - Still looking anonymous.
3. Kranjcar - His place is not well cemented.

Red light (sell):

1. Cleverley - Injured.
2. Suarez - Not really the super fantasy ace currently.

Gameweek 4 Dream Team

Szcznesny

Baines -- G Cahill -- Warnock

SWP -- T Cahill  -- Silva(VC) -- Walcott

RVP(C) -- Rooney -- Klasnic

Subs: Begovic -- M Petrov -- Brown -- Olsson

Kick-Off: Gameweek 4 Fantasy Preview

Robin van Persie scored 4 in Holland's 11-0 domination over San Marino.
Good sign to take him in?

Overview
The transfer market is closed and the international breaks are over as Premier League will be back into real business. Be sure to monitor your players' injury status and make appropriate adjustments to that.

7-Gameweek Fixture Analysis (Published Monthly)
In heaven run

1. Newcastle (@QPR, @AST, BLA, @WOL, TOT, WIG, @STO) - Some moderately tough opponents but shouldn't pose much problems for them to collect some reasonable amount of fantasy points in both offensive and defensive departments.
2. Tottenham (@WOL, LIV, @WIG, ARS, @NEW, @BLA, QPR) - Considerably easy and all game looks winnable except for the one against Liverpool (I'd say 50-50).
3. West Brom (@NOR, @SWA, FUL, @SUN, WOL, @AST, LIV) - If they can build a good momentum in September with relatively easier opponents they might as well achieve good result in October.

In hell run:

1. Blackburn (@FUL, ARS, @NEW, MCI, @QPR, TOT, @NOR) - Still very tough upcoming fixtures, but the Rovers' games will get easier at the end of October.
2. Everton (AST, WIG, @MCI, LIV, @CHE, @FUL, MUN) - Fixtures get very tricky after the game against Wigan. You should start to dump Toffees' players unless you believe they will get good results in the next two months.
3. Manchester United (@BOL, CHE, @STO, NOR, @LIV, MCI, @EVE) - Offense is not an issue, but be cautious when picking United defenders with such tricky fixtures.

On Wildcard, Again
If you have the patience, I would suggest wait for another 2-3 gameweeks and see which latest signings settle well in their new team before using your wildcard. Of course, don't hesitate to use it if your team has too many junk players currently.


Game of the Week: EVERTON v ASTON VILLA

Can Tim Cahill break his duck?

Financially difficult Everton will search for their first home win of the season against in-form Aston Villa.

The home side has just sold Mikel Arteta to Arsenal, directly benefiting Leighton Baines' owners as the left-back will take almost all of Everton's set piece duties now. Unfortunately though, Baines has hamstring problems and is a doubt this weekend.

Villa is in good form and will strive to snatch an away win with their strikers, particularly Agbonlahor, looking sharp. Jermaine Jenas will make the midfield line more composed should he starts.

It will be close, with Tim Cahill taking all the offensive burden on his shoulders at Goodison Park.


Prediction: EVE 2-1 AST
Pick: Tim Cahill, Agbonlahor


Fantasy Game of the Week: MAN CITY v WIGAN

Nasri broke his finger and
is doubtful for this match.

Arsenal game against Swansea looks equally promising, but let's stick with the team with the best form at the moment.

Dzeko blasted 4 goals against Tottenham in the last gameweek, and is looking more and more likely to lock his starting position as centre forward. Certainly a great choice as captain for this week.

Nasri, who scored 13 fantasy points last week, injured his finger and is a major doubt for this weekend. Bad news for the French owners and good news for Silva's. Expect the Spaniard to supply plenty of chances to Dzeko and Aguero (or Tevez?).

Wigan will be hoping for Di Santo to perform the magic again, but I am more inclined for a clean sheet to the home side. Do take note that Kolo Toure is finally free from suspension, and will compete with Lescott for a starting place.


Prediction: MCI 3-0 WIG
Pick and captain: Dzeko, Silva
Pick: MCI defenders
Drop: WIG players


Pick and Drop

VdV is out for 6 weeks.

Pick and Captain:

1. Van Persie - A no brainer against newboys Swansea.
2. Rooney - His form is blasting, both in Manchester United and England.

Pick:

1. Arteta, Walcott - Expect these guys to rip off Swansea's defence.
2. Suarez - His tricky runs will be crucial to break Stoke's defence.
3. Holt - Should finally find some form after scoring against Chelsea. West Brom won't be too tough for him.
4. Mata - Expect him to disrupt Sunderland's defence.
5. Mertesacker - His towering presence will give security to the Gunners' defence.

Drop:

1. SWA defence - Van Persie is too hot to handle.
2. Van der Vaart, Vermaelen, Drogba - Injured.

Transfer Traffic

For evaluation on deadline day newcomers click here.

Green light (buy):

1. Dzeko, Rooney, A Young - Each scored over 20 points last gameweek. You should've benefited from price rise if you got them earlier.
2. Bosingwa - Increasing likely to steal RB position for the whole season.
3. Suarez - His is the super ace of Liverpool.
4. Mata - Adds an important dimension to Chelsea's attack.
5. Arteta - The new heart of Arsenal's midfield.
6. Best - With Ba struggling to settle, he should become the finisher of Newcastle.
7. Agbonlahor - Best Villa player at the moment.
8. Van Persie - His supplies are back.

Yellow light (watch/hold):

1. Simpson/R Taylor - Wait to see who's going to be benched with Santon's arrival.

Red light (sell):

1. Van der Vaart, Vermaelen, Drogba - Injured.
2. Torres, Carroll - Failed to impress.
3. Kalou - His position at Chelsea is downgraded as full-time benchwarmer.

Gameweek 4 Dream Team

Szcznesny

Kompany -- De Laet -- Hughes

Silva -- Walcott -- Tim Cahill -- A Young

Dzeko (VC) -- Van Persie (C) -- Holt

Subs: Begovic -- Hoolahan -- Jose Enrique -- A Ferdinand

Kick-Off: Gameweek 3 Fantasy Preview

Robin van Persie saved Arsenal from Champions League slump, but can
he lead the Gunners to conquer Old Trafford?

Overview
Several midweek games caught my eyes this week, with Arsenal qualified for the Champions League thanks to sparkling effort of Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott against Udinese at Italy. Back at England we see Suarez ultimate influence who scored one and created the other two to defeat Exeter by 3-1. Carroll scored his first goal of the season, but whether is it the opening of floodgate remains a question. Take note that Meireles injured his collarbone and should be out for a long period.

Champions League Draw
Group A: Bayern Munich, Villarreal, Manchester City, Napoli
Group C: Manchester United, Benfica, Basel, Otelul Galati
Group E: Chelsea, Valencia, Bayer Leverkusen, Genk
Group F: Arsenal, Marseille, Olympiakos, Borussia Dortmund


Lucky draw for Manchester United. Chelsea's games are pretty tricky. Arsenal are in hell of the luck to be drawn in the group of death. Superbly tough for Manchester City too.


On Wild Card Usage
You might be tempted to use that, but I'll say NO. Do you copy? NO. Gameweek 4 will be played on 10th of September, which is two weeks from now, with international games being played after gameweek 3. You surely do not want to see your reshuffled players were injured during their international duties do you? Just wait for another gameweek if you really have to use it.

Will Dzeko score again?

Game of the Week: TOTTENHAM v MAN CITY

Man City will visit to North London in their quest to maintain a perfect start this season.

Tottenham's defence in totally exposed last game, with Friedel made a whopping 13 saves last game and still conceded 3 goals. A big thing for Harry Redknapp to consider as they face the squad who scored the most goals this season.

Meanwhile, Mancini's team is overflowed with gunpowder this season, with Silva, Dzeko and Aguero all making it two in two. Nasri's arrival will further excite City's offence, though it remains a mystery how will he be deployed.

I believe Tottenham will play better at home, but still I think Man City has too much quality to be beaten at the moment. Away win looks highly possible.

Prediction: TOT 1-2 MCI

Pick: Silva, Dzeko

Wazza Roo is hopeful to make
it three in three.

Fantasy Game of the Week: MAN UTD v ARSENAL

It will be another busy weekend at Old Trafford as Manchester United take on weakened Arsenal.

The Gunners can hardly field up a good squad following injuries and suspensions of numerous players. It will be a tough challenge for Arsene Wenger to travel to Manchester with such thin squad, especially after a midweek clash against Udinese at Italy. Fatigue will seriously affect them in my opinion.

On the other hand, the young Red Devils are on a high after a 3-0 demolition against Tottenham last week. Players such as Rooney, Cleverly, Young and Nani will all be ready to open a big wound at Arsenal's cracks. Do take note that Chicharito is back into action - this will affect Welbeck's playing time.

Expect another solid victory by Manchester United. Do captain Rooney if you own him.

Prediction: MUN 3-0 ARS
Pick and captain: Rooney
Pick: Young, Nani, Cleverly
Drop: ARS defence

Suarez is owned by over 40%
of fantasy managers.

Pick and Drop

Pick and captain:

1. Suarez - The Uruguayan is crowning himself as the emperor of Anfield.
2. Moses - A big gamble to consider but I don't see how QPR is going to escape from conceding goals if Wigan can capitalise their home advantage.

Pick:

1. Torres - Not so hype about him after a big disappointment last week, but still I think it reasonable to keep him for another game against Norwich.
2. Tim Cahill  - I am still sticking with him after seeing his potential despite Everton's 0-1 loss against QPR. Blackburn has weak defence.
3. Long - In incredible form and should score at home.

Drop:

1. BLA players - Their current squad and form simply looks to weak to convince me.
2. NOR defence - Chelsea has too much talents to score.

Transfer Traffic

Green light (buy):

1. Suarez, Long, Jarvis, Silva - Follow the bandwagon to get some extra cash.
2. Vorm - A keeper that you can consider to keep for whole season.
3. Rooney - Arsenal is for him to crush this week.
4. R Taylor, S Taylor - A stream of moderate fixtures for them to produce some clean sheets.

Yellow light (buy/sell later):

1. Torres - Norwich is a good them to produce goals, so just give him one last chance.
2. Malouda - With Mata joining you need to see how he is going to be affected.
3. Tim Cahill - He is still playing in an advanced role so there is some good scoring prospects from him.

Red light (sell):

1. ARS players - Too much of instability in the club at the moment.

Gameweek 3 Dream Team

Hilario
Bosingwa -- R Taylor -- Smalling
Silva -- T Cahill -- Young -- Moses
Rooney(C) - Suarez(VC) -- Long

Subs: Vorm -- Sinclair - Enrique -- Figueroa

Gameweek 29 Fantasy Preview

Martin Kelly
Guess that he's not lonely with so many players such as Van Persie, Fabregas, Cahill etc. accompanying him on the sidelines.

Thank you for staying loyal with FPLZ as we now enter the decisive period of the season. The following weeks will be very crucial in determining your fantasy excellence.

February has been a fantastic fantasy month for me as I am scoring a hefty 338 points in this single month, resulting a February rank of 548. My overall ranking has also rocketed from 218,183 to 27,445. It must be the best fantasy position I have ever achieved ever since I played FPL.

But there will be hell lots of headaches in managing my fantasy team in March, with the number of injuries and suspensions. And I believe it will cause a lot of trouble to you as well. Now let's see some of the best fantasy commodities who are with the red cross army currently:

• Van Persie (six weeks)
• Kelly (three weeks)
• Tim Cahill (three weeks)

Combined with the suspension of Adam and Vidic, those who own plenty of them must be feeling the pressure of doing multiple transfers. Do remember that Everton and Birmingham are playing twice this week. Good luck.

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PART I: PRE-MATCH ANALYSES

Dimitar Berbatov
Will he score goals start?

Liverpool v Manchester United

Kenny Dalglish will like to seek for a revenge for the defeat his suffered from his debut return as Liverpool manager this week against Manchester United.

Numerous big stars will miss out on this grand fixture including Kelly, Agger, Ferdinand and Vidic. Carroll is expected to feature on this game and it is sure that he will capitalise on the absence of United's best centre backs if he does feature.

Meanwhile, the one and only player who has hat-tricked Liverpool this season - Berbatov is doubted to get a spot to play against Liverpool. United is expected to play with five midfielders and if that's the case, I have to say that Rooney who's in better form should start.

In the absence of Vidic and Rio, I think it's hard for United to get away from Anfield with any points. Neither Smalling/O'Shea nor Smalling/Brown combination makes me feel confident.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Man Utd

The Rest

• Birmingham v West Brom (2-1) - The Brums to win. A solid one.
• Arsenal v Sunderland (3-1) - With Bendtner on form, the Gunners can forget about Van Persie now.
• Bolton v Aston Villa (2-2) - The Villans clearly have better form, but remember that Bolton is fighting for a Europa spot currently.
• Fulham v Blackburn (1-0) - Time to escape from draw streaks for the Cottagers.
• Newcastle v Everton (1-0) - Somehow I feel that Everton will fall on this one.
• West Ham v Stoke City (3-0) - Demba Ba and Hitzlsperger are too strong at the moment.
• Man City v Wigan (4-0) - Clearly the most fantasy friendly match of the week. But it's still unsure who will lead the line.
• Wolves v Tottenham (1-2) - It will not be easy for Tottenham against a team that fights for survival.
• Blackpool v Chelsea (2-3) - The win against United will give the Blues a lot of confidence to win this one.
• Everton v Birmingham (1-1) - It's expected to be a narrow scoreline.

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PART II: SQUAD SELECTIONS

Nikola Zigic
The tower is on red hot form.

Captain Picks

• Tevez/Balotelli - Obvious choices this week. Of course, Tevez is always the safest bet.
• Bendtner - Arsenal's supply will focus on him.
• Zigic - Huge potential with a gameweek double.

Buys-In

• Everton players - Good run of fixtures ahead.
• Birmingham players - Same reason as Everton.
• Bendtner - Leading the line for Gunners.
• Hitzlsperger/Demba Ba - On their highs.

Sells-Out

• Van Persie/Kelly/Tim Cahill - Injured.
• Kolo Toure - Suspended due to drug violation.

Squad of XV

GK: Foster

DF: R Johnson, Baines, Zabaleta

MF: Arteta, Hitzlsperger, Lampard, Nasri

F: Zigic, Tevez, Bendtner

Subs (in order): Szczesny, Coleman, Dempsey, Djourou

Captain: Tevez

ECS: Value

Gameweek 22 Fantasy Preview

Drogba v Terry
Both clashed as the former contributed one goal and one assist but the latter  leaked three goals.

Chelsea once again disappoint us with a 3-3 draw against out of form Aston Villa. Once a leader, Chelsea now sit on fifth, behind Tottenham Hotspur after their derby rival secured a 1-0 win against Fulham.

On the other hand, two fantasy stars missed a penalty each this week - Tevez and Odemwingie - and I owned them both! Such a catastrophe for me since December as each and every transfer I made were disastrous. This was further worsen by Kolarov - who played 58 minutes when Man City got a clean sheet!

Finally, congratulations to Rooney - who scored his first goal from open play after so many months. But now, lets have an overview for the next gameweek...

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PART I: PRE-MATCH ANALYSES

Cesc Fabregas
Mr Fab on fire.

Arsenal v Man City
Manchester Blues are set to revenge after a humiliating defeat at home earlier this season.

This time the showdown will be much more exciting as both teams are on red hot form. The Manchester side collected 15 points from their last six games, with the London side two points less.

Compact fixtures is not a problem for both sides as they have ample talents to substitute. Arsenal have all their attackers on fire including Walcott, Arshavin, Bendtner, Van Persie, Nasri, Song, and most importantly, captain Cesc. The skipper scored 23 fantasy points from the last two games he had played. A good lead by example.

However City is by no means weaker than Arsenal. Silva has been very influential nowadays, playing a role similar to Modric at Tottenham despite lacking statistical returns. Meanwhile, Balotelli's outstanding form is a constant threat for Tevez - which will motivate the latter to give more effort on the pitch. Not to be forgotten are City's defensive midfielders who will not hesitate to play ugly tackles for the sake of victory.

A draw will not help both sides so this match should have a winner. I will lean towards the away side, as the Gunners usually fear brutal midfielders and City has a good record at away.

Prediction: Arsenal 2-3 Man City


The Rest

• Blackpool v Birmingham (2-2) - Tight and close as Birmingham strive to get away from bottom three.
• Fulham v West Brom (1-1) - Fulham is still lack of defensive resolution so I think the Baggies will sneak away with a result.
• Man Utd v Stoke City (2-0) - It's the Theatre of Dreams where United win all but one. Nani is expected to be ready for this game.
• Aston Villa v Sunderland (2-2) - Pretty unpredictable but it looks like Villans will once again get frustrated by another draw.
• Newcastle v West Ham (1-1) - Carroll might still be doubtful for this one so the Hammers has a strong chance to push themselves further away from relegation zone.
• Wolves v Chelsea (1-3) - With the attackers back on track, victory is expected for the Blues.
• Blackburn v Liverpool (3-3) - Steve Kean won't park the bus like Big Sam so expect big leakages for both sides.
• Bolton v Wigan (2-1) - N'Zogbia continues his suspension so put your chips on Elmander and co.
• Everton v Tottenham (1-3) - No more Tim Cahill, no more power.
• Blackpool v Liverpool* (1-2) - The Reds will like to pay a revenge against the Seasiders for both killing them at home and making their January fixtures ultimately compact.

*Gameweek double

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PART II: SQUAD SELECTIONS

D.J. Campbell
The best time to benefit from his service?

Captain Picks

• Gerrard/Torres - At least you won't get a two this time.
• Adam - One three points bonus is suffice to benefit from his captaincy.
• Drogba/Malouda - Wolves is always Lions' food.

Buys-In

• Drogba/Malouda - Chelsea's offence is reactivated.
• Adam/DJ Campbell - Compact fixtures. One always score bonus while the other is on form.

Sells-Out

• Wolves - Their next series of games - Chelsea, Man City, Liverpool, Bolton, Man Utd, Arsenal!
• Chamakh - Totally overpowered by Van Persie.
• Asian Cup participants (Park, Lee, Cahill etc) - They won't contribute anything to you this month, in any way.

Squad of XV

GK: Van der Sar

DF: Skrtel, Vidic, A Cole

MF: Gerrard(C), Fabregas, Adam, Van der Vaart

F: Torres, Drogba, DJ Campbell

Subs (in order): Jaaskelainen, Barton, Knight, Hughes

Tuesday Torment

Fernando Torres
Celebrates the birth of his second child when I needed him the most in my fantasy team.

Another disappointing gameweek for me as I scored below the average again thanks to a couple of absentees including Man Utd's players. Here are the highlights for this week's game:

• Arsenal climbed to the summit for the first time this season thanks to the delay of Man Utd game and most importantly, Nasri's marvel. The midfielder has now scored eight league goals and racked up 14 bonus points. Wenger can now release Fabregas to Barcelona with relief.
• Tottenham failed to play consistently again as they have to share one point with Birmingham.
• Blackburn won much easier than I expected. Robinson picked up another bonus point to lead the goalkeepers' bonus points league.
• Tim Cahill did rub salt into Chelsea's wound as he assisted for the equaliser against them. Drogba scored, but only from a penalty. Seems like Ancelotti is on danger.
• Tevez's only goal secured a victory for Man City. He's suspended for next game after accumulating five yellows, so don't transfer him in hastily.
• Etherington continued his fantastic form to score three in three games but Stoke only managed to earn a draw against Wigan.
• Odemwingie made a superb performance as his two goals helped WBA to win 3-1 against Newcastle.
• Henderson scored the only goal to help Sunderland beating West Ham 1-0.
• Liverpool surprisingly overpowered Aston Villa with three goals in the absence of Gerrard, Carragher and Torres. What's more surprising? N'gog scored 12 fantasy points. Unbelievable.

Anyway, it's a great time to buy Torres this week as he will want to dedicate a goal or two to his new born baby. Good luck.

Gameweek 16 Fantasy Preview

Victor Obinna
Made four for his team mate on a stylish 4-0 victory against Man Utd.

Arsenal is on the driving seat to claim Carling Cup trophy following Manchester United's surprise defeat against West  Ham. Luck has finally on the Hammers side and fellow fantasy managers should be well alerted to start to look for Avram Grant's players - Parker, Obinna, Piquionne, Carlton Cole etc..

Meanwhile, on Europa League we see Manchester City edging Red Bull Salzburg at ease with Mario Balotelli providing two goals. Liverpool on the other hand secured a draw to ensure both English clubs getting through the next round.

Expect more snows to come.

The more important news for fantasy managers, however, is the weather condition in United Kingdom. Santa Claus is coming soon, with snow his first gift. Games may be postponed at last minute so do drag your transfer decisions to the final minutes. Good luck.

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PART I: PRE-MATCH ANALYSES

Tim Cahill
To rub salt into Chelsea's wound?

Chelsea v Everton
Chelsea will want to end their torment of winless streak at Stamford Bridge but that won't be easy with Everton visiting this weekend.

The Blue Lions are suffering from possibly the worst form since Roman Abramovich's reign. The condition further worsened by its chain reaction which causes the players like Drogba and Kalou to lose their touch of confidence. They certainly looked awful in finishing despite creating numerous chances.

But Everton isn't in a good shape as well. A 1-4 defeat to West Brom at Goodison Park wasn't something that I had imagined. Nevertheless, Tim Cahill continued his fantastic form to score in three consecutive league games.

Despite Chelsea's poor form, I will have to back them to win this as a victory is much needed to prepare them to face the next three league opponents - Tottenham, Manchester United and Arsenal. Essien is back, and that makes the difference.

Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Everton

Raul Meireles
Should have score more fantasy points with his kind of performance.

Liverpool v Aston Villa
Injury-plagued Liverpool will be hoping to snatch three points against under-par Aston Villa at Anfield.

The Reds lost their last game against Tottenham despite being the better side. What's worse? They had also lost their vice captain Jamie Carragher. Kyrgiakos is set to take up his position until Carra's return and he is the best bargain in Liverpool's defence.

The bigger question though is whether Joe Cole (4-2-3-1) or David N'gog (4-4-2) will partner Torres. The former is still struggling to find his form at Anfield while the latter might had his confidence stripped after conceding a penalty during his last league game.

On the other side, the Villans were knocked out from the League Cup by their derby rivals Birmingham. Contrary to Liverpool, they are escaping from the injury crises with Gabriel Agbonlahor finally found his boots to score against Birmingham during the tourney. His speed alongside with Ashley Young's and Downing's will give a lot of trouble to Liverpool's slow defenders.

Houllier will be eager to prove himself in front of his former club, but I think the Reds' at home with stamina advantage will stop him to do so.

Prediction: Liverpool 2-1 Aston Villa

The Rest

• Arsenal v Fulham (3-0) - No reason to lose.
• Birmingham v Tottenham (0-2) - I don't think Birmingham has the stamina to hold up Bale, Defoe and Lennon after a Carling Cup fixture.
• Blackburn v Wolves (2-0) - The Rovers to get tough at home and send Wolves home.
• Man City v Bolton (3-1) - City on form with Balotelli leading the strike.
• Wigan v Stoke City (1-2) - The tougher side wins.
• Blackpool v Man Utd (1-5) - Blackpool is poor at home. Expect the trio of Berbatov, Nani and Rooney to shine.
• West Brom v Newcastle (2-2) - Pretty tight match-up but it should be a leaky one.
• Sunderland v West Ham (2-2) - The Black Cats are still unbeaten at home but on-from Hammers should be able to get something away.

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PART II: SQUAD SELECTIONS

Maruonne Chamakh
Gets a captain tick.

Captain Picks

• Nani/Berbatov/Rooney - Ready to open up a big score line against Blackpool.
• Chamakh - Strong home advantage against the Cottagers.

Buy-Ins

• Liverpool players - Solid fixtures ahead.
• Gamst Pedersen - Nice fixtures as well. Check his injury status first anyway.

Sell-Outs

• Nolan - Tough games oncoming.
• Van der Vaart - Injured.
• Arteta - Suspended.
• Chelsea players - Hellish fixtures ahead. You might want to delay until the next gameweek though.

Squad of XV

GK: Fabianski

DF: Kyrgiakos, Samba, Richards, Vidic

MF: Bale, Nasri*, Nani(C), Brunt

F: Berbatov, Chamakh

Subs (in order): Robinson, Carroll, Etherington, Shawcross

Captain: Nani

Emergency Captain: Value

Starting XI Value: £75.5m

Total Team Value: £96.6m

*Latest news: Nasri is doubtful. Replace him with Arshavin when necessary.

Gameweek 15 Fantasy Preview

Wayne Rooney
Climbing up hard.

Yes, Wayne Rooney is back but how about his form? Certainly looking good in the Champions League game. Also, Van der Vaart's condition remains unknown so choose Bale if you haven't get both Bale and VdV and decide to get one of them.

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PART I: PRE-MATCH ANALYSES

Ashley Young
Marked as £80m by Gerard Houllier after being pursued by Man Utd and Liverpool.

Aston Villa v Arsenal
Another frenzy Saturday opener as Aston Villa face Arsenal at the unbeatable Villa Park.

The Villans are yet to lose at their home ground, with a proud record of holding Chelsea and drawing Man Utd after a two goal lead. Things may go pretty tough for them though, with the absence of several key players including captain Stiliyan Petrov (long term knee injury) and Marc Albrighton (appendicitis). However, the arrival of ex-Gunners Robert Pires certainly helps them, both experience and tactics to play against the Frenchman's former employer.

On the other hand, Arsenal continues to miss Thomas Vermaelen and captain Cesc Fabregas for their title conquest. Koscielny is still very unreliable and this big hole may be greatly exploited by Gabriel Agbonlahor. Arsenal will have to rely on Fabianski and Nasri's marvel in both ends to get something from Villa.

I think Villa should be able to at least continue their unbeaten record at Villa Park.

Prediction: AST 1-0 ARS

Gareth Bale
Needs to keep his mind cool after missing a penalty in the Champions League clash against Bremen.

Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool
Well rested Liverpool is set to snatch something from White Hart Lane as the home side celebrates for their Champions League progress.

Van der Vaart remains a doubt for Tottenham but I don't think that would matter much as they now have a fit Defoe to lead the line. The latter will definitely reduce the number of chances wasted by the team with his clinical strikes.

On the other side, the skipper Steven Gerrard remains injured, but Lucas will be released from suspension to lock Modric's passes. However, it remains a concern whether Carragher and Skrtel/Kyrgiakos can guard Defoe and Crouch/Pavlyuchenko well and whether Glen Johnson can keep up with Gareth Bale's speed.

Liverpool's away form is too pathetic to win this, but I think there's a high chance of drawing. Expect goals from both sides.

Prediction: TOT 1-1 LIV

The Rest

• Bolton v Blackpool (3-1) - Captain K. Davies or Elmander again everyone?
• Everton v West Brom (3-0) - Captain Tim Cahill. Quite a big shock if he fails to give us something.
• Fulham v Birmingham (1-0) - Fulham needs to collect points against weak-at-away Birmingham.
• Man Utd v Blackburn (2-0) - Those with United's defender should prosper.
• Stoke City v Man City (0-1) - Tough match-up for City but they shouldn't slip.
• West Ham v Wigan (2-1) - May be the last game for Avram Grant so he should make it a happy ending.
• Wolves v Sunderland (0-2) - One goal each for Welbeck and Bent?
• Newcastle v Chelsea (0-2) - A great opportunity for Drogba and co to signal their return. UPDATE: Heavy snow at Tyneside so expect the game to be postponed.

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PART II: SQUAD SELECTIONS

Tim Cahill
I strongly believe that he will do this in the match against WBA.

Captain Picks

• Tim Cahill - WBA is totally out of form.
• Elmander/K. Davies - It's so hard to believe Blackpool defence can hold them up at Reebok Stadium.
• Nani - Despite Rooney's return, he will still play the most important role at United until the former reaches his prime.
• Drogba/Malouda - Newcastle's defence is too fragile for them.

Buy-Ins

• Elmander/K. Davies/Lee - They lead Bolton's in-form attack.
• Rafael - Cementing a strong starting position at Man Utd.
• Rooney - If you believe that he will find his form fast.

Sell-Outs

• Fabregas - Injured.
• Gyan - Doubtful and lost his position to Welbeck.
• Elmohamady - Lost his starting position surprisingly.

Squad of XV

GK: Van der Sar

DF: Vidic, Baines, Ivanovic

MF: Cahill(C), Nani, Dempsey, Lee

F: Elmander, Davies K., Drogba

Subs (in order): Green, Hughes, N'Zogbia, Coleman

Captain: Cahill

Emergency Captain: Value

Starting XI Value: £84.1m

Total Team Value: £104.4m

Everton 3-3 Man Utd: In Pictures

Can you believe it? Everton snatched a last minute draw in Goodison Park just now!!! Two goals in a minute! Such an exciting game! Now I'll bring you some narrative of the game in pictures:

Rooney out of the squad in order to protect him psychologically.
Out of form Valencia is out of the squad as well.

Goal (39th minute)! Steven Pienaar scored. Everton 1-0 Man Utd.

Darren Fletcher equalised (42th minute)! 1-1.

Vidic scored through a free-kick header (46th)! Man Utd led by 2-1.

Mr Silky Smooth scored through a beautiful counter (65th)! Man Utd 3-1 Everton.

Yakubu came on. Very effective substitute to give more control to Everton upfront.

Van der Sar performed numerous classic saves and looked too good for Everton to score before the arrival of stoppage time...

Tim Cahill scored with his trademark header with 20 seconds remaining! It seemed hard to change the tide nonetheless, but...

A big mess in United's penalty area and Arteta got a free shot. GOAL! Three goals apiece. United lost two points!

Jonny Evans again looked so shaky in United's defence. One of the main culprit for United's draw.

Despite the draw, I think Liverpool should worry a lot as United's attack is so silky and effective. A big tough test for Roy Hodgson and his squad.

P/s: The pictures used are only for illustration purposes.