Fantasy Football, FEATURED, GAFFR Fantasy Championship

GAFFR Fantasy Championship: Tipster Player Picks for Gameweek 4

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The team selected for GAFFR gameweek 3 managed to accumulate 61 points, this is a pretty poor score especially compared to our gameweek 2 team which managed to get 90. This low score is mainly down to a sub-par performance by Cardiff who I had a lot of faith in for their game against Peterborough.

Goalkeeper Pick

 

Mark Travers (£5.0M) vs BPL (H)

For our starting ‘keeper I have again gone for Bournemouth shot-stopper Mark Travers, Bournemouth face a struggling Blackpool team who have only scored once so far this season. Bournemouth themselves have been reliable defensively in their games this season not against clubs called West Brom and look a good bet for a clean sheet in this one.

GAFFR Defender Picks

 

Kenny Tete (£6.0M) vs HUL (H)

Once again I’m putting my faith in Fulham’s Kenny Tete. Somehow Fulham are yet to keep a single clean sheet this season despite having the lowest xGA in the league. On average they’ve conceded just 0.47 xG per game but have actually conceded in all of them. Tete himself played very high up the field against Millwall away in gameweek 3 and I can only imagine this will continue here.

 

John Egan (£6.0M) vs HUD (H)

Yes, I do realise that Sheffield United were just on the end of a 4-0 defeat however I believe that to be more a product of West Brom’s great attack. “The Blades” face a Huddersfield team who haven’t started well. My confidence could be misplaced but I do believe that Sheffield United could keep a clean sheet in this one.

 

Tommy Smith (£5.1M) vs NOT (H)

Stoke have been one of the solid defences over the start of this campaign with the 3rd lowest xGA and they face a Nottingham Forest side who have struggled for creativity, this is reflected in the fact that they have the 4th lowest xG in the Championship. Smith however isn’t just a player I’d pick for clean sheet potential, he has the joint-most assists so far and that could very well continue.

GAFFR Midfielder Picks

 

Callum Robinson (£9.1M) vs BLA (A)

At this point, Callum Robinson is becoming essential in GAFFR. Despite being listed as a midfielder he has started the season as a striker for West Brom and it is working. Robinson is the league’s top scorer after three games and has the 2nd most shots, and joint 3rd most shots on target meaning it is likely to stay that way. His three goals have come from an xG of 2.2, not an unsustainable overperformance.

 

Jamal Lowe (£8.5M) vs BRI (A)

Though Swansea haven’t had a good start to the season by any means I think that they have a winnable game here and their talisman Lowe should get amongst the goals. Lowe is listed as a midfielder in GAFFR but has started OOP upfront for Swansea, giving him a better chance of being the man who puts the ball in the back of the net.

 

Phillip Billing (£7.1M) vs BPL (H)

As mentioned earlier, Bournemouth have a pretty good fixture here against a poor Blackpool team who have conceded the 2nd most xG out of any Championship side this season and a strong team like Bournemouth should be able to exploit Blackpool’s weaknesses. In Bournemouth’s recent win over Birmingham, Billing was the highest forward player on the pitch on average which suggests he is heavily involved in Bournemouth’s chances.

 

Fabio Carvalho (£5.1M) vs HUL (H)

Fabio Carvalho has probably been the breakout star of the Championship so far. The attacking midfielder has averaged three shots and three key passes a game so far, incredible numbers for any player, let alone an 18-year-old. At just £5.1M Carvalho is brilliant value and should be in nearly everybody’s team at this point.

GAFFR Forward Picks

 

Aleksandr Mitrovic (£11.0M) vs HUL (H)

Mitrovic once again showed why he is one of, if not the best striker in the league in Fulham’s victory over Millwall in gameweek 3. Mitrovic is an absolutely incredible goalscorer at this level and is a safe pick every week. I don’t think anyone would be surprised if he finishes this season amongst the top points scorers in GAFFR.

 

Jaidon Anthony (£6.2M) vs BPL (H)

A mainstay in these teams, Jaidon Anthony is back for another week. If you ask me, nobody should have Solanke in their sides currently. If you want a Bournemouth forward. Get Anthony. He makes more key passes, has more shots and more shots on target, expect him to be amongst the goals in a favourable fixture here for Bournemouth

 

Viktor Gyökeres (£5.6M) vs REA (H)

Last gameweek we had a cheap forward in the shape of Femi Azeez, this week it’s Gyökeres, or Viktor as he is listed on GAFFR. Viktor is a really good option in GAFFR because of the large volume of chances he gets. Only Phillip Zinckernagel has more shots on target so far this season. Gyökeres also has an xG of 2.14, roughly in line with his two goals showing he puts the ball away at a reliable rate. This week, Viktor has a pretty good fixture playing against a leaky Reading defence and I back him to add to his tally here.

Team of the Week for Gameweek 4

 

 

Formation: 3-4-3

Starting XI Cost: £74.7M

You can find GAFFR Fantasy Championship resources for the 21/22 season here.

Bundesliga Fantasy, Fantasy Football, FEATURED

Fantasy Bundesliga Differential Picks for Matchday 2

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After a high scoring Matchday 1 of Fantasy Bundesliga, in this week’s article, we look at the differential picks that you should consider for your squad in Matchday 2 which can help you gain ranks on the leaders.

Fantasy Bundesliga Forward Picks



Andrej Kramarić vs FC Union Berlin (H)

The main man for Hoffenheim with an ownership of 4% in the game is one forward worth considering a very sharp performance in MD1 with 3 assists and was involved in all of Hoffenheim’s attacking play.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 20

🎯 Assists: 5

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.80

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 1.38

🚀 Shots Per 90: 3.58


So the stats also indicate very good returns for the player and considering standalone fixtures against Union Berlin this matchday and Dortmund on matchday 3 he is a player who can take your team up fantasy ranks.



Serge Gnabry vs FC Köln (H)

This Bayern Winger is an interesting option to consider ahead of their fixture with Koln at home with him linking up with Lewandowski will be a good threat against the weak defence of FC Köln. Though he did not have any goals or assists in the first game the team was taking up positions centrally and shooting finishing the week on 21 shots which was second only to Stuttgart’s 32 shots against Greuther Fürth.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 10

🎯 Assists: 2

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.40

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.38

🚀 Shots Per 90: 3.21

 

The stats highlight Gnabry’s potential and a double up with Lewandowski could gain you an advantage over many Fantasy Managers playing the game.


Jonathan Burkardt vs Bochum (A)

The young Mainz striker has been very much involved in pre-season as a centrepiece in their plans playing off the main striker – Adam Szalai. He has already scored two goals in the DFB Pokal and had a great game against Leipzig holding the ball and creating chances.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 2

🎯 Assists: 0

📈 Expected GoalS: 0

📊 Expected Assists: 1.96

🚀 Shots Per 90: 1.88


Though his stats are very limited due to less number of starts with an ownership of 1% in the game and with upcoming fixtures against Bochum and Greuther Fürth make him a very promising choice to deliver a good return in fantasy.

Fantasy Bundesliga Midfielder Picks



Jean-Paul Boëtius vs Bochum (A)

The Mainz midfielder was one of their best creative players last season with two goals and four assists and was linking up with the strikers from midfield.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 2

🎯 Assists: 4

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.14

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.29

🚀 Shots Per 90: 1.25

 

He missed the first match due to quarantine and might possibly miss the second as well, but upcoming matches against promoted sides Bochum and Greuther Fürth make him a good fantasy asset if he does start. In case he doesn’t, midfielders Lee Jae-sung (OOP striker, 6M) and Paul Nebel (OOP winger, 1.1M) are also worth considering.



Masaya Okugawa vs Greuther Fürth (A)

The Japanese midfielder from Arminia was one of the brightest players in their dull 0-0 draw on matchday 1. He had two shots on target and was the main attacking threat for his side.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 1

🎯 Assists: 0

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 1.21

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.66

🚀 Shots Per 90: 0.87



His stats do not reflect his potential as he only joined the club in the latter part of the season and played second fiddle to Doan. But this season he is in the starting 11 and with an upcoming fixture against Greuther Fürth makes him an interesting fantasy asset and Okugawa is selected by only 1% of managers.

 

Daichi Kamada vs FC Augsburg (A)

The Frankfurt attacking midfielder had a disappointing outing against Dortmund in the defeat as most Frankfurt players were hardly able to make an impact. He was in good form at home matches last season and his stats for the 2020-2021 season are below.



⚽ Goals: 5

🎯 Assists: 12

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.21

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.28

🚀 Shots Per 90: 1.44

 

He was involved in teams attacking play and along with Kostic created the most chances. With ownership of just 4% and a favourable home fixture against Augsburg, he can reward the fantasy managers who own him.

Fantasy Bundesliga Defender Picks

 

Moussa Niakhaté vs Bochum (A)

The Mainz centre-back was the hero in their amazing win against Leipzig scoring the winning goal and putting on an impressive defensive display and keeping André Silva in his pocket.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 3

🎯 Assists: 1

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.08

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.05

🚀 Shots Per 90: 0.31


He is a constant threat from free-kicks, corners and even taking the occasional penalty kick and with favourable fixtures against Bochum and Greuther Fürth he looks a solid pick with an attacking threat and at ownership of only 4%, he could be the best pick from the 05ers defence.

 

Stefan Lainer vs Leverkusen (A)

The attacking Austrian right-back had a decent performance against Bayern Munich and manage to set up chances for the forwards. He plays in a good Gladbach team who are known to attack via the wing and can deliver an attacking return in addition to keeping a clean sheet.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 2

🎯 Assists: 0

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.05

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.11

🚀 Shots Per 90: 0.73


With ownership of 4% and a stand-alone fixture at Leverkusen who only accumulated an xG of 0.79 last week, Lainer can offer both points as well as star flexibility to your Fantasy Bundesliga team.

 

Danilo Soares vs Mainz (H)

The Brazilian left-back for Bochum caught the eye in their match against Wolfsburg consistently making runs down the wing and crossing balls into the box, although they were playing with just 10 men.

 

Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 2

🎯 Assists: 2

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.07

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.07


In the game against Wolfsburg, he won 14 duels and took advanced positions on the left and along with a defensive-minded setup, he could be a shrewd pick.

 

Cedric Brunner vs Greuther Fürth (A)

The right-back for Arminia can be a source of good points against a shot-shy Furth team, who were poor in the first match against Stuttgart conceding five goals and 32 shots in total.



Stats from the 2020-2021 season

⚽ Goals: 0

🎯 Assists: 1

📈 Expected Goals (Per 90): 0.01

📊 Expected Assists (Per 90): 0.04

🚀 Shots Per 90: 0.21


In the game against Freiburg, Arminia looked like a solid defensive unit and Brunner put in two crosses into the box. With very low ownership and a favourable fixture, he can be a decent budget pick.

Differential XI MD1

 

You can find additional Bundesliga Fantasy resources for the 21/22 season here.

Eliteserien Fantasy, Fantasy Football, FEATURED

Eliteserien Fantasy – A Wildcard Guide

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After a few intense blank and double gameweeks in Eliteserien Fantasy including a lot of injuries and players leaving, the use of the wildcard is even more appealing just because our teams might not be in an ideal position. As you will know, the second wildcard is already available in-game so let’s see which players could come in clutch for us in our wildcard. We’ll present two goalkeepers, three defenders, three midfielders and three forwards, along with some backup options and a final wildcard draft. Let’s go!

Note: At the end of the article, there is a fixture ticker from GW16 to GW23, ideal material to start planning your Eliteserien Fantasy team.

Eliteserien Fantasy Goalkeeper Picks

 

Mads Hedenstad Christiansen (Lillestrøm SK – 4.5M – 3.8% owned)

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⏱️ Appearances: 13 (1170 mins)

⛔ Clean Sheets: 3

🧤 Saves: 37 (2.9 per match)

🅱️ Bonus Points: 1

❌ Penalty Saves: 1

 

This goalkeeper seems to be one of the best options on wildcard because of this price and run of fixtures (@fkh, @mjo, vs BRA, @odd, vs TIL, @s08). His stats are not anything impressive but that’s because Lillestrøm were not that good at the start of the season. Right now they are sitting in 3rd position in the form of their life. Eight saves, two clean sheets and one penalty saved in his last three matches is something very hard to ignore. This pick is also fantastic if you want a rotational goalkeeper plan since he is a very cheap asset.

 

Egil Selvik (FK Haugesund – 5.3M – 12.1% owned)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 14 (1260 mins)

⛔ Clean Sheets: 6

🧤 Saves: 47 (3.3 per match)

🅱️ Bonus Points: 9

❌ Penalty Saves: 1

 

Even though he is more expensive than the previous pick, Selvik is good enough to get that goalkeeper starting spot in your team. He also has a very good run of fixtures despite a tricky fixture in GW16 against Lillestrøm (vs LSK, @bra, vs S08, @kbk, vs ODD, @til, vs MJO). Haugesund have been pretty poor defensively in the last few games but Egil can still get a lot of saves in FKH’s polite run of games, and why not, some bonus points.

 

📌 Some goalkeepers that did not make the list were Sean McDermott (Kristiansund BK – 5.6M – 24.1% owned) due to a pretty hard run of fixtures (Molde and BG in their next two games) and Viljar Myra (Strømsgodset IF – 4.6M – 14.8% owned) because his team blanks in GW19, even though he’s got a double fixture in GW20, I do not think it’s worth a try.



Eliteserien Fantasy Defender Picks

 

Adam Andersson (Rosenborg BK – 5.9M – 3.2% owned)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 13 (1180 mins)

🎯 Assists: 3

⛔ Clean Sheets: 2

🅱️ Bonus Points: 5

 

After Kristoffer Zachariassen departure, we all thought Rosenborg would suffer, but some players have made a big step forward. Andersson is one of them. The Swedish player has got two assists, one clean sheet and five bonus points in his last three matches.  This sounds even better when you check RBK’s run of games (vs ODD, @vik, vs TIL, @s08, vs MJO, @kbk, vs VIF, vs SAN). Clean sheets are not Rosenborg’s cup of tea but the attacking returns are what make Andersson an amazing pick and still a differential due to his 3.2% ownership.

 

Fredrik André Bjørkan (Bodø/Glimt – 6.0M – 36% owned)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 14 (1188 mins)

🎯 Assists: 4

⛔ Clean Sheets: 5

🅱️ Bonus Points: 4

 

No major surprises here. After recovering from an injury sustained in the Champions League play-off match against Legia Warsaw, the Norwegian defender is back on the menu. His recent injury record is concerning but he’s still a very template and strong pick with good fixtures ahead (@kbk, vs TIL, @odd, @vik, vs VIF, @stb, vs S08, @sif).

 

Igoh Ogbu (Lillestrøm SK – 4.6M – 13.9% owned)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 15 (1530 mins)

⚽ Goals: 1

🎯 Assists: 1

⛔ Clean Sheets: 3

🅱️ Bonus Points: 7

 

Another cheap defender that is perfect for our fantasy teams. Nailed and sometimes involved in LSK’s goals. Even though Haugesund away from home isn’t an ideal fixture in GW16, you can bench him and start him in the following games (@fkh, @mjo, vs BRA, @odd, vs TIL, @s08).

 

📌 Some defenders that did not make the list were Joachim Thomassen (Sarpsborg 08 – 5.7M – 9.7% owned) because his team blanks in GW16. However, he is not a bad pick since he faces Sandefjord and Stromsgodset in his next five matches. Tomas Totland (Tromsø IL – 5.4M – 13% owned) also missed out because he faces RBK, BG, MOL and LSK in his next six matches. He also faces Sandefjord and Brann, so he’s not a bad pick at all if you start him in these matches and bench him in harder matches.

Eliteserien Fantasy Midfielder Picks

 

Oliver Edvarsen (Stabaek – 7.2M – 16.1% owned)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 15 (1080 mins)

⚽ Goals: 6

🎯 Assists: 4

🅱️ Bonus Points: 7

 

After a horrendous start, Stabaek is now improving mainly due to Edvarsen contributions. The 22-year-old has scored five goals and assisted one in his last five matches. Some say the “purple patch” is over following a blank vs Kristiansund in GW15, but that is not right at all since he could have had some assists in that match. Stabaek have a blank fixture in GW19 but have a delicious double fixture in GW20 as well (vs MJO, @vif, vs VIK, @san, vs SIF, @bg, vs BRA). Edvardsen is of the best performers in Eliteserien at the moment, very easy decision!

 

Kristoffer Velde (FK Haugesund – 8.8M – 21.9%)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 15 (1300 mins)

⚽ Goals: 4

🎯 Assists: 7

🅱️ Bonus Points: 7

 

After a slow start to the season, Haugesund are back on track with their main man being Velde. (vs LSK, @bra, vs S08, @kbk, vs ODD, @til, vs MJO) are fantastic fixtures for him as well, being too hard to ignore. The team is suffering defensively lately but they don’t need a lot of chances to score goals, which means an FKH asset is basically essential. Kristoffer Velde should be your man here with two goals and four assists in his last five matches.

 

Kristoffer Normann Hansen (Sandefjord – 6.0M – 22% owned)

 

At a 6.0M price and with the fixtures he’s got (vs TIL, @s08, vs VIF, @mjo, vs STB, @vik, vs ODD) he becomes one of the best picks if you are using your wildcard, with two goals, one assist and three bonus points in his last four matches. He is currently the highest-scoring midfielder in the game so far along with Velde but Vidar Jónsson (Sandefjord – 5.4M – 22.4% owned) is also a good enough pick to cover SAN fixtures with two goals, two assists and two bonus points in his last four matches.

 

📌 Some good midfielders that did not make the list were Johan Hove (Stromsgodset IF – 8.1M – 7.7%) because his team has a blank fixture and they have not looked well in the last few weeks. Zlatko Trpic (Viking – 9.6M – 4.3%) also misses out. Despite being on fire, his team has just lost Berisha to an injury, which is awful news for them. However, he could be a massive differential, but he is expensive and the fixtures are not too good, facing RBK, MOL and BG in their next 4 matches.



Eliteserien Fantasy Forward Picks

 

Dino Islamovic (Rosenborg BK – 10.5M – 11%)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 12 (978 mins)

⚽ Goals: 3

🎯 Assists: 2

🅱️ Bonus Points: 5

 

The Swedish striker is probably the best RBK attacking asset since Zachariassen departure. His fixtures are kind (ODD-vik-TIL-s08-MJO-kbk) so he becomes a very good choice for our wildcard. He is in hot form as well, with three goals and five bonus points in his last four matches.

 

Thomas Lehne Olsen (Lillestrøm SK – 9.5M – 37% owned)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 16 (1303 mins)

⚽ Goals: 13

🎯 Assists: 1

🅱️ Bonus Points: 19

 

The LSK striker is just essential at this stage of the season. He has been one of the most consistent players in the league, out of 16 matches played, he has only blanked in 4 of them. He is also a bonus point magnet, getting 3 bonus points in 7 different fixtures. The last straw is LSK’s fixtures (@fkh, @mjo, vs BRA, @odd, vs TIL, @s08, vsKBK), which makes him one of the best assets in the game.

 

Erik Botheim (Bodø/Glimt – 10.2M – 29.2% owned)

 

⏱️ Appearances: 15 (1200 mins)

⚽ Goals: 9

🅱️ Bonus Points: 8

 

Botheim has been one of the biggest surprises of the season. After the departures of Junker, Zinckernagel and Hauge, the board made an amazing job finding proper replacements. Unlike Olsen, I do not think Erik is an essential asset because you can easily cover BG with the likes of Saltnes, Berg (cheap and on penalty duty) or Pellegrino (a new signing that might be a must-have player once he is nailed). The Norwegian striker has never scored more than one goal in a single match this season, but he has scored one goal in nine different matches, which shows his consistency.

 

📌 A fantastic asset that did not make the list was Ohi Omoijuanfo (FK Molde – 12.3M – 43.7%) because he has been unavailable these last few games due to personal reasons and it looks like he will leave Molde in some weeks so when using a wildcard, I do not think we should buy him until is future is decided. However, if he stays, we must get him back as soon as possible because he is arguably the best player in the league with 18 goals, 1 assist and 19 bonus points in 15 matches.

 

❗ To finish this wildcard guide off let’s have a look at some cheap assets in case we need some funds:

  • Sander Kartum (MID – Kristiansund BK – 0.8% owned – 5.8M)
  • Mats Hakeenstad (DEF – Sandefjord – 0.6% owned – 4.4M)
  • Nilsen Tangen (MID – Viking FK – 3.2% owned – 4.6M)
  • Martin Ovenstad (MID – Mjondalen – 8.3% – 5.1M)
  • Moses Ebiye (FOR – Tromso IL – 25.5% owned – 5.5M)
  • Eskil Edh (DEF – Lillestrom SK – 2.5% owned – 4.1M)

Eliteserien Fantasy Wildcard Draft & Fixture Ticker

 

Eliteserien Fixture Ticker

 

Fantasy Eliteserien Wildcard Draft

You can find Fantasy Eliteserien resources for the 21/22 season here.

Fantasy Football, FEATURED, GAFFR Fantasy Championship

GAFFR Fantasy Championship: Tipster Player Picks for Gameweek 3

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After a successful rendition of this post in gameweek 2, where the side picked managed to accumulate a whopping 90 points, even with our captain sent off, I am back to announce my picks for gameweek 3 of the GAFFR season.

GAFFR Goalkeeper Picks

 

Mark Travers (£5.0M) vs BIR (A)

In goal I have opted for Bournemouth shot-stopper Mark Travers, Travers faces a side whoever achieved more than one xG in a game once in their last four Championship matches. Birmingham have struggled to break down high-level defences in the past and I see it as not being any different here.

 

Simon Moore (£4.0M), BENCH

No changes from last week here, Moore kept a clean sheet in one half against Barnsley and Coventry still look pretty solid at the back. Still, the only nailed £4.0M keeper in GAFFR.

GAFFR Defender Picks

 

Antonee Robinson (£6.5M) vs MIL (A)

Once again, no changes in this spot. Despite his blank last week, I’m still a believer in Antonee Robinson coming up good. Fulham have a really strong defence and Robinson plays the highest upfield, giving him opportunities for attacking returns.

 

Kenny Tete (C) (£6.0M) vs MIL (A)

Yes, I’m being serious, Tete captain. Even though he played further back than Robinson in GW2, Kenny Tete seemed like the player with more attacking prowess. His late runs seem like they could cause problems for the opposition defences this season. I realise this is quite a left-field captain pick and you may feel free to disagree. Can’t be worse than last week’s captain eh?

 

Sean Morrison (VC) (£6.0M) vs PET (A)

I correctly predicted that Morrison could get a chance for an attacking return in GW2, but by no stretch of the imagination did I think it would be an assist. The 31-year-old was absolutely immense in his first league game back from injury and has definitely locked down his place back in the Cardiff line-up. Cardiff have the T-2nd best xGA in the league so far (1.01) so should be favourites for a clean sheet.

 

Jordan Zemura (£5.0M) vs BIR (A)

You may be starting to notice a pattern emerging with this defence. Jordan Zemura, while not getting an attacking return or even a clean sheet impressed Bournemouth fans with a mature performance against Nottingham Forest. Unfortunately, I have to report that he suffered from the same problems as against West Brom by no fault of his own. After Bournemouth’s David Brooks was sent off Zemura had to set a lot of further back limiting his potential. I think it is unlikely Bournemouth see another red here and it could be Zemura’s breakout game.

 

Tommy Smith (£5.0M) vs SWA (A)

I’m sure by now you knew this was coming, Tommy Smith completes the exact same back 5 as last gameweek. Stoke face a Swansea side who haven’t looked impressive in either of their games under Russell Martin so far and looked bereft of any attacking ideas against Sheffield United in gameweek 2. Smith always carries a chance of getting an attacking return and seems like a player who really suits the bonus point system in GAFFR.

GAFFR Midfielder Picks

 

John Swift (E) (£6.5M) vs BRI (H)

John Swift has had what can only be described as a sensational start to the season at Reading and I expect that to carry on against Bristol City. The club had troubles defensively last season and they don’t seem to have improved too much. Swift also benefits from having a home advantage with a full crowd behind Reading.

 

Ryan Giles (£4.6M) vs PET (A)

Ryan Giles is yet another player who has had a spectacular start to this campaign. Giles has featured predominately as a winger in a 3-4-3 formation so far, a similar role to someone like Rhian Brewster, who costs £8.5M and is listed as a Forward.

 

Callum O’Hare (£5.0M), BENCH (1st)

Callum O’Hare once again proved to be a bonus point magnet for Coventry as they took on Barnsley in GW2. He was unfortunately booked though which lost the Coventry man a point. I back O’Hare to work his magic against a poor Blackpool side in GW3.

 

Phillip Billing (£7.0M), BENCH (2nd)

Phillip Billing once again showed his class for Bournemouth in GW2. I’d be cautious of starting Billing in your team as Birmingham are yet to concede a goal in the Championship this season and it could be risky expecting them to do so now.

 

Sander Berge (£5.5M), BENCH (3rd)

Sander Berge is still a player I see a lot of potential in when it comes to GAFFR this season, even if this Sheffield United side are the only team yet to score in the competition. Berge plays against West Brom in this matchday and so is firmly on the bench.

GAFFR Forward Picks

 

Aleksandr Mitrovic (£11.0M) vs MIL (A)

Even though Millwall are known for their impressive defence I think Fulham should have what it takes to overpower them and with Mitrovic as the focal point. Fulham managed to bag 5 against an admittedly inferior Huddersfield Town side despite a red card to key man Harry Wilson. Mitrovic opened his account for the season in the said fixture and will have a good chance of repeating that in this one.

 

Kieffer Moore (£10.0M) vs PET (A)

Kieffer Moore impressively scored his first of the season against Blackpool last time out despite coming on as a substitute and will hope that after getting those minutes under his belt he is ready to start Cardiff’s showdown with Peterborough. Moore’s influence on this Cardiff side cannot be underestimated. He is an integral part of Mick McCarthy’s system and will be looking to get another goal against a side yet to keep a clean sheet.

 

Femi Azeez (£5.5M) vs BRI (H)

Alright, alright. I’m not ashamed to admit I might be jumping on the bandwagon a bit with this one. Reading youngster Azeez however had a really solid pre-season with the Royals and has carried that form into the Championship campaign, getting off the mark in his last outing. Reading have one of, if not the best-attacking fixture this week and it’d be rude not to pick up on them potential gem in Azeez.

GAFFR Team of the Week for Gameweek 3

 

 

Formation: 5-2-3

Total Cost: £92.6M

You can find GAFFR Fantasy Championship resources for the 21/22 season here.

Eliteserien Fantasy, Fantasy Football, FEATURED

Fantasy Eliteserien: Gameweek 15 Preview

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Magnus Wolf Eikrem might’ve not had the best start to the season but is starting to display some of his old form and is one of the top picks in Jacob Silkstone’s Fantasy Eliteserien preview for gameweek 15.

How Did Our GW14 Picks Do?

The previous gameweek was strung out over a fortnight, but patience was eventually rewarded with a glut of points in the final round of matches. Between them, our suggested team of the week contributed 138 points, which would have been considerably more if captain Thomas Lehne Olsen hadn’t rattled the woodwork three times. The only flop was Sarpsborg captain Joachim Thomassen, who received a yellow card and a suspension in the opening game of the double round. Thomassen also happened to be the only one of my recommendations that I transferred into my team this week, a factor that may or may not have contributed to his worst fantasy performance of the season so far.

 

On the Move

With the transfer window wide open, the Norwegian league’s mass summer defenestration is well underway. Fredrik Aursnes was still in over 36% of teams by the end of GW14, but he’s now a Feyenoord player. Kristoffer Zachariassen and Mushaga Bakenga currently have the fourth and fifth-highest points totals in the game, but will spend the rest of the season in Hungary and Japan, respectively. Vålerenga have sold arguably their two best players in goalkeeper Kristoffer Klaesson and playmaker Aron Dønnum. Time is up for the man who celebrated his goals by brandishing a hand-drawn ‘Rolex’, even though he’s still owned by one in six Fantasy Eliteserien teams. Ohi Omoijuanfo, the most selected player in the game, is also on his way out of Molde, but the good news (for everyone apart from opposition defences) is that he’ll be staying until the end of the season.

Of course, the window’s also open for new arrivals. Stabæk handed debuts to four new signings in their GW14 game at home to Sarpsborg and already look like a much-improved side, and some huge swings in form are likely to happen over the next few weeks. We’ll assess some of the new arrivals ahead of GW16, but for now, it seems sensible to sit back and see how they settle in.

 

Transfer Strategies

If you haven’t yet played your first wildcard, GW15 is your last chance. It also happens to be a good time for a wildcard: GW15 is cup qualification week, and the current template is full of players from midtable teams. Bodø/Glimt and Molde are the best teams in the league, with Rosenborg a fairly distant third, and you’ll have a chance to stock up on their key players while the teams around you are scrambling to cover them with free transfers.

A word of warning, though… Bodø and Rosenborg are all still involved in European football, while Molde played 120 minutes against Trabzonspor before going out on penalties. The league line-ups for all three teams could well be affected by some heavy rotation. Molde also have a blank coming up in GW16, so loading up on their players right now isn’t as obvious a strategy as it initially appears.

 

Fantasy Eliteserien GW15 Picks

Sarpsborg are playing like relegation candidates at the moment. Although Strømsgodset don’t have the most inspiring away record, it’s worth a punt on their keeper Viljar Myhra for just 4.5 million. Myhra has the fifth-highest points total among the Eliteserien keepers so far this season, but at a considerably lower price than the four ahead of him.

Brann are also playing like relegation candidates, and the local papers have been full of stories about the players cavorting around the pitch in their underwear at 5 o’clock in the morning. Without going into too much detail about what else they were up to, it’s safe to say they haven’t had the smoothest preparation for a crucial relegation six-pointer against Sandefjord. Meanwhile, Sandefjord have been in decent form, and cult hero Brice Wembangomo (4.6M) offers a chance of fantasy points at both ends of the pitch.

Rosenborg played their European game a couple of days earlier than either Bodø or Molde, so in theory their players should be at less risk of rotation. Swedish full-back Adam Andersson (5.8M) is the pick of their defensive options, with two assists in his previous league game.

Following a long summer break, Vålerenga return to action against one of the league’s weakest attacks. Tromsø have barely averaged a goal a game, and are yet to win at home. With popular fantasy pick Christian Borchgrevink suspended, we turn to Jonatan Tollås Nation (5.9M) for his set-piece threat and bonus point potential.

Our first midfield pick is the most in-form player in the game. Stabæk’s season has been transformed by a managerial change and some smart acquisitions in the transfer window, and Oliver Edvardsen (7.1M) looks impossible to ignore at the moment. If you’re thinking longer term, it’s worth noting that Stabæk have a blank in GW19 followed by a double in GW20.

If Stabæk are to slip up this week, Torgil Gjertsen (7.9M) will likely be involved for hosts Kristiansund. Two goals and an assist, plus five bonus points, in his last four games are an indication of a player beginning to hit top form.

As he returns to face his previous club, Brann, Vidar Ari Jónsson (still only 5.3M) is our Sandefjord midfielder of choice. He has four goals and an assist from his last six games.

We’ve kept some money in the bank for Magnus Wolff Eikrem (12.4M) as Molde face a Viking side who are likely to be without their star player. When fit, Eikrem is arguably the best player in the league, and he could be a key differential for anyone looking to climb the ranks this week. It’s worth a reminder, though, that all of Molde’s key men are rotation risks and Eikrem probably doesn’t represent great value for money in the long run.

The same caveat applies to Ohi Omoijuanfo (now up to 12.3M), but the league’s top scorer is in red-hot form and will be a hugely popular captain choice for this gameweek. He was subbed with a few minutes left to play in the crucial European game against Trabzonspor (as was Eikrem), which looks promising for his chances of starting again on Sunday.

We’re also backing Thomas Lehne Olsen (9.4M) to continue his good form, even with a tough fixture against defending champions Bodø/Glimt. Bodø haven’t kept a clean sheet since GW7, and might be resting a few key players between European games. If Lillestrøm can score, there’s every chance Lehne Olsen will be involved again.

Strømsgodset’s Fred Friday (8.4M) completes a trio of in-form strikers, and could be a good outside bet for the captaincy if there are concerns over Ohi’s rotation risk.

Eliteserien Fantasy Team of the Week for Gameweek 15

 

You can find Fantasy Eliteserien resources for the 21/22 season here.

Fantasy Football, FEATURED, GAFFR Fantasy Championship

GAFFR Fantasy Championship: Tipster Player Picks for Gameweek 2

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With the GW2 of the Championship season swiftly approaching I want to share my thoughts on the best team of players to select for this gameweek in GAFFR. I should make a disclaimer here stating that I am in no way suggesting you should go to ridiculous lengths to get these players in your team and that we are looking at this with only gameweek 2 in mind.

GAFFR Goalkeeper Picks

 

Bradley Collins (£5.0M) vs COV (H)

In goal, I have opted to go with Bradley Collins of Barnsley. Barnsley have a favourable fixture at home to Coventry, a team who recorded just the joint 5th lowest xG of any Championship team in gameweek 1. Barnsley themselves didn’t look amazing defensively against Cardiff in their Championship opener, however, at home and with an easier fixture I’m backing them to get a clean sheet here.

 

Simon Moore (£4.0M), BENCH

At this point, Simon Moore is by far the best £4.0M keeper in my opinion. A nailed starter for a side who picked up clean sheets here and there last season is too good to pass up on.

GAFFR Defender Picks

 

Antonee Robinson (£6.5M) vs HUD (A)

The first of two Fulham defenders in this team, Antonee Robinson has long been an exciting prospect and I can see him getting his first returns of the season here. Fulham faces a Huddersfield side who many have predicted to struggle this season and I can’t help but agree. A lacklustre draw against a Derby side in disarray will have don’t little to help the momentum of this Huddersfield side. I think Fulham will learn from their own mistakes in their first game and will truly put Huddersfield to the sword, potentially leading to an assist for Robinson.

 

Kenny Tete (VC) (£6.0M) vs HUD (A)

The second Fulham defender in this team is obviously Kenny Tete. Tete was really advanced in Fulham’s first fixture of the Championship season, playing much higher up the field than Robinson. As mentioned in the section on Robinson, I can see this being a very rewarding afternoon for Fulham. I think it’s easy to argue that Tete is a better pick than Robinson due to his more attacking role, especially with him costing £0.5M less.

 

Sean Morrison (£6.0M) vs BPL (A)

While unfit for GW1, Sean Morrison is almost guaranteed to start in Cardiff’s trip to Blackpool. Morrison made his return in the Carabao Cup in midweek and looked poor, however after getting 90 minutes in the bank I feel like Morrison will be raring to go this weekend. Cardiff conceded just the 3rd lowest xG in the division against an ever-dangerous Barnsley side so should be favourites to shut out Blackpool in this one. Morrison also always carries the threat of a goal from set pieces.

 

Jordan Zemura (£5.0M) vs NOT (A)

I have to admit, before the Championship’s opening fixture, the name Jordan Zemura was one that I had never heard but after watching him against West Brom I can safely say I’ve heard of him now. Zemura was unspectacular in that game but I suspect this was due to West Brom wing-back Darnell Furlong constantly forcing him back. In a game where he may have more freedom against a pretty uncreative Nottingham Forest side, Zemura is a pretty safe pick.

 

Tommy Smith (£5.0M) vs BIR (A)

Coming off of an impressive GW1, Tommy Smith will be looking to continue his good start to this campaign, the Stoke right-back notched 2 assists vs Reading which was fully deserved when you see he made five key passes and three successful crosses, a good creative performance for someone listed as a defender. Stoke face a Birmingham side who pulled off an upset victory last time out, however, I can’t see them pulling off a similar result here. This solid Stoke side will likely be too much and you can bet Tommy Smith will be in on the action if that reigns true.



GAFFR Midfielder Picks

 

Harry Wilson (C) (£9.5M) vs HUD (A)

The 3rd and, of course, final Fulham player in this team, I feel it would be hard to look past Harry Wilson after his solid performance in GW1. Fulham’s new man will have now had longer to work with the team and will likely be looking to add to his goal tally this week against a previously mentioned uninspiring Huddersfield outfit. Wilson is obviously a proven Championship asset and should really be a mainstay in most GAFFR teams this season.

 

Callum Robinson (£9.0M) vs LUT (H)

 

One of West Brom’s goal scorers last Friday against Bournemouth, Callum Robinson is listed as a midfielder on GAFFR despite the fact that he seemingly played in a forward role on the opening weekend. West Brom are at home this weekend which should give at least a slight advantage. They face a Luton team coming off a resounding 3-0 victory, however, that was against a very poor Peterborough team. I feel like West Brom should be favoured in this one and when they score this season it seems Robinson will be involved a lot.

 

Phillip Billing (£7.0M) vs NOT (A)

Phillip Billing began the season very well against West Brom, scoring in a close-fought encounter but it isn’t just his goalscoring exploits that have him in this team, in Bournemouth’s first Carabao Cup game of the season Billing completed five key passes, showing he does also have a creative side to him.

 

Sander Berge (£5.5M), BENCH (1st)

Sander Berge should not be playing Championship football. Simple as that. He is a player far above this level. Though Sheffield United couldn’t muster up a result against Birmingham, it was evident that Berge was a class above. Sander played a creative role, getting forward often and trying to be the one to start attacks in a surprisingly Conservative “Blades” side. In my opinion, Berge will definitely get a few goal contributions this campaign and is really nicely priced at £5.5M.

 

Marlon Pack (£4.6M), BENCH (3rd)

Marlon Pack started his season with not just a goal but an all-round solid performance at home to Barnsley. Pack is very cheap at £4.6M and will look to expand on his first start. He is however a potential rotation risk.

GAFFR Forward Picks

 

Uche Ikpeazu (£6.5M) vs BRI (H)

 

Last season Bristol City conceded the most xG in the league (incl. relegated teams) but were handed a fortunate break this season when they got to face newly-promoted Blackpool on the opening weekend. ‘Boro aren’t exactly high scorers themselves, but I feel like Ikpeazu fits their system to a tee and could get involved amongst the goals in this one.

 

Jaidon Anthony (£6.1M) vs NOT (A)

 

As you can probably tell, I’m pretty high on Bournemouth this week, and Anthony is no exception. Bournemouth fans were crying out for him to start the season’s opener and he did, turning in a solid performance. Anthony seems to be more of a provider than goalscorer from the wing which means it would be nicer if he was listed as a MID but I can still make do with him being listed as a forward. I expect Bournemouth’s attack to become one fo the best in the league with Anthony a cheap gem.

 

Lyndon Dykes (£8.0M), BENCH (2nd)

 

Had it not been for the emergence of Jaidon Anthony in GW1 I would’ve definitely had Dykes starting this team. Dykes’ QPR face newly-promoted Hull who while winning 4-1 in their season opener, didn’t look untouchable and could definitely be less of a threat against better opposition.



GAFFR Team of the Week for GW2

 

 

Formation: 5-3-2

Total Cost: £93.6M

Points Target: 80

You can find GAFFR Fantasy Championship resources for the 21/22 season here.

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