Fantasy picks and comparison-Gameweek 36

Update- Ramsey has been reported to be fit but will play only if needed (Source-Ben DInnery via Twitter)

Goalkeepers-

Kasper Schmeichel- Another clean sheet for Kasper Schmeichel last weekend, as Leicester dragged Newcastle down to the relegation battle. That is three clean sheet from the last four game, a handsome return from a keeper available at just 4.4.

David Ospina- Arsenal’s no.1 continues his impressive form with seven clean sheets and just eight goals conceded. Since Arsenal’s defeat to Spurs, Ospina hasn’t conceded more than a goal in a premiership game. The double gameweek for Arsenal is approaching and Ospina is worth the look.

Costel Pantilimon- Sunderland occupy the last relegation spot and would look to draw inspiration from their win over Southampton last week. Key to your hopes is Costel Pantilimon, another budget keeper who is available for 4.5.

Player	Schmeichel	Ospina	Pantilimon
Cost	4.4	5	4.5
Points	65	61	101
Fixtures	SOU(H) SUN(A) QPR(H)	SWA(H) MUN(A) SUN(H)	EVE(A) LEI(H) ARS(A)
Form (Last 6 games played)	32	26	16
Clean sheets	4	7	8
Goals conceded	36	8	33
Saves	73	35	99
Bonus	4	0	6

Defenders

Wes Morgan-

A key member of the Leicester defense, Wes Morgan is comfortable in both 4-man and 3-man defense system, plus he is an aerial threat from set-pieces. He is cheaply priced at 4.5 and has accumulated 36 points in the last six games.

Laurent Koscienly-

Koscienly is our pick from Arsenal’s defense for the upcoming double gameweek. The french defender has had a great season despite some injury concerns. He has scored 107 points so far with 28 scored in the last six games.

Brainslav Ivanovic-

Ivanovic is likely to finish the season at the top of the point charts among defenders. Chelsea have an excellent record against Liverpool at the Bridge and Mourinho is good at keeping the big sides quite in such encounters.

Aleksandar Kolarov-

Neither Clichy nor Kolarov have impressed us with their on-field performance at City’s left back position but atleast Kolarov has posted some superb fantasy stats. In has last six starts for city he has scored 39 points, averaging 6.5 points per game.

Player	Morgan	Koscielny	Ivanovic	Kolarov
Cost	4.5	6	7.7	5.7
Points	95	107	175	72
Fixtures	SOU(H) SUN(A) QPR(H)	SWA(H) MUN(A) SUN(H)	LIV(H) WBA(A) SUN(H)	QPR(H) SWA(A) SOU(H)
Form (Last 6 games played)	36	28	28	39
Clean sheets	8	10	17	7
Goals/Assists	2/1	3/0	4/6	1/3
Yellow cards	1	4	9	4
Bonus	8	12	13	5

Midfielders-

Eden Hazard-

A new gameweek but same old story- Hazard scores the game winner. The PFA player of the year might have had his penalty saved, but he rectified his mistake the very next instant by heading the rebound into the net. With 222 points you might award him the fantasy player of the year, too.

Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey-

Another repeat of last week’s suggestion-Ramsey and Sanchez- both are in hot form and have accumulated 50 and 39 points repectively. Infact Ramsey’s 50 is the highest points gathered by a player in the last six games.

Juan Mata-

Both United and Crystal Palace have lost their last three games and would be looking to bounce back. Head to head, United hold the upper-hand with three wins in their last three meeting against Crystal Palace in all competition. With the strikers misfiring, we turn to an inform midfielder-Juan Mata for our pick from United.

David Silva-

CIty’s top scoring midfielder has stalled with his point accumulation and his fantasy owners are praying that would change against a QPR side that is bottom of the table.

Player	Hazard	Sanchez	Ramsey	Mata	Silva
Cost	11.3	11.4	8.8	8.5	9.6
Points	222	198	109	124	163
Fixtures	LIV(H) WBA(A) SUN(H)	SWA(H) MUN(A) SUN(H)	SWA(H) MUN(A) SUN(H)	CRY(A) ARS(H) HUL(A)	QPR(H) SWA(A) SOU(H)
Form (Last 6 games played)	41	38	50	36	27
Clean sheet	19	11	9	6	10
Goal/Assist	14/9	16/8	6/6	8/4	11/8
Yellow cards	2	4	5	2	8
Bonus	40	29	13	15	25

Forwards

Player	Giroud	Benteke	Aguero
Cost	8.7	7.8	12.7
Points	113	117	182
Fixtures	SWA(H) MUN(A) SUN(H)	WHU(H) SOU(A) BUR(H)	QPR(H) SWA(A) SOU(H)
Form (Last 6 games played)	37	48	36
Goals/Assists	14/3	12/2	22/7
Yellow cards	5	1	4
Bonus	16	18	24

Olivier Giroud-

He scores goals and brings midfielders into involvement. Olivier Giroud, has been the perfect man upfront for Arsenal and we tip him to continue the good work. Also did we mention the double gameweek coming.
Christian Benteke-

The closest player to Ramsey’s fantasy form is Christian Benteke, who has 48 points in the last six games. He has scored ten goals in the last eight premier league games With Sherwood’s side set up to play to his strengths, there is a good chances his streak will continue.

Sergio Agüero-

The premier league’s top scorer has five goals from his last four starts and faces a QPR side that has conceded more than two goals in nine out of their last ten away games. Choosing forwards has never been simpler.

Captain-Benteke or Agüero

Bargains-Schmeichel, Morgan, Pantilimon

Team of the Week-Gameweek 35

-By Jointy Rhodes

This week’s TOTW is dominated by the Champions-Chelsea and relegation battler-Leicester. The PFA team of the year features heavily too.

 

Boaz Myhill

Nine saves including a penalty from Robin Van Persie, Myhill was excellent between the sticks. He guessed which direction Persie was going to shoot and he did well to punch it out with his left. He had a similar save from Persie from open play and another spectacular save from Di Maria late in the game to maintain a 14 th clean sheet from West Brom (second highest in the premiership behind Chelsea).

 

Marc Albrighton

He featured in two games in the space of four days, and in both games his all-round performance impressed us. He scored against Chelsea albeit being a little fortunate with Azpilicueta slipping at a crucial point. He attempted six tackles on his wing, five of which successfully won the ball. Against Newcastle his performance was even better-he saw more possession than any other player on the field and his crossing was a constant threat. Two of his eight successful crosses were assist.

 

Chelsea’s Center Backs-John Terry and Gary Cahill

John Terry was supposedly finished two years ago but the Chelsea captain has proved his doubter wrong with a solid season. He is the best center back around, a great leader and a very supportive team mate. He scored the winner against Leicester and was solid against Crystal Palace.

In Gary Cahill, Terry has a superb partner, defensively resolute and a tower in defense, who is hard to beat in air. He snuffed out nine crosses versus Crystal Palace, to make it another clean sheet for him and his partner-17 total for Chelsea.

Jeff Schlupp

Newcastle started with a 4-4-2 diamond but neither the midfielder nor the forwards made any efforts to track wide players, as a result Schlupp was always in space and he was devastating carrying the ball forward at pace.  He forced the opposition players out of position and this benefited his team all around. He did well to track back and often stopped attacks at the edge of his box.

 

Nemenja Matić

He has played every minute of Chelsea’s title winning campaign and Mourinho best summed up his contribution in an interview given last year.

Matić is very important in the balance of our team. Our team was developed with him in that position. Everybody feels comfortable with him there.-Jose Mourinho

He played his reliable ‘wall in front of defense’ role in victory against both Leicester and Crystal Palace as Chelsea clinched the title at Stamford Bridge.

 

Jonjo Shelvey

Energetic, vibrant and involved in both Swansea goals-Shelvey features alongside Matic in our TOTW’s center midfield. The Swansea midfielder’s first assist was the best moment of the game-he worked hard to get to the ball, showcased two careful touches to keep it from going out, took on Pieters and beat him and delivered an excellent cross for Montero to head in. His second assist came from two midfield runner charging forward, Shelvey collected the ball launched into the box and cut back to a rushing Ki who netted the ball past Butland.  Shelvey could have had a goal too with his top corner bound free kick but Butland did very well to deny him.

Aaron Ramsey

The Arsenal midfielder is in red hot form and his goal and assist against Hull makes it four goals and four assists in his last six premiership games. His constant movement compliments the game of his teammates around him and his pass to Sanchez carved the Hull resistance into two, Sanchez’s speed did the rest.

Phillipe Coutinho

Coutinho is no stranger to scoring against QPR and his goal this weekend makes it three goals in three games against the Rangers. The goal itself was a beautiful finish, a terrific strike to the top corner. He had a late contribution to the winner also. His corner found the perfectly timed run of Steven Gerrard, who headed the ball into the net, right in front of the faithful Kop End.

Alexis Sanchez

Alexis Sanchez scored twice against Hull to take his season tally to 16 league goals. The Chilean put Arsenal in front with a 27-minute freekick that deflected of Dawson and into the net. The goal was fortunate but now Hull had to respond and open up, and this played to the Gunner’s advantage. His second goal perfectly epitomizes his role and importance to the team-he worked in tandem with Ozil to win possession and then charged forward to meet Ramsey’s defense splitting pass. His blistering speed took him past the Hull defense and Keeper and he taped in to the empty net.

 

Benteke

Sherwood’s rejuvenation trick continues and Christian Benteke has now slotted in ten goals in the last eight premier league games. He scored two in the weekend against an in-form Everton. He was a constant threat from minute one-winning two early aerial duels and charging into the box straight from the whistle. He was always pointing to his teammates to play the ball in areas he could get to and when the service came, Benteke delivered. Besides the goal, he was always harassing opponent defenders. He often drifted wide or dropped back to lose his marker and occupy players from charging forward.

 

Manager-Nigel Pearson

In just a month Nigel Pearson has changed the fortunes of his side-they went from rooted to the bottom of the table to two spots above relegation zone, with a better goal difference than any side in the bottom seven. They took the lead against Chelsea but the difference in quality showed and the Blues emerged victorious despite Leicester’s brave attempt. They put the setback behind them immediately and restored the lost momentum with an emphatic victory against Newcastle. Also in doing so they have dragged the Magpies down to the relegation battle.

 

Missed out- Hart, Shackell, Morgan, Kolarov, J. Gomez, Delph, Silva, Ozil, Aguero, Ulloa, Mourinho, Wenger

 

Fantasy picks and comparison-Gameweek 35

Goalkeepers

Schmeichel-

Leicester welcomes a Newcastle side that is on a seven game losing streak. Leicester themselves are looking to bounce back after their defeat to Chelsea and Schlemiel is a budget keeper option, available at just 4.4.

Ospina-

Arsenal’s no.1 is enjoying an impressive first season at the Emirates. The Colombian goalkeeper has just conceded seven goals so far while racking up seven clean sheets. Arsenal’s fixture list are worth taking a punt, especially with a double gameweek on the horizon.

Courtois-

Another crucial game against a top opponent and another clean sheet for Courtois. Jose Mourinho’s Chlesea will look to wrap up the title in the next two games and Courtois is a decent pick for these home games against Crystal Palace and Liverpool.

Howard-

Howard has averaged 5 points per game for his last six game, a run in which Everton have just conceded two goals and kept four clean sheets. Everton’s defensive display have improved with Howard providing crucial saves and being given better protection by the ever improving partnership of Stones and Jagielka.

Player	Schmeichel	Ospina	Courtois	Howard
Cost	4.4	4.9	5.9	5.1
Points	58	59	111	78
Fixtures	NEW(A) SOU(H) SUN(A)	HUL(A) SWA(H) MUN(A)	CRY(H) LIV(H) WBA(A)	AVL(H) SUN(H) WHU(A)
Form (Last 6 games played)	25	26	28	30
Clean sheets	3	7	11	7
Goals conceded	36	7	26	37
Saves	70	35	69	56
Bonus	4	0	1	1

Defenders

Morgan-

Wes Morgan is our recommended budget defender. Recently. he enjoyed a decent point-scoring run during Leicester’s four win in a row. The foxes are expected to bounce back from their defeat to Chelsea and we won’t mind picking Morgan, available for a measly 4.4 against a Newcastle side that just can’t win.

Koscielny-

Arsenal’s favorable fixture list and future double gameweek are worth considering and Laurent Koscielny is our defender pick from Arsenal. The competition in Arsenal’s defense is fierce as Debuchy, Gibbs and Gabriel Paulista all returned from their respective injuries but Koscielny remains a sure starter.

Ivanovic-

A clean sheet and an assist during Chelsea’s double gameweek means Ivanovic remains the top fantasy defender. The Serbian defender now has four goals and six assists in the premier league. Next up is a derby game against Crystal Palace, who have lost two in a row.

Smalling-

United’s defeat to Everton was their fast back to back league defeats under manager Louis Van Gaal. A response is expected and United couldn’t ask  for a better side to  face than West Brom, who have struggled away from home all season. Smalling is a guaranteed starter in an injury plagued United and often chips  in with goals-he has scored four goals this season.

Player	Morgan	Koscielny	Ivanovic	Smalling
Cost	4.4	6	7.7	5.3
Points	83	105	170	80
Fixtures	NEW(A) SOU(H) SUN(A)	HUL(A) SWA(H) MUN(A)	CRY(H) LIV(H) WBA(A)	WBA(H) CRY(A) ARS(H)
Form (Last 6 games played)	31	27	24	25
Clean sheets	7	10	16	4
Goals/Assists	1/1	3/0	4/6	4/0
Yellow cards	1	4	8	0
Bonus	8	12	13	11

Midfielders

Hazard-

Our usual pick is the FA player of the year-Eden Hazard.  216 points scored so far the Belgian, 44 of which came in the last six games.

Sanchez and Ramsey-

We have mentioned Arsenal’s double gameweek before and their midfield offers us quite a few exciting options with the likes of Özil, Sanchez, Ramsey, Cazorla and Walcott. For the upcoming week we will settle for Sanchez and Ramsey. Sanchez is the more expensive option availabe at a staggering 11.2 and has been more consistent throughtout the season, Ramsey on the other hand is better priced at 8.6 and enjoys a better recent form than his Chilean team mate. We are tilting more towards Ramsey who has two goals and three assists in his last five EPL games.

Mata and Fellaini-

Injuries to Carrick have always been troublesome to United but we expect them to finish strongly nonetheless. They host West Brom at Old Trafford and given that United have won their last six games at home, we recommend picking up a midfielder from their team. Both Mata and Fellaini are reasonably priced and play important roles in Louis Van Gaal’s midfield. Mata is enjoying the better form with three goals and an assist in his last five games, Fellaini is a budget friendly option available at 6.4.

Player	Hazard	Sanchez	Ramsey	Mata	Fellaini
Cost	11.4	11.2	8.6	8.5	6.4
Points	216	183	97	122	78
Fixtures	CRY(H) LIV(H) WBA(A)	HUL(A) SWA(H) MUN(A)	HUL(A) SWA(H) MUN(A)	WBA(H) CRY(A) ARS(H)	WBA(H) CRY(A) ARS(H)
Form (Last 6 games played)	44	31	39	36	27
Clean sheet	18	11	9	6	6
Goal/Assist	13/9	14/8	5/5	8/4	5/2
Yellow cards	2	4	5	2	5
Bonus	40	26	11	15	8

Forwards

Giroud-

Arsenal’s joint top scorer has become an essential part of our fantasy teams in the second half of the season. He has 46 points in the last 6 games, averaging 7.7 points per game. Seven goals and an assist in his last eight games for the gunners.

Benteke-

The only player to better Giroud’s form over the last six games is Aston Villa’s forward Christian Benteke. His career has rejuvenated under the guidance of Tim Sherwood, who has build his side in accordance to Benteke’s playing style. Eight goals in seven games have been an apt repayment for Sherwoord’s faith.

Agüero-

With Kane firing duds and Diego Costa injured, Sergio Agüero remains a reliable option who is active in the top scorer race. He has 21 goals this season and his all round displays and match winning goals have helped rack up 22 bonus points all season.

Rooney-

Despite being used as a midfielder by Van Gaal on most occasion, Rooney has netted 12 goals this season. With Falcao misfiring and Van Persie struggling with fitness, Rooney needs to deliver more for his team in the closing stages.

Player	Giroud	Benteke	Aguero	Rooney
Cost	8.6	7.6	12.6	10.8
Points	111	104	174	127
Fixtures	HUL(A) SWA(H) MUN(A)	EVE(H) WHU(H) SOU(A)	TOT(A) QPR(H) SWA(A)	WBA(H) CRY(A) ARS(H)
Form (Last 6 games played)	46	48	30	23
Goals/Assists	14/3	10/2	21/7	12/5
Yellow cards	5	1	4	5
Bonus	16	15	22	15

Captain-Giroud, Benteke (Differential)

Budget-Schmeichel, Morgan, Fellaini, Benteke

Team of the Week-Gameweek 34

By Jointy Rhodes

Everton’s 3-0 trashing of Manchester United ensures they dominate the team of the week. Swansea city provided two players in their exciting win over the troubled Newcastle United.

Adrián

His heroics certainly earned West Ham a point against QPR. He saved the penalty of Charlie Austin and made a Hollywood save of Phillips from the last shot of the game. Seven saves in total to maintain a clean sheet. Adrián really has been one of the standout keepers of the premiership this season.

Héctor Bellerín

There is no doubt who Chelsea’s main threat is but Bellerin ensured that Eden Hazard was dealt with. It is very rare to see Hazard being so quiet in a game and Bellerin should be applauded for his performance. He also made a crucial clearance of the line early in the first half after Oscar had chipped over Ospina.  He joined attacks regularly and his crossing caused nuisance to the Chelsea defenders.

Reece Bruke

The 18 year old partnered Collins in the center of West Ham’s defense. It was Bruke’s first premier league appearance but he played like an experienced premiership player. Five tackles attempted-all successful ball winning ones. Four interceptions-highest for both teams. And an amazing 20 clearances-again the highest in the game.

John Stones

 

A second team of the week appearance in a row, for the young English center back. He scored the second goal of the game, a rising header from a Baines corner. Defensively he was solid and we have praised his partnership with Jagielka before. He often came out wide to the right to team up with Coleman on Young, who had a very quiet game.

Aleksandar Kolorav

 It was a game riddled by individual errors and every goal had someone or the other switching off. Credit must go to Kolorav to make the most out of these individual errors. Aston Villa left a gap in their wall on a freekick and Kolorav perfectly placed it into Guzan’s bottom right corner, for his first goal of the season.  His last minute corner was whipped in with pace and Villa failed to deal with it, enabling Fernandinho to find the net.

Beside setpieces, his crossing was a threat throughout the game, and often found their mark. One of them arrived perfectly for an unmarked Navas inside the box, but his volley was blocked by Fabian Delph.

Jack Cork

 He scored the winner against Newcastle but it wasn’t the only reason to pick him for the team of the week. Cork was an effective first line of defense and gave ample protection to his center back. Two ball winning tackles, two interceptions and five clearances to help keep Newcastle off the bay. His goal was well worked too, he bought the ball forward from his own half, slipped it to Oliveira and collected his return to slot in the goal.

Charlie Adam

Another gameweek and another Charlie Adam stunner. Stoke City gave away a goal in the first minute but there response thereafter was tremendous, and for the first half hour they were constantly breaking forward. Adam had fired an early warning but it was straight at Pantilimon and at 27 minute he unleashed a powerful shot to the top corner after a wonderful buildup by Stoke City. Adam now has three goals in his last four games.

James McCarthy

The Everton midfielder opened the scoring after a superb run during a counter, Blind was caught in no man’s land and McCarthy did well to take full advantage of the confusion that ensued in the United box. His goal showcased his resilience, holding on to the ball despite being under pressure from Blind and Paddy McNair and finished cheekily, slipping the ball underneath De Gea’s leg. His defensive contribution afterwards were noteworthy-three successful tackles and six blocks-three of them in the defensive box.

Gylfi Sigurdsson

His corner at the end of the first half allowed Nelson Oliveira to equalize for Swansea. It was a landmark assist for Sigurdsson-no. 10 of the season making him the first Swansea player to register double digit assists in a premier league season. He also scored early in the second half, he arrived in the box to receive Montero’s cross and lashed it coolly past Tim Krul. Swansea also broke the record for their highest points tally with the win and Sigurdsson eight goals and ten assists have played a major part.

Dame N’Doye

 Two crucial goals for Steve Bruce side. The first a very fortunate goal- Brady had handed the ball to the build up of the goal and Steve Harper could only deflect his pass towards an onrushing N’Doye. The second one was a great finish after Gaston Ramirez won the ball in his own half and launched a 2 vs 1 counter which N’Doye brilliantly put away to Harper’s right. Steve Bruce has often lamented the injury to his top scorer Jelavic but this week winter signing N’Doye did the job upfront.

Graziano Pellè

His two goals ensured that Southampton broke last year’s record of highest point accumulated by the saints in top flight football. The first goal was helped by sloppy defending from Spurs’ defenders while his second was a perfect header of a Shane Long cross. Southampton fans will be hoping that Pellè’s goal drought is well behind him now, as he is their top scorer with 11 goals.

Manager-Roberto Martinez

Martinez has turned Everton’s fortune since their exit from the cursed Europa league. Five wins and a draw in their last six games has seen them rise to the top half of the table. Everton are undefeated at home in 2015 and they have now defeated United in their last three visit to Goodison Park.  He outthought Louis Van Gaal today and took full advantage of Carrick’s absence. United were given the possession but nothing substantial ever came from it while Everton made the most out of their counters. Martinez has talked about finishing in the top half and given Everton’s stature they should not aim any lower.

 

Missed out- Steve Bruce, Gary Monk, Robert Green, James Chester, Jason Shackell, Wes Morgan, Craig Dawson, Brunt, El Mohamady, Vardy

Fantasy picks and comparison-Gameweek 34

Goalkeepers

Schmeichel

Leicester are the in-form relegation battlers and benefit from a double game week. First, they face a bottom placed Burnley side that has only scored one goal in their last six games. Their second opponent is at the exact other end of the table-first place Chelsea. Schmeichel is available for just 4.4 and is our budget keeper pick.

Courtois

Another keeper who benefits from a double game week is Thibaut Cortois. We tipped Mourinho to work his magic and picked Courtois against Manchester United, and we were repayed for our faith with a clean sheet. We expect more of the same from Chelsea against 2nd placed Arsenal, a team that has not defeated Mourinho yet.

Mignolet

We are spoiling you with double gameweek keeper options this week. Mignolet also faces two sides-West Brom and Hull City, both of whom are involved in the relegation race. Mignolet has averaged six point per game for his last five games and has three easy fixtures coming up.

Hart

Our last pick is Manchester City keeper-Joe Hart, who like Mignolet is involved in the Champions league race. The fixtures are against CIty but they are a quality side out to prove a point. Hart has kept 11 clean sheet so far and has only conceded 30 goals.

Player	Schmeichel	Mignolet	Courtois	Hart
Cost	4.4	5.4	5.9	6.1
Points	47	126	105	115
Fixtures	BUR(A) CHE(H) NEW(A)	WBL(A) HUL(A) QPR(H)	ARS(A) LEI(A) CRY(H)	AVL(H) TOT(A) QPR(H)
Form (Last 5 games played)	16	30	22	18
Clean sheets	2	13	10	11
Goals conceded	33	31	26	30
Saves	64	73	68	66
Bonus	1	4	1	1

Defenders

Skrtel

The Slovakian defender is available after serving his suspension for stamping on David De Gea and is a sure starter in both of Brendan Rodger’s 3-man and 4-man defense system. Liverpool can afford no more slip ups and Skrtel provides them with much needed leadership in defense. We love how good Skrtel is at racking up bonus points-his 22 points from bonuses is a very healthy return for a central defender, and we will be expecting a few more on a double gameweek.

Schlupp

The Leicester City defender made our team of the week for his performances last week and has been Leicester’s most reliable fantasy football defender. He is avialble for a measly 4.5 and has 3 goals and an assist to his name this season.

Ivanovic

The top defender in premier league fantasy remains a mainstay of our team. Chelsea’s Ivanovic now has 160 points and his stats are quite impressive-15 clean sheets, 4 goals and 5 assists.

Wollscheid

Stoke welcome a Sunderland side that has been abysmal away from home and Wollscheid, available for 4.4, offers a cheap entry into the Stoke City defense.

Player	Skrtel	Schlupp	Ivanovic	Wollscheid
Cost	5.9	4.5	7.7	4.4
Points	111	74	160	25
Fixtures	WBL(A) HUL(A) QPR(H)	BUR(A) CHE(H) NEW(A)	ARS(A) LEI(A) CRY(H)	SUN(H) SWA(A) SOU(H)
Form (Last 5 games played)	27	14	19	14
Clean sheets	11	5	15	2
Goals/Assists	1/0	3/1	4/5	0/0
Yellow cards	6	4	7	0
Bonus	22	1	13	3

Midfielders

Hazard and Fabregas

Our two midfielders from Chelsea are Hazard and Fabregas. Hazard was on target yet again last week vs United and has often been the difference when Chelsea face top opponents. Fabregas,who is all too familiar with the emirates ground,  is a cheaper alternative.

Sterling and Coutinho

WIth Sturridge injured, captain Gerrard in and out of the team, and Balotelli misfiring, Liverpool depend heavily on Sterling and Coutinho. They are both reasonably priced and face weak oppositions in their double gameweek.

Silva

The initial scare involving Silva’s facial injury has died out and he is expected to start against Aston Villa. He remains the most productive fantasy midfielder from Manchester City.

Diame

Diame is being eased into the Hull side after his injury and is expected to start in central midfield against Crystal Palace. At 5.1 he is a good option for a cheap 5th midfielder on a double gameweek.

Player	Hazard	Silva	Fabregas	Sterling	Coutinho	Diame
Cost	11.3	9.6	9.4	8.6	7.8	5.1
Points	211	154	152	147	111	48
Fixtures	ARS(A) LEI(A) CRY(H)	AVL(H) TOT(A) QPR(H)	ARS(A) LEI(A) CRY(H)	WBA(A) HUL(A) QPR(H)	WBA(A) HUL(A) QPR(H)	CRY(A) LIV(H) ARS(H)
Form (Last 5 games played)	41	20	28	20	16	6
Clean sheet	17	9	13	12	10	2
Goal/Assist	13/9	11/7	3/17	7/10	4/6	4/0
Yellow cards	2	6	9	5	2	2
Bonus	40	22	25	16	12	4

Forwards

Kane

It wasn’t the most impressive goal he scored but the late goal against Newcastle ensured Harry Kane remains the joint top scorer of English Premier League. He has amassed 39 points in the last 5 games and remains a solid forward valued at 6.5.

Vardy

The energetic forward epitomizes Leicester’s electric play. His 92 points is impressive for a player costing a measly 4.6 and he is a highly tempting prospect, in a double game-week where other forward options are limited.

Agüero

With 20 goals, the city front man is joint top scorer of the premier league and has found his scoring touch at a crunch time for City. He has banged in three goals in has last two games and would be looking to add to his tally against Aston Villa at home.

N’Doye

Hull are in grave danger of relegation and would be looking up to winter signing N’Doye to deliver. The Senegalese forward has delivered three goals and an assist since his arrival from Lokomotiv Moscow. With Jelavic injured and Gaston Ramirez a doubt, Steve Bruce has very limited option upfront and his side desperately need N’Doye to chip in more goals.

Player	Kane	Vardy	Agüero	N’Doye
Cost	6.5	4.6	12.6	5.5
Points	174	92	168	33
Fixtures	SOU(A) MCI(H) STK(A)	BUR(A) CHE(H) NEW(A)	AVL(H) TOT(A) QPR(H)	CRY(A) LIV(H) ARS(H)
Form (Last 5 games played)	39	28	24	13
Goals/Assists	20/6	3/10	20/7	3/1
Yellow cards	3	5	4	2
Bonus	31	8	22	4

Captain-Hazard, Sterling (Differential)

Budget- Schmeichel, Schlupp, Wollscheid, Diame, Vardy, N’Doye

Team of the Week- Gameweek 33

By Jointy Rhodes

Premeir league’s most lovable relegation battler provide four stars in our Team of the Week .Arsenal and Aston villa dominate our FA cup team, as both teams paved their way to the Wembley showdown.

Tom Heaton

It could have been much worse for Burnley, they went one goal down before the half hour mark and by the end of the half they were a man down too. Heaton saved the penalty from Barkley, which was actually given for a foul outside the box and did his best to keep the scoreline low. He made seven saves in total as Everton’s midfielders bypassed Burnley’s first line of pressers again and again. The goal difference may be crucial for the relegation battle but Burnley must find scoring form if they are to really survive.

Everton center backs-Phil Jagielka and John Stones

Jagielka and Stones have forged quite a partnership at the heart of Everton’s defense and they needed to be sharp to keep an energetic Burnley down. Jagielka saw more of the ball than usual once burnley were down to ten men and he often played into the gap between Burnley’s defenders and midfielders. Burnley pressed hard but the gap left ensured Everton always had a free man in midfield and Jagielka did well to exploit this. Stones on the other hand chipped in with defensive contributions, blocking Burnley’s effort often. Infact the Clarets were reduced to shooting from outside the box in the second half.

Wes Morgan

Morgan had a hand in Leicester city’s first goal where he shielded the ball and directed it towards Ulloa and he also played part in the clean sheet. He deflected Montero’s shot over the bar in the 71st minute when Leicester were leading by only a goal. Leicester now are racing towards safety with 3 wins on the trot.

James MorrisonIt was an energetic display from West Brom’s no. 44. James Morrison was a menace to Crystal Palace every time he got the ball and Ledley had a terrible time dealing with him. He often received the ball near the touchline and was always eager to dribble inside. He scored the opener from a corner- a free header as Crystal Palace players concentrated on the defenders. Alan Pardew later told the media that Tony Pulis knew exactly how we defend against set pieces. Props to Pulis and Morrison on working on the corner routine to perfection.

Esteban Cambiasso

The Leicester fighter in the middle of the park, Esteban Cambiasso was simply brilliant. He saw more touches than any Leicester player, won seven tackles and had another five interceptions. Garry monk, after the game, acknowledged that the foxes had out-thought and out-fought the swans and Cambiasso did the lions share of both.

Cambiasso, Cambiasso everywhere.

Andy King

Another crucial goal from Andy King, who partners Cambiasso in the Leicester midfield and our team of the week. He scored the winner against West Ham in Leicester’s last home game and his late goal against Swansea ensured they have another three points on the table. While Burnley showed us how not to press, Leicester showed us how exactly to press-King and Cambiasso worked in tandem to ensure they closed down the gap between them and their front three pressers.

Jeff Schlupp

Another Leicester player in our team of the week-Schlupp’s flexibility ensured that the foxes were comfortable in both 3-4-3 and 4-4-2. His performance showcased the difference in the role of a wing back and a side back. He was a constant outlet on the left side touchline and did well tracking back too.

Jesus Navas

Often criticized this season for his lack of end products, Navas finally responded with a performance we expect from a player of such caliber. Today he showcased purposeful running and was quick to find his team mates when he raced into threatening positions. He gets great alongside Agüero and Zabaleta, infact most of city’s attacking combo involved them. Navas had a hand in both goals, the first one was a very fortunate own goal forced from Navas’s cross, the second one a quick counter which saw Navas and Agüero exchanging passes before the city frontman slotting it home.

Sergio Agüero

Its 20 goals for Agüero now and three from the last two games. He will be hungry for more, as the head to head race with Kane, for the top scorer heats up. With Bony injured and Dzeko out of form, the Argentinian forward is essential for City to comeback and reclaim the third spot. We have already mentioned his partnership with Navas, who assisted him in three of his five shots.

Eden Hazard

Another week another winner, Hazard makes it look easy. United were unable to contain him and he has now been involved in nine goals in Chelsea’s last ten premier league game. The player of the year favorite simply raced past United defense and slotted in a cool finish, between de gea’s leg (the Spainard being another contender for the POTY). He could have added another goal when he hit the woodwork following a drogba cross but the angle was against him. Mourinho’s tactics worked in another big game as they soaked up pressure and waited for United to make mistakes and when they did make one,it was hazard who ensured they were punished.

Manager-Nigel Pearson

Three wins in a row as Leicester soar towards safety. Pearson should be applauded for his motivational skill-the players play electric football with tireless running and the emotion expressed on fields are mirrored by the fans on the stands. Most neutral want Leicester to stay up because Pearson has transformed them into such an enjoyable relegation battlers. The job is not yet complete as Pearson reminded us in the postgame interview but Leicester are in red hot form at the tail end of the season. Next up is a six pointer against Burnley, a team that just can’t find the net. Good luck Nigel.

 

Missed out- Courtois, Cahill, Zabaleta, Yaya, Ericksen, Chadli, Zaha, Ullao, Mourinho

 

 

BONUS- FA cup TOTW

Reading gave Arsenal a good fight but unfortunately were undone by Federici’s howler, though he must be forgiven for his display, minus the error, was top class.

Liverpool were bested by an energetic Villa side who came back from one-goal down to win 2-1 . Special mention to the Villa crowd who added to the fantastic atmosphere.

Fantasy picks and comparison-Gameweek 33

Goalkeepers Kelvin Davies remains a solid option, the backup goalie to Fraser Forster has accrued 16 points in his last three appearances and costs only 4.5. Southampton faces a Stoke City side that is winless in its last four games.

Tim Howard has made the headlines recently for his goalkeeping heroics and is a key reason for Everton’s surge in form. He faces Burnley this weekend, who have only scored one goal in their last six games. A clean sheet seems highly probable.

Courtois- Its not an easy fixture list for Chelsea who face 3rd placed United and then 2nd placed Arsenal. But one must remember that Mourinho’s Chelsea does well against the big sides. They are unbeaten against United in their last seven fixtures and Mourinho has never lost to Wenger. Since both Costa and Remy are out, Mourinho may prefer a defensive set up for both games. Most fantasy players will stay away from Courtois, but we believe Chelsea will hold out to two defensive results and Courtois offers a good differential.

Hart- The race for fourth spot is hot and City will need to return to winning form. They have favorable fixture coming up- two home games in a row against mid table teams.

Player	Davies	Howard	Courtois	Hart
Cost	4.5	5.1	5.9	6.1
Points	16	65	98	108
Fixtures	STK(A) TOT(H) SUN(A)	BUR(H) MUN(H) AVL(A)	MUN(H) ARS(A) LEI(A)	WHU(H) AVL(H) TOT(A)
Form (Last 5 games played)	16(3G)	18	22	17
Clean sheets	2	5	9	10
Goals conceded	1	37	26	30
Saves	6	51	66	63
Bonus	0	1	0	1

Defenders

Baines– Everton’s left back leads the assists chart for defenders and welcomes a Burnley side that just can’t find the net. He is also consistent at getting bonuses.

Dann– Crystal Palace have found rich form under manager Alan Pardew, as they seek a top 10 finish. Scott Dann is available at just 4.9 and the 188 cm tall Englishmen offers an aerial threat on set pieces.

Ivanovic remains the top point scorer in the premier league fantasy game and is known for contributing goals and assists in big games.

Bertrand remains our reliable pick from Southampton’s miserly defense. He has accumulated 27 points from his last five starts. Southampton still fancy a Champions League berth and will rely on their defenders to continue their solid work.

Player	Baines	Dann	Ivanovic	Bertrand
Cost	7	4.9	7.7	5.9
Points	119	88	155	133
Fixtures	BUR(H) MUN(H) AVL(A)	WBA(H) HUL(H) CHE(A)	MUN(H) ARS(A) LEI(A)	STK(A) TOT(H) SUN(A)
Form (Last 5 games played)	21	12	20	27
Clean sheets	7	5	14	13
Goals/Assists	2/8	2/3	4/5	2/3
Yellow cards	4	4	6	3
Bonus	19	4	13	13

Midfielders Hazard and Silva are always picked up by us and they continue to be the most reliable midfield options. They have re-payed our trust consistently and are omnipresent in our fantasy teams. Joining them is Bolasie,who starts on the left but recently was given license to play more centrally by Alan Pardew. He became the first Crystal Palace player to score a premiership hattrick and has 44 points in his last five apperances. He is an absolute bargain at 5.6 and faces a West Brom side that has conceded 10 goals in their last three games.

Player	Hazard	Silva	Bolasie
Cost	11.3	9.9	5.6
Points	200	152	114
Fixtures	MUN(H) ARS(A) LEI(A)	WHU(H) AVL(H) TOT(A)	WBA(H) HUL(H) CHE(A)
Form (Last 5 games played)	40	29	44
Clean sheet	16	8	5
Goal/Assist	12/9	11/7	4/10
Yellow cards	2	5	2
Bonus	37	22	8

Forwards Kane and Agüero continue their tussle for premiership top scorer. Kane is the cheaper option but he has stalled in recent weeks, Agüero on the other hand looks sharper and is full of confidence after scoring twice against Manchester United. Both forwards face mid-table sides and would fancy improving their goal scoring form.

Joining them is another Crystal Palace player rejuvenated by Alan Pardew-Glenn Murray. The 31 year old forward has accumulated an astonishing 48 points in his last five games, where he found the net five times and assisted for three more. He will cost you only 5.3 and with West Brom leaking goals left, right and center, we tip him for this gameweek’s captaincy.

Player	Kane	Murray	Aguero
Cost	6.5	5.3	12.5
Points	168	58	162
Fixtures	NEW(A) SOU(A) MCI(H)	WBA(H) HUL(H) CHE(A)	WHU(H) AVL(H) TOT(A)
Form (Last 5 games played)	36	48	25
Goals/Assists	19/6	6/4	19/7
Yellow cards	3	2	4
Bonus	31	10	22

Bargains-K. Davies, Dane, Bolasie, Murray.

Captain– Murray

Team of the Week- Gameweek 32

-By Jointy Rhodes Disclaimer-This gameweek we included the Aston Villa vs QPR game because we had excluded it from last Gameweek. This is the main reason why Benteke was chosen over the likes of Rooney and Murray. United dominate the TOTW with four inclusions, three of them midfielders. They were simply sensational in their derby win and look set to return to the Champions League. The team is also dominated by four Belgians from four different clubs.

 

Thibaut Courtois

The Belgian Keeper denied QPR players time and again to keep a clean sheet, which saw Chelsea edge closer to the title. His 64th minute save from a Matt Phillip shot was an extraordinary reaction save and he had also made an important save earlier, to parry away a Charlie Austin shot. Both these saves displayed the all-round qualities Courtois possesses-the former required sharp reflexes while the later one- athleticism. In a game where Chelsea were out-shot, the Belgian’s four saves made the difference.

Alderweireld

The return of Maya Yoshida saw Alderweireld pushed to the right back position and Southampton benefited from playing a natural center half there. The Belgian defender was cautious and concentrated more on his defensive duties. He made three ball winning tackle and two important blocks in his own box. Hull City often got into good offensive areas but couldn’t create clear chances and Alderweireld was a major reason why.

Robert Huth

One has to admire the energy and purpose with which Leicester City played against West Brom. They were 2-1 down until the 80th minute when Robert Huth headed in, after West Brom failed to deal with a cross following a short corner. Usually we look into overall performances for our TOTW but Robert Huth’s goal was of paramount importance for Leicester’s late comeback and race for survival. A moment worthy of an exception.

Gary Cahill

Our second center back is Chelsea’s Gary Cahill, whose towering presence was required to deal with the aerial prowess of QPR’s front two. Cahill won nine headers out of ten, more than any other player in the pitch. He also made a crucial block from Charlie Austin’s shot late in the second half.

Daley Blind

City just couldn’t deal with the left side of United with Daley Blind and Young terrorizing the citizens every time the marauded forward and Fellaini often drifting left. He makes our TOTW twice in a row now and we have praised his consistency before. He has forged quite an understanding with Young and United’s recent rise seems to coincide with them both stepping up.

Blind’s touches vs MCI

Francis Coquelin

It was a different Arsenal win than we are used to in recent times. Arsenal had to work hard to keep a highly motivated Burnley team off the score sheet and Coquelin put up a great shift. The Frenchman has been a revelation ever since he was recalled from his loan to Charlton, four months ago. Against Burnley, he was patient in possession and determined to win it when it was lost. In Coquelin Arsenal fans have finally got the defensive midfielder they have been asking for.

Juan Mata

He scored the goal that killed the game and what composure he showed in his finishing. He is termed by Louis Van Gaal as a ‘False Right Winger’ and has found rich scoring form in this new role. Its three goals and an assist in the last three games for the diminutive Spainard. Next up is Chelsea, a team that shunned him once Mourinho took over.

Maurone Fellaini

If Mata is the false right winger Fellaini is Van Gaal’s false target man. Teams have simply not been able to deal with his physicality and unusual position. He nullified Yaya Touré and chipped in with the second goal. He won headers all over the offensive half and won nine of the ten headers he contested. A player who was ridiculed by fans and rivals alike during Moye’s tenure has now become one of United’s most important player under Louis Van Gaal.

Fellaini’s headers vs MCI

Ashley Young

The man of the match of the Manchester derby. His first goal was scrappy but it showed sheer determination and was exactly the kind of response United needed after going one goal down. His cross for Fellaini’s goal was pinpoint accurate and his delivery from the freekick for Smalling’s goal was just as precise. Young was labelled in the first half of the season as United’s worst player and was criticized for his frequent diving. But like so many players under Louis Van Gaal, he has turned a corner and made a comeback. Discussion for an England call up have already started.

Yannick Bolasie

Bolasie has often expressed his desire to play more centrally and he has repayed Alan Pardew handsomely for granting his wishes. Bolasie made history against Sunderland by becoming the first Crystal Palace player to score a Premiership hat-trick. Alan Pardew is targeting a top 10 finish and with the partnership Bolaise and Glen Murray are forging, it seems very probable.

Christian Benteke

Four Goals in two games including a late equalizer against QPR and a late winner against Spurs. Benteke scoring exploits this week has seen Villa lift six points above the relegation zone. Tim Sherwood deserves credit for revitalizing Benteke and Aston Villa. He has built the team around the Belgian forward and made sure he gets the delivery required. As the relegation rat race heats up, Villa can rest easy on their six point cushion and focus on their FA cup semifinal against Liverpool

Manager- Alan Pardew

Its 31 points of a possible 45 since Pardew took over the Crystal Palace job. He has converted them into an exciting team that can grind out results. Statistics below show the difference Pardew has made since he took over Selhurst Park. He now targets a top 10 finish for Crystal Palace and with five wins from the last six, his team seems to be on track.

Crystal Palace 2014-15	GP	W	D	L	PTS
Under Pardew	15	10	1	4	31
Before Pardew	17	1	8	8	11

Newcastle must be kicking themselves for firing Pardue Pardew. Missed out-Fabianski, Koscielny, Monreal, Matic, Schneiderlin, Allen, Coutinho, Vardy, Arnautovic, Sanchez, Rooney, Aguero, Louis Van Gaal

Fantasy picks and comparisons -Game-week 32

Goalkeepers

Kelvin Davies-Southampton welcomes Hull, who are winless in their last 5 games in the Premier League and also winless in their last 5 visit to the south coast. Southampton couldn’t ask for a better team to bounce back from last weekend defeat to Everton.

Ospina– Arsenal haven’t kept a clean sheet in their last two games, but will be looking to stop this run when they visit Burnley. The Colombian cost just 4.9m and in 11 games he has just conceded 7 goals while keeping 5 clean sheets. Beware of the upcoming blank next gameweek.

Mignolet– He may have conceded 4 against Arsenal and 3 against United but did manage a clean sheet in the FA cup replay vs Blackburn. Liverpool welcome Newcastle, who haven’t scored in their last three away games. With both teams missing out key players due to injuries and suspensions, expect it to be a tight game and 1-0 to Liverpool looks like a safe bet. Though, stay beware of the upcoming blank for Liverpool next gameweek.

Fabianski– Our last GK pick is Fabianski. The Swans are in form and their Polish goalkeeper has contributed 25 fantasy points in his last 5 starts.

Player	Davies	Ospina	Mignolet	Fabianski
Cost	4.5	4.9	5.3	5.3
Points	9	46	119	119
Fixtures	HUL(H) STK(A) TOT(H)	BUR(A) BLANK CHE(H)	NEW(H) BLANK WBA(A)	EVE(H) LEI(A) NEW(A)
Form (Last 5 games played)	9(2G)	19	25	25
Clean sheets	1	5	12	11
Goals conceded	1	7	31	37
Saves	3	29	70	99
Bonus	0	3	4	6

Defenders

Monreal– This has been Monreal’s year-questioned at first by fans for his early performances, he has done well to displace any doubt since and cemented the left back spot over Gibbs. Available at just 4.8 and guaranteed to start, Monreal is a solid bargain option for this game-week. Though the incoming blank gameweek diminishes some of his charm.

Southampton duo- Despite their loss to Everton, Southampton still possesses the best defense in the league and lead the clean sheet table. Bertrand is the most consistent point netter and has averaged 5 points per game in his last 5 appearances. Alderweireld is a cheaper alternative to the Soton defense.

Ivanovic– Ivanovic leads the defenders in terms of point scored, but has been off-form lately. Chelsea travel to fellow Londoners-QPR, who haven’t won a single home game this year.

Schlupp- It’s a long shot to safety but one must admire the heart Leicester City are showing, they are six points off safety and must be fancying their chances against a West Brom side that was humiliated by QPR last gameweek. Schlupp is a trusty defensive option who is available at just 4.5. Schlupp

Player	Monreal	Alderweireld	Ivanovic	Schlupp	Bertrand
Cost	4.8	4.8	7.6	4.5	5.9
Points	74	73	149	67	127
Fixtures	BUR(A) BLANK CHE(H)	HUL(H) STK(A) TOT(H)	QPR(A) MUN(H) ARS(A)	WBA(A) SWA(H) BUR(A)	HUL(H) STK(A) TOT(H)
Form (Last 5 games played)	14	17	21	10	25
Clean sheets	7	8	13	4	12
Goals/Assists	0/2	1/0	4/5	3/1	2/3
Yellow cards	2	2	6	4	3
Bonus	5	1	13	1	13

Midfielders

Hazard-He has been our player of the season so far and we covered him in Chelsea-profile of a Champion.194 points so far and 42 in his last five game. Mr. Consistency indeed.

Silva-City’s form is terrible in contrast to their derby rival but form goes out of the window for such games. This is a city team desperate for a response and we expect Silva to start behind Aguero as Dzeko was criticised by fans and media alike after the Crystal Palace game.

Mané-Our midfield budget option is Sadio Mané available at just 6.7. Southampton have scored atleast 2 goals against Hull in their last three home games against the tigers and we are hoping for Mane to contribute.

Sanchez– The Chilean returned to the score sheet in style-an absolute stunner against Liverpool that helped him stake a claim in our team of the week. More of the same away at Burnley, please,

Player	Hazard	Silva	Mané	Sanchez
Cost	11.2	9.9	6.7	11.3
Points	194	148	94	177
Fixtures	QPR(A) MUN(H) ARS(A)	MUN(A) WHU(H) AVL(H)	HUL(H) STK(A) TOT(H)	BUR(A) BLANK CHE(H)
Form (Last 5 games played)	42	27	21	28
Clean sheet	15	8	6	9
Goal/Assist	12/8	11/6	7/3	14/8
Yellow cards	2	4	5	4
Bonus	37	22	10	26

Forwards-

Kane- 166 points from a player still valued at 6.4. With Costa injured and Agüero out of form, it looks likely that he will finish as the top scorer of the league.

Giroud-the league’s most in-form striker. 44 points from the last 5 games and 8 goals in his last nine appearances for Arsenal. A must have right now though the incoming blank may scare away potential buyers.

Berahino- The only bright spot in West Brom’s loss to QPR was Berainho continuing his goal scoring exploit. He has a kinder fixture than the rest of our featured forward and is available at just 5.7

Gomis- Two goals in his last game and both of them tailored for the highlight reel. The first one an acrobatic overhead kick and the second one a cool chip, Swansea fans haven’t missed Bony since his departure thanks to the French striker.

Agüero- Agüero has been his best when Silva plays right behind him and that is what everyone is expecting against Manchester United.

Player	Kane	Giroud	Berahino	Gomis	Aguero
Cost	6.4	8.8	5.7	6.5	12.4
Points	166	107	124	69	150
Fixtures	AVL(H) NEW(A) SOU(A)	BUR(A) BLANK CHE(H)	LEI(H) CRY(A) LIV(H)	EVE(H) LEI(A) NEW(A)	MUN(A) WHU(H) AVL(H)
Form (Last 5 games played)	36	44	23	24	13
Goals/Assists	19/6	14/3	12/1	5/1	17/7
Yellow cards	3	5	2	0	4
Bonus	31	16	18	5	20

Bargains-K. Davies, Schlupp, Berahino

Captain- Hazard

TEAM OF THE WEEK-GAMEWEEK 31

Disclaimer-The Crystal Palace-City game is included, the Villa-QPR is NOT.

Arsenal, Chelsea and United players continue their good form and dominate the TOTW again. Sunderland and Everton were the other major contributors in a gameweek filled with goals of the highest quality.

Tim Howard (EVE)

He had to make two saves only, but it was the magnificence of those saves that earns him a spot in the TOTW. His first save off Pellè required great awareness and athleticism from the 36 year old, and is the best save from the weekend’s pick. His second save was less acrobatic- Ward-Prowse hit a swerving shot which confused Howard initially, he went down early but reacted quickly to save and maintain the clean sheet.

Billy Jones (SUN)

It was Dick Advocaat first home game as manager of Sunderland, and what an occasion it was-the Tyne-Wear derby. He   entrusted Billy Jones over Réveillere in the right back position and Jones performance justified this decision. For the first 60 minutes, Newcastle focused their attacks from the left side of the field with Sammy Amoebi being a constant outlet but Billy Jones prevented any final delivery coming through. He made crucial tackles to break play and even created an early half-chance from a set piece.

Santiago Vergini (SUN)

Things didn’t start well for Santiago Vergini, who was lucky not to give a penalty (he bought down Ayoze Pérez with his trailing leg during a tackle) early in the first half. But his tackling set the tone for the Tyne-Wear derby and Dick Advocaat would be very happy with his Center-back. Vergini wasn’t beaten once in the air and contributed seven ball winning tackles in the game. A crucial clean sheet in a 1-0 win, which makes it five consecutive wins for Sunderland in the Tyne-Wear derby.

Phil Jagielka (EVE)

Southampton could muster only two shots on target and credit must be given to Phil Jagielka and John Stones. The center-back pairing were impenetrable and Jagielka gets the nod over Stones for scoring the only goal in the game, which came after Southampton failed to clear an Everton corner.

Daley Blind (MUN)

What a revelation Daley Blind has been since last year’s World Cup. The Dutch international put up another all-round performance-comfortable in possession, solid defensively and supported Ashley Young bursting forward. He picked up Herrera following an overlap for the first goal of the game. He also spotted Di Maria for the build up to Rooney’s wonder-goal. Manchester United have found their best form at the crucial final third of the season and credit must go to Blind’s consistent displays.

Ander Herrera (MUN)

United’s new heartbeat, Ander Herrera, follows up from his last appearance on our TOTW. The Spaniard was always lurking outside the Villa box, waiting for his chances and was duly rewarded with two goals. His first goal was brilliant-good first touch from the right foot and a finish to match with the left. His second goal came after an old-fashioned drop off-Rooney won the ball and marauded forward before passing to Mata, who in turn picked up the charging Herrera. One touch later, Guzan was picking the ball from the back of his net. With performances like these, one is left to wonder why he didn’t get more starts this season.

Cesc Fàbregas (CHE)

Another Spainard to partner Herrera in the middle of the park-Fàbregas was assured in possession and maintained positional discipline. He has been criticized for cooling off in the second half of the season but Jose Mourinho is having Chelsea play a more reserved gameplay than before. Fàbregas won the penalty that Hazard calmly converted and was always seeking forward passes. He picked up Hazard early in the second half but his shot was punched away by Begovic.

Alexis Sanchez (ARS)

Sanchez’s goal showcased every aspect of his game-first, he started his run as soon as Lucas Leiva was forced into an error, he placed himself perfectly between Emre Can and Kolo Touré, his first touch help evade the tackle from Touré, steadied the ball with his second touch and then unleashed a powerful shot that left Can and Mignolet helpless. He was the provider for Giroud’s goal too. Sanchez has now scored 20 goals for Arsenal in all competition, debutant of the year stuff.

Mesut Özil (ARS)

Sublime is a word often associated with Özil and this game showcased exactly why. He showed great vision to pick out Ramsey during the buildup for Bellerin’s goal. He won the freekick which he converted for Arsenal’s second. Mignolet should have done better but he hesitated for a second, perhaps confused by Sanchez and Mertesacker’s movement, but that was all Özil needed. He pressed with his team mate and forced Lucas Leiva to misplace the pass that led to Sanchez’s goal. Later on he delivered a great cross to Giroud which forced Mignolet to react fast to save. Özil recent run of good form has come at a time when Arsenal needs all its player to perform at their very best.

Eden Hazard (CHE)

Every week it’s the same story for Chelsea-Hazard was unplayable and provided the key moment that led to victory. He deserves all the applause for being so consistent at such a high level throughout the season. He is a clear candidate for the league’s player of the year. Against Stoke he gave an early warning of things to come-he picked up the ball on the left wing, drifted inside evading three players and unleashed a shot from his left foot, which deflected off Whelan and was saved by Begovic. In the 39th minute, he scored from the penalty spot, calmly sending Begovic the wrong way to claim his 17th goal of the season. Early in the second half he picked up a great pass from Fabregas and send a curling effort towards goal, which Begovic did well to punch away. Soon after Chelsea benefited from a Begovic mistake- the Bosnian keeper misplaced a throw which Cuadardo intercepted and directed to Hazard, who found himself in acre of space to run and pass to Remy. The frenchman had an empty net in front to tap into. Hazard is the second Chelsea player to make the TOTW and we are sure we will see him a couple times more.

Jermaine Defoe(SUN)

Defoe did everything required from a forward and much more. His goal was a stunning volley of the highest caliber, and it wasn’t the only thing that impressed us. He pressed tirelessly and track-backed to help Sunderland maintain a clean sheet. He made two ball winning tackle in areas usually occupied by the right back and made another crucial interception from a left back’s position. Defoe was all over the pitch as his heat map suggests. He could also had an assist had his strike partner Fletcher been more clinical. He has become a local hero and the emotion shown during the half time break and post match interviews show how much this goal meant for him. It was a gameweek where many forwards excelled and scored quality goals-Giroud, Rooney, Gomis, Austin, Zamora-but Defoe makes the cut for being the derby match winner in an all-star performance.

Defoe’s heat map vs Newcastle  

Manager-Arsène Wenger

Arsenal got their tactics right-early high pressing unsettled Liverpool’s jittery defense, they never looked comfortable with possession and their chances were few and far between. Its seven wins in a row for Arsenal and ten wins out of eleven in all competition since they lost to Tottenham in Feburary. Arsenal can’t beat top sides had become a cliché in recent season but this season they have finally addressed many shortcoming of former seasons-in Coquelin they have found an able midfield enforcer, their young players (Bellerin, Coquelin) have filled capably for missing personal and competition for all spots is high. Wenger deserves a lot of credit for this and he is very contended with the dynamic attack he has assembled.

Missed out-Begovic, Bellerin, Trippier, Stone, Coquelin, Kouyate, Ramsey, Giroud, Rooney, Gomis, Murray, Louis Van Gaal, Chris Ramsey