EPL Fantasy Football: Why doing your research can pay off

19/10/2012 11:01:00 AM

With World Cup qualifying having briefly held stage, Adrian Houghton explains why putting some time into the finer details may give managers the edge

ANALYSIS
By ADRIAN HOUGHTON

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Before the international break, some of the league's bigger teams had a whole host of strong Goal.com EPL Fantasy performers.

It was a great week to score points and increase player values, with most Fantasy teams predominantly consisting of more renowned players.

As we resume, all coaches must be wary of the London derby between Tottenham and Chelsea - alter teams accordingly if you have players from these sides.

If you fancy a flutter in the transfer market, a great way to locate any good purchases is via the 'position from last week' search option.

There is a wide range of quality players down on form, who could experience a change in fortunes after the break.

For example, Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero [£11,760,000] is ranked 149 overall, and Patrice Evra [£8,000,000] in position 162 – just two of the lowly ranked stars who can improve in weeks ahead.

Again, also be sure to check club team news for any injuries from the World Cup qualifying matches over the past fortnight.

WHO'S HOT

Aleksander Kolarov – Manchester City (46 points)

After a fairly subdued start to the campaign, the lethal left-back had a day to remember, scoring one and providing two assists in his side's rout of Sunderland - £11,080,000.

Branislav Ivanovic – Chelsea (28 points)

Has been a major catalyst behind the Blues blistering form and continued to move himself up the Fantasy rankings - £10,770,000.

James Morrison – West Brom (26 points)

Becoming one of the league's most consistent midfield performers and delivered the goods yet again with a dominant display in the middle of the park - £10,170,000

WHO'S NOT

Hatem Ben Arfa – Newcastle (4 points)

Failing to live up to his pre-season hype and for a hefty fee. Fantasy managers may have to look elsewhere if the winger does not start performing - £9,400,000

Adam Johnson – Sunderland (4 points)

The winger is struggling to make an impact at the Stadium of Light after the switch from league champions Manchester City - £8,860,000

Matthew Etherington – Stoke (4 points)

Age might be catching up with the 31-year-old midfielder and his price has dropped drastically [£3,000,000], which sees him languishing in ranking position 255 - £5,770,000.

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