FPLH's Players of the Season

Best “Alternative” Premier League Player of the Season:

1^st - Clint Dempsey
Overall Reason: Number of goals scored from midfield and impact on team’s results.

2^nd - Tim Krul

Overall Reason: Consistent form and sheer number of clean sheets kept.

3^rd - Grant Holt

Overall Reason: Goals and importance to his team’s survival.

Premier League Player of the Mid-Season (1st Half) - GWs 1-19:

1^st - David Silva

Overall Reason: The play-making match winner that inspired his team to the top.

2^nd - Robin Van Persie

Overall Reason: Goals, goals and goals in saving Arsenal’s reputation and season.

3^rd - Gareth Bale

Overall Reason: Providing the creative spark to Spurs’ outside title challenge

Premier League Player of 2012 (2nd Half of the Season) - GWs 20-38:

1st - Papiss Cisse

Overall Reason: Adapted quickly to his new team’s style of play and scored at will.

2^nd - Gylfi Sigurdsson

Overall Reason: Supplementing Swansea’s ethos and proved to be a match winner.

3^rd - James McClean

Overall Reason: Didn’t start under Bruce, yet proved himself in style under O’Neill.

FPLH Cup - Quarter-finals draw confirmation

FPLH Cup - Quarter-finals draw confirmation

After 35 gruelling Gameweeks, 8 participants out of 32 have been successful in reaching the FPLH Cup quarter-finals.  This includes our blog team which topped the preliminary table.  Congratulations to all remaining participants in our cup competition and may the knockouts commence!

Quarter-finals

Preliminary table

One for the Future Series – Part IV: Victor Moses (Wigan)

One for the Future Series – Victor Moses

Like Scott Parker last season, some people may find it strange, if somewhat undeserving, to be praising a player at the bottom end of the table. Parker, of course, was relegated with West Ham and the end of the 2010/11 season; however, he also scooped the FWA Footballer of the Year Award. He was awarded for his dedication to the cause in the face of adversity, and so, here is another award for a player who is giving everything as he stares relegation in the face.

Moses is worthy of being one to watch for the future, as at the tender age of 21, he is evidently capable of holding his own in the top division. Despite their current league position, Martinez has got Wigan playing a free-flowing, exciting, passing game. This style of play has been successful in recent weeks due to Moses providing the perfect link between defence and attack.

The young Nigerian can operate as either a left sided, right sided or lone striker. His ability to switch so effortlessly between positions ensures that he is difficult for opposition defenders to mark; freeing up space for his team mates. Following the departure of Charles N’Zogbia to Aston Villa in the summer, Moses has become the focal point for Wigan’s attacking play. He has taken up the mantel as the creative player that sparks something special. This is reflected in his four goals and six assists this season. Although this may not be a spectacular return when compared to other players of a similar ilk, it is still a fair return for a team placed 17th in the table. Had only some of his team mates chipped in with similar statistics, Wigan may have already secured Premier League status for next season.

Despite representing England at every junior age level, Moses opted to play for Nigeria on the international scene. This could prove to be a great loss to England, as he is a natural attacking wide player; a position which has yet to be secured by any of the current squad. It is clear to see from his style that Moses is very comfortable on the ball. He continually makes jinking and darting runs down the flanks, and his rapid pace is a match for any athletic full back.

The only draw-back to his current game is that Moses can be greedy in possession. Like a young Joe Cole used to, Moses sometimes shoots when he should pass, and tries the difficult pass when he should shoot. This is not such a bad weakness to have, though, as it is a sign of confidence, and in time, can be nurtured into a fine strength. Therefore, Moses is definitely one for the future, and do not be surprised of some of the big boys come knocking on Wigan’s door this summer

Written by Sam Balls

Brief Biography:

I am a final year English student at the University of Portsmouth. I am extremely passionate about sport, and my burning ambition is to write for a national newspaper. You can find my blog at: samuelballs.wordpress.com or follow me on twitter: @Sam_Balls

Recommended Player for Gameweek 36

Recommended Player for Gameweek 36 - Rafael van der Vaart (Tottenham)

Time to buck up?

Gameweek 36 is a "Double Gameweek", consisting of 14 matches. With this in mind I have decided to endorse a player whose team is involved in two matches. Not only that, but a player who is capable of making an impact. My recommended player for Gameweek 36 is Tottenham's Rafael van der Vaart. Of course Spurs' league form has been woeful of late with only 2 wins from their last 10 matches. This is quite a remarkable down turn for a team that were effectively outside title challengers as recent as mid-February.

However, I believe that Tottenham will do their best to not let things slip further in their pursuit for 4th position in the Premier League. Van der Vaart started the season in electric fashion with 6 goals to his name by Gameweek 10. Since then he has only added a paltry 3 goals to that tally.  Injuries, indifferent form, being rested and subbed off regularly hasn't helped his on-field performances. The time for excuses has to stop. I believe Tottenham can stop the rot, especially considering their GW 36 opponents:

Match 1 of DGW 36 - Blackburn (H):

Rovers have conceded 41 goals on their travels in 17 matches this season (2.4 goals per match).

Match 2 of DGW 36 - Bolton (A):

Wanderers have conceded 33 goals at home in 17 matches this season (1.94 goals per match).

(Even after DGW 36, Spurs have decent fixtures at hand, with Villa away and Fulham at home).

Indeed, it must be noted that both Bolton and Blackburn are battling against relegation. During this time of the season you would want to avoid playing such teams as they have everything to play for, when it comes to top-flight survival. But remember, Tottenham's season hasn't ended yet. Would they really want to let a Champions League spot slip away with defeats against minor opponents? Definitely not. Spurs haven't packed it all in yet and will do their utmost to win both of their DGW 36 matches.

Admittedly, it will be a semi-calculated risk in picking Van der Vaart due to Spurs' recent run and his personal form of late. But it is time for him to up his game. Aside from Tottenham he has played for the likes of Ajax and Real Madrid which highlights his world class pedigree. In addition to this, he has 93 caps to his name, along with a World Cup finalist medal. A player of his calibre can inspire Spurs' rejuvenation.  DGW 36 provides a perfect opportunity for him and his club. A good performance is overdue from Rafael van der Vaart and now is surely the time for an upturn in Spurs' fortunes.

I will post My GW 36 Blog Team (with confirmation of my selected captain and vice-captain) at least a night before the Gameweek commences. 

Gameweek 35 Summary

Cool, Calm and Collected Chelsea Cech Off Van Persie

Following their surprising triumph against Barcelona only a few days earlier, the Blues held their nerves for a credible draw against Arsenal. Cech's five saves were important in maintaining Chelsea's five match unbeaten run and means that Van Persie has only scored one goal from his last seven matches. However the draw leaves Chelsea in 6th place with the daunting realisation that they may have to go all the way and win the Champions League if they are to definitely play in the elite European competition next season.

Black Cats fail to get their claws into Villainous Lions

Coming into this match, both teams had failed to win in their last few league matches. Going out of it, the abysmal winless record continued for both as the match ended in a goalless draw. Villa's inability to win has made them shock last minute relegation candidates as Sunderland's recent poor form is sufficient for them to accept mid-table mediocrity.

Hoilett halts the rot for Rovers

Blackburn ended their five match losing streak with a much needed win at Ewood Park. Goals from Formica and Hoilett were enough to defeat Norwich. Rovers are now three points away from safety and could still be in with a shout for survival. It all now depends on how much they wish to fight until the end.

Elegant Eagles' goal not enough to down Swift Swans

Bolton were denied three points at home as they fight to avoid the drop. A draw seemed to be the inevitable outcome as Bolton's home record hasn't been that great this season, which was complemented by Swansea's poor away performances.  And so it ended in a 1-1 draw. See below for the outcome of Bolton's second GW 35 match...

Pog Riises and Sends Martinez's men back to the drawing board

Wigan came back down to reality with defeat at Craven Cottage, following back-to-back victories against Arsenal and United. Goals from Pogrebnyak and Senderos were enough to secure three points for Fulham, despite Boyce's goal for the Latics. With 3 games to go Wigan are 3 points above the relegation zone and must avoid complacency to avoid being dragged back down to the drop zone.

Geordies order Cab ride for Stoke in three goal rout

Newcastle continued to defy the odds as they recorded their sixth consecutive league victory with a comfortable win against Stoke. A brace from Cabaye and yet another goal from Cisse ensured that the Geordies remain 3 points above 5th spot and only 3 points away from 3rd. Never in their wildest dreams could the Toon Army have imagined such a tantalising scenario at the start of the season, of Champions League football within touching distance...

"Queen Kenny's" six appeal saves the day at Loftus Road

Half a dozen saves from QPR's goalkeer, along with an Adel Taarabt goal secured three unlikely points against fellow Londoners Tottenham. Taarabt may have got himself sent off later in the match but that wasn't enough for Spurs to score. The win leaves QPR 3 points safely above 18th place with 3 matches remaining.

Moyes' Boys shock Fergie's foxes in 8 Goal Thriller

He may have been at Everton for 10 years in a trophyless reign, but Moyes showed that his shoestring budget team can from time to time raise their game against the big teams. A win for United would have semi-sealed the title race. At 0-1 down they were in trouble. At 3-1 up they were cruising. Even at 4-2 up they were cruising. But perhaps United became complacement? With 7 minutes of time left, Everton blew open the title race with two late goals to finish the match 4-4. United may be regretting their poor defending and missed chances, but will have to avoid defeat in GW 36 at City to prevent losing complete momentum in the title race.

Hodgson comes back to Anfield and piles more misery on Liverpool

He may have been sacked in an unjust manner last season, but since then he has prospered and Liverpool have stagnated. This proved to be the case as West Brom defeated a wasteful Liverpool team at Anfield for the first time in 45 years. The once formidable Liverpool have unfortunately relegated themselves to the status of a cup team this season. Talking of relegation, Liverpool would be right in the mire if you look at the Premier League table from January 2012. The victory was West Brom's 3rd from their last 4 matches and puts them only 1 point away from Liverpool.

City beat and relegate Wolves (as well as reducing league lead)

Mancini's men made the most of United's lost two points at Old Trafford by picking three points of their own at the Molineux Stadium. Their 0-2 victory, courtesy of goals from Aguero and Nasri, automatically relegated a Wolves team whose fate seemed sealed weeks before. City will now hope to beat United in GW 36 and win their remaining matches to stand any chance of winning the Premier League.

and finally...

Eagles and Pets plunge Villa into relegation Dog Fight

Aston Villa may have been lacking three of their key players (Collins - injury, "Stan" Petrov - Illnes and Bent - injury), but this was no excuse to lose to a struggling Bolton team. Warnock's goal gave Villa some hope for victory. But that lasted seconds, as complacency set in and withing three minutes Villa were 1-2 down. The defeat means they have only won one match in their last ten where as Bolton now remain one point away from safety with a game in hand.

---

A mixed gameweek for me. On the one hand 8 of my starting XI scored 2 points or less. No one from my defence kept a clean sheet other than Gibbs whose points will not count as he was unfortunately my third substitute. On the other other hand, Rooney's two goals complimented nicely with my GW 35 captain/endorsement Martin Petrov's assist and goal which added respectability to my score. Looking to DGW 36, I already have made one change by replacing the injured Walcott. I am willing to take a -4 for the first time in almost three months to accomodate another DGW player. RVP could surprisingly be axed from my team. His turnover of 1 goal in 7 matches has been unimpressive when the cheaper likes of Jelavic and Cisse (who have two matches in DGW 36) have scored freely. I will provide thought to my second transfer before carrying it out. I will upload my recommened player for Gameweek 36 shortly. Until next time ciao!

One for the Future Series – Part III: Martin Kelly (Liverpool)

One for the Future: Martin Kelly

With Jamie Carragher on borrowed time as a first team regular at Liverpool, young Martin

Kelly may be looking to become the new Kop hero of Dalglish’s back four. Born in Whiston,

Merseyside, Kelly is a local boy who made his way through the academy ranks, before

breaking into the senior side in 2008.

A versatile defender who can play at either right back or centre half, Kelly has all the
ingredients to mould himself into a successful Premier League player. He has pace, strength,
and great positional awareness. However, with an unfortunate string of injuries during his
short time at Anfield, Kelly is yet to make the right back position his own.

But even in his brief Liverpool career, Kelly has demonstrated that he does not shy away
from the big occasion; having produced man of the match performances against Everton
and Chelsea in the 2010/11 season. These accolades were a credit to his attacking surges.
They were also evidence of the quality of his attacking play, having dislodged regular attack
minded right back Glen Johnson during this period.

His attacking style is from the Bale school of football – the knock and run tactic. With the
full back beaten, Kelly will then whip in a cross for one of his teammates to fire home from
inside the box. It is a simple, yet effective form of attacking play; one that brought him to the
attention of former England boss Fabio Capello.

The young defender has already played at Champions League level, proving his worth against
tough opposition in Lyon and PSV. Coupled with this, Kelly has represented England at
Under21 level, scoring a headed goal on his debut against Uzbekistan.

Liverpool has a wealth of top quality defenders at their disposal. With Kelly learning his
trade under the watchful eyes of the likes of Carragher, Skrtel, Agger and Johnson, Kelly
is sure to develop into a very assured defender. If he can steer clear of injury woes, Martin
Kelly is definitely one to watch for the future.

Written by Sam Balls

Brief Biography:

I am a final year English student at the University of Portsmouth. I am extremely passionate about sport, and my burning ambition is to write for a national newspaper. You can find my blog at: samuelballs.wordpress.com or follow me on twitter: @Sam_Balls

Recommended Player for Gameweek 35

Recommended Player for Gameweek 35 - Martin Petrov (Bolton)

Will he entertain us with goals?

After my 2 point fail from a player battling against relegation a few weeks back, I have decided to take a calculated risk and endorse another player in a similar situation.  My recommended player for Gameweek 35 is Bolton's Martin Petrov.  He may not have been a prolific goalscorer this season, but he is arguably Bolton's most important midfielder.  He has only scored 2 goals this season with 6 assists.  Petrov probably should have done a lot better, but what else can you do in a struggling team that has lacked creativity and a natural goal poacher upfront?

Admittedly his last two matches were 2 pointers against a dogged Fulham (H) and high flying Newcastle (A) respectively.  Though prior to that he managed a goal and an assist in the last two matches of March.  To give you some peace of mind he has started Bolton's last five matches, which is a rarity for a midfield that has been squad rotated and ravaged by injury.  Crucially, Bolton's next 4 fixtures are played over the next 2 Gameweeks.  This means that they have two consecutive Double Gameweeks (DGWs) that should act as an incentive for you to purchase him as follows:

DGW 1 - GW 35:

Swansea (H) - They have conceded 1.76 goals on average away. 

High potential for Bolton to score 1-2 goals.

Aston Villa (A) - They have conceded 1.38 goals on average at home. 

High potential for Bolton to score at least 1 goal.

DGW 2 - GW 36:

Blackburn (H) - They have conceded 2.41 goals on average away.  

High potential for Bolton to score at least 2 goals.

Tottenham (A) - They have conceded 1.00 goal on average at home.  

Some potential for Bolton to score at least 1 goal.

Bolton's average home scoring record for this season: 1.19 goals per match
Bolton's average away scoring record for this season: 1.06 goals per match

With the above in mind it's possible for Bolton to score approximately 4-6 goals over the next four matches/two gameweeks.  If that is the case, I believe that Petrov may at the very least be involved in some of those goals as an assister or scorer.  The 33 year old Bulgarian international is no stranger to scoring goals (see video).  He has scored a respectable 19 goals in 89 matches for Bulgaria (21.3% strike rate) and has had similar success earlier in his club career with 31 league goals in 126 matches for Vfl Wolfsburg (24.6% strike rate).

Of course, it will be hard for Petrov to replicate his former high strike rates at his age.  But sometimes when a team is under pressure and is battling against relegation their decent players' true class emerges, regardless of age.  I believe Petrov will play a pivotal role in Bolton's next few matches.  At 5.1 he is a steal and won't harm your funds too much.  Sometimes it takes a small investment to provide a big return.  This could be your final chance to do so for this FPL season...

I will post My GW 35 Blog Team (with confirmation of my selected captain and vice-captain) at least a night before the Gameweek commences. 

FPLH's Player of the Year Nominees

Following the publication of the PFA Players' Player of the Year nominations (as nominated/voted by the players); FPLH has decided to publish its own alternative list of nominees for:

a) The complete Premier League season.

b) First-half of the Premier League season.

c) Second-half of the Premier League season.

The three lists aspire to be broad and varied.  Nominees for all three categories are as follows:

Fantasy Premier League Hints' 

Alternative Premier League Player of the Year

List of Nominees:

Demba Ba (Newcastle) - Free Transfer Sensation.  Who'd have thought it?

Clint Dempsey (Fulham) - Captain America / West London's resident super hero.

Grant Holt (Norwich) - Second highest scoring Englishman in the league and yet is uncapped.

Tim Krul (Newcastle) - The Coming of Age of an aspirant Dutchman?

Antonio Valencia (Man Utd) - Provided much needed creativity in a transitional team.

Michel Vorm (Swansea) - Has been instrumental in his team's Premier League survival.

Fantasy Premier League Hints'

Premier League Player of the Mid-Season (1st Half) - GWs 1-19

List of Nominees:

Emmanuel Adebayor (Tottenham) - Key to Spurs' new look attack.

Gareth Bale (Tottenham) - Electric pace as and when required.

Vincent Kompany (Man City) - The captain and rock of the team.

Luis Nani (Man Utd) - Proves that United can move on without Cristiano Ronaldo.

David Silva (Man City) - Man City's talismanic playmaker.

Robin Van Persie (Arsenal) - The jigsaw to preserving Arsenal's credibility.

Fantasy Premier League Hints'

Premier League Player of 2012 (2nd Half of the Season) - GWs 20-38

List of Nominees:

Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle) - France's under-rated answer to Messi, Maradona and the like?

Papiss Cisse (Newcastle) - A goal poacher that looks befitting in the iconic "Number 9" shirt.

Patrice Evra (Man Utd) - Mr Consistent and an outstanding vice-captain.

James McClean (Sunderland) - A diamond geezer that only O'Neill could invigorate.

Gylfi Sigurdsson (Swansea) - On the cusp of being Iceland's all-time best player.

Theo Walcott (Arsenal) - Shoots of maturity at last? or Shoots of the same old?

Thoughts and feedback will be most welcome from now to the penultimate week of the season.  We will declare our winner for each category after consulting with members of our readership.  Get involved and have your say now!