If Footballers were ... Emojis?!

Everyone loves football (at least 50% of the population that is). On top of that everyone, EVERYONE, uses emojis. I mean how can you not add the party icons to a birthday message? Or a laughy crying face to keep a conversation alive, (just). You get the idea. So what happens when you combine the two? If Footballers were Emojis of course!

Take a look at 10 footballers associated with various emojis for the most obvious/bizarre reasoning around! Got your own - comment them down below! The best ideas will be featured! Enjoy!


Raheem Sterling - Money mouth Emoji 

Sterling once insisted he was not a 'money grabbing 20 year old' when he turned down a £100 000 contract at Liverpool. It was just a couple of months later the English winger packed his bags in a move to Manchester City for a new wage of £180 000 a week - over 5 times his previous pay. Such a move left many a Liverpool fan with an angry red emoji plastered across their face!

Daniel Sturridge - Ambulance 

Fairly self explanatory - the Liverpool striker spends more time in the treatment room than on the pitch as a result he's picked up this ambulance emoji! Note: closely contested with Jack Wilshere! Can Sturridge become Liverpool's main man up top? 

Neymar Jr. - Heart face 


It's difficult to watch Barcelona's Brazilian without admiring his delicate trickery and undeniable confidence. Few players can replicate the youngsters flair and trickery which he offers on a weekly basis - in recognition and respect of his showboating we present Neymar with a Heart face emoji!

Andres Iniesta - Eyes 

What represents vision better than the eyes!? Few players have the ability to play the most intricate of passes like Iniesta. The way he can play exquisite though balls in the tightest of spaces is truly mesmerising!



Paul Pogba - Hair cut 

Does anyone in the Premier League sport a better trim than Manchester United's midfielder? No, not Fellaini! You know Pogba, the one who moved for a fair bit of cash, you must have heard of him? The 23 year old varies his cut from a mini afro to one with a leopard pattern on display. Along with his memorable celebration it's no wonder why Pogba is such a stand out player for the club.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Wine 


Like wine the big Swede seems to get better and better with age. It was just last season where Ibrahimovic marked 50 times in as many games for PSG (albeit in a weaker league) however he's shown no sign of slowing up with 4 goals in 4 games for Manchester United so far, including 2 huge headers and a thumping drive.


Yaya Toure - Birthday Cake 

The infamous incident in 2014 when the Ivorian midfielder threatened to leave City after he felt the club failed to celebrate his birthday to an apparent degree. Manchester City did in fact give the powerhouse a birthday cake however is agent suggested this wasn't enough adding that 'when it was Roberto Carlos's birthday Anzhi gave him a Bugatti'. The issue was later resolved however questions remain whether Yaya is happy with his new squad rotation role under Guardiola.

David Silva - Bow and Arrow 

A bow and arrow is a symbol of accuracy and precision, the same words are used to describe the Manchester City man's through balls. In fact Silva has as many as 58 assists in a City shirt and appears to be thriving under new boss Guardiola and the fast paced passing and roaming movement. Silva will need to maintain his impressive displays to keep the £37 million Sane out the team when he is fully fit.



Theo Walcott - Gas 


The likes of Hector Bellerin, Raheem Sterling and Sadio Mane all rival Walcott as the fastest man in the Premier League but the Arsenal man gets it for his instant acceleration. At times it seems the England forward runs off fuel given his insane sprint speed, if only the 27 year old excelled in other areas of the pitch such as final ball and finishing, especially given he has snuck into my Fantasy Team.

Marcus Rashford - New born Chick

At first this connection may seem peculiar however it's completely plausible in the view that the teenager has only just burst onto the Premier League and International stage and certainly has a long, long, long time to go! The forward has scored crucial goals against Manchester City,Aston Villa  Arsenal and most recently Hull as well as netting on his England debut and securing a £25 000 a week contract despite his remarkably young age. Watch the space!




Still wanting more? Check out other fun and games:

Guess the Footballer - Use picture clues to work out who!

Sporcle Quizzes - Think you know it all? Think again?

EPL Best Transfer XI! Worth £379 million!

Spending in the Premier League this season has reached an all time high - in fact over half the clubs in the Premier League has broken their record transfer. High profile names such as Ibramhimovic, Pogba and even Bundesliga player of the year Mkhitaryan have all debuted in the Premier League whilst the likes of Mane and Stones, previous Premier League regulars have simply switched clubs for astronomical fees. Out of the 100's of transfers we have nailed down the top XI, not for the best value for money but for the quality of player.

Goalkeeper:

Claudio Bravo: Barcelona to Manchester City for £15 million

The former Barcelona keeper has moved to Manchester to fill the boots (gloves) as Pep's sweeper keeper which has ultimately ousted England's Joe Hart out of the club. The 28 year old moved for £15 million, for most positions such a fee for an ageing player would ring alarm bells yet as a goalkeeper Bravo is sure to last longer than most and is not even yet to reach his peak! Then again at the end of the day is he really that much of an improvement on Joe Hart?

Value for money: 2/5

Notable others: Loris Karius,

Central Defenders:

Eric Bailly: Villareal to Manchester United for £30 million

Very few can criticise Manchester United's new rock at the back who has helped Jose Mourinho's side to clean sheets against Hull and Southampton so far this season. The former Villareal defender is one of the fastest centre backs in the Premier League and as a result has proven he can cope with the sizzling pace of Long of Southampton or Wilson of Bournemouth. However the Ivory Coast man is also blessed with strength in abundance and is happy to impose himself in whichever challenge comes his way.
Value for money: 4/5




John Stones: Everton to Manchester City for £47 million

Having watched Stones's performance against a mediocre West Ham team one can see what he offers to the Manchester City team not only defensively but also further forwards. As well as winning the majority of his aerial duels and also producing the cleanest of tackles Stones was more than content to step up into a CDM spot and spray the ball around, after all it was his 1-2 with David Silva which lead to City's opener vs West Ham. A hot prospect for club and country. Perhaps £47 million was too much however - as a result Everton have been spending like children in a sweet shop!

Value for money: 2/5

Shkodran Mustafi: Valencia to Arsenal for £35 million

Arsenal's desperate attempts to fill the void left in central defence by Mertesacker's injury is finally complete. The 24 year old German would slot in alongside Koscielny to try and secure the Arsenal back line which conceded 4 goals at home to a rampant Liverpool. A crucial signing.

Value for money: 3/5

Notable others: Joel Matip, Ashley Williams, David Luiz

Midfielders

Ngolo Kante: Leicester to Chelsea for £32 million

Leicester fans adored Kante. Football pundits applauded Kante. Football fans envied Leicester of Kante. And now Chelsea have their hands on the midfield machine. I guess you just Kante hate him? The Frenchman has continued his emphatic performances for Leicester and France at the Euros in a Chelsea shirt, repeatedly winning the ball back and distributing it with a certain calmness. Never flustered, Kante is one of the most admirable players in the league and is definitely worth the £32 million!

Value for money: 4/5

Granit Xhaka: Borussia M to Arsenal for £35 million

Xhaka was never going to capture all the headlines or score the goals, instead the Switzerland midfielder is sure to go about his role of controlling possession and grabbing an assist from time to time from the heart of the Arsenal midfield. Xhaka has not been granted much of an opportunity, a poor start off the bench vs Liverpool was soon followed by a masterclass display against Watford with an 86% pass accuracy bettered only by Carzola in the Arsenal midfield. However £35 million may be a figure too high for a somewhat limited player.
Value for money: 2/5


Paul Pogba: Juventus to Manchester United for £90 million

Strength: Check
Pace: Check
Composure: Check
Passing: Check
Aerial ability: Check
Silky skills; Check
An acceptable haircut: Debatable ...

Is there anything the Frenchman can't do? I can't imagine the 24 year old will flop at Manchester United and I can only see him spending the next 6-8 years commanding their midfield. When people question whether he is worth the money ask them if there's anyone better...

Value for money: 3/5

Sadio Mane: Southampton to Liverpool for £36 million

The former Southampton mane (pun intended) follows the likes of Clyne,Lovren and Lallana to Merseyside for a whopping £36 million which is certain to leave Southampton owners very happio and less Sadio at the former's departure. Mane provides sheer pace, fantastic movement as well as goals to Liverpool's attack, in fact Mane has acquired 36 goals and assists in just over 70 Southampton appearances. The start to his Liverpool career has been extremely promising with a sublime solo goal against Arsenal followed by a MOTM performance vs Tottenham nailing him down as a fan favourite!

Value for money: 2/5

Notable others: Georginio Wijnaldum, Victor Wanyama, Ilkay Gundogan, Moussa Sissoko

Wingers:

Leroy Sane: FC Schalke 04 to Manchester City for £37 million

The 20 year old is yet to feature for Pep's new look City side because of lack of match fitness however I can guarantee you that the German starlet is sure to impress. Sane scored 11 goals in less than 50 appearances for FC Schalke whilst playing on the wing, the German was then called up for the Euros to play under Low despite his young age. Sane will offer Manchester City flair out wide and the ability to beat a man - it won't be long before Sterling's place is under threat.



Value for money: 3/5

Mane vs Mkhitaryan who is better?

Henrik Mkitaryan: Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United for £27 million

The Armenian captain has not been given much of a chance so far with the likes of Mata, Rooney and Martial all starting ahead of him. Nevertheless the stats don't lie and the Bundesliga Player of the
Season still has loads of potential to offer at Manchester United especially after being in involved in nearly 50 goals for Borussia Dortmund last year. Give him a chance!

Value for money: 4/5

Notable others: Nolito,

Striker: 

Zlatan Ibrahimovic: PSG to Manchester United for free (just forget the wages!)

How would your team look? Comment yours below!

The Swede needs little introduction, having won titles in Spain,Netherlands,Italy and France the 34 year old arrives in England in an attempt to win Manchester United the title under Jose Mourinhio. Despite his age Zlatan is far from finished, 50 goals in 51 appearances last season is his most prominent tally and Manchester United fans can expect to see the Swede playing up top with the likes of Mata, Martial and Mkhitaryan playing off him. 4 goals in 4 competitve games speaks volumes of Zlatan's undeniable composure in front of goal. Whilst some may view this move as a publicity stunt Zlatan is the ultimate target man and undoubtedly a complete striker who is not afraid to take audacious long shots, execute near impossible flicks and compete with anyone in the air. A perfect signing for such a big club.

Value for money: 3/5

Notable others: Michy Batshuayi, Christian Benteke, Lucas Perez

Who said that?! - Footballer Quotes

Think you know everythung about footballers? Think again! Can you work out who said each quote? Click on the name of your answer to find out if it's right! Best of luck!

Any Ideas?

1) 'I don't want to be perceived as a money-grabbing 20-year-old'

A: Daniel Sturridge 
B: Raheem Sterling
C: Nathaniel Clyne
D: Alex Oxlade Chamberlain 

2) 'I can't help but laugh at how perfect I am' 

A: Cristiano Ronaldo
B: Zlatan Ibrahimovic 
C: David Luiz
D: Emmanuel Adebayor

3) 'Nobody expects a footballer to have any kind of IQ, which is a bit of an unfair stereotype'

A: Wayne Rooney
B: Frank Lampard

Hint: Sarcasm is the lowest form of wit

C: Steven Gerrard
D: Sol Campbell 

4) 'I knew there were problems with FIFA when I didn't make the Ballon D'or shortlist' 

A: Peter Crouch
B: Cesc Fabregas
C: Glen Johnson
D: Graziano Pelle

5) 'There's only one that's a little stronger than me, Messi. All the others are behind me. 

A: Zlatan Ibrahimovic 
B: Carlos Puyol
C: Mario Balotelli 
D: Neymar

Is Bournemouth Jack Wilshere's level?

6) 'Wilshere is good but nothing special. We have 100's of him in Spain. He is overhyped because he's English that's all' 

A: Roberto Martinez
B: Andres Iniesta 
C: Pep Guardiola 
D: Cesc Fabregas

7) 'Your love makes me strong. Your hate makes me unstoppable' 

A: Cristiano Ronaldo
B: Mario Balotelli
C: Luis Suarez
D: Neymar

8) 'I am constantly being asked about individuals. The only way to win is as a team. It is not about two or three star players' 

A: Claudio Ranieri
B: Chris Coleman
C: Zindine Zidane
D: Pele

Fair comments?

9) 'That's football. Sometimes you're the dog, sometimes you're the tree.'

A: Jamie Carragher
B: Jamie Vardy
C: Steven Gerrard
D: Rio Ferdinand

10) 'If you don't know the answer to that question I think you are an ostrich. Your head is in the sand.' 

A: Sam Allardyce
B: Alan Pardew
C: Gary Monk
D: Nigel Pearson

11) 'I am a strong guy. I still think I am the best coach in the Premier League' 

A: Louis Van Gaal
B: John Carver
C: Eddie Howe

Out with the old in with the new?

D: Jose Mourinho

12) 'Nandos isn't a Nandos without fanta and coke mixed #fantoke' 

A: Saido Berahino
B: Marcus Rashford
C: Dele Alli
D: Divock Origi





Still wanting more? Try out our Guess the footballer - Use the pictures to work out who!

8 Premier League transfers which could still go ahead!

With the transfer window closing on Tuesday evening we look ahead at several strongly rumoured moves which are still on the cards. Leicester, Liverpool, Everton, Chelsea and more are all interested! Which move do you think is the most likely and which are utterly ridiculous?!

Islam Slimani - Sporting Lisbon --> Leicester ~ £30 million 

The 'African Jamie Vardy' scored 31 goals in just over 44 appearances last season. Leicester would really benefit from the signature of the 6ft2 striker as he would provide an immense strike partner for Fan Favourite Jamie Vardy. The Algerian striker is not only proven in the Liga NOS (Portuguese league) but also internationally where he has netted 23 times to become Algeria's fifth highest all time scorer at just 28 years of age.

Value for money: 2/5
Likelihood of transfer: 5/5
Likelihood of starting: 4/5

Is this an improvement on last season's team?

Adrien Silva - Sporting Lisbon --> Leicester ~ £21 million 

Leicester are planning the double swoop as they attempt to sign the Portuguese midfielder in the coming days. Adrien Silva featured for Portugal at the Euros however for the large part he was a bit part player. The 27 year old, who has been with Sporting Lisbon since the age of just 12, has been linked with a move to the Premier League all summer with Tottenham, Liverpool and Southampton all thought to be interested. However it appears as if Silva is set on playing under Ranieri after stating 'at 27 years old, and after so many years of loyalty, I think that no one will criticise me for wanting to embrace this challenge'.

Value for money: 3/5
Likelihood of transfer: 5/5
Likelihood of starting: 5/5

Mamadou Sakho - Liverpool --> West Brom/Stoke ~ Loan move

Liverpool have offered the 26 year old Frenchman an ultimatum - either find a new club or don't make a single appearance. Simple. Sakho has reportedly fallen out with boss Klopp after breaching a handful of club rules from missing sessions to arriving late. The former PSG has little choice but to look at the options offered to him. Poor Sakho :(

Value for money: 3/5
Likelihood of transfer: 3/5
Likelihood of starting: 5/5

Jack Wilshere - Arsenal --> Roma/West Ham ~ Loan

Will Wilshere's costly wages deter clubs from signing him?

The injury plagued midfielder is following the likes of Gnabry, Campbell, Rosicky, Diaby and Callum Chambers on the road out the club after Wenger listed the Englishman on the loan list. It's all very peculiar, especially so late on in the transfer window, is Arsene simply making room for a big name to come in? You don't need to be an Arsenal fan to know the answer is 99% NO. Wilshere could gain vital match time (if he stays fit) furthermore he's far from a necessity for the Gunners with Ramsey, Xhaka, Cazorla and Coquelin all capable of slotting into the midfield position.

Value for money: 3/5
Likelihood of transfer: 4/5
Likelihood of starting: 4/5

Marcelo Brozovic - Inter Milan --> Chelsea ~ £20 million + Fabregas!? 

Conte's Italian links have seen Chelsea rumoured with the box to box Croatian midfielder. The 23 year old would not be an immediate starter, especially with Matic and Kante proving an effective duo at this moment in time yet he would certainly be an invaluable asset to the squad. On the other hand the undoubtedly talented Fabregas could be moving the other way as he appears out of favour under Conte. A panic buy in response to James Rodriguez rejection?

Value for money: 2/5
Likelihood of transfer: 3/5
Likelihood of starting: 3/5

Bruno Martins Indi - Porto --> Liverpool ~ £10 million - £20 million 

The Dutch full back could be the answer to Klopp's left back woes. The versatile 24 year old can play both wide and central defence and has over 30 international caps to his age despite his age. The Dutchman has two years left on his contract and would be of a reasonable price - one can't imagine Klopp sticking with Moreno/Milner as left back for a whole season!? Surely not?

Value for money: 3/5
Likelihood of transfer: 2/5
Likelihood of starting: 4/5

Manolo Gabbiadini - Napoli --> Everton ~ £25 million 

Is Gabbiadini a step up on Ross Barkley?

The 24 year old CAM has reportedly expressed his desire to move to Merseyside and it's now just up to the Italian club to find a suitable replacement. The Italian who is capped 6 times for his country scored 20 times in total for Napoli, averaging a goal every 3 games - a very impressive feat for a winger/midfielder. The Italian's arrival would raise questions over Ross Barkley's role at the club, a man who is also out of favour for his country, as Koeman continues to splash all the cash. 

Value for money: 3/5
Likelihood of transfer: 2/5
Likelihood of starting: 4/5

Willian Carvalho - Sporting Lisbon --> West Brom ~ £21 million 

Is a CDM really what West Brom need?

Having broken their transfer record just yesterday with a £13 million move for Tottenham's Nacer Chadli, it's clear that Pulis is desperate to splash the cash and improve a desperately average West Brom team. The Portugeuse CDM could follow the likes of Joao Mario, Slimani and Silva on the road away from Sporting Lisbon if he does decide to depart. If the move does go ahead it would be a remarkable move the club, nonetheless it's still felt that where West Brom are lacking is up top, not defensively.

Value for money: 3/5
Likelihood of transfer: 3/5
Likelihood of starting: 5/5

• Still want more? Check out our EPL Transfer Rumours XI: 

England Squad - Same old story?

England's pitiful loss to Iceland at the Euros has all but been forgotten about (fortunately). With the clueless Hodgson gone it's up to 'Big Sam' to strut his stuff come England's World Cup Qualifier against Slovakia on September 4th. The selection features the likes of Antonio and Walcott whilst the likes of Barkley and Noble miss out:

Will Hart stay England's number 1?

Those I wouldn't include but have made the squad 

Those I would include who did not make the squad

Goalkeepers:

Fraser Forster (SOT) Joe Hart (MC) Tom Heaton (BUR)

Defenders: 

Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw (MU) John Stones (MC) Phil Jagielka, (EVE) Danny Rose, Kyle Walker (TOT) Nathaniel Clyne (LIV) Gary Cahill (CHE)

Midfielders:

Jordan Henderson, Adam Lallana (LIV) Michail Antonio (WHU) Theo Walcott (ARS) Raheem Sterling (MC) Dele Alli, Eric Dier (TOT) Wayne Rooney (C) (MU) Danny Drinkwater (LEI)

Attackers: 

Jamie Vardy (LEI) Daniel Sturridge (LIV) Harry Kane (TOT)

Those who didn't make the cut:

Ross Barkley, Leighton Baines (EVE) Jack Wilshere (ARS) Mark Noble (WHU) Jermain Defoe (SUN) Marcus Rahsford - Selected in U21 squad (MU) Saido Berahino (WBA)

Those out of contention through injury:

Ryan Bertrand (SOU) Aaron Cresswell, Andy Carroll (WHU)

My Changes:

Jordan Henderson --> Ross Barkley 

The Everton man is much more creative and poses a greater goal threat than the Liverpool midfielder. Barkley already has a goal and an assist to his name this season whereas Henderson has very little to brag about, it's surprising the latter was included in the squad especially with Drinkwater and Dier proving solid midfielders in that position. Where England struggled against Slovakia last time round was breaking them down, everyone called for Ross Barkley then, so why not now?

Daniel Sturridge --> Marcus Rashford 

When both players are at their peak Sturridge gets the nod indefinitely. However Sturridge is far from 100% fit having played just 67 minutes thus far and being deemed surplus to requirements vs Tottenham. Rashford has shown on a number of occasions his desire and ability to beat players - something that could prove crucial against a stubborn Slovakian side, especially if utilised off the bench.

Most probable line up: (4-1-2-1-2) 

Big Sam will be wary of playing a formation too similar to the 4-1-2-1-2 that England opted for against Iceland. The difference in this set up is that the 2 in front of Dier are wingers, most likely Sterling and Walcott but potentially Antonio, whereas at the Euros these spots were largely occupied by a rotation of Rooney, Wilshere, Lallana and Alli who tucked in rather than playing as out and out wide men. The new boss will more likely than not decide to start out with Sterling and Walcott given the two's form, both have recorded goals and assists in the opening Premier League games. The full back slots are not certain either, personally I would opt for Shaw and Clyne as they are more profound defensively when compared to the Tottenham duo of Walker and Rose. It will also be interesting to see which of the trio of Stones, Smalling and Cahill start - Smalling is practically a guaranteed pick and it may depend on the severity of Stones' injury against West Ham. The final talking point is the men up top, England look rather bare since their options include a man who hasn't scored in 12 competitive games and another who struggles for game time! As a result Vardy appears a certain starter, it's a question of how desperate Big Sam is to play two up top.

On the other hand...? (4-2-3-1)


The introduction of Danny Drinkwater for England's second striker could help restore balance to the team. The Leicester midfielder is renowned for his simple playstyle consisting of lofted through balls and tireless running. In fact no player had more touches, made more passes or ran further than the 26 year old in Leicester's 2-1 win over Swansea. I would prefer to see this line up simply because of England's abysmal options up top but I feel Kane's reputation and Golden Boot from last season will precede his current woeful form. Drinkwater would come in ahead of Henderson, a midfielder criticised indefinitely (most of all Liverpool fans) and Alli (who would play further forwards) but has endured a feeble start to the new campaign.



Prediction: 0-0

An uninspiring start for England but neither disastrous. The new boss will need more than a week to implement his new ideas. It is England after all!

Guess the Footballer! (4)

Guess the Footballer has returned in the HARDEST EDITION yet!

Guess the Footballer (1)

Guess the Footballer (2)

Guess the Footballer (3)

Use the picture clues to work out the Premier League footballers, beware they become progressively harder!

Hints Below 

• Use the CONTACT FORM to submit your answers and the winner will be announced shortly! 

1) Does not play in England 

2) Has a Premier League Winners medal

3) A young full back 

4) Made a Premier League debut last weekend 

If you like Guess the Footballer why not try out our Sporcle Quizzes! 

Goalscorers vs Chelsea 2015/16: Sporcle Quiz

Can you name all the players who scored against Chelsea last season? (2015/16) OWN GOALS ARE NOT INCLUDED!

Top 5 EPL Strikers: Can anyone surpass Aguero?

#5 Daniel Sturridge - Liverpool

• Does Sturridge make the Liverpool starting XI?

When fit very few strikers can compete with Liverpool's number one man, at his prime Sturridge scored as many as goals with Luis Suarez as his partner in crime. Sturridge will be hoping this is the season where he can put goals ahead of injuries, however missing Liverpool's opener suggests otherwise. Surely he would start for the Reds, then again Mane, Coutinho and Firmino were devastating in attack.

#4 Harry Kane - Tottenham Hotspur
Before a disastrous Euros campaign Lord Kane would have been much higher up this list yet awful free kicks and countless offsides have seen the Englishman stray further away from top spot. Nevertheless Kane possesses some great skills, from his undeniable aerial ability to his clinical ability in front of goals which should see him competing to retain the Golden Boot, especially with Alli and Eriksen behind him. Kane is very much a form player who goes unstoppable patches as well as undeniably awful patches - Spurs fans will be hoping he can move on from his Euros form.

#3 Jamie Vardy - Leicester City

• Can Leicester survive without Kante?

One of the quickest strikers around! Vardy is always a threat both on and off the ball, whether he's chasing a hopeful through ball or a panicking defender. The record breaking Leicester star man rejected a career at Arsenal in the summer to many's surprise, it shows that loyalty in football does exist in football but perhaps Vardy would have reached new heights with a quality Arsenal side. Can he re-create last season's form? A front three of Mahrez, Musa and Vardy should help Leicester replicate last season's stunning displays. 

#2 Romelu Lukaku - Everton

• How Everton will set up 

Alongside Yaya Toure the Belgium is one of the most monstrous players to have graced modern day football, the 23 year old powers past defenders with ease and on the majority of occasions he has the finish to match. Lukaku did not have the best Euros in spite of scoring and will hope to prove to critics that he is consistent in the coming 2016/17 season. Lukaku will be alongside Deulofeu and Bolasie, two very quick and tricky wingers who excel at providing delicious deliveries into the box for Lukaku to gobble up. 

#1 Sergio Aguero - Manchester City

• How Manchester City will set up 

Aguero not topping the list? Impossible. The Argentine already has one goal to his name this season and it's unsurprising that he's the bookies' favourite to finish top of the goalscoring charts. Aguero is not afraid to run in behind or pick the ball up from deep, score a delicate chip or thumping header, the 27 year old has ever proven he has it all in his locker. I predict Manchester City may lose Aguero's services to Real Madrid if he puts in another remarkable season.

Notable Mentions

• Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Manchester United
• Oliver Giroud - Arsenal 
• Diego Costa - Chelsea

For similar articles be sure to check out: 

Top Goalkeepers 

Top Central Defenders

Top Full Backs

Top Holding Midfielders

Top Central Attacking Midfielders

Top Wingers

Why losing Stones can see Everton push for a top 4 finish

Everton started off their 2016/17 campaign with an honorable 1-1 draw against Tottenham in what was a two faced match. Koeman experimented with a 3-4-2-1 against another former Southampton manager (Pochettino) and it started off emphatically with Deulofeu impressing with his creativity in spit of playing as a lone striker with the Belgium Lukaku on the bench. 1-1 was a fair result however Everton will be hoping to go one better when they face Spurs away, especially given the acquisitions since:

Ideally Koeman's side will line up in a couple of games time like so:

A Bench including the likes of:

Steklenburg

Funes Mori

Jagielka

Besic 

Cleverly 

Barry 

Mirallas 

Lennon 

Niasse 

Kone

New additions/ Potential signings

Joe Hart: The out of favour Manchester City keeper had been linked with a £40 million move away to Everton earlier this summer however that deal never went ahead. Nonetheless Everton are still interested in the Englishman and a loan move is potentially on the cards. Whilst Hart is often error prone he is still a step up on Steklenburg.

Ashley Williams: The Swansea man signed for a fee of £12 million in spite of the fact he's a Liverpool fan at heart! Williams should be a superior choice to Jakielka or Mori, especially after a respectable Euros campaign.

Laumine Kone: The Sunderland man is rumored to join the Merseyside Blues for about £18 million, the Ivorian's desire to move is unsurprising given the Black Cats' mediocre squad and overall lack of ambition. Whether Kone would start is unclear however at 27 years of age he's a key asset to the squad. If the transfer goes ahead Koeman would have bought Williams, Kone and Bolasie for about £55 million whilst selling a certain Stones for almost £50 million. 3 for 1 - it's like a Tesco bargain!

Idrissa Gueye: The prospect of signing an Aston Villa man may have frightened the majority of Blues fans however alongside Jordan Ayew, Idrissa Gueye was one of few impressive players. The Central Midfielder was just behind Chelsea (then Leicester's) Kante in terms of tackles, an area which Everton were lacking in last season. For £5 million Gueye is a solid buy.

Bolasie scored 5 goals last season

Yannick Bolasie: The most skillful player in the Premier League, if not the world, left Crystal Palace for a fee between £25 - £30 million. The price tag for a winger who registered just 14 goals in over 130 appearnces in a Palace shirt epitmosises modern day football! That said Bolasie offers invention and creativity with every illustrious turn and dazzling step over which will provide the base for the monster that's Lukaku up top.



Overall Prediction: 

• I can't see Everton struggling for goals, Barkley, Lukaku, Bolasie and Deulofeu are all form players who will go patches of brilliance and periods where they struggle to find the net - fortunately for Koeman Mirallas and Kone are more than suitable replacements!

•  I think defensively Everton will be sound thanks to Williams and (Kone) however questions remain over whether Coleman and Baines can replicate their offensive qualities at the back. 

• Where Everton may struggle is the centre of the pitch where they are rather lightweight - they are lacking a Pogba, a Kante, a Fabregas, someone who controls the game perfectly. As a result I can only see Everton slumping short of the top 4.

Why the end is nigh for Hart and Toure at Manchester City

Out of favour. Out of form. 

Did you know Hart's first name is really Charles?

Being dropped for Manchester City's opening game of the season against Sunderland was not the start of the two's demise at City but instead the final straw. Hart's pathetic attempts for England at the Euros has rightfully been reflected at his club, thank the heavens Guardiola put results ahead of 'protecting his player'. At least Hart can say he tried, unlike Toure! The Ivorian spent the whole of last season lumbering around the Manchester midfield as if he had had too much to drink! Gone is the hungry powerhouse in the centre of the pitch instead a shadow of the midfield monster is in his place, lost and jaded.

In spite of my endless criticism of Hart, Caballero is far from the ideal replacement. The Argentinian keeper is just as dependent as Sterling's crossing accuracy! However Pep is reportedly working his magic and engineering a move for Ter Stegen of Barcelona, a keeper who is neither over hyped nor over confident which cannot be said about Hart. As for Yaya, Fernandinho, Gundogan, Fernando and Delph all eagerly wait in the queue for a starting spot, the former Barcelona man is fifth in the pecking order, an experience he will become accustomed to if he stays at City.

Joe Hart has been handed a life-line however. A £40 million life-line. Seriously. The Englishman has been linked to Koeman's new master plan at Everton in a truly bizarre move, which if it goes ahead, would make Hart the most expensive goalkeeper ever. I'll leave it at that.

Yaya marked just 6 goals last season

Yaya has been linked to Inter countless times however even the Italian's could not cope with his ridiculous wage (and birthday cake) demands! The only place I see fit for the 33 year old other than a Manchester City bench is China. China - where unwanted footballers wanting even more cash head off to. Jiangsu Suning are thought to be interested in the man who once scored 24 goals in a season just 3 seasons ago.


Oh how the mighty have fallen.

Premier League Predictions - Week 1

Saturday 13th August

12:30

Hull City vs Leicester City: 0-4

In spite of the fact I don't think Leicester will be title challengers this season I still think they will rip a disastrous Hull squad to shreds. Perhaps with Musa, Vardy and Mahrez all on display I am being rather complimentary to Hull in suggesting they will keep the score as low as 4! With 13 senior players to name, some of whom are past it (Dawson, Huddlestone) others who are terribly inconsistent (Livermore, Hernandez) Hull will indefinitely begin a desperate downwards spiral from tomorrow onward.

15:00

Burnley vs Swansea City: 0-0

Will Borja Baston feature?

I think the scoreline depends largely upon the two sides' strikers, Gray of Burnley and Swansea's record breaking £15 million arrival Baston from Atletico Madrid. The fact that the Spaniard only arrived on Thursday would hint that he would be miles from starting, then again Swansea's desperate situation and the loss of Gomis and Eder means they are beyond desperate for a man to fill the void up top, I'd select Baston ahead of 31 year old Llorente. Gray is a hot prospect alongside Wales' Vokes, however I expect a nervy opening game from a cautious Burnley side looking to find their feet upon their return to the Premier League.

Crystal Palace vs West Brom: 0-1

Similarly to Swansea Alan Pardew's side have been missing a man up front, especially with Gayle's summer move to the Championship. Whilst Wickham is at their disposal, and will start vs West Brom, they have been heavily linked with Benteke to score the goals to keep them up. West Brom may see a striker in Berahino going the other way, once again questions lie over who will start between Rondon and Berahino. I predict a tight match but for West Brom's sturdy defence to hold firm, perhaps they will force a goal off a set piece or a Rondon header.

Everton vs Tottenham: 2-2

Williams is a Liverpool fan!

A match that could easily go either way given some of the attacking talents of Kane, Lukaku, Barkley and Alli on display, I expect it to be an entertaining affair as a result. Eyes will be on the English talents of Spurs to see how they perform compared to a disastrous Euros campaign - will Alli get an assist to his name? Will Dier keep up his immaculate tackling? One thing is for sure Kane won't be on corners! Out of all the 3 o'clock kick offs this is certainly the
one to watch, with new signings of Wanyama and Williams potentially out to strut their stuff.


Middlesbrough vs Stoke 2-1

It will be intriguing to see how Middlesbrough fair given the introduction of new faces in Fischer and Valdes as well as the display of more well known English football figures in Downing and Rhodes. Stoke have been very inactive in the transfer window excluding a bid for Berahino, they will be hoping the talents of Arnautovic, Shaqiri and Imbula will turn up and put on a show in their opening game. Unfortunately for Potters fans I can only see Negredo and Rhodes starting up a fiery partnership to see Middlesbrough to an early win.

Southampton vs Watford 2-0

I would be surprised if Southampton don't overcome an average Watford side who lack real quality excluding Ighalo up top. The pace of Redmond and Long as well as the creativity of Tadic makes for a deadly trio up top as well as Rodriguez and Austin ready to come off the bench. Watford's midfield is feeble if not non existent by consequence I expect them to be facing the threat of relegation next season. Should be a good start for the Saints.

17:30

Manchester City vs Sunderland 4-0

Kone only arrived in Janurary 2016

Manchester City have come leaps and bounds since the end of an underwhelming 2015/16 season. Once Aguero and De Bruyne return to full fitness and Pep decides upon his best XI I think the sky blues will be unstoppable. Sunderland look mediocre at best, Manonne in net gives fans the same confidence as David Moyes taking a blindfold penalty! Furthermore Kone in their defence is set on a move elsewhere and their midfield is so transparent it could still be on holiday! Expect a rampant City to send a message out to their competitors...

Sunday 14th August

Bournemouth vs Manchester United 1-1

The match which delayed an end to a disappointing Manchester United season last year couldn't come quicker this time around for eager Red Devils' fans who dream of seeing Pogba and Ibrahimovic on the pitch at once. I don't think it will be the dream start Mourinho will be hoping for, Bournemouth are a surprising threat up top with the pace of Wilson, Gradel and Ibe, especially given the fact Valencia, a former winger is at right back as well as the rash Bailly in the middle. Where Manchester United fail in defence they will make up for in attack, Pogba is suspended and will not feature yet expect Ibrahimovic, Rooney, Martial and Mkhitaryan out to impress as their places may be under threat from the Frenchman. It'll be a lacklustre start for such a promising squad.

Arsenal vs Liverpool 2-2

Ramsey scored and assisted four at the Euros for Wales

Holding and Chambers will leave Liverpool's riveting attack of Firmino, Mane, Coutinho and Wijnaldum frothing at the mouths with anticipation. Excluding a weak central defence as a result of injuries Arsenal look dominant in every other position especially if Ramsey can replicate his Euros form and Sanchez stays fit. Given both sides defensive frailties I expect an encapsulating match which will include goals in abundance!

Monday 15th August 

Chelsea vs West Ham 1-2

Carroll's aerial ability will be of threat to Chelsea

As much as I envy Chelsea's squad I have a feeling that West Ham are onto something special with the creative talents of Payet and Lanzini, the pace of Antonio and Feghouli but also the heading unstoppable abilities of Carroll and Ayew. I see no reason why the Hammers can't go far in both the Premier and Europa League,  as a result I can see Bilic's men overcoming a Chelsea side not sure of their best team.






Have your say below!

Rate my Fantasy team: Reader Edition

Rate my team allows interaction between FootyBlogs and some of its readers. In today's edition we review David Hemming's Fantasy Football team:

David Hemmings

Team Name: Stokie Rejects 

Favourite Team: Stoke City

Favourite Player: Arnautovic 

Lives in: Malaga

Foster - Goalkeeper - West Brom - £4.5 million 

West Brom are known to value their defence over attack, by consequence Foster is a wise choice in net, other than Forster only Mandanda, Heaton, Valdes and Jakopovic are starting keepers valued less than £5 million. Additionally Foster is known for his penalty saving heroics which could earn you as many as 5 points with immediate effect! 

Likelihood of starting: 100%  

Value for money: 4/5

Heaton - Goalkeeper - Burnley - £4.5 million

Picking newly promoted players is often a risk as you are less likely to know how they'll perform, then again Heaton's experience in previous EPL campaigns and at the Euros for England suggests he's a dependable man. Burnley will often expect to be tested defensively, especially by the the top clubs, as a result I predict that Heaton will be making save after save in impressive displays which will not only help Burnley stay up but earn him a handful of points too.  

Likelihood of starting: 100%  

Value for money: 3/5

Kone - Defender - Sunderland (Subject to a move to Everton) - £4.5 million

Likelihood of starting: 100%  

Value for money: 4/5

The Sunderland man is in this team on the premise that a move to Everton goes ahead, the 27 year old helped secure Sunderland's stay in the Premier League last season with solid defensive displays after a January arrival. Not only is the Ivory Coast player capable defensively but is also a threat in the air in the oppostion's box, he netted twice against Everton last season! Alongside Williams Kone would help form Everton a sturdy defence and ultimately a handful of clean sheets.

Likelihood of starting (at Everton) : 100%

Value for money: 3/5

Stones - Defender - Manchester City - £5 million

From a potential Everton man to a former one, Fantasy Football players will look to benefit from the Englishman's move as a result of his move to Manchester. Stones is significantly cheaper than his potential central defensive partner of Kompany (£6.0) or Otamendi (£5.5) and is ultimately a key pick. Man City face Sunderland in their opening game, David Moyes' men look lacklustre up top and Man City would be disappointed not to walk away with a clean sheet.

Likelihood of starting:  75%

Value for money: 5/5

Souare - Defender - Crystal Palace - £4.5 million

Crystal Palace face West Brom, Bournemouth and Middlesbrough in three of their first four games which are all viable clean sheets given the signings of Mandanda and Tomkins which should help sure up the back line. However Souare is not always certain to start (he has been suffering from a muscular injury) and possesses little goal threat since he has never scored for Palace. Instead I would opt for Jonny Evans (£4.5) as mentioned previously West Brom has one of the strongest defences around. 

Likelihood of starting: 75%
Value for money: 2/5

Amat - Defender - Swansea City - £4.5 million 

The inclusion of a Swansea player in a squad (who isn't Icelandic) is often a risk few are willing to take since I have predicted them to go down after the loss of two key players. However the departure of Ahsley Williams has all but guaranteed the Spaniard a starting spot in a Swans team facing Burnley and Hull early on. At £4 million defenders don't come cheaper, it's unsurprising Amat has been selected by 7% (that's until Swansea sign a replacement for Williams that is).

Liklelihood of starting: 90%
Value for money: 5/5

Van Aanholt - Defender - Sunderland - £5 million

The Sunderland full back scored 6 and assisted 4 last year to make him the most prolific attacking defender last season. What the Dutchman lacked in terms of clean sheets he made up for further forwards. It is rare for a defender to replicate goalscoring form two seasons in a row (I don't think Van Aanholt will score more than 2 goals!), on top of this away to Manchester City is never a pleasing fixture for a defender. Instead I would opt for Liverpool's Alberto Moreno, whilst the Spaniard lacks defensive positioning he likes to bombard forward, occasionally he is deployed as a left midfielder, something Fantasy users may look to take advantage of.

Liklelihood of starting: 100%
Value for money: 2/5

Hazard - Midfielder - Chelsea - £10 million

At 10 million the Belgium is more expensive than Payet, Mane, Mahrez and Pogba in spite of the fact he saw through the worst season of the 5 listed. The Euros hinted at a revival for Hazard, he will be looking to replicate his 2014/15 season in which he scored and assisted 28! Chelsea face West Ham to begin with which is never a simple fixture followed by matches against minnows Watford and Burnley. An interesting pick.

Liklelihood of starting: 90%
Value for money: 3/5

Firmino - Midfielder - Liverpool - £8.5 million

With Sturridge injured (Surprise!) it seems like Firmino will start up front for Liverpool in a 4-3-3 with Mane and Coutinho on the flanks. I think this limits both Coutinho and Firmino's influence as they excel when in a more central role. All the same Firmino has a strong chance of scoring up top, and since he is listed as a Midfielder would benefit from netting more than Sturridge. However with Wijnaldum also pushing for a starting spot it's unclear whether Firmino will secure a starting spot in the near future.

Liklelihood of starting: 100%
Value for money: 3/5

Redmond - Midfielder - Southampton - £6 million

New Southampton manager Puele is known to avoid formations with wide men, however this does not signal the end of the road for the former Norwich man as he is set to start up front alongside Long against Watford in a 4-1-2-1-2. Whether the pacey Englishman will flourish in such a role or whether he will simply be replaced by Austin remains to be seen however at such a cheap price Redmond is sure to be of value.

Liklelihood of starting: 90%
Value for money: 4/5

Payet - Midfielder - West Ham - £9.5 million

Personally I have not gone for Payet in my team for two reasons, one he is a Fantasy Football favourite and selected by as many as 30% of players, secondly I don't think the 29 year old can replicate his stunning Euros form. I could be wrong however West Ham face Chelsea away to start off, Chelsea under Conte are set to be much more solid in defence than last season. Puzzling.

Liklelihood of starting: 80%
Value for money: 3/5

Etienne Capoue - Midfielder - Watford - £4.5

Capoue is in the team not for his thunderous strikes of delicious passing but simply because he is the cheapest midfielder around and is in the team to compensate for the heavy price of Aguero, Payet and Hazard. Will he register a single goal or assist? Unlikely. Not much else to say!

Liklelihood of starting: 100%
Value for money: 4/5

Aguero - Forward - Manchester City - £13 million

Similarly to Payet I often avoid Aguero because of how many people pick and captain him, at the end of the day this is often my mistake and not theirs! Aguero will be hoping to beat the likes of Kane, Lukaku and Vardy to the top scorer spot next season and avoid injury at all costs. With such a creative force behind him in Silva, De Bruyne and Sane Aguero will have too many chances to count! A £13 million price tag is too steep for my liking yet he's the most clinical finisher around all the same.

Liklelihood of starting: 100%
Value for money: 3/5

Gray - Forward - Burnley - £6.5 million

9 goals. 6 Pre-season games. The question on many's lips is whether the Englishman can not only replicate his pre-season but also last season's form in which he scored 25 goals. Gray is blessed with astonishing pace and will be hoping to terrorise a mix and match Swansea team who are without their former leader Ashley Williams. This match will be a good indication not only of Gray's Fantasy Football prospects but whether Burnley can beat the drop.

Liklelihood of starting: 100%
Value for money: 5/5

Vardy - Forward - Leicester - £10 million

I can't criticise the selection of Vardy, simply because if I chat sh*t the worst will come of me. Key player.

Liklelihood of starting: 100%
Value for money: 3/5

• Overall this a very well thought out team which I largely agree upon, I would only change out perhaps Van Aanholt and Souare as I don't think Sunderland and Crystal Palace's defences are the strongest. 

If you would like to have your team reviewed simply check out our CONTACT US page and either attach an image or type out your team. We are always looking for teams to review! 
Once again thanks to David Hemmings for getting involved, best of luck!