Always Cheating: A Fantasy Premier League Podcast (FPL)

FPL Strategy for the GW12–16 Fixture Run & Our GW12 Preview Nov 18, 2024

Join Josh and Brandon as we catch up on International Break news including fitness and minutes played for key Fantasy Premier League assets. Who played? Who faked an injury or who had a real one? And what's the outlook for the upcoming GW12? We dig into the fixtures for both this coming weekend and the next five game-weeks for a look at which clubs have the best and worst runs. Arsenal and Chelsea have previously been highlighted as having major swings in difficulty, but how good are their runs really? Maybe it's Bournemouth who are suddenly flying under-the-radar. Plus, there's plenty of Haaland talk and speculation on Saka, Palmer, and the new Manchester United regime. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/VDWg0K4GO_A

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW12 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Always Cheating FPL Quarter-Season Awards Nov 10, 2024

Ahead of this calendar year's final International Break, Josh and Brandon present the FPL Quarter-Season Awards! We sift through all twenty Premier League clubs to find the fantasy winners and losers and talk about what's surprised us most through the first eleven game-weeks. With plenty of narrative around the game's premium assets, alongside some emergent budget picks, there's plenty to celebrate. Plus, we offer some thoughts on this weekend's GW11 action, from Salah's armband to a resurgent Bruno Fernandes. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/ViCSk_otMmE

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW11 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Haaland Fire Sale, Remarkable Wood, Solanke's Surge, and Our GW11 FPL Preview Nov 04, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the GW10 highs and lows and look ahead to key decisions for the upcoming GW11. Salah rewarded the FPL faithful with a classic goal versus Brighton—standard service has either resumed or it never went away. Meanwhile, against Bournemouth, Haaland again disappointed. As we audition our preferred three premium (three-mium) assets, this feels like THE critical moment for the Norwegian. Stick, twist, or gloat for not having had him for weeks? And no longer a passing fad, Chris Wood continues his dominant run, surpassing even every Arsenal asset in total fantasy points. Finally, we look ahead to the last gameweek before another international break and discuss if Solanke and Spurs are for real this time. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/8H6OvBLwkJw

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW10 #GW11 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Haaland's xDisappointment, Late Clean Sheet Wipeouts, and Our GW10 FPL Preview Oct 28, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the GW9 highs and lows and look ahead to key decisions for the upcoming GW10. This weekend, despite scoring early against Southampton, a heavily-captained Haaland still managed to disappoint owners, especially in the face of masterclasses from Chris Wood and Bryan Mbeumo. While many of us still fence sit on the Norwegian, is it at least time to consider a refreshed captaincy strategy? Meanwhile, other key premium assets in Palmer, Saka, and Salah all continue to perform as we grasp for more clarity when optimizing our fantasy budget. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/GQAlJcxxfFc

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW9 #GW10 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Red Card Drama & Our GW9 Fantasy Premier League Preview Oct 21, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the GW8 red card–infused results. It was fantasy carnage with Arsenal as Saka missed out entirely and the air continues to escape their defensive balloon. Plus faithful Haaland managers took another massive blow as the captaincy favorite blanked against Wolves. With the Saints up next (at the Etihad no less), but three blanks in a row, can we easily persist with the big Norwegian? Turning our attention to the marquee GW8 matchup of Salah vs Palmer, has Mo done enough to move up the Premium Asset Power Rankings? Then we look ahead to key transfer targets and non-Haaland captaincy ideas for GW9 and beyond. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/8tB8D24Vqrk

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW8 #GW9 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

International Break Update & Our FPL GW8 Preview Oct 14, 2024

Join Josh and Brandon as we catch up International Break news including fitness and minutes played for key Fantasy Premier League assets. Who played? Who faked an injury or who had a real one? And what's the outlook for the upcoming GW8? We dig into which areas of our FPL teams need tweaking and where the hidden strengths might appear as Arsenal and Chelsea hit a tricky run of fixtures and Manchester City see nothing by green. "Stick or twist" is the question on every manager's mind. Hail Cheaters!

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW8 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Saka's Revenge & Our Kings of the Gameweek Special (GW1–7) Oct 07, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the Premier League and fantasy results from this weekend's GW6. Wildcarders held the narrative during the transfer window, but Cole Palmer takes all the headlines with an incredible four-goal performance against an abject Brighton. So how are FPL managers meant to react? Is Palmer a required premium asset going forward? Or can we keep taking his bursts of points on the chin? Haaland, Salah, and Saka could all hang in the balance. Plus we look ahead to GW7 with key transfer targets and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnEv_LjtGsk

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW7 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Cole Palmer Effect & Our GW7 Preview Sep 30, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the Premier League and fantasy results from this weekend's GW6. Wildcarders held the narrative during the transfer window, but Cole Palmer takes all the headlines with an incredible four-goal performance against an abject Brighton. So how are FPL managers meant to react? Is Palmer a required premium asset going forward? Or can we keep taking his bursts of points on the chin? Haaland, Salah, and Saka could all hang in the balance. Plus we look ahead to GW7 with key transfer targets and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OS7j6JB91t0

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

$500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW6 #GW7 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Big FPL Fixture Swing & Our GW6 Preview Sep 23, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the Premier League and fantasy results from this weekend's GW5. After a feisty match between Man City and Arsenal, Haaland continues to pull away from the rest of the herd. Can Salah catch up—in our FPL estimation—despite is apparent lack of concentration and goals? GW6 also marks a big fixture turn for the Gunners and an opportunity for wildcarders to shuffle the pack. Which picks are in, out, and on hold? Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWdfnzoDSZo

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

$500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW5 #GW6 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh's Wildcard Passes the Point of No Returns Plus Our GW5 FPL Preview Sep 16, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the Premier League and fantasy results from this weekend's GW4. Did the typical post–International Break malaise wreak havoc on FPL? It did indeed, and Josh's wildcard squad struggled with unexpected blanks and mysterious injuries. What were our takeaways from Salah's unusually poor match against Nottingham Forrest, as well as from a resolute Arsenal in the North London Derby? And is Haaland breaking the game yet again? Plus we look ahead to a bevy of midweek Champions League and EFL Cup matches that could make GW5 planning a real headache. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/PV0vRLn_cRk

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

$500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW4 #GW5 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh's Wildcard Update & Our GW4 FPL Preview Sep 09, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we catch up on news from the international break and look ahead to our squad selection and captaincy picks for this weekend's GW4. Plus, Josh debates various wildcard strategies as he looks to settle on the best setup for the upcoming Premier League fixtures. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/-GjFsWPxH94

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

$500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW4 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Common Sense FPL Takes for All 20 Premier League Clubs (GW1–3 Review) Sep 03, 2024

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we debate the key players and strategies from this season's opening three fantasy gameweeks. While it seems daunting with so many premium assets delivering (in a big way), in this episode we look for common sense FPL takeaways beyond the usual "you can't have everyone" cliché. Is it possible (nay crucial) to have both Salah and Haaland? Is Cole Palmer as much of a factor as some think? And who are the obvious mid-price and bargain options that we've simply missed? There's much to discuss as we head into the international break. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Lkrt-h1r1M

Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

$500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW3 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What We Learned Through GW2, Plus a GW3 FPL Preview Aug 26, 2024

Join Brandon and guest co-host Pat to discuss the weekend's barnstorming Premier League fixtures and consider what it all means for our fantasy squads. Arsenal made a title statement, but was that convincing win at Villa Park overshadowed by Erling Haaland's (triple) hat trick? Are budget picks like Emile Smith Rowe and Joao Pedro quickly finding their form? And what prompted that epic goal explosion from Chelsea at the Molineux? Plus, we look ahead to GW3 and pick the standout fixtures, optimal captains, and the all important xDIH stars. Hail Cheaters!

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/K6MXCNw2Sgg

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW2 #GW3 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Takeaways from Every GW1 Match Plus Our Transfer Advice for GW2 Aug 19, 2024

Join us as Josh and Brandon discuss the weekend's opening round of Premier League fixtures and consider what it all means for our fantasy squads. What did we immediately get right or wrong? And what's worth changing in our teams right now versus staying patient and trusting our initial plans? Plus, we look ahead to GW2 and pick the standout fixtures, optimal captains, and the all important xDIH stars. Hail Cheaters!

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-l0aYAbr3M

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #GW2 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last-Minute FPL Deadline Decisions (Featuring DWagz) Aug 16, 2024

Oscar Bobb injury! Valentín Barco minutes risk! Important, late-breaking Fantasy Premier League news is all over the place! In our final pre-season episode, we're joined by friend-of-the-show Dave Weigner-Lodahl to take one last look at our GW1 squads and tackle all of those nerve-racking deadline dilemmas. Hail Cheaters!

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/csNCCd-izfY

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Is Here! Our Squad Reveals & GW1 Strategy Aug 12, 2024

After all the pre-season previews and prognostication, it's time to get serious about Friday's Premier League fantasy deadline. On this episode, Josh and Brandon look at their GW1 squads and examine any looming final FPL questions. Have late-breaking transfer new/rumors changed our tinkering? Will early wildcards or chips factor into our strategies? There's a lot to get to, so let's jump in and make the 2024/25 season a fun one! Hail Cheaters!

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvvUjI6M9RE

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Season Preview, Part 3: The Defenders & Goalkeepers Aug 05, 2024

In our final of three player preview episodes, we take a closer look at the top defender and goalkeeper options and discuss where they each rank in terms of fantasy point floors and ceilings, injury and rotation risk, surrounding squad quality, and that all-important fun quotient. Be sure to check out our earlier forward and midfielder previews and then tune in next week for our GW1 squad reveals and the latest pre-season news. Hail Cheaters!

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5HfCobJ-Ns

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Season Preview, Part 2: The Midfielders Jul 29, 2024

In our second of three player preview episodes, we take a closer look at the top midfielder options and discuss where they each rank in terms of fantasy point floors and ceilings, injury and rotation risk, surrounding squad quality, and that all-important fun quotient. Stay tuned for our defender & goalkeeper preview coming next week, and don't forget to check out our forwards preview from last week. Hail Cheaters!

Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qskwG57ZjeQ

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Season Preview, Part 1: The Forwards Jul 22, 2024

In our first of three player preview episodes, we take a closer look at the top forward options and discuss where they each rank in terms of fantasy point floors and ceilings, injury and rotation risk, surrounding squad quality, and that all-important fun quotient. Stay tuned for our midfielder, defender, and goalkeeper previews coming in the next week. Hail Cheaters!

Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/-45rYYSeEqU

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Is Back: First Thoughts, Player Prices, and New Game Mechanics for the 2024/25 Season Jul 18, 2024

The FPL site is officially live for the 2024/25 Premier League season, meaning it's again time to log in, secure a low team ID, and get down to business. In this episode, we run through initial thoughts on player pricing and changes to the overall game mechanics. Which players are priced too high, too low, or just right? Can we possibly afford Erling Haaland at £15 million—officially the most expensive asset in history? And how are we feeling about the new ability to bank up to five free transfers? Plus, we of course discuss ways we'll make this FPL season more fun than the last. Hail Cheaters!

Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qN5xkoMaI7o

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Goodbye to the 2023-24 FPL Season May 21, 2024

As the 2023–24 fantasy season comes to a end, the Cheaters take one final look at the stories, moments, and lessons learned in a year that many FPL managers found challenging. But what’s changing, if anything? Whether it’s emerging Premier League players and clubs or simply new ways to view and strategize around the fantasy game, join us in closing things out for the summer. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgdEMmLkWlI&t=67s

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW38 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW38 Is Here! Our Fixture-by-Fixture FPL Preview May 13, 2024

Join us as we look ahead to the final double-gameweek of the 2023/24 FPL season! Josh and Brandon have each activated their Bench Boost chip, so there's plenty of talk about what to expect from both the high and low fantasy assets filling out our squads. Who are the best cheap defenders? Can Chelsea keep their form going? Is Richarlison an overlooked gem? Will Haaland go supernova again or is there a clear alternative for the armband in GW37? And so much more. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGVVQhto0p0&t=20s

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW37 #GW38 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Double GW37 FPL Preview: Bench Boosts, Chip Talk, and Haaland Goes Off May 06, 2024

Join us as we look ahead to the final double-gameweek of the 2023/24 FPL season! Josh and Brandon have each activated their Bench Boost chip, so there's plenty of talk about what to expect from both the high and low fantasy assets filling out our squads. Who are the best cheap defenders? Can Chelsea keep their form going? Is Richarlison an overlooked gem? Will Haaland go supernova again or is there a clear alternative for the armband in GW37? And so much more. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52yHzU8AHNo

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW36 #GW37 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Attacking the Forgotten FPL Gameweek 36 Apr 29, 2024

We're close to GW35's end and it's still a shootout between Son Heung-min and Cole Palmer. Brandon is joined on this week's episode by friend and veteran FPL manager Dave Weigner-Lodahl to unpack the stories of the weekend and then look ahead to a forgotten GW36 that's sandwiched between two doubles. It's a game-week that will likely come down to the captaincy pick, but have we learned anything about Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs, or the two Manchester clubs that might give us an edge going into the next deadline? Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHiNqyShp18

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW35 #GW36 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Activating Our FPL Wildcards Ahead of GW35! Apr 22, 2024

There's no rest for the FPL weary as GW34 rolls on while we're already forced to turn our attention to the next batch of doubles just around the corner. What that means for both Josh and Brandon is activating their wildcards ahead of GW35 when Chelsea and Spurs will play twice. But who (apart from Cole Palmer, of course) on these mercurial teams can fantasy managers trust? Is Nicolas Jackson poised to surprise or disappoint? Can the defenses of either club produce more points than injuries? Plus, as part of our wildcard planning, we look ahead to the GW37 doubles and key teams like Manchester City, Manchester United, and Newcastle. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6tcWr7uH0k

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW34 #GW35 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Big One. Our Position-by-Position Preview of FPL GW34. Apr 15, 2024

Whether you’re debating one free transfer, considering a hit, playing a Free Hit chip, or ready to wildcard, this episode has all you need for GW34 strategy. This isn’t the last double of the season, but it very well could be the most pivotal, so Josh and Brandon methodically run position by position through every viable (or nearly viable) transfer option, from goalkeepers and defenders to midfielders and forwards. Arsenal and Liverpool are the marquee clubs, but does their current form and risk of rotation scare us off any players? Plus who are the sneaky picks on the lower-ranked doubling teams like Bournemouth, Wolves, Crystal Palace, and Everton? There’s much to consider, so join us and let’s figure it out together. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfqMioyemOo

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW33 #GW34 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

6 Weeks to Go! FPL Strategies for GW33 & Beyond Apr 08, 2024

The fantasy gameweeks are now coming thick and fast and midweek European fixtures are about to further complicate matters. In this episode, the Cheaters debate what impact the Champions League and Europa League will have on our upcoming FPL plans. Most immediately, we discuss captaincy options for GW33, but our transfer plans for this weekend are still tied to the double in GW34. We also discuss the freshly announced double in GW35 for Chelsea and Spurs and if there are any picks amongst the rabble. Plus, we unveil our "On the Beach" rankings, which will be updated weekly through the end of the season. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bku3Mqzviyg

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW32 #GW33 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quickfire GW31 FPL Preview Mar 31, 2024

Join the Cheaters, Josh and Brandon, as we unravel the news and results from GW30 and quickly look ahead to this big decisions for GW31, which kicks off on Tuesday—right around the corner. Of course, we give our thoughts on Sunday's big clash between Manchester City and Arsenal and consider Salah's performance against Brighton and what it portends for the midweek scores. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORIcntARvmk

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW31 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chip Thoughts, Double Gameweek Strategy & GW30 Preview Mar 25, 2024

The big fantasy news from this international break has been the official announcement of the doubles in GW34. With the double fixtures in GW37 also coming into focus, it's time to get serious about our strategies for maximizing points in the run-in. In this episode, the Cheaters take a closer look at the key clubs and players who will impact GW34 and how we plan to use our remaining chips. Most importantly, when are we thinking we'll wildcard? Plus, as to not forget the gameweek right in front of us, we talk about GW30 transfer targets, captaincy options, and just how quickly Salah might be playing his part. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lR--32sRv8

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW30 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW29 Recap (Yikes!), FPL Look-Ahead, and Kings of the Gameweek Special Mar 18, 2024

On this week's episode, the Cheaters recap the wild non-results of blank GW29 and discuss what went wrong—and what could've gone worse—on the Free Hit chip. With the season's final international break ahead of us, we also take a beat to consider our strategies for the fantasy season's run-in, including the potential of remaining double gameweeks and chips. Then it's time to revisit our beloved feature: Kings of the Gameweek! Looking at top scorers in GW21–29, what lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the Fantasy Premier League site's often overlooked feature? Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TIu9C0OqZU

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW29 #MFFA #hailcheaters #kingsofthegameweek

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW29 Preview: Free Hits, Transfer Ideas, and Under-the-Radar Picks Mar 11, 2024

Opinion among FPL managers is divided on how to best approach the blank GW29, but the Cheaters are both using their Free Hit chip to navigate what will be a weird and perhaps wild gameweek. In this episode, we look at a potential Free Hit draft and run through the best—and perhaps under the radar—picks from each of the eight featuring clubs. Even if you don't plan to use a chip this deadline, the player and club analysis is still a useful exercise for narrowing down where to find an edge in a tricky moment. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDSgyAqgqik&t=3837s

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW28 #GW29 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bournemouth & Luton Town Hot Take Zone Plus GW28 Questions Mar 04, 2024

Despite our best plans, Ollie Watkins and Phil Foden continue to dictate the Fantasy Premier League terms with the two star players combining for 116 points in their last six gameweeks. But they're not the stars of this episode as the Cheaters look ahead to the double in GW28 featuring Bournemouth and Luton Town—two clubs who rarely clog up the FPL conversation. But if we must, we will, and Josh and Brandon offer their best hot takes on viable options on each team from keepers and defenders to midfielders and forwards. Plus, there's a push to potentially triple captain Dominic Solanke with his two plum home fixtures: Is it a sensible and insane chip strategy? We also preview our own squads and strategies for the double with more green arrows on our minds. Hail Cheaters!

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1M9JGn9B3Cw&t=143s

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW27 #GW28 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Making Moves for the FPL Stretch Run Plus Our GW27 Preview Feb 26, 2024

Hindsight is in full view for FPL managers after this weekend's lopsided fantasy duel between Douglas Luis and Hwang Hee-chan. That was a key midfield transfer as the overall points tally for GW26. In this episode, Josh and Brandon recap where their squads are ahead of the West Ham-Brentford match and then look ahead to their strategies and captain picks for a somewhat forgotten GW27. What role will the Manchester Derby play in the upcoming gameweek? And how worried should we be about Erling Haaland's goal-scoring form when we compare the Norwegian to other tempting captains like Bukayo Saka? We also discuss the fallout from the League Cup final in which Liverpool sustained yet more injuries and Chelsea burned through some much needed energy ahead of a midweek FA Cup clash with Leeds that will play into our fantasy plans for the stretch run.

Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06rBwpPUKJw&t=6s

#bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW26 #GW27 #MFFA #hailcheaters

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Triple Captain Haaland? Plus More Advice & Strategies for Double GW25 Feb 12, 2024

This weekend’s GW24 fixtures saw returns for many key fantasy assets who set the table for a double gameweek showdown with Liverpool and Manchester City both getting their say in GW25. But with European competitions coming back into the picture, and a blank for some clubs in GW26, some fantasy decisions this deadline aren’t as easy as they look. On this episode, we look at the best transfer targets for the doublers, including Luton Town and Brentford, and what ripple effects we should keep in mind. Along with a lengthy Darwin Nunez vs Ivan Toney chat, there’s also an on-air toggle of the Triple Captain chip. #BlueWireVideo

To see it unfold on video, check out video for this episode on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fN5HYMjWq9Y&t=702s

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Double Gameweek Incoming! FPL Advice for GW24 & Beyond Feb 05, 2024

While some managers might want to revel in Ollie Watkins points haul for a bit longer, the Cheaters are already on to strategies for GW24 and beyond. Of course this planning involves the enhanced double in GW25 that now includes Liverpool and Luton Town alongside Manchester City and Brentford. In this episode, we rate the top assets to bring in to hopefully maximize the double—a list that includes everyone from Erling Haaland and Kevin de Bruyne to Diogo Jota and Ivan Toney—and also assess the risk of Liverpool's subsequent blank in GW26. Plus we look at GW24 transfer and captaincy options, as well as under-the-radar players (like Wolves attackers) who are becoming hard to ignore. #BlueWireVideo

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Returns with GW22 Questions & Our Guide to Upcoming Blanks & Doubles Jan 28, 2024

At last, a new FPL deadline is upon us with GW22 kicking off Tuesday. The Cheaters return with a quick-fire episode revealing their team strategies and answering listener questions about what's next for the fantasy season. There's also plenty of chat on GW22 captaincy options ranging from Richarlison to Foden and what risks might be inherent with transfers for De Bruyne and Diogo Jota. Plus, we discuss the impact that Jurgen Klopp's recent announcement (that he'll leave the club this summer) will surely have on Liverpool and the Premier League, as well as upcoming blank- and double-gameweek news that also involves Liverpool, among others. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An FPL Roadmap for GW22 and Beyond Jan 22, 2024

We’re very close to the end, but GW21 drags on for one more match at the time of this recording. And we must wait until next Tuesday for the GW22 deadline. Nonetheless, what have we learned thus far during this staggered fixture schedule and array of international and domestic tournaments? On this episode, the Cheaters look ahead to everything we need to know about the weeks ahead, including confirmed and probable double and blank FPL gameweeks—and the potential chip strategy therein—and which clubs have the best upcoming fixture runs. Plus, we discuss Salah’s hamstring injury and potential departure from AFCON, Jota’s explosive returns against Bournemouth, and the triumphant return of Ivan Toney. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Kings of the Gameweek Special: GW9–20 Reviewed Jan 15, 2024

With GW21 in media res, the Cheaters check in on the biggest highs and lows of the gameweek’s first half—most notably Kevin De Bruyne’s explosive return. Then, with a moment to catch our collective breath, we review gameweeks 9–20 through the lens of each week's dream team. That's right: it's once again time for the Kings of the Gameweek! What lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the Fantasy Premier League site's often overlooked feature? We’ll be back next week with our GW22 preview. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL GW21 Preview: What to do with Haaland, Son/Salah replacements, and (C) picks Jan 08, 2024

Special guest and listener favorite Dave Weigner-Lodahl joins the pod to discuss a tricky two-week Gameweek 21. What is the best approach to the captaincy in a GW where there is no consensus? Are we still planning a Haaland transfer? How are we replacing the players who have left for AFCON and the Asian Cup? We discuss these topics, take listener Qs, and more!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Preview of the Second Half of the FPL Season Jan 03, 2024

With the Premier League's nonstop festive fixtures now behind us, it's time to digest what we've learned and establish a plan for the fantasy season's second half. The first big issue is, of course, the departure of key midfielders Mo Salah and Son Heung-min (among many others) to international tournaments. How can we best replace them—and how soon? We size up the favorite options of Saka, Bowen, and Richarlison, plus a few less popular picks, and debate the significance of Arsenal's attacking form, as well as Richarlison's ability to pick up the slack for Spurs in Son's absence. There's also the small matter of Manchester City's inevitable resurgence with the return of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Answering Your FPL Festive Fixture Questions Dec 18, 2023

The trauma of real life and Tom Lockyer bleeds through into this episode's recap of GW17, after which we attempt to refocus on the fantasy game and the remaining fixtures in the Premier League's festive period. With this weekend having offered renewed faith in clean sheets, we debate if manager's should reinvest in their goalkeeper and defenders—and, if so, then who?—and how we can possibly ever afford the in-form-but-extremely-expensive Trent Alexander-Arnold. Plus, we update our strategies on keeping, selling, or re-buying Erling Haaland when the time is right, and we discuss Chelsea, Arsenal, and players soon to leave for international tournaments in Africa and Asia. Hail Cheaters!

Interested in advertising on this podcast? Email sales@bluewirepods.com!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Buy, Sell, Hold for the Festive Fixtures & Our GW17 Preview Dec 11, 2023

Erling Haaland's absence from Manchester City's GW16 team sheet set off a chain reaction that impacted both our fantasy scores and our core strategy for the upcoming run of festive fixtures. The Norwegian forward is one of many long-held players we now might consider selling. To help fantasy managers reset, Josh and Brandon use this week's episode to evaluate all of the big assets and debate their value in buying, holding, or selling: With Trippier's suspension (and horrid form), does he need to go? Son is hitting a profitable scoring patch, but what does his upcoming Asia Cup duty mean for his value? Are they ANY defenders worth buying? And are form teams like Fulham and Everton suddenly worth a sniff for cheap alternatives? Plus, we look ahead to key transfers and captains for GW17. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rapid-Fire Midweek GW15 Preview & More Dec 04, 2023

The weekend’s Premier League results saw key victories for Arsenal and Newcastle—and Liverpool by the skin of their necks—while other top-four and title contenders settled for draws. But what did we learn about the fantasy assets from these teams who are now embarking on a crowded holiday fixture run? On this week’s podcast, we brace ourselves for the quick turnaround of Tuesday’s GW15 kickoff and discuss Arsenal defenders, a Newcastle triple-up, and a clear frontrunner for the midweek FPL captaincy. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One FPL Hot Take for All Twenty Premier League Clubs Nov 27, 2023

Sure, podcasting is a lot about voicing an opinion—controversial or not. This week, Josh and Brandon try to take that to the next level by limiting themselves to just one 'hot take' per Premier League side. Some of these takes might be hotter than others, but the Cheaters pin their feelings to the mast from top-of-the-table Arsenal all the way down to last-place Burnley. How many will you agree with; and how many, shall we say, less so? Let us know! Plus, of course, we look ahead to the key transfer targets and captaincy options for GW14 and the upcoming run of festive fixtures. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

News from the International Break & Getting Our FPL Squads Ready for GW13 Nov 20, 2023

On this episode we review the up-to-date International Break news, including injury scares, minutes played, distance traveled, and of course goal-scoring form. What do the international football results tell us about GW13? And what's the best way to set up our fantasy squads for what looks like a tricky slate of fixtures? A key decision will be the captaincy with the two standard picks Haaland and Salah facing off in the gameweek's first kickoff, it could be a good moment to be different and give the armband to Son—or even Solanke. Do we have the guts? Plus we discuss cheap defender options, Chelsea's epic upcoming run, and a "Clásico of sorts." Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Match of the Season (So Far) & Our UK Travel Diary Nov 13, 2023

In this episode we recap our adventures in England during the last few days, including attending the 4-4 thriller at Stamford Bridge that saw Manchester City drop points while Chelsea continues their comeback charge up the league table. We also give our impressions of the London Stadium and Selhurst Park after our visits to those grounds, which also delivered engaging matches. Plus, more on our appearance on the Premier League’s Fantasy Show and highlights from our listener meet-up in London Bridge. We’ll return next week with a full GW13 preview and more regularly scheduled programming. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UK Here We Come & Making Fantasy Fun Again In GW12 Nov 06, 2023

This weekend produced a brutal run of results for fantasy managers, resulting in a low-scoring GW11 and a continuation of one of the toughest seasons in memory. Josh and Brandon look to bounce back with their upcoming trip to the U.K. and a GW12 filled with fixtures that will hopefully be easier to predict. Maybe? On this episode we discuss Arsenal's form and injury crisis, as well as Darwin's double personality, Doku's sudden emergence, and Watkins' mysterious track record.

If you're in the London area, please join us for a listener meet-and-greet this Friday, November 10, at The Dugout at Belushi's London Bridge starting at 7:00 PM. No ticket required, 18+ venue, cash bar. Hope to see you there!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What Do We Know About This FPL Season After 10 Weeks? Oct 30, 2023

Fantasy managers have now survived, thrived, or endured through the first ten match weeks of the Premier League season. So, what have we learned that we can take with us into the next ten? Josh and Brandon first unpack their GW10 strategies and scores and then discuss the key themes and trends we've seen emerge since the game kicked off in August. That's everything from xMins to Vibes FC and what sort of value managers are extracting from the top-tier, most expensive assets. Plus, we look ahead to GW11 fixtures, transfer targets, and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Planning for the Big GW10 Fantasy Fixture Shift Oct 23, 2023

FPL managers looking for a lifeline this season could see their fortunes change with a notable GW10 fixture swing. Teams like West Ham, Brighton, and Arsenal will finally see some green in the FDR, while Spurs, Chelsea, and even the mighty Manchester City are in for a rough patch. In this week’s episode, we discuss how the upcoming Premier League schedule could impact active wildcards. Plus we weigh the urgency of bringing in both in-form players Mo Salah and Ollie Watkins—and if it’s reasonable to sacrifice Erling Haaland in the process. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Blank Slate: Starting Fresh This Fantasy Season (Plus Our GW9 Preview) Oct 16, 2023

As we return from the international break and prepare for GW9, Fantasy Premier League managers now have the perfect moment to hit the reset button. Whether it’s a change in attitude or a shift in strategy, we need to leave the first eight week’s of this season behind and start with a blank slate and positive outlook. Josh and Brandon start this week’s episode discussing how we can achieve that aim and then look ahead to important decisions for GW9 and beyond: Which clubs are entering into good fixture runs? Should Salah be everyone’s priority? Just how far has Haaland fallen in the FPL ratings? And is Son worth a look for the captaincy against Fulham? Join us for all this and more—and Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Kings of the Gameweek Special: GW1–8 Reviewed Oct 09, 2023

As we enter the Premier League's second international break of the season, the Cheaters review gameweeks 1–8 through the lens of each week's dream team. That's right—it's once again time for the Kings of the Gameweek. What lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the FPL site's often overlooked feature? We also discuss our scores from GW8, Brandon's wildcard satisfaction levels, and the increasingly insistent case for Mohamed Salah. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL’s Overrated, Underrated, and Properly Rated Players Oct 02, 2023

This weekend, Ollie Watkins defied the expectations of most FPL managers with his extraordinary 23-point haul against Brighton. That season-defining performance has inspired the Cheaters on this week's episode to look at some of the biggest fantasy picks in the game—from Salah and Son to even Erling Haaland—and reassess whether each of them is currently overrated, underrated, or properly rated by the general FPL community. Plus, Brandon's on a wildcard as we look ahead to the GW8 fixtures and our key transfer targets and captaincy options. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The First Double Gameweek of the FPL Season & Our GW7 Preview Sep 25, 2023

The recent GW6 had some major highs and lows for fantasy managers and Josh and Brandon represent both sides of that coin. And after we break down our learnings from the weekend, it's on to GW7 and this season's first double gameweek featuring Burnley and Luton Town. Those aren't the most enticing clubs to tie your FPL fortunes to, but this episode really is all about the pros and cons of pursuing the upside of just about any double gameweek. So, is this one "just about" enough for us? Listen to find out. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Players We're Giving Up On & Our GW6 Preview Sep 18, 2023

It's been a frustratingly low-scoring GW5, but the weekend's standout storyline has been the woeful form of clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea. While those teams continue to look for a way into this Premier League season, fantasy mangers have lost all patience—notably with Nicolas Jackson, Ben Chilwell, Bruno Fernandes, and a few others. Of those players, who are we prepared to fully turn our backs on? And which ones might prove us all wrong and score FPL points in the coming weeks? Plus, the Cheaters debate the urgency of transferring in Mo Salah and which midfielders we should consider sacrificing in order to squeeze the Egyptian in. (Is that sacrifice Son Heung-min?) Then we look ahead to GW6 fixtures and our key transfer targets and captaincy picks. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Post-International Break FPL Catch-Up: Wildcard Time & GW5 Preview Sep 11, 2023

The season's first international break concludes on Tuesday and thus far it's been fairly uneventful. But will things stay that way? And how will GW5 be impacted? With a rocky start in FPL, Josh is already planning his first wildcard and in this episode the Cheaters debate which Premier League players have stood out, have great fixtures on the horizon, and have hopefully not traveled too far with their respective national team. Plus, we praise an in-form Spurs side, zero in on question-mark teams like Chelsea and Manchester United, and check back in on the mess of goalkeeper picks. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Early Season FPL Clues, International Break Blues & Norway News Sep 05, 2023

The results of GW4 have sent fantasy managers into the international break with a lot to think about. While some of us will feel smug and full-up on points from the likes of Alvarez, Mbeumo, and Maddison, others will be panicking and weighing the benefits of an early wildcard. With Josh away, special guest co-host Sam Danby Bailey joins Brandon to search for clues in the season's first four weeks as to which players and clubs are heading in the right direction: Was Sterling always a trap? Can Son capitalize on his hat trick? Is there any hope at all for clean sheets? Plus, Sam catches us up on life and football culture in Norway and shares some stories about his encounters with the great Erling Haaland. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Assets to Buy, Sell, or Hold for GW4 Aug 28, 2023

This weekend's matches proved to be the first big stress test on our fantasy squads and the FPL template of highly-owned, highly-agreed-upon assets. So what's next? Is Raheem Sterling really going to take the game by storm? Can we trust the West Ham attack to remain this potent? What happened to Brentford and Brighton on Saturday? And which of the stock Manchester United and Arsenal midfielders would we be will to part with in favor of an in-form guy like James Maddison? To sort this all out, we play another round of buy/sell/hold debating other alluring midfield options, budget defenders, and the still-fuzzy goalkeeper picture. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW3 Preview & FPL Options We Overlooked In the Pre-Season Aug 21, 2023

This weekend's GW2 action saw banter-level fantasy blanks for key players like Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Nicolas Jackson while other pre-season darlings like Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo continued to score points—not to mention the "we knew they had it in them" guys like Luis Diaz and Solly March who have started this new season in incredible form. How do we manage to overlook the potential of some options while convincing ourselves to stay the course with others? This week, we discuss the plan for GW3 and if (or for how long) we can continue to ignore the high-flying player we don't yet have in our FPL squads. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ten Things We Think We Think After FPL GW1 Aug 14, 2023

This season's opening weekend presented a wide range of fantasy outcomes, but some teams and players proved easier to predict than others. On this week's episode, the Cheaters discuss what stood out in GW1 and how it changes the calculus as we look ahead to GW2 and beyond. We also rate the plethora of midfielder options still vying for our attention and consider updating our goalkeeper strategies. Plus, we talk about impressive showings for Ben Chilwell and James Maddison, upcoming fixtures for Liverpool, a strong start for Newcastle, and Erling Haaland's eternal grip on the FPL captaincy. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW1 Preview: Team Reveals & Last-Minute FPL Dilemmas Aug 07, 2023

The 2023/24 Premier League season kicks off this Friday and we got our first taste of what's to come with Sunday's Community Shield clash between Manchester City and Arsenal, which saw the Gunners emerge victorious. The Cheaters react to the result and give their impressions of performances from notable players like Erling Haaland, Julian Alvarez, Bukayo Sake, and even Kai Havertz. Did anything from the match change our thinking for GW1 and our early FPL drafts? Plus, we reveal our latest GW1 drafts and field a number of last-minute questions about Harry Kane, Mo Salah, João Pedro, and what punts/differentials we might be missing out on. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A guide to using data, xMins, and models this FPL season with guest "Elevenify" Aug 03, 2023

In this special bonus pod, special guest Elevenify (https://elevenify.substack.com) joins to discuss data-driven strategies for the new Fantasy Premier League season. All of this week's podcast questions came exclusively from Always Cheating's Patreon supporters—visit patreon.com/alwayscheating to support the pod!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Top 10 Defenders & Goalkeepers: 2023/24 FPL Season Preview (Part 3) Jul 31, 2023

In our third and final FPL player preview ahead of the 2023/24 Premier League season, we take a closer look at the top defender and goalkeeper options and discuss where they each rank in terms of fantasy point floors and ceilings, injury and rotation risk, surrounding squad quality, and that all-important fun quotient. Always Cheating is trying something new this pre-season by working with our very own "data" model for fantasy picks, weighing factors that are uniquely important to our listeners. Listen back to our ranking of top 10 forwards and top 10 midfielders and tune in next week for our blockbuster GW1 deadline preview. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Top 10 Midfielders: 2023/24 FPL Season Preview (Part 2) Jul 27, 2023

In our second of three FPL player previews, we take a closer look at the top midfielder options and discuss where they each rank in terms of fantasy point floors and ceilings, injury and rotation risk, surrounding squad quality, and that all-important fun quotient. Always Cheating is trying something new this pre-season by working with our very own "data" model for FPL player picks, weighing factors that are uniquely important to our listeners. Listen back to our ranking of top 10 forwards and tune in next week for our defender and goalkeeper previews. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Top 10 Forwards: 2023/24 FPL Season Preview (Part 1) Jul 24, 2023

This pre-season, we're trying something new at Always Cheating headquarters: We built a "data" model for FPL player picks. But what sets our model apart from the competition is we're weighing factors that have historically been uniquely important to our listeners—like, say, is a player fun to own in fantasy? In our first of three player preview episodes, we take a closer look at the top forward options and discuss where they each rank in terms of fantasy point floors and ceilings, injury and rotation risk, surrounding squad quality, and that all-important fun quotient. Stay tuned for our midfielder, defender, and goalkeeper previews coming in the next week. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Six Unanswered Questions Ahead of the New FPL Season Jul 17, 2023

We're now four weeks out from the start of the new Premier League season and, with it, the GW1 FPL deadline. At this point, the fantasy deadline feels like it's at once right around the corner and a lifetime away. So, where's the best place for us to put our focus now? Brandon and guest co-host Dave Weigner-Lodahl tackle six big questions that remain unanswered in the pre-season, including preferred team formations, goalkeeper strategy, and seeking to break the early FPL template. Plus we review recent transfer news with the likes of Anne Onana, Jurriën Timber, and Pau Torres all making moves. Hail Cheaters!

Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL After Dark: Remembering Some Guys, Part 1 (YouTube Live) Jul 11, 2023

Join Josh and Brandon as they debut their 'FPL After Dark' show for YouTube Live and reminisce about the 2013/14 Premier League season.

Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Is Back - First Thoughts, Strategies, and Questions for the New Season Jul 07, 2023

The FPL site is officially live for the new 2023/24 Premier League season, meaning it's suddenly time to log in and get down to the business of winning our mini leagues and finishing with a high overall rank. In this episode, we're getting listeners up to speed with some early transfer deals, fantasy position reclassifications, and the controversial new player pricing within the fantasy game. Then Josh and Brandon hit upon early premium asset strategies, team formations, and the endless (mindless?) pre-season tinkering. Plus, we of course discuss new ways to make this FPL season as—or more—fun than the last. Hail Cheaters!

Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Farewell to the 2022–23 FPL Season May 29, 2023

GW38 started with a raft of lineup leaks—some more trustworthy than others—that set the tone for a wild final match-day of the 2022–23 fantasy season. If the decision point was a Salah versus Kane captaincy, we know how that went. But there were countless other ways to cut this gameweek; from a De Gea penalty save or an Alvarez blank to a Gabriel Jesus punt. In this episode, the Cheaters reflect on their own squads and results and begin the long process of learning from everything this season has thrown at us. We'll be back periodically throughout the summer, but look for more Always Cheating podcasts in July when we begin to preview 2023–24 in all new ways. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

End of the Road: Thoughts Ahead of the Final FPL Gameweek May 22, 2023

We're still waiting for the final matches of GW37 to conclude, but it's not too early for the Cheaters to strategize for the FPL season's grand finale of GW38. In this episode we set up the Premier League stakes for all twenty clubs (spoiler: there aren't many) and then dig into the best approaches depending on where fantasy managers are and want to be. Picking the right—or differential—captain will be the most efficient way to move up the ranks, so who should we be considering for the armband? Plus we discuss expected squad rotation, the home stadium advantage, and players who could give us an edge in every position. Best of luck this weekend and Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Five Questions for the Final Double Gameweek of the FPL Season May 15, 2023

FPL managers got yet another dose of 'The Truth' when Callum Wilson opened the GW36 scoring with a brace and full bonus. Pair that with a Pervis Estupiñán haul and you're flying—but the Cheaters are still waiting for their Isak ship to come in. Will it? As the rest of this gameweek plays out, we look ahead to the final double of this season staring Manchester City, Manchester United, Brighton, and Chelsea. City's midweek battle with Real Madrid could be a major factor in fitness and rotation, so what's the best way to load up on the soon-to-be Premier League champions? We also discuss the injury to Marcus Rashford and if it's worth restructuring our current Brighton fantasy triple-ups. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

March Injury, Isak vs Wilson, and More Big DGW36 Questions May 09, 2023

Very little in GW35 went as predicted, from the Haaland blank to virtually every single moment in Monday’s fixtures. So, what are the key FPL takeaways as we now plan for the double in GW36 featuring both Newcastle and Brighton? Solly March looks to be latest victim of the Premier League injury bug and Josh and Brandon discuss every possible option for replacing him in our fantasy squads. Plus, we debate the pros and cons of the Newcastle assets—namely the forwards Isak vs Wilson—and whether the Toons will keep another clean sheet this season. We also question if managers are overlooking single-gameweek guys, like the in-form Martin Ødegaard or Mo Salah, for transfers or even the captain’s armband. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Advice for the GW35–38 Home Stretch May 01, 2023

There's still a whole lot of GW34 to go, including doubles for numerous clubs. Josh and Brandon check in on their FPL squads—including Brandon's active Bench Boost—and discuss the weekend's Premier League highlights and lowlights. While we wait for the midweek fixtures to happen, this episode is the perfect moment to fully digest the fantasy season's remaining gameweeks and formulate a winning strategy for the home stretch. Which clubs have the best and worst schedules for the run-in? Which player transfers should we be prioritizing? And where will the next under-the-radar pick pop up? All that and more . . . Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rapid-Fire Gameweek 33 Preview Apr 24, 2023

The Free Hit chip was mostly a success in GW32, a week that gave us some freak Premier League results and wild storylines. As we digest those performances, we must quickly turn our attention to the GW33 deadline coming this Tuesday. In this episode, the Cheaters look at their own FPL squads and talk through transfer dilemmas and captaincy picks and then run through the top questions for midweek fantasy: What's going on at Arsenal? What short-term impact will the FA Cup semifinal have on Manchester United and Brighton? And what opportunities should we keep in mind for the following GW34 double gameweek? Good luck and Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Free Hit, Transfer, and Captaincy Strategies for Blank GW32 Apr 17, 2023

With key teams Manchester City, Manchester United, Brighton, and Chelsea all blanking in GW32, the next fantasy deadline will require some very tricky decisions. For some managers, the Free Hit chip will be crucial and in this episode the Cheaters look at what the best options are for an optimal one-week squad. Liverpool takes center stage both for Free Hit and managers and non-chip managers alike as the Reds will play this weekend plus they have a great double in GW34. So which players will we target? We also discuss goalkeepers, transfer hits, and the FPL fate of Bruno Fernandes. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Haaland Returns & GW31 Preview with Tom Campbell Apr 10, 2023

We're joined this week by Fantasy Football Fix pundit Tom Campbell to pick apart the action, injury news, refereeing controversies, and numerous penalty misses of GW30. Tom also discusses his recent wildcard squad and strategy for navigating upcoming blanks and doubles with "good players from good teams." Brandon and Tom then look ahead to GW31 and attempt to resolve key FPL dilemmas including: Rashford's prognosis, Grealish's purple patch, Liverpool's form vs fixtures, and Arsenal's tricky run-in. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DGW29 Check-In + GW30 Preview + FPL Mail Bag Apr 03, 2023

Midway through the massive double GW29, the Cheaters check in on their scores and their squads. While it’s mostly good news from the weekend, there’s still a fair amount of turmoil to contend with post International Break—namely: what’s the plan going forward with Erling Haaland? Not to mention the trick of navigating the blanks in GW32 and more doubles in GW34? Plus, we discuss the recent sackings of Graham Potter and Brendan Rodgers and what that news might mean for FPL. Also: the triumphant return of Gabriel Jesus, the disappointment of owning Ben Chilwell, and the conundrum of too much Manchester United. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Strategies for a Supersized Gameweek 29 Mar 27, 2023

Special guest Erik Sibils, currently #704 overall in FPL, joins the podcast to discuss all things relating to double-gameweek 29, which features 12 Premier League teams playing twice when FPL returns on April 1. Topics discussed include the Rashford and Haaland injuries, bench boosting, captain picks, International Break news, Conte's sacking, and more!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Kings of the Gameweek Special (GW17–28) Mar 20, 2023

As we enter the Premier League's final international break of the season, the Cheaters review gameweeks 17–28 through the lens of each week's dream team. That's right—it's once again time for the Kings of the Gameweek. What lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the FPL site's often overlooked feature? We also discuss our GW28 scores, whether it was the right time for the Free Hit chip, and the impact of this weekend’s FA Cup results on the upcoming FPL fixture calendar. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Putting Together the Best FPL Squad for Blank GW28 Mar 13, 2023

We've put our faith in double-gameweekers again, yet single-gameweekers continue to win out. As GW27 continues rolls on, the Cheaters discuss their fresh wildcard teams and where it's gone right and wrong. Were Brentford and Brighton picks justified? How well set up are we for the big doubles in GW29? But before we get to more doubles, we contend with blanks in GW28 and spend some time building an "ideal" squad that includes some tricky questions for Chelsea and Spurs assets. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW27 Preview Plus Wildcards, Liverpool, and FPL Strategy for GW27–29 Mar 06, 2023

This weekend the Premier League continued to double-down on entertaining and dismaying match results. Between the breathless Arsenal comeback and Manchester United's annihilation at the hands of Liverpool, it's really hard to know where to begin the FPL discussion. But with three massive gameweeks coming in quick succession, the Cheaters dutifully dig into complicated chip and transfer strategies that will hopefully maximize our fantasy returns. Of course we debate wildcard and free-hit timing, what to do with Liverpool players, and the more immediate GW27 doubles for Brighton and Brentford. Join us!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Double Gameweek Chaos & Preparing for the Next FPL Stretch Feb 27, 2023

There are some pivotal GW25 fixtures yet to play, with Arsenal and Liverpool able to turn the tide of a relatively lackluster weekend. While we await the fates of Saka and Salah, the Cheaters turn their attention to more upcoming chaos with new doubles in both GW27 and GW29. The midweek FA Cup Fifth Round will determine how the fixture calendar fully takes shape—which will in turn direct our FPL strategy—but what we do know for sure is that Brighton and Brentford bounce back from their blanks this weekend with a series of doubles, making players like Ivan Toney and Kaoru Mitoma especially good picks. Plus we take a closer look at GW26 and the data behind the key captaincy picks. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trusting Liverpool and Other DGW25 Questions Feb 20, 2023

The FPL scores from GW24 didn't necessarily reflect the sublime chaos the Premier League weekend offered. So then what exactly did we learn as we now set our sights on the doubles in GW25? Those doubles include Arsenal, Liverpool, Everton, and Wolves. With Arsenal back on track after a dramatic win at Aston Villa, their place in our fantasy squads remains assured. It's Liverpool that provide less assurance, as the club this season is simultaneously good and bad—but with two plum fixtures, the Reds might have the highest ceiling. Join the Cheaters as we discuss our strategies for investing in Salah, Alexander-Arnold, Gakpo, Darwin, and more. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL "Blind Spots" & GW24 Preview Feb 13, 2023

This weekend's top performers were a good reminder for FPL managers who suffer from fantasy "blind spots"—players and clubs who never click with your strategy despite their big potential. Leicester City gave us two great examples in James Maddison and Kelechi Iheanacho, but some of us have worn season-long blinders with players like Ivan Toney, Riyad Mahrez, and even Miguel Almirón. What can we do to overcome our biases? Plus, we check in on GW23 news and scores and look ahead to key transfer targets and captaincy options for next weekend's GW24. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW23 Preview: Pros/Cons for Arsenal & Manchester City Assets Feb 06, 2023

Though both clubs are coming off losses this past weekend, all FPL eyes remain on Arsenal and Manchester City. Each have a double in the upcoming GW23 and on this episode the Cheaters look at all of their players—from goalkeepers to forwards—and determine which are the best fit for different fantasy scenarios. How big of a rotation risk might Martinelli be? Is De Bruyne really that out of favor under Guardiola? Should captainers be concerned about Haaland's goal-scoring form? And if you need to pick one of Ødegaard or Saka, who should it be? Plus, we recap the events of GW22 thus far and celebrate some glorious Rashford points. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rashford Triple Captain & Other DGW22 Questions Jan 30, 2023

The Premier League made way this weekend for FA Cup fourth round fixtures and the results confirmed a double in GW22 for both Manchester United and Leeds—a massive opportunity for fantasy managers to gain an advantage. The Cheaters take a look at their own FPL squads and debate the best strategy for the coming weekend, as well as the pitfalls that await in the gameweeks to come. The biggest decision is shaping up to be playing the triple captain chip on in-form Marcus Rashford who has two bankable home games. But is it insanity to consider using your triple captain this season on anyone other than Erling Haaland? We also look at the close of the January transfer window and its impact on the second half of the season. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mid-Season FPL Report Card for All Twenty Premier League Clubs Jan 23, 2023

With essentially half the season now behind us, Always Cheating proudly presents our annual mid-season review of all twenty Premier League clubs. Yep, that's AFC Bournemouth to Wolverhampton Wanderers and everyone in between. We discuss both FPL and real-life player and team performances and how those assessments might influence our fantasy decisions down the home stretch. The podcast will return next week with a proper GW21 preview, transfer and captaincy strategies, and more information (based on upcoming EFL and FA Cup results) for prospective double and blank gameweeks. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rapid-Fire GW21 Preview & Listener Mailbag Jan 20, 2023

Because the GW20 doubles stretched out the proceedings, fantasy managers now have just one day to tinker ahead of Saturday's GW21 deadline. We quickly review what was learned from recent matches like the North London Derby and Manchester City's continued up-and-down form and discuss how it all applies to the weekend. Plus, Manchester United might hold even more appeal in FPL with a potential double in GW22—what's Rashford's points floor if that happens? Then it's a listener mailbag in which we answer your questions on Mahrez, De Bruyne, Toney, Mitrovic, and more. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New Double Gameweek Announced - Players to Buy & Strategy for GW20 Jan 09, 2023

The results of this weekend’s FA Cup matches have brought about a newly-announced double gameweek for both Manchester United and Crystal Palace. That’s on top of the double now confirmed for Manchester City and Tottenham, suddenly making GW20 a potential FPL blockbuster. So, what’s the strategy? In this episode, Josh and Brandon debate the necessity of big player picks like Harry Kane and Kevin De Bruyne and if they can justifiably displace key fantasy assets like Salah, Mitrovic, and Almirón. Plus, we look at strategies for an under-the-radar Bruno Fernandes and other Manchester United guys—yes, including Luke Shaw and Anthony Martial. Then there’s the not-so-small matter of Haaland and the Triple Captain chip and we weigh the pros and cons of holding vs playing it. There’s a lot to discuss, so join us and get stuck in. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last-Minute GW19 Advice & January Fixture Strategy Jan 02, 2023

With mere hours until the GW19 fantasy deadline, Josh and Brandon prepare their own squads, weighing the pros/cons of Chelsea and Fulham assets. Is Mitrovic a captaincy option? Can Sterling or Havertz be trusted? How important is Chelsea defensive cover? And are transfer hits warranted to attack this double gameweek? We also debate the form—or lack thereof—of players like Darwin Núñez and Bruno Fernandes. Then we look beyond the upcoming FA Cup break and consider what's yet to come for FPL in January and February. Happy New Year and Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Returns from the World Cup Break (Advice and Info Ahead of GW17) Dec 20, 2022

The 2022 World Cup offered a thrilling break from club football, but it's now time to dust the cobwebs off our neglected fantasy squads. As we return to non-stop Fantasy Premier League coverage, Josh and Brandon run through news you may have missed, consider the physical and emotional impact on players in Qatar, and look ahead to the key decision points for the GW17 deadline. And it's not just Boxing Day as we discuss the fixture pile-up through GW23, including a handful of double game-weeks for Manchester City, Spurs, Chelsea, Fulham, and Arsenal. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 22 - December 18, 2022 Dec 18, 2022

It was a final for the ages—filled with brilliance, chaos, and pure emotion. Ultimately, Messi cements his place next to Maradona in football history and Argentina have won their third Wold Cup title. France required a dramatic comeback, and Mbappé nearly got them there, but the young French attacker will have to settle for the Golden Boot. Josh and Brandon record their last Qatar World Cup Minute and reflect on both Sunday's incredible match and the tournament as a whole.

Thank you to all who have joined us during this adventure and we invite you to continue with Always Cheating as we jump back to the English Premier League and the FPL game. New episodes coming weekly starting tomorrow. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 21 - December 14, 2022 Dec 15, 2022

Morocco finally reached their breaking point upon meeting France in Qatar's World Cup semifinals. Though soundly beaten, the North African team put up a mighty fight worthy of their Cinderella tournament run. But now it is France with an opportunity to repeat as consecutive World Cup champions as the young superstar Kylian Mbappé faces off against the legendary Lionel Messi. Who will lift the trophy?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 20 - December 13, 2022 Dec 13, 2022

For our twentieth World Cup Minute, we recap the first semifinal in Qatar with Argentina dominating Croatia. Ultimately, Messi's brilliance was too great and Julian Álvarez's finishing too focused for this tough Croatian team to handle. Josh and Brandon then look ahead to Wednesday's Morocco vs France match and how either team might stack up against the Argentines. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 19 - December 10, 2022 Dec 11, 2022

Rounding out a truly thrilling World Cup quarterfinals, Day 19 in Qatar delivered victory for both Morocco and France. Portugal and England kept it close and will each feel disappointed at how close they came. In the end, Ronaldo couldn't muster any last-minute heroics in what will surely be his final international tournament, while England played an exceptional match, delivering on almost everything but the final result. Now it's Argentina vs Croatia on Tuesday and France vs Morocco on Wednesday in a competition where the results are harder and harder to predict. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 18 - December 9, 2022 Dec 09, 2022

The World Cup Minute returns for Day 18 in Qatar and the first of the tournament’s quarterfinals. And, well… WHAT A DAY IT WAS! Drama, goals, handbags, penalties, tricky free kicks, upsets—fans were in dreamland throughout, unless you happen to be Dutch or Brazilian. Despite Neymar’s brilliant goal in extra time, Brazil couldn’t fend off the eternally tough Croatia who will now go on to face Argentina, who themselves had to grit their teeth through a nervy extra-time match. Ultimately, Messi & Co found enough magic to make it past the Netherlands and Emi Martinez again showed his bravado and excellence in a shootout scenario. Josh and Brandon then look ahead to Saturday’s double-header of Morocco vs Portugal and England vs France. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 17 - December 6, 2022 Dec 07, 2022

Day 17 in Qatar brought fans more drama as Morocco took Spain to penalties . . . and won! The early kickoff's tight, defensive affair then stood in stark contrast to the goal-fest of Portugal vs Switzerland as the Seleção das Quinas put six past the Swiss, even with Ronaldo on the bench for the majority. A hat trick for Goncalo Ramos was the major headline, but the Cheaters also spotlight Achraf Hakimi's cheeky Panenka/Penguin penalty. And then it's time to preview the World Cup Quarterfinals that commence on Friday with Croatia vs Brazil and Netherlands vs Argentina. We'll talk to you all then!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 16 - December 5, 2022 Dec 05, 2022

Day 16 of the FIFA World Cup saw Brazil and Crotia advance to the Quarterfinals, each in different fashion. Croatia proved "too tough" for Japan to break down, and ultimately the Samurai Blue fell to a series of poor penalties, while Brazil topped South Korea in more dazzling, frenetic fashion. Looking ahead to Tuesday's final slate of Round-of-Sixteen matches, Josh and Brandon preview what should be some competitive face-offs for Portugal vs Switzerland and Morocco vs Spain. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 15 - December 4, 2022 Dec 04, 2022

Emphatic wins for France and England featured on Day 15 of the FIFA World Cup, underlined by a Golden Ball–level performance from 23-year-old Kylian Mbappé. Additionally, Olivier Giroud broke Thierry Henry's goal record, while England spread the attacking output around through standout performances from Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Harry Kane. (Yep, we see you, Jordan Henderson. And, yeah, nice finish, Saka.) The two European heavyweights will now face off in the quarterfinals this coming Saturday. Senegal and Poland exit Qatar and we must then look ahead to Monday's matches when more fates will be decided: Josh and Brandon give their thoughts on South Korea vs Brazil and Japan vs Croatia and their hopes of more goals and perhaps some surprises. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 14 - December 3, 2022 Dec 03, 2022

Our good friend Dave joins the podcast to recap the U.S. men's performance against the Netherlands and across the entire World Cup tournament. Where do we stand on Berhalter's management and the American talent pool? Plus, we weigh in on the momentum of Messi's Argentina—do they have enough firepower to get to the final? And then it's a preview of Sunday's matches, including England vs Senegal and France vs Poland. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 13 - December 2, 2022 Dec 03, 2022

Day 13 of the FIFA World Cup saw one of the tournament's most powerful moments as South Korea players were moved to tears after progressing to the knockout stage in a dramatic win over Portugal. Victories of the more pyrrhic sort befell Uruguay and Cameroon, while the grudge match between Serbia and Switzerland delivered on goals and handbags—and eventually jubilation for the Swiss. Josh and Brandon then look ahead to Saturday's kickoff of the Round of Sixteen and matchups between the U.S. and the Netherlands, as well as Argentina and Australia. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 12 - December 1, 2022 Dec 01, 2022

For a brief and magical moment during Day 12 of the FIFA World Cup, both Japan and Costa Rica were heading out of Group E at the expense of European juggernauts Spain and Germany. Japan and Spain ultimately move on, while Group F saw the tournament's second African nation qualify for the knockout stage. Croatia is also through after a shocking performance by Belgium, who will know their team xG does not tell the full story. After recapping Thursday, Josh and Brandon look ahead to tomorrow's final day of group play as Brazil and Portugal set out to clinch their pole position and Serbia and Switzerland have a score to settle. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 11 - November 30, 2022 Dec 01, 2022

Day 11 of the FIFA World Cup saw Argentina, Poland, France, and Australia advance to the knockout stage. While Australia was the biggest shock of the day—at a dour Denmark’s expense—Argentina’s emphatic resurgence as tournament contenders was, as we look ahead, a pretty substantial marker laid down. Josh and Brandon then preview Thursday’s round of fixtures with Germany and Belgium fighting for their lives and Morocco looking to be the Cinderella. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 10 - November 29, 2022 Nov 30, 2022

On Day 10 of the World Cup, the Americans booked their trip to the knockout round of sixteen in the most significant U.S. victory of the last two decades. Christian Pulisic got his moment on the big stage—and has the bruises to prove it—and will now face a non-vintage Dutch side this Saturday. Josh and Brandon also recap the action elsewhere as England sailed past Wales and Senegal battled to beat Ecuador and clinch second place in Group A. Then it’s on to Wednesday and an almighty showdown in Group C between Poland, Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico, while in Group D Australia will look to upset expectations. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 9 - November 28, 2022 Nov 28, 2022

Monday's matches started Day 9 of the World Cup off with a bang—eleven goals in 180 minutes. While the scoring fell off a bit, the later games were no less engaging with Brazil and Portugal both clinching their trip to the tournament's knockout stage. Josh and Brandon then preview tomorrow's kickoff of the final round of the group stage, featuring massive stakes in both Groups A and B. While Ecuador and Senegal will be the signature match for Group A, all eyes will be on the narrative between Wales-England and Iran-United States. Go Go USA!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 8 - November 27, 2022 Nov 27, 2022

Sunday in Qatar brought us big upsets of Japan and Belgium by the hands of Costa Rica and Morocco, respectively. But it was the draw between Spain and Germany the really explodes the roadmap for Group E. Meanwhile, a ruthless Croatia put Canada out of the tournament, leaving it all up for grabs in Group F. Josh and Brandon also review the kits from Day 8 and preview the stakes for the final slate of Round 2 fixtures featuring Brazil, South Korea, Cameroon, Serbia, Switzerland, Ghana, and a featured match of Portugal v Uruguay. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 7 - November 26, 2022 Nov 26, 2022

Saturday’s World Cup action included Denmark giving France some (ultimately moot) resistance, while Argentina and Poland both hit the reset button on their tournament ambitions. Messi and Mbappe continue to dazzle and Lewandowski finally gets the goal to complete his trophy cabinet. Josh and Brandon recap Groups C and D as that final round is shaping up to be a must-win doozy for all involved. We then look ahead to Sunday’s fixtures featuring the highest-stakes match yet with Spain facing Germany. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 6 - November 25, 2022 Nov 26, 2022

The main stage for Day 6 was reserved for England v the U.S. While the match didn't deliver on goals, there's still a lot to unpack on how the nil-nil draw impacts Group B and also effects the narrative of the cultural and managerial trajectories of both federations. Josh and Brandon pick the bones and also discuss highlights from Thursday's only games. After some brief "kit talk," it's on to Saturday's fixtures with Groups C and D, including a do-or-die match for tournament darlings Argentina. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 5 - November 24, 2022 Nov 24, 2022

It's Thanksgiving Day in America, but despite the distractions the Cheaters are more committed than ever to recapping/previewing the World Cup. This Thursday offered some exciting match-ups, but only a few of them delivered on that promise: We discuss the Uruguay v South Korea stalemate, along with Portugal's nail-biting victory and Richarlison's emphatic opening statement for Brazil. Then we look ahead to Friday's kickoff for the second phase of group play with key matchups in Groups A and B—including the blockbuster U.S. v England. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 4 - November 23, 2022 Nov 23, 2022

Wednesday offered yet another early tournament upset as Japan startled Germany 2-1. Meanwhile, Spain were in cruise control putting seven goals past a rudderless Costa Rica. But what about Belgium? Did they impress? Josh and Brandon step in to recap the day's highlights and look ahead to tomorrow's slate of fixtures, which includes title favorites Brazil and another South American darling in Uruguay. Plus South Korea, Switzerland, Cameroon, and Mitrovic's Serbia. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 3 - November 22, 2022 Nov 22, 2022

Day 3 of the 2022 World Cup began with a startling upset of tournament favorites—and Messi led—Argentina by Saudi Arabia. The Cheaters recap the rest of the action: from Lewandowski's miss and Ochoa's now-familiar heroics to an underwhelming Denmark and a flying France. Then we look ahead to tomorrow's matches featuring exciting lineups for Spain and Germany, a point to prove for Belgium, plus some potential under-the-radar nations who could add still more unpredictability in Qatar. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 2 - November 21, 2022 Nov 22, 2022

The first full day of fixtures kick off the 2022 World Cup in spectacular fashion as England dazzles, the Netherlands persevere, and the United States and Wales trade blows. After decompressing from an exhausting homer experience for a couple Americans, we then look ahead to Day 3 and matches for Argentina, Denmark, Mexico, Poland, and France. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup Day 1 - November 20, 2022 Nov 20, 2022

Welcome to our first episode of the 2022 FIFA World Cup! For Day 1 of our new daily podcast, we recap the opening match between Qatar and Ecuador. We then look ahead to the stakes and what we're excited about with Monday's fixtures rounding out Groups A & B. How does a Senegal without Mané match up against the Netherlands? And how bullish or negative are we with the young American squad who faces Wales? Plus, England versus Iran and kit talk! Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Midseason Recap & Early World Cup Thoughts Nov 14, 2022

After a chaotic final gameweek, FPL will hit pause for the 2022 World Cup. It's a good moment for the Cheaters, Josh and Brandon, to take a look at how their fantasy seasons have gone so far and what strategies might help them kick on after the break. After some unpacking of GW16—from Haaland's blank to braces for Toney, Darwin, and Ødegaard—it's then time to turn the focus to Qatar, including ways to consume and enjoy World Cup content, early tournament favorites, and a "homer" assessment of the U.S. men.

Join us on this feed for daily World Cup podcasts starting Sunday, November 20. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Strategies for the Final Pre-World Cup Gameweek Nov 07, 2022

With just one more round of Premier League fixtures before the World Cup, the Cheaters look to make the most of GW16 and head into the break in style. In preparation, we assemble an ideal, if-money-were-no-object squad and debate which players have the highest upside with perhaps the lowest ownership. Additionally, we discuss the FPL site's recent woes of crashing just before important deadlines and whether or not team sheet leaks are to blame. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One FPL Question for All Twenty Premier League Teams Oct 31, 2022

Emerging from the weekend's GW14 fixtures, we pick the bones of Brandon's wildcard squad and talk about the challenges facing us in the final days before the World Cup break. As fantasy managers hunt for punts and differential picks for this brief pre-Qatar run, we look down the Premier League table and answer one key FPL question on all twenty clubs, from Arsenal to Nottingham Forest. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Strategies & Wildcards for Targeting GW 14–16 Oct 24, 2022

With only three matchweeks to play before the Premier League breaks for the World Cup, the Cheaters consider how best to attack GW14–16. Brandon is doubly focused on this stretch of fixtures because of his active wildcard. So, who are the key players with the biggest upside? We discuss the importance of home and away schedules, the fatigue factor of a packed season, and the psychological impact of Qatar looming on the horizon. Plus, we debate Almiron, Xhaka, and Iwoba, as well as the must-have assets from Arsenal and Manchester City. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Answering Twelve Key FPL Questions Ahead of GW12 Oct 17, 2022

It's a quick turnaround for the midweek slate of GW12 fixtures and the Cheaters are nailing down how they intend to manage the blank for Arsenal and Manchester City. With lots of key FPL assets missing out, we weigh the pros and cons of using a wildcard or free hit chip to bail out your fantasy squad. Or, depending on your situation, maybe transfer penalties can help? We also discuss the necessity (and captaincy appeal) of Mo Salah, along with other interesting differential picks from each position. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Arsenal-Man City Blank. The Liverpool Dilemma. The GW11 Preview. Oct 11, 2022

Arsenal and Manchester City are each enjoying incredible form—sadly just in time for their fantasy fixture blank in GW12. In this week's episode the Cheaters break down the best ways to navigate possibly selling off six of our best FPL assets for missing merely one gameweek. What can we justify? How many Arsenal or Man City players can we stand to keep? Would we consider a Free Hit? If we're wildcarding around GW12, then when exactly? We also discuss how Liverpool's (and more specifically Mo Salah's) form effects our upcoming transfer decisions and look ahead to Friday's GW11 deadline. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What Does Haaland Mean for FPL? (Plus a GW10 Preview) Oct 03, 2022

In a Premier League weekend filled with talking points, one man again stole the show as Erling Haaland delivered his third hat trick of the season (in his first-ever Manchester Derby). Since GW1, the Norwegian's impact on FPL has been swift and with full force. So, what does this mean for fantasy managers going forward? How can something so certain be either challenging or fun? Or even offer a means of competition when everyone has the same gameweek captain, let alone the same forward? The Cheaters weigh in with their views on where both the fun and the strategic advantage could lie in playing the Haaland game. Plus, we debate what to do with Salah—and other Liverpool assets—ahead of the GW12 blank despite his woeful form. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Is Back! GW9 Preview, Wildcard Strategy, and Transfer Targets Sep 25, 2022

As this Premier League season's first international break comes to a close, it feels like precious little football has been played during the last month. That's got the Cheaters especially excited for FPL's return this weekend. GW9 presents some interesting challenges for those who wildcarded early, are looking to wildcard this week, or are planning ahead for the Man City/Arsenal blank in GW12. On this episode, we prioritize transfer targets and discuss our own squads. From Solanke vs Toney to Kane vs Salah, it looks like there's plenty of room to go your own way in the coming gameweeks. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Kings of the Gameweek Special (GW1–8) Sep 19, 2022

As we enter the Premier League's first international break of the season, the Cheaters review gameweeks 1–8 through the lens of each week's dream team. That's right—it's once again time for the Kings of the Gameweek. What lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the FPL site's often overlooked feature? We also discuss our scores from GW8, Josh's wildcard satisfaction levels, and the increasingly heated managerial sack race. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A Conversation and Q&A with Mark Sutherns (Live from Fest NYC) Sep 12, 2022

Recorded live at Fest NYC in Brooklyn's beautiful Sunset Park Rooftop, Josh and Brandon enjoy a wide-ranging FPL conversation with Fantasy Football Scout founder and FPL BlackBox co-host Mark Sutherns. We discuss Mark's early days of founding the legendary Scout website, as well as his days working for the Premier League, and how his fantasy management style has evolved through many years and various highs and lows. The Fest NYC audience takes part in a Q&A section, getting thoughts from Mark and the Cheaters on current dilemmas like ditching Salah, playing a wildcard, and the sudden uncertainty of fixture postponements and rescheduling.

Thanks to all who attended our inaugural Fest NYC. We had an amazing day despite the lack of live matches. Let's do it again, shall we? Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wildcard Time? Sizing Up the FPL Prospects on All Twenty Premier League Clubs Sep 04, 2022

After six FPL gameweeks, the Cheaters are beginning to consider a wildcard. But do we have enough actionable information yet? Salah continues to underwhelm and Haaland has strengthened his grip on a permanent captaincy. These two basic truths are causing many fantasy managers to restructure their squads and move some cash to new areas of the fantasy pitch. Primarily, forwards continue to shine and present big, consistent value. We look at form strikers like Mitrovic and Toney and consider how they pair with the likes of Haaland, Kane, and Gabriel Jesus. Plus, we sift through all twenty Premier League clubs looking for players we like, dislike, or remain unsure of. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Templates, Little-Big At the Back, and Captain Haaland's Expected Minutes Aug 29, 2022

Special guest Ed Gray joins us this week to preview the midweek fixtures in GW5 and get set for the FPL deadline. We tackle the current dilemma with Mo Salah—a fantasy phenom who is struggling at the moment to justify his hefty price. Is the Egyptian the first to go if managers are looking to bust the template picks? Plus, we consider our defensive strategies with "big at the back" versus "little-big at the back" where cheaper might actually be better. The captaincy discussion revolves around Erling Haaland, but with the Champions League kicking off in one week, the debate is how strictly the Nordic striker's minutes will be managed. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Buy/Sell/Hold These FPL Assets & GW4 Preview Aug 22, 2022

This weekend's matches proved to be the first big stress test on the FPL template of highly-owned, highly-agreed-upon assets. So what's next? Are we looking to offload some of the defenders or midfielders who disappointed in favor of some riskier, however in-form options? The Cheaters play another round of buy/sell/hold debating the "big at the back strategy," early wildcards, and other Premier League players that have either tested our patience or caught our eye. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Picks to Reconsider & GW3 Preview Aug 15, 2022

This weekend's matches served up a lot of goals and a lot of banter—from Gabriel Jesus's fantasy explosion to Manchester United's continuing implosion, Erling Haaland's rare goalless appearance to Conte and Tuchel's budding bro-mance. With standout or unexpected performances from teams like Chelsea and Brentford, The Cheaters take this moment and reconsider some FPL assets that may have been wrongly overlooked in preseason. Plus, we plan ahead for the main GW3 dilemmas and captaincy decisions. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Salah vs Haaland Captaincy & Ten Questions After GW1 Aug 08, 2022

This season's opening weekend presented a wide range of FPL outcomes, but some teams and players proved easier to predict than others. On this week's episode, the Cheaters discuss what stood out in GW1 and how it changes the fantasy calculus as we look ahead to GW2 and beyond. Most important of all could be the choice of gameweek captain between Mo Salah and Erling Haaland. And what should managers do if they have Kane instead—stick or twist? Plus, we talk Chelsea, Mitrovic, Darwin Núñez, and more. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Building Your Final FPL Squad Ahead of GW1 Aug 01, 2022

The 2022/23 Premier League season kicks off this Friday and we got our first taste of what's to come with Saturday's Community Shield clash between Liverpool and Manchester City. The Cheaters react to the result and give their impressions of performances from notable players like Mo Salah and Erling Haaland, Did anything from the match alter our thinking for GW1 and our early FPL drafts? Also in this episode, we offer some last-minute, macro-level fantasy advice and run through a handful of listener questions as we all hurtle toward the season's first gameweek deadline. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Team Previews Part 2: Predicting the Premier League Table (Teams 10 to 1) Jul 30, 2022

Recorded live from Blue Wire Studios at Wynn Las Vegas, we present the second of our two-part preview of the 2022/23 preview. The Cheaters predict the ultimate table placement of all twenty Premier League clubs and then dig into their FPL potential—two things that do not always go hand-in-hand. Which clubs have we predicted to make the top four? And where is the best fantasy value? Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Team Previews Part 1: Predicting the Premier League Table (Teams 20 to 11) Jul 25, 2022

We're previewing all twenty Premier League teams by predicting their ultimate table placement and then digging into their FPL potential—two things that do not always go hand-in-hand. Which clubs have we predicted to go down? And which ones might surprise us with fantasy value? This is the first of our two-part preview series looking at who we believe will comprise the bottom half of the table, spots 20 to 11. Tune in next week for part two and spots 10 to the champions. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How to Win FPL with 2021/22 Season Champion Jamie Pigott Jul 18, 2022

This week we're joined by special guest Jamie Pigott, the current Fantasy Premier League champion and the first American to finish in the top spot. We chat with Jamie about how he managed what many feel is impossible and what he learned during the chaotic 2021/22 season. We also look ahead with Jamie and apply his tactics to the new FPL season, discussing our thoughts on Haaland, Salah, Kane vs Son, Big at the Back, and sticking to your guns with wildcard and chip strategy. Hail Cheaters!

Don't forget: Tickets are now available for Fest NYC, the inaugural Fantasy Football Fest in the United States. Join Josh and Brandon for an exclusive Premier League watch party with guests including Mark Sutherns and Gianni Buttice. We’ll have a live Always Cheating podcast recording, a Q&A with Mark, football quizzes, a kick-around on our venue’s indoor pitch, and so much more. Special thanks to sponsor FPL Gameweek.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fest NYC Announcement (With Mark Sutherns & Ed Gray) Jul 14, 2022

The Always Cheating podcast is thrilled to announce tickets are now available for Fest NYC, the inaugural Fantasy Football Fest event in the United States. Join Josh and Brandon in Brooklyn, NY, on September 10th for an exclusive Premier League watch party with superstar FPL guests including Fantasy Football Scout founder Mark Sutherns and Premier League pundit Gianni Buttice. Enjoy a raucous live Always Cheating podcast recording, a Q&A with Mark, Gianni's halftime football quiz (with prizes), a kick-around on our venue’s indoor pitch, and so much more.

Tickets will go fast, so visit Fest-NYC.com now for details and purchase information.

Special thanks to our featured sponsor FPL Gameweek.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ten Unanswered Questions Ahead of the New FPL Season Jul 11, 2022

This week the Cheaters attempt to solve some of this pre-season's biggest unanswered fantasy questions: After nightmares last year with Ronaldo and Lukaku, is Erling Haaland about to spring another "big up front" trap? How worried should we be about highly-owned players going into GW1? What mid-table teams are set up for the best start? How many premium players can FPL managers afford to set up with? And what's the impact of the new goalkeeper pricing structure? Plus, a few more conundrums—join us for the discussion!

We are also proud to announce Fest NYC, the inaugural Fantasy Football Fest event in the United States happening September 10th in Brooklyn, NY. Visit Fest-NYC.com for details and ticket information.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Is Back! An Introduction to the 2022/23 Fantasy Premier League Season Jul 06, 2022

At long last, the new site for the 2022/23 FPL season has officially launched! Josh and Brandon check in with their initial thoughts on the the games updated graphics, player prices, and accommodations for the Qatar World Cup. Do we like the look of things? Are there bargains immediately that immediately jump out? Or are some player simply too expensive. We talk Haaland, Salah, Jesus, Son, and so much more. Join us!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer Transfers & Early Thoughts Ahead of the New FPL Season Jun 25, 2022

As we patiently wait for the new FPL game to launch, Josh and Brandon couldn't resist an early summertime episode to check in on Premier League transfer dealings and other news that might impact the upcoming 2022/23 fantasy season. Of course, the winter World Cup in Qatar will be an outsized factor in our approaches, but just how early in the season will we weigh that? And what is our initial assessment of the three promoted clubs? Plus, we measure our own excitement over recent moves by Erling Haaland, Darwin Núñez, Fábio Vieira, Nick Pope, and more. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Having a Successful FPL Season with Pat Reilly Jun 13, 2022

In this mid-summer episode, Brandon is joined by veteran FPL manager Pat Reilly to discuss his remarkable 2021/22 season in which he finished with an overall rank of 230. Pat explains his strategic methodology—that is to some degree rooted in his academic research practices—as well as his deep desire to take A LOT of transfer hits. We examine what worked best for Pat last season, what he could've done differently, and how we can apply our learnings to the upcoming 2022/23 season. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2021–22 Season In Review May 23, 2022

The Premier League drama was in full force for GW38 and it felt like a fitting way to bid farewell to another fantasy season. With the tumultuous campaign now behind us, it's time to reflect on what we did well and what we need to improve upon as FPL managers. We discuss the data revolution's complexity, the value (or lack thereof) of knowing effective ownership, and learning how to play your own game.

A big thanks to everyone who has tuned in throughout this year. We're grateful for our place in this community and have enjoyed interacting with so many of you. Enjoy the summer and we'll see you all soon enough! Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Analyzing Every FPL Fixture for GW38 May 16, 2022

Looking ahead to the final gameweek of the 2021/22 season, the Cheaters are analyzing all ten fixtures and sizing up the stakes for each team and key players—anything from league placement and golden boot to absolutely nothing at all. Who are the top fantasy targets? And who are the full-on punts who might help you catch your rivals? Best of luck to all for a strong finish to what has been a chaotic year in the Premier League. We'll see you on the other side for our end-of-season wrap-up episode. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Final Double Gameweek (GW37 FPL Preview) May 09, 2022

Now in the midst of the blockbuster double GW36, planning for doubles this FPL season has become commonplace. Next weekend brings us another step closer to the end with one final double. These teams with two fixtures aren't the sexiest in terms of fantasy options: Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, Leicester City, Everton, and Burnley. But are any of them worth it? And do they make GW37 a compelling moment for a Free Hit chip? On this episode, the Cheaters weigh the chip options for both GW37 and 38 and debate the ultimate fate of Salah and Kane while Son continues to run riot. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Most Important Gameweek of the FPL Season May 02, 2022

Twelve teams will double in GW36 and many of those doublers are—for a change—actually quite good. The opportunity for massive fantasy points is there, so how best to prepare for what might be this season's most important deadline? The Cheaters take stock of their own squads and review transfer targets, chip strategies, and a spectrum of captaincy options ranging from "sensible" and "bold" to "completely nuts." Plus, we debate Spurs assets, Manchester City attack, and other key questions for the FPL home stretch. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Four FPL Gameweeks to Go: Thoughts on All Twenty Premier League Clubs Apr 25, 2022

As GW34 winds down and we prepare for the next deadline, Josh and Brandon set themselves for the FPL season's final four gameweeks by reviewing what they like and dislike about all twenty Premier League clubs. We remind ourselves of which clubs have remaining doubles (good or bad) and which players still have potential to swing our fantasy fortunes. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chelsea, Manchester United, and Preparing for GW34 Apr 18, 2022

The twists in the FPL season keep coming and Josh and Brandon jump into GW34 preparations with the newly announced doubles for Chelsea and Manchester United. Mason Mount stands out as the form attacking player in blue, but has Timo Werner done enough of late to win a spot in our fantasy teams? It's even more challenge to convince us the Manchester United form will carry them into the top four, so then what's the appeal of Bruno or Ronaldo? We also discuss the incredible run-in for Manchester City and debate where they currently rank in our chaotic list of FPL priorities. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW33 Doubles, Players on the Chopping Block, and Planning Ahead for GW36 Apr 11, 2022

With Josh out sick, Brandon is joined this week by Dave Weigner-Lodahl to review the Premier League action of GW32. We of course discuss the dramatic draw at the Etihad—and the continuing saga of Mo Salah's fantasy form—as well as Spurs' purring attack, Arsenal's implosion, and Chelsea's potential bounce-back. Transfer plans for GW33 also need sorting, especially with certain doublers like Wout Weghorst firmly on the chopping block. Are there any FPL assets we truly fear for this coming weekend? And are our best captaincy options exclusively single-gameweekers? Plus, we look ahead to the other announced doubles in GW36 and consider the best chip strategies to capitalize. Hail Cheaters!

Our sponsor Athletic Greens is going to give you a free one-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D plus five free travel packs with your first purchase. Visit athleticgreens.com/cheating.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Man City vs Liverpool, GW32 Preview, and Our "On the Beach" Rankings Apr 04, 2022

Next Sunday Manchester City will host Liverpool in what will no doubt be the Premier League's biggest, most consequential fixture of the season. What will be the trick to navigating this match from an FPL perspective? On this episode we look at the recent history of this rivalry and key metrics that will inform what we expect from defense and attack: Is it time to bench our premium defenders? Is it crazy to captain Salah? Plus, we consider the form team in Spurs heading into GW32 and how to handle their fantasy assets down the stretch before we get to our "On the Beach" power rankings. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Is Back: Wildcards, Transfers, and Advice for GW31 & Beyond Mar 28, 2022

As we come out of this season's final international break, plans must be put in place for the FPL home stretch. Firstly, the Cheaters offer up a refresher on what's new and upcoming with the fantasy schedule—which teams have doubles, blanks, and fixtures yet to be rescheduled—and how the fixtures should impact our strategy. Then we run through priority player and team targets, whether you're playing a wildcard together or simply plotting your next few free transfers. And finally we come to GW31 and what's immediately in front of us. Best of luck to everyone as we enter the End Game! Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Making Fantasy Fun Again Mar 21, 2022

Making fantasy fun has become a mantra on the Always Cheating podcast. But are Josh and Brandon actually having fun this season? GW30 was a test of patience for many FPL managers, which makes this the perfect time to check in on our mental approach to keeping the fantasy game in perspective. Plus, we discuss the newly confirmed doubles for GW33, giving us much to consider during this international break. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Your FPL Guide to Navigating GW30 Mar 14, 2022

With only four fixtures and eight teams in play for GW30, it's going to be one of the season's more stressful deadlines. Whether you're on a Free Hit chip or weighing up the benefits of various transfer hits, the Cheaters are here to navigate this gameweek's many difficulties. We look at the best forwards to own, identify some under-the-radar midfield picks, and consider the likelihood of any clean sheets—like, will we see a single one in GW30? Plus we size up the captaincy options and run through plans for our own FPL squads. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Mailbag: GW29, Chip Strategy, and Liverpool Mar 07, 2022

We briefly check in on GW28—with the doubles still to be played—before moving on to still more doubles in GW29. What's the optimal game plan as we look ahead, especially with the numerous blank fixtures in GW30? Lots of different chip strategies are on the table as we debate bench boosts, triple captains, and wildcards, but there's also a viable path for fantasy managers with no more chips left as we focus on free transfer targets that can offer potential over the next two weeks and beyond. Liverpool is also at the front of our minds as we consider other attacking options apart from Salah. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Strategies for the Double GW28 and Beyond Feb 28, 2022

The doubles in GW28 present another opportunity—in a cluster of big gameweeks—to build up your FPL points tally and boost your rank. So what's the optimal way to approach it? Who are the obvious or under-the-radar transfer targets? In this episode, Josh and Brandon reveal and debate their own strategies for the upcoming fixtures, which have a ripple effect on GW29–30. Plus we talk Bench Boost chips, wildcards, Bielsa, and more. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chasing the FPL Fixtures & Our GW27 Preview Feb 22, 2022

There are still four games to play in the major GW26 double, but FPL have since announced even more doubles coming in March. So what does this mean? And how can it help us? With Josh on vacation, Brandon is joined by guest Shiv Morjaria to run through the fixture changes and discuss how we can best use the new schedule to boost our fantasy rank. We look closely at GW27 to GW30, the teams that double within, and how the preferred chip strategy has evolved. If you're wondering when best to wildcard, bench boost, or free hit, we've got you covered. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Five Key Questions for GW26 Feb 13, 2022

Potentially one of the biggest gameweeks of the FPL season, eight teams will double in GW26. Josh and Brandon look at each club's squad and debate the assets to either target or avoid. The asset clearly at the front of every fantasy manager's mind is Mo Salah—but did his performance against Burnley shake our confidence in giving him the Triple Captaincy next week? The Cheaters also hunt around for some under-the-radar picks and revisit the ongoing debate over the game's lack of dependable forward options. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Current FPL Chip Strategy & GW24 Preview Feb 07, 2022

This week's FA Cup results and subsequent Round 5 draw provided fresh clarity on what double and blank gameweeks are to come for FPL managers. And, of course, with double and blank gameweeks comes chip talk and strategies on how to optimize our fantasy returns. Given what we now know about the remaining Premier League schedule, Josh and Brandon use this episode to zero in on the state of this season's leading chip theories and what their plans are for the weeks ahead. Stick around for a quick GW24 preview with key transfer targets and captaincy picks—get set for the midweek kickoff. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kings of the Gameweek: A Review of GW12–23 Jan 31, 2022

As we muddle through this extended winter break, the Cheaters review gameweeks 12–23 of this FPL season through the lens of each week's dream team. That's right—it's once again time for the Kings of the Gameweek. What lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the FPL site's often overlooked feature? We also discuss the latest managerial changes—from Roy Hodgson to Frank Lampard—and other January transfer window dealings. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Data Analytics: A Conversation with Sertalp B. Çay Jan 24, 2022

We're joined this week by operations research specialist Sertalp B. Çay to discuss and demystify FPL's current data revolution. The sheer amount of data now available for fantasy managers can be intimidating. So, if you're inexperienced with analytics, where should you begin? What stats and tools will be most helpful is gaining a competitive edge on the millions of FPL players, or simply your closest mini league rivals? Join us for an engaging chat on applying data to your fantasy strategy and creating new statistical models for the future. Hail Cheaters!

Read Sertalp's blog post "A Friendly Introduction to FPL Analytics": https://alpscode.com/blog/intro-to-fpl-analytics/

Visit Sertalp's website: https://fploptimized.com

Follow Sertalp on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sertalpbilal

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

January Transfers, Emerging FPL Stars, and Our GW23 Preview Jan 17, 2022

While superstars like Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes owned this weekend's Premier League action, the FPL narrative belongs to new January transfers like Aston Villa's Philippe Coutinho and Lucas Digne. Yeah, Chris Wood, too . . . sure. So, what do we actually make of the upcoming fantasy prospects for these new signings? Is one performance enough to cement our faith? We also pick the bones of GW22 and its mess of doubles, postponements, and hidden gems—like the weirdly under-the-fantasy-radar Andy Robertson. Then it's all eyes on GW23 and our transfer and captaincy plans, including a potential wildcard. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Double GW22: Everything You Need to Know Jan 10, 2022

With the magic of the FA Cup subsiding, we must now turn our attention to the impending doubles of GW22. Preparing our fantasy squads won't be easy, though, as injuries, COVID cases, and fixture postponements continue to complicate matters. Join Josh and Brandon as they discuss the teams and players who'll benefit most from a double gameweek, and then assess the pros and cons of certain chip strategies, including the Free Hit and Wildcard. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Previewing the Second Half of the FPL Season Jan 03, 2022

As we emerge from the hectic festive period, it's a good time to assess exactly where we are and where we're headed in this FPL season. Fixture postponements, COVID-positive players, and the upcoming African Cup of Nations all present obstacles and uncertainty, but there is still opportunity to be had in the New Year. This week we're previewing the teams and players poised to benefit from double gameweeks and also discuss our strategy for the Egypt–bound Mohamed Salah. Plus, there's a debate on chip strategy with new wildcards and free hits at our disposal. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rapid-Fire GW20 Preview Dec 27, 2021

Boxing Day delivered on exciting football and high-flying Free Hit squads, but also presented more of the same challenges for FPL managers with match postponements and unpredictable lineups. Alas, there's not much time to dwell as the festive fixtures continue on with the midweek round of GW20. Arsenal-Wolves and Aston Villa-Leeds are already off the menu, so in this episode Josh and Brandon are zeroing in on team and player priorities to get us through January. Are Spurs assets about to replace the diminishing fantasy returns of Chelsea? How big a priority is Manchester United at the moment? Plus, we rank our captaincy picks and discuss our own plans. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mid-Season Review: Taking Stock of All 20 Premier League Teams Dec 20, 2021

With nearly half the season now behind us, Always Cheating proudly presents our annual mid-season review of all twenty Premier League clubs. Yep, that's Arsenal to Wolves, and everyone in between. We discuss both FPL and real-life player and team performances—best and worst—and how those assessments might influence our fantasy decisions down the home stretch. We also rate clubs on the all-important Make Fantasy Fun Again (xMFFA) scale. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 5 Biggest FPL Dilemmas Ahead of GW17 Dec 13, 2021

GW17 kicks off this Tuesday, so we have precious little time to preview the matches and sharpen our FPL strategy. On this episode we discuss our biggest dilemmas including: COVID-19 infections and rumors surging through the Premier League, an underperforming Chelsea defense, the allure of Ollie Watkins, the price tag of Cristiano Ronaldo, and the quickly developing pool of emerging midfielders. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Blank Slate: Reconsidering the FPL Assets We’ve Ignored Dec 06, 2021

As midfielders like Bernardo Silva, Mason Mount, and Son Heung-min emerge from GW15 with incredible fantasy returns, it's the perfect moment for us to wipe the slate clean and reconsider some assets who we've unjustly pushed aside. And is this refresh of midfield options going to push FPL managers from "big at the back" to five across the middle? The Cheaters also preview GW16 and the impact of intervening midweek Champions League matches before discussing the enticing fixture turn for Manchester United, now under Ralf Rangnick. Is it time to move back to Ronaldo or even bring in a United defender? Plus, we chat Chelsea defense, Ivan Toney's COVID-19 test, and the ongoing Harry Kane saga. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW14 FPL Preview & Listener Mailbag Nov 29, 2021

The GW14 deadline is just hours away, so there's precious little time to dwell on the ups and downs of this weekend's blizzard-filled events. Spurs assets? What Spurs assets? We're now looking ahead to the midweek fixtures and debating which budget-priced forwards between Teemu Pukki, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Emmanuel Dennis are most appealing. As it turns out, some of these players have better runs than others through the congested festive period. We also discuss the constantly revolving cast of midfield options, as well as the prospects of captaining someone other than Mohamed Salah. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW13 FPL Preview: Commonsense Answers to the Biggest FPL Dilemmas Nov 22, 2021

As we now hurtle toward the festive period, Premier League fixtures are about to start piling up. Rotation and fatigue are worries and its time to look seriously at the quality of our FPL benches. This week, we're attempting a commonsense approach in tackling some major fantasy dilemmas: We estimate the shelf-life of the current preferred "big at the back" defense—how long can fullbacks like Reece James, Ben Chilwell, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and João Cancelo keep up this rate of return? Antonio Conte's project at Spurs is also up for debate as we look at the new manager's impact on Harry Kane and Heung-min Son. Are they transfers to watch or to avoid? Plus, we assess the state of our meager forward lines and look for new striker talent ahead of GW13. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW12 FPL Preview: Key Players, Who to Avoid, and Bold Predictions Nov 15, 2021

Who are the key FPL assets heading into GW12? And which players should we be avoiding? Josh and Brandon check in on all of the international break news—from Sadio Mané's possible injury with Senegal to Harry Kane's hat trick for England—and then make some bold predictions on how the matches will unfold this coming weekend. We also discuss the managerial changes at Aston Villa (Steven Gerrard), Newcastle (Eddie Howe), and Norwich City (Dean Smith) and wonder when the Antonio Conté's influence at Spurs will truly take hold.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kings of the Gameweek (FPL GW1–11 Review) Nov 08, 2021

On the eve of another international break, we review the first eleven gameweeks of this FPL season through the lens of each week's dream team. That's right—it's time for the Kings of the Gameweek. What lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the FPL site's often overlooked feature? We also discuss the ongoing points draught for fantasy forwards, the continued excellence of fantasy defenders, and an urge to try new fantasy formations. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pep Talks, Points-Chasing, and "Making the Leap" in FPL with Eric Freeman Nov 01, 2021

We're joined by special guest Eric Freeman to review the action from GW10 and give a pep talk to some FPL managers who have had a rough time of it. After cracking the world's top 10,000 rankings for the first time in his fantasy career, Eric also discusses how he thinks he has succeeded so far this season. What can others do to "make the leap" to that next level? Plus, we debate player differentials, Ivan Toney's usefulness (or lack thereof), and Ronaldo's potential FPL comeback, as well as our transfer and captaincy thoughts ahead of GW11. Hail Cheaters!

A big thank-you to Always Cheating supporter John Reynolds for this week's outro music!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Salah, Gameweek 10, and Celebrating 300 Episodes! Oct 25, 2021

After a GW9 full of hat tricks—from Mason Mount, Mohamed Salah, and Josh King (huh?)—the Always Cheating podcast is celebrating its own hat trick of centuries with our 300th episode. Join Josh and Brandon as they review the weekend's highs and lows, including a hugely disappointing Kai Havertz performance. How can FPL managers who put their faith in the German forward now shake off the Norwich blank? We also marvel at Salah's scorching hot form and wonder if we ever won't captain him for the rest of the season. Looking ahead to GW10, we consider the fallout of injuries to Raphinha, Jamie Vardy, and Bryan Mbeumo and debate the benefits of shifting yet more budget to our already big-at-the-back squads. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Fill-in-the-Blank Ahead of GW9 Oct 18, 2021

After a turbulent return from the international break in GW8, we found that premium FPL forwards are still blanking, premium defenders are still being rotated, and points from mid-price midfielders are harder than ever to predict. In this week's episode, we seek to answer these key questions with a fun game of "Fill in the Blank." We talk Ronaldo and Lukaku, Chelsea fullbacks, and Mbeumo's prolific woodwork record. Plus, there's consideration given to under-the-radar premium assets like Mané, Kane, and De Bruyne. Stick around for our GW9 transfer targets and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thinking Ahead: Planning for GW8–GW11 in FPL Oct 11, 2021

This international break has given us some time to think ahead and in this episode we're planning not just for the upcoming GW8, but for the next four week through GW11. Whether you're on a wildcard or not, we help listeners identify both teams and players who look primed to benefit from the upcoming month's fixtures—and some who you might want to avoid. We also discuss news from around the Premier League, including injury news, Claudio Ranieri's appointment at Watford, and the new ownership at Newcastle United. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What’s the Story of the FPL Season So Far? (GW1–7 Review) Oct 04, 2021

After seven weeks of Fantasy Premier League madness, we try to construct a cohesive narrative that accounts for what we've seen so far. We take a closer look at this season's top fantasy scores in all positions, from goalkeeper to defender, midfielder to forward. What are the trends that appear? Are certain patterns real, imagined, or simply the product of kind fixtures? As we head into another international break, many managers still with their wildcard in hand, it's a good time to look for the story that FPL is telling us. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FPL Assets We Aren’t Talking About Sep 28, 2021

Players like Jamie Vardy and Abdoulaye Doucouré have started this Premier League season in great form, yet they still haven't emerged as popular fantasy picks. Should they emerge, though? In this week's episode, we debate the merits of these rogue selections and predict whether their form might continue. We also consider the likes of Ederson, Neal Maupay, Emile Smith Rowe, and . . . Gabriel Jesus. Seriously. Stick around for our GW7 preview of key fixtures, transfer targets, and captain favorites. We consider what impact the Liverpool-Manchester City match will have on the weekend—and on wildcarders—and also attempt to pick the better armband option between Ronaldo, Lukaku, Antonio, and more. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who Are We Buying, Selling, and Holding in FPL? Sep 20, 2021

A wild GW5 taught many FPL managers about the importance of bench depth. But, hey, didn't we all know Tino Livramento would save the day? This weekend was also a useful mile-marker in assessing popular fantasy assets—players who we can now say with confidence that we should either buy, sell, or hold. We debate the pros and cons of playing hokey cokey with Ronaldo and Lukaku, assess the urgency of getting Michail Antonio back into our lineups, and give a stress test to under-performers like Diogo Jota and Mason Greenwood. We also evaluate defensive options at Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City before looking ahead to our transfers and captain picks for GW6. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh's Wildcard Is Active & GW5 FPL Preview Sep 13, 2021

Ronaldo's explosive GW4 debut was matched by a brace from Lukaku, making the choice of premium forwards that much more challenging for FPL managers. Josh enters this week's episode with an active wildcard and this question of Ronaldo vs Lukaku is key to his strategy as he and Brandon debate the merits of fitting both into one fantasy squad. Will it work? Or does it strain the budget too much? We also discuss standout mid-price forwards and look at the current crop of budget forwards that might help free up some cash before we preview the fixtures and captaincy options for GW5. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mailbag Time: Your FPL Questions Answered & GW4 Preview Sep 06, 2021

This international break has offered drama and intrigue of all sorts, but we at Always Cheating won't allow ourselves to be too distracted from the GW4 deadline that's quickly approaching. So, has any of the news from World Cup qualifying changed our views on what to do with our FPL teams? We dig into the listener mailbag to answer major concerns over Ronaldo hype, Bruno doubt, Lukaku thigh scans, and the relevance of the still-delivering mid-price forwards like Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Michail Antonio, and Patrick Bamford. And what do we make of the impending Champions League schedule and its impact on Premier League squad rotation? Plus, we rank the current midfield options and take a long look at obvious and not-so-obvious captaincy choices for the weekend. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wildcard Time? Aug 30, 2021

With GW3 behind us, and an international break ahead, is now the right time to play a wildcard and reset your FPL fortunes? Josh and Brandon look at the pros and cons of triggering the powerful wildcard button, debating whether it's too early in the season or conversely the perfect opportunity to get out ahead of the competition by bringing in exciting new options in Lukaku and Ronaldo. Manchester United looms large with Bruno coming off of two drab performances, while Mason Greenwood shows he could be a season-keeper. Will their fortunes—along with ours—change with the arrival of the Portuguese superstar? Thanks for tuning in, enjoy the break, and we'll return next week with a proper GW4 preview. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

10 Things We Think We Think Ahead of GW3 Aug 23, 2021

So early into a new FPL season, it's very difficult to say what any of us know for sure. What we can identify, though, are things that we think—or at least think we think—about certain clubs, players, and fantasy strategies. This week, we're debating the options among cheap defenders and Tsimikas replacements. We also wax lyrical about Chelsea's deep squad and the awe-inducing reintroduction of Romelu Lukaku to the Premier League. How quickly will we be ripping up our teams to squeeze the Belgian striker in? Plus, we break down Manchester City's predictable hammering of Norwich City, the renewed influence of home supporters on numerous recent results, and the curious choice of an FPL captain ahead of GW3. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL GW2 Preview: Overperformers, Underperformers, and Head-Scratchers Aug 16, 2021

This season's opening fantasy gameweek saw some standout performances and big scores, especially from popular picks Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes. What does this mean for those maverick FPL managers who attempted to go against the grain? Looking ahead to our GW2 squad selections and captaincy picks, we review last weekend's notable over-performers, under-performers, and players and clubs that simply left us scratching our heads. Were Aston Villa and Arsenal really that bad? Were Spurs and Everton really that good? Is it already time to consider dumping Jack Grealish or Ivan Toney? Plus, we debate the bandwagons now building around Paul Pogba, Saïd Benrahma, and Watford stars Ismaïla Sarr and Emmanuel Dennis. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Is Back - Building Your Final Squad for GW1 Aug 09, 2021

There's less than one week to prepare for the start of the new FPL season and we still have a number of unanswered questions. Join Josh and Brandon as they discuss their final team selection dilemmas—which positions and players are locks and where will there be some last-minute GW1 deadline decisions? We also look at how recent transfers—like Grealish to Manchester City, Ings to Aston Villa, and Lukaku to Chelsea—impact our fantasy drafts and if we've pinpointed any assets flying under the radar. Thank you for joining Always Cheating during our pre-season coverage and we're wishing all of our listeners the best of luck for the 2021/22 campaign. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Forwards: Everything You Need to Know Aug 02, 2021

The trickiest position to fill at the start of this FPL season could very well be the forwards, mostly due to the large pool of very qualified candidates. So, before a ball is kicked, what's the best way for us to determine which strikers have the best potential? This week, Josh and Brandon break all of the options into three categories, based on price, and then compare the data and statistics for each player against various intangible qualities. Will we go big with the premium-priced Harry Kane? Or is it more appealing to field three forwards in the lower price brackets? Regardless of the approach, we have some serious decisions to make. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Join Always Cheating at the Wynn Las Vegas for Fútbolfest 2021 happening August 20–22. This three-day event will include live football content in the Wynn's podcast studio, club quizzes, cocktail hours, FIFA tournaments, watch parties for the weekend's GW2 fixtures, and a whole lot more. For information visit: futbolfest2021.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Team Previews, Part 3: Predicting the Premier League Table - Teams 10 to 1 Jul 26, 2021

Instead of the usual team-by-team previews in alphabetical order, this season we're trying something new by predicting the Premier League table and discussing each team's FPL prospects as we go. Which clubs have we predicted to finish in the Champions League positions? And which ones have those "must own" fantasy assets? In part two of two, we look at who we believe will comprise the top half of the table, spots 10 to 1. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Join Always Cheating at the Wynn Las Vegas for Fútbolfest 2021 happening August 20–22. This three-day event will include live football content in the Wynn's podcast studio, club quizzes, cocktail hours, FIFA tournaments, watch parties for the weekend's GW2 fixtures, and a whole lot more. For information visit: futbolfest2021.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Team Previews, Part 2: Predicting the Premier League Table - Teams 20 to 11 Jul 19, 2021

Instead of the usual team-by-team previews in alphabetical order, this season we're trying something new by predicting the Premier League table and discussing each team's FPL prospects as we go. Which clubs have we predicted to go down? And which ones might surprise us with marginal fantasy value? In part one of two, we look at who we believe will comprise the bottom half of the table, spots 20 to 11. Tune in next week for part two and spots 10 to the champions. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Join Always Cheating at the Wynn Las Vegas for Fútbolfest 2021 happening August 20–22. This three-day event will include live football content in the Wynn's podcast studio, club quizzes, cocktail hours, FIFA tournaments, watch parties for the weekend's GW2 fixtures, and a whole lot more. For information visit: futbolfest2021.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

31 Tips for Winning FPL and Making Fantasy Fun Again Jul 12, 2021

What will it take to win the Fantasy Premier League this season? How can you more easily hit your goals or beat your mini league rivals? And, perhaps most importantly, what does it mean to simply enjoy the upcoming 38 gameweeks? In this pre-season episode, we welcome friend-of-the-podcast Eric Freeman to outline our best tips for FPL success and making the fantasy experience more fun and rewarding. We recognize that doing well in the fantasy game can mean different things to different people, often depending on your style of play and level of competitiveness, so these 31 key principles offer something for every type of manager at every level of engagement. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Team Previews, Part 1: Brentford, Norwich City, Watford Jul 05, 2021

Each season, three new clubs join the top division and they can often be the hardest to predict in terms of FPL value. So, in this week's show, Josh and Brandon are taking a closer look at Norwich City, Watford, and Brentford and discuss their potential impact on the 2021–22 Premier League season. Who are the standout attacking players? Are there any intriguing new signings? How do we expect each team to set up? We tackle all of this and hit upon recent transfer headlines and new managerial appointments across the league. Hail Cheaters!

Special thanks to Gaffr.io for supplying EFL Championship data used in this episode. Learn more about the Gaffr.io fantasy football game here: https://www.gaffr.io

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An Introduction to the 2021/22 FPL Season Jun 24, 2021

And, just like that, a new fantasy season has arrived. The FPL site relaunched for 2021/22 on Tuesday of this week, amidst the noise of the European Championship, but it didn't go unnoticed among the fantasy faithful. Josh and Brandon return to their podcasting chairs to discuss the new player prices, position reclassifications, and fixture difficulty ratings, as well as their own strategies for the opening few gameweeks. Hail Cheaters!

Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Greenroom Live Chat: FPL Player Price Reveals Jun 20, 2021

Josh and Brandon hop on Spotify Greenroom this week to chat with listeners about this weekend's sudden FPL player price reveals, from Kane and Son to the entire rosters of Liverpool and Leeds. Of course, some key teams and players—notably Manchester City and Chelsea—are yet to be revealed, but there is still much to discuss as the new FPL season is seemingly already underway. So which player prices caught our eye? Is Raphinha at £6.5 a lock for everyone's GW1 squad? Is Bamford's increase to £8.0 simply too rich? And is the slight £0.5 difference between Salah and Mané at all justified or even tempting? All eyes could be on Jota, as the Portuguese midfielder lands at a very appealing £7.5.

Join us each week on the Spotify Greenroom app for real-time conversations Follow @hailcheaters for exact dates/times and download the Spotify Greenroom app here: https://www.spotify.com/greenroom/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Locker Room: Euro 2020 Weekend in Review Jun 14, 2021

Josh and Brandon hop on Locker Room this week to chat with listeners about the European Championship and debate key takeaways from the tournament's first weekend. We discuss the horrifying scenes surrounding Christian Eriksen and the intensity of athletes living out the such nightmares on a globally televised stage. We also get into performance ratings of of standout teams including England, Italy, and Belgium.

Join us each week on the Locker Room app for real-time conversations Follow @hailcheaters for exact dates/times and download the Locker Room app for iOS here: https://joinlockerroom.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Locker Room: USMNT v Mexico & Premier League Off-Season Chat Jun 07, 2021

Josh and Brandon hop on Locker Room this week to chat with listeners about the CONCACAF Nations League Final between the U.S. and Mexico. How are we feeling at the moment about Gregg Berhalter's talented young squad now with a fair amount of European experience? Plus, we get into some of the Premier League off-season gossip, including transfer rumors and promoted club prospects.

Join us each week on the Locker Room app for real-time conversations Follow @hailcheaters for exact dates/times and download the Locker Room app for iOS here: https://joinlockerroom.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Locker Room: Champions League Final Reaction May 30, 2021

Chelsea are crowned European champions after Thomas Tuchel again out-smarts Pep Guardiola. The Cheaters Josh and Brandon take to the Locker Room app to discuss their thoughts on an engaging Champions League final and also get reactions from listeners. Did Pep predictably overthink his tactics? Just how good was Mason Mount's assist on Kai Havertz's match-winning goal? And what does this final tell us about next season's Premier League title race?

Join us each week on the Locker Room app for real-time conversations with Josh, Brandon, and other Always Cheating listeners. Follow us on Twitter at @hailcheaters for exact times each week and download the Locker Room app at joinlockerroom.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2020–21 Season In Review May 25, 2021

The 2020–21 season was difficult for many reasons, but it was also filled with moments that reflected the Always Cheating mantra of 'Make Fantasy Fun Again.' Now that this campaign is finally behind us, this episode is dedicated to reflecting on what went right, what went wrong, and what takeaways there out that can help us once the next Premier League race kicks off.

Thank you to everyone who has tuned in throughout this strange year. We're grateful for our place in this community and have enjoyed interacting with so many of you—from Twitter threads and rate-my-teams to hundreds of therapeutic GIFs. Enjoy the summer and we'll see you all soon enough! Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Seven Key Questions for GW37 & GW38 May 17, 2021

We're nearly at the end of one of the wildest FPL seasons in recent memory, but the job isn't done yet. This episode, Josh and Brandon are looking ahead to the final two gameweeks and debating the strategies for either holding your ground or moving up the ranks. We try to make sense of squad rotation for Manchester City, Manchester United, and Chelsea ahead of their major European finals—if, indeed, there's any sense to make. Plus, we look at mid-priced midfielders to replace the injured Diogo Jota, scrutinize the form of some top forward picks, and identify our favorite captaincy options. Good luck this week, finish strong, and Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The MFFA All Stars & GW36 Preview May 10, 2021

We're only just midway through the massive GW35, so this week we check in on how our FPL squads have faired and if any performances have caught our eye. The Cheaters then look ahead to a tricky GW36 in which four key teams have blanks fixtures. Namely among Liverpool and Spurs, we debate the standout transfer strategies and captaincy options. Finally, in our continuing mission this season to "Make Fantasy Fun Again," we look through all twenty Premier League clubs and draft a roster for the MFFA All Stars for 2020/21. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Your GW35 Questions Asked and Answered May 04, 2021

This week we take in the dramatic scenes from Old Trafford and then consider the implications on the upcoming Fantasy Premier League calendar. It looks possible that Liverpool could end up with a double gameweek in GW35, which opens up a new world of possibilities with our FPL squad management. So, as we strategize for the coming weekend, we weigh the benefits of loading up on more Manchester United or Liverpool players or sticking with an earlier plan of targeting mid-tier assets at Everton. How does Lucas Digne actually stack up against Luke Shaw or Trent Alexander-Arnold for the run-in? We also debate the optimal captain picks as Salah, Bruno, and Leicester strikers all boast an enticing double. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Preparing for the Run-In with a Clean Slate Apr 26, 2021

As news of the European Super League dries up, Josh and Brandon have to refocus on their FPL goals for the remainder of the season. First up, what have the hosts learned from their respective GW33 wildcards? There were some definite ups and downs this week with wildcard darlings like Alexander-Arnold and Romain Saïss, while Chris Wood ran away with all the glory. How can fantasy managers legislate for these kinds of seemingly random swings? Or are we simply too blindly devoted to marquee players like Bruno Fernandes? Now that we're preparing for the season's home stretch, let's consider a clean slate of FPL options. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

European Super League Discussion & Debate Apr 19, 2021

This weekend's football offered a mix of Premier League and FA Cup action, but all of the sports oxygen was immediately consumed by the surprise announcement of the new European Super League, which will potently involve (or fully absorb) six English clubs. We devote this entire episode to a sprawling discussion and debate of the implications of the new league and what it means for both FPL and domestic football in England and around Europe. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Being Wrong & GW32 Preview Apr 12, 2021

In FPL, sometimes you get it right. Other weeks, well, you simply get it all wrong—from your transfers, to your captains, and then your bench spots. If getting your fantasy decisions wrong is an inevitability, what's the most productive way of shaking it off? Josh and Brandon discuss where their GW31 went wrong (and, in some places, went right) and what that means for their next moves. Is a wildcard decision any closer for either host? Plus, as we head into the Spurs double in GW32, there's some worry about team form and rotation ahead of their EFL Cup final against Manchester City. Is a Tottenham triple-up off the table? There's much to discuss this week, so please join us! Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is It Wildcard Time? Apr 05, 2021

Heading into GW31, many FPL managers are wondering whether it's too early to wildcard, too late to make a maverick move, or just too confusing to navigate around the maze of fixture blanks and doubles. So, what do the Cheaters think? Josh and Brandon touch upon their own plans for an end-of-season wildcard and which teams and players will be key in triggering that decision. Is Chelsea's defense worth the headache? Can Liverpool turn the corner with their form and make players like Alexander-Arnold relevant again? And what about teams like Leicester City and Leeds who present a complex combination of pros and cons? Amidst our wildcard ramblings, we also cover more immediate GW31 dilemmas and preview our transfer targets for the upcoming matches. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nine Questions for the Final Nine Weeks of the FPL Season Mar 29, 2021

Nine gameweeks remain, so in this episode we're tackling nine key questions on preparing for the FPL season's final stretch. Among those dilemmas are: Which teams have the easiest or most difficult fixture run-ins? What do we know about the remaining blank and double gameweeks? Which premium assets most demand our attention? Will Liverpool and Mo Salah reemerge as options? And which players have we overlooked until now? And, of course, how can we continue to make fantasy fun? Best of luck this weekend and Hail Cheaters!

Submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What We Now Know About This FPL Season Mar 22, 2021

The final international break of this Premier League season is here to provide some much-needed distance from what has been a brutal and exhausting run of gameweeks. So, as we briefly step away from the nonstop strategizing and transfer planning, this episode is the perfect moment to reassess what we actually know to be true about the 2020–2021 fantasy season, and how we can use that knowledge to approach (or simply enjoy) the final stretch. We consider the diminished importance of premium FPL assets, the greater variety of mid-priced options, and the relentless pursuit of form players over merely chasing last week's points. Just how abnormal has this season been? Plus, we gauge how successful our "Make Fantasy Fun Again" approach has been during an otherwise chaotic year around the world.

The Cheaters will return next week with a full GW30 preview, complete with injury news, transfer targets, and captaincy favorites. Poku Forever!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Five Key Questions for the Big Blank GW29 Mar 15, 2021

Some FPL gameweeks are defined by players who blank points, but GW29 is defined by teams that blank fixtures. The upcoming slate features just eight teams and four matches, which will make it incredibly difficult to put together both a competitive and a full squad. In this week's episode, Josh and Brandon prepare their own teams and debate strategies for managers who are in various other situations, whether on a Free Hit chip or simply struggling to decide how may transfer hits to take. Have the performances and results in GW28 changed previous assumptions? Injuries to key players like Son Heung-min and Patrick Bamford also present an unexpected challenge, so the Cheaters consider some overlooked options from Arsenal, West Ham, Brighton, and Fulham. Good luck and Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Forgotten GW28 Mar 08, 2021

With all of the chaos surrounding recent double gameweeks, and a blank-riddled GW29 on the horizon, relatively little attention has been paid to next weekend's GW28. In this episode, we seek to correct that oversight and zero in on key transfer and captaincy strategies for the round of FPL fixtures that's right in front of us. We also discuss Gareth Bale's exploding form, the worrying decline of Mo Salah, and key takeaways from the Manchester Derby. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Mailbag & GW27 Preview Mar 01, 2021

We're checking in on the action—or lack there of, in many cases—from GW26 as the massive double gameweek rolls on. Then, we open up the Always Cheating listener mailbag and answer some of your questions regarding big-picture FPL strategy, preferred fantasy news sources, and how hosting an FPL podcast impacts the managing of our own squads. Plus, even though it may feel lightyears away, we look ahead to GW27, which is yet another double gameweek for in-form Manchester City, and debate captain picks and replacements for the injured Harvey Barnes. Hail Cheaters!

Submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

True or False GW26 Preview Feb 22, 2021

If you thought the GW25 doubles were tricky, just wait until you get a look at the epic fixtures list for GW26. Fourteen Premier League teams will double next gameweek, presenting near limitless possibilities for transfers, points hits, chip (nay, favor) usage, and captaincy picks. To help managers sort through and simplify the numerous complications, Josh and Brandon are using their favorite "true or false" methodology and clarifying their own strategies for the upcoming week. Hail Cheaters!

Submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW25 Preview & Double Gameweek Talk Feb 15, 2021

With a few GW24 matches still to play, Josh and Brandon check in on their scores and the state of their squads. Have the injuries, team rotation, and unexpected results been kind to us? Then we shift our focus to the Leeds and Southampton double in GW25 and debate giving the captaincy to either Bamford or Ings. Who looks better? Or could Raphinha be a curveball differential for the armband? We also discuss our plans for the lead-up to a pivotal blank GW29, with other major doubles popping up between now and then. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mini Double Gameweek Madness & GW24 Preview Feb 08, 2021

Dodgy VAR decisions and a widely-benched 12-pointer from Dominic Calvert-Lewin were the big stories from GW23. But that's nothing compared to the excitement in store for FPL managers in GW24 after double fixtures were announced for Manchester City (TOT, eve), Everton (FUL, MCI), Burnley (cpl, FUL), and Fulham (eve, bur). So, how are we setting up to best take advantage of the doubles? We look at the main transfer targets and then debate the captaincy favorites and whether a single-gameweeker like Bruno Fernandes could challenge for the armband. We also touch upon the doubles in GW25 for Leeds (wol, SOT) and Southampton (CHE, lee). Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW22 Preview & Favorite FPL Moments Feb 01, 2021

Positives performances from the likes of Mo Salah, Patrick Bamford, and Emi Martinez gave GW21 a magical shine. The results have us reflecting on our favorite FPL moments and the role of luck in a particularly good fantasy run. Then, it's over to the midweek fixtures of GW22, and a discussion of our current dilemmas: How badly do we regret investing in mid-season Dominic Calvert-Lewin? What are the latest odds on Manchester City defensive roulette? And are Spurs really that bad without Harry Kane? Plus, we debate an unconventional captaincy pick and reveal our own transfer plans. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GW20 Preview & What We Learned from the Double Gameweek Jan 25, 2021

With the pivotal GW19 now behind us, let's take a moment to survey to pros and cons of the double gameweek that was. Did anything during the last few days change our thinking about this Premier League season or how we're approaching the FPL game? Then it's over to Tuesday's GW20 deadline as we preview the key fixtures, transfer targets, and captaincy options—it's Bruno time! Key injuries to Kevin de Bruyne and Jamie Vardy present a few dilemmas, but, with so many premium fantasy assets out of form, we discuss what's missing from our typical sword/shield approach. Plus, we chat about Mohammed Salah, Manchester City defense, and the optimal forward line. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Binge This Podcast - American Prodigy: The Freddy Adu Story Jan 23, 2021

He was an American prodigy. The next Pelé. The savior of U.S. soccer. But he wasn’t even old enough to drive. In 2004, Freddy Adu joined MLS at 14 years old becoming the youngest pro athlete in America in 100 years. His story is a tale of talent, money, fame, and football. Soccer journalist Grant Wahl retraces the legend of Freddy as he went from superstar to one of the biggest "what ifs," asking, what determines who "makes it," who "doesn't," and what does all of it say about us?

American Prodigy is now available. Listen here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mid-Season Report Card on All Twenty Premier League Clubs Jan 18, 2021

With nearly half the season now behind us, Always Cheating proudly presents our annual mid-season report card on all twenty Premier League clubs. Yep, that's Arsenal to Wolves, and everyone in between. We discuss both FPL and real-life player and team performances and how each of those assessments might influence our fantasy decisions down the home stretch. We also check in our our GW19 scores, including a regrettable transfer and successful Bench Boost chip. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Navigating GW18 with FPL Nymfria Jan 11, 2021

This week we're joined by fantasy veteran and YouTube legend FPL Nymfria to preview a tricky GW18. First, we have to catch up on this weekend's FA Cup action and any happenings relevant to our FPL plans. Then, it's on to the myriad decisions that managers must make ahead of Tuesday's deadline: Are we ready for a Manchester City triple-up? How seriously do we have to take Arsenal now that they've strung together some decent results? Do we know what to expect from the Wolves-Everton fixture? And who will the captaincy debate between Kevin de Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes? We're also forced to consider the possibility that Aston Villa-Spurs will be canceled due to Villa's ongoing COVID-19 concerns. What then? Whether or not you're using your Free Hit chip, this week's strategy discussion is one you won't want to miss. Hail Cheaters!

Submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Building the Perfect GW18 Squad (With or Without a Free Hit) Jan 04, 2021

The intense run of festive fixtures is finally in the rearview mirror, but there's precious little time to dwell on what lessons were learned along the way. We quickly turn our attention to the tricky GW18, which features only six fixtures and notable blanks from fantasy staples Liverpool, Leeds, Leicester, West Ham, and Chelsea. Is it time to trigger our Free Hit chips? And how many players is too few, or just enough, to tip those Free Hit scales? Regardless of your strategy, we take a look at each GW18 match-up and examine the obvious hits and misses and not-so-obvious differentials that will form the perfect FPL squad. Hail Cheaters!

Submit your Blue Wire Hustle application here: http://bwhustle.com/join

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Impact of COVID-19 on FPL & GW17 Preview Dec 30, 2020

With this week's cancelation of Everton-Man City and the threat of more fixture postponements on the horizon, we start off this week's episode with a discussion of COVID-19's impact on the fantasy game—both our strategy in handling such uncertainty and the emotional toll of following the news. Have recent events caused us to alter our chip and transfer plans for GW18–19? Then, it's back to normality with GW17 chat (assuming there is one) and the fixture and captaincy dilemmas therein. We consider Leeds players—like Stuart Dallas—who are on the ascendency, as well as other budget options such as Aston Villa's Anwar El Ghazi and Arsenal's Bukayo Saka. Which bandwagons are worth jumping on? Plus, we take a moment to look ahead to 2021 and our hopes and expectations for the New Year. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Festive Fixtures Preview & Double GW Strategy Dec 22, 2020

The festive fixture pile-up is upon us with FPL gameweeks coming fast and furious. In this episode, we're previewing GW15–16 and looking at our preferred captains and transfers targets. Is there any other standout option aside from Mo Salah? Is Kevin de Bruyne doing enough to keep himself in our teams? We also take a closer look at this week's news about the blank fixtures in GW18 and doubles in GW19, discussing our own strategies for maximizing points in these unique moments while being careful to not corrupt our squads and season-long plans. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lightning Fast GW13 Preview Dec 14, 2020

We take quick stock of our GW12 scores before moving ahead to transfer targets and captaincy options for the looming midweek GW13 fixtures. Brandon and Josh tackle such questions as: Is it a blessing or a curse that so many of us moved for Mo Salah last gameweek? Can we separate the value of Kevin de Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes after a rather dull Manchester Derby? And, with injuries to the likes of Diogo Jota, who are the best mid-priced midfield options for the upcoming fixtures? Good luck this week and Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Balancing Your FPL Team & GW12 Preview Dec 07, 2020

Between Salah, De Bruyne, Bruno, Kane, and Son, at the moment it seems there are almost too many premium FPL assets who are delivering big points. So, considering most fantasy managers can't afford them all, how do we fit the right players in and still maintain a balanced squad? We discuss who our biggest premium priorities should be and look at the upcoming fixtures to determine how some managers might rotate their dream lineup. Plus, we run through the short list of standout cheap attackers and then focus on GW12 transfer and captaincy dilemmas. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gameweek 11 Preview & Tilly Webb Interview Nov 30, 2020

This weekend has brought our FPL focus back to the midfield with premium players like Bruno Fernandes and Kevin de Bruyne leaving their mark. And, with Mo Salah back from his COVID-19 infection, the list of must-have attackers is growing longer and longer. Ahead of GW11, we're looking at our preferred transfer targets and captaincy options, as well as some traps worth avoiding.

We're then joined by eight-year-old Tilly Webb—and her father Mark—to discuss Tilly's sensational start to the 2020–21 fantasy season. After GW9, Tilly was ranked second in the Always Cheating Super League and 183 overall in the world. So what's her secret? Mark assures us that he has nothing to do with his daughter's success and talks to us about Making Fantasy Fun Again through sharing the game with your family. Hail Cheaters!

Join the Always Cheating Super League with code 5g18et or click here: https://fantasy.premierleague.com/leagues/auto-join/5g18et

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FPL Bounce-Back & GW10 Preview Nov 23, 2020

With some impressive scores amongst some highly-owned players, was GW9 a big bounce-back week for FPL managers? Josh and Brandon take a look at how their squads are doing, and then discuss the most pressing fantasy dilemmas ahead of GW10: Is it possible to consider selling Spurs assets, even when their amazing form continues? If Spurs are that good, are Fulham really that bad? Is it time to hop aboard the Diogo Jota bandwagon? And will Manchester City ever get its mojo back? Plus, we review next weekend's fixtures and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Preview - American Prodigy: The Freddy Adu Story Nov 21, 2020

He was an American prodigy. The next Pelé. The savior of U.S. soccer. But he wasn’t even old enough to drive. In 2004, Freddy Adu joined MLS at 14 years old becoming the youngest pro athlete in America in 100 years. His story is a tale of talent, money, fame and futbol. Soccer journalist Grant Wahl retraces the legend of Freddy as he went from superstar to one of the biggest "what ifs," asking, what determines who "makes it," who "doesn't," and what does all of it say about us?

American Prodigy is now available. Listen here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Starting Fresh in FPL & GW9 Preview Nov 16, 2020

This recent international break is wreaking havoc on fantasy managers with so many key FPL assets suffering injuries and COVID-19 infections. Do these events make GW9 a good moment to start fresh and reinvigorate our squads with new names and new strategies? Is a player like Mo Salah worth selling, even if he could miss just one gameweek? We consider a number of recently-overlooked players whom we can call upon as reinforcements and we also debate the usefulness of multiple transfer hits when faced with a sea of yellow and red flags. Plus, we discuss De Bruyne, Vardy, Kane, and Bruno Fernandes, as well as our top picks for GW9 transfers and captaincy. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Early-Season FPL Awards Nov 09, 2020

Another international break is upon us, so we're taking this pause in fantasy action to present our first-ever Early-Season FPL Awards. First, we check in on scores and highlights from GW8, and then it's on to the presentation of FPL's most (and least) valuable players and teams, along with the best newcomers and most improved players during the start of this 2020–21 Premier League season. We'll return next week with news from the international break and a preview of GW9. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Blank Slate & GW8 Preview Nov 02, 2020

Some recent Premier League results have been harder to predict than Graham Potter's next starting eleven. Speaking of, is Brighton actually going to sputter into relegation while still be one of the sharpest teams in the division? And, how can we explain the anemic attack of typically high-flying teams like Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United? Are we being impatient? As FPL managers, we're still waiting for massive fantasy points from the game's premium players—but it looks like the wait might soon be over with Chelsea's new recruits, who put in one of the surest displays of GW7. Hosts Josh and Brandon consider these fantasy dilemmas and look ahead to next weekend's GW8 with transfer targets and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Year of the Forward & GW7 Preview Oct 26, 2020

While normal service threatens to resume with this weekend's relatively (and that's a heavily qualified "relatively") predictable score-lines, fantasy managers are seeing some shockingly low points tallies. Is GW6 just another one of those flukey weeks? Or is there something we can learn? Josh and Brandon look at the increasing FPL influence of the forward slot and discuss some key questions ahead of GW7: Can Bamford or Zaha actually be trusted? Which players are in our ideal defensive line? Will Chelsea turn the corner soon? And is a Salah/Mané double-up worth the price? Plus, we dig into some macro fantasy strategy before focusing on transfer targets and captaincy picks for the upcoming game week. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A New Template & GW 6 Preview Oct 19, 2020

In a Premier League weekend featuring bizarre results and controversial moments, we also saw some massive fantasy returns. Josh and Brandon consider how a new FPL template might be forming and examine some key questions heading into GW6: Should we stick with Liverpool defense after Van Dijk's season-ending injury? How badly do we need Harry Kane? And do we still want any players from Manchester City? Plus, we update our watchlist of budget strikers and defenders before focusing on transfer targets and captaincy picks for the upcoming game week. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh's Wildcard & Our GW5 Preview Oct 12, 2020

While FPL managers wait out what remains of the International Break, we take a closer at Josh's active wildcard and discuss what it means to trigger a chip from a position of strength versus out of necessity. This week's other dilemmas center on Aston Villa's surprising form, Manchester City's worrying results, and the chaos that the Spurs attack threatens to rain down upon us. All of this, plus listener questions and a preview of GW5 fixtures, transfer targets, and captaincy picks. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stock Up/Stock Down Through Gameweek 4 Oct 05, 2020

The Premier League insanity continues with outrageous shorelines and results occurring throughout GW4. But, with still so much volatility within the league and FPL, who's fantasy stock is up as we head into the international break? And whose stock is actually going down? We discuss all twenty teams and attempt to pinpoint which of them are currently worthy of our time and investment. Always Cheating will return next week with a full preview of the GW5 fixtures and captaincy picks. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 15% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Template Blows Up, Wildcard Worries, and GW4 Preview Sep 28, 2020

A wildly unpredictable weekend in the Premier League has provided fantasy managers with far more questions than answers as this new season lurches forward. What are we meant to take away from Leicester's demolition of Manchester City? Or Chelsea's disorganized draw at the Hawthorns? Or Wolves' capitulation to West Ham? We discuss what the GW3 results could mean for wildcard teams (including Brandon's) before turning our attention to GW4 transfer targets and captaincy picks. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 15% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wildcard Talk & GW3 Preview Sep 21, 2020

After a wild goal-filled weekend, it's become even more difficult for FPL managers to gauge where they stand. It's easy to get caught between two minds—one that's patient, and another that's passive. So where does the early wildcard option come in? Well, let Brandon tell you, as he's already activated his own wildcard and is frisking the teams and fixtures for the best options for the future. Josh and Brandon also discuss the startling emergence of Everton, the curiously lopsided result for Spurs, and Manchester United's false start. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 15% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Good Transfers or Knee-jerk Moves? (GW2 Preview) Sep 14, 2020

With just one weekend of Premier League fixtures under our belt, there's already plenty to discuss. We're talking in this episode about team and player performances and what we may have gotten right or wrong in our initial FPL planning. But what do we know for certain, as opposed to just knee-jerk reactions? Has Willian already cemented himself in the Arsenal attack? Is this rebuilt Everton squad actually fo real? And is there cause for concern after Southampton's underwhelming showing at Selhurst Park? We then look ahead to GW2 and reveal our transfer and captaincy strategies for the weeks ahead. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 25% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gameweek 1 Mega Preview Sep 07, 2020

The first deadline of the new FPL season is less than a week away and it's time to get serious about our GW1 squads. Josh and Brandon discuss the strategy behind each of their current fantasy drafts and pinpoint which players remain locked into their lineup versus those who may not make the final cut. Plus, we preview this weekend's eight fixtures, weigh the favorite captaincy options, and plan ahead for September's subsequent gameweeks. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 25% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Interview with Joe Lepper of Fantasy Football Scout Sep 03, 2020

In a special bonus episode of the show, we’re joined by writer and podcaster Joe Lepper of Fantasy Football Scout. Joe is a fixture in the fantasy community, but he’s also known for his incredible FPL record, which features six top 10K overall rank finishes (including one top 1K finish), having never finished outside the top 100K during his twelve-year career. We asked Joe about his winning FPL strategy and how it has evolved through the years, along with the challenges he’s anticipating for next season. We also chat with Joe about his experiences as an FPL content creator, having worked with some of the best minds in the fantasy arena, and his excellent “Meet the Manager” interview series for the Scout. Hail Cheaters!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ten Tips for FPL Success (Fifth Edition) Aug 31, 2020

Next in our series of 2020–21 season preview episodes, we outline our Ten Tips for FPL Success. This is the fifth installment of our regular pre-season feature, so this year we’re applying a healthy amount of hindsight and experience to the chat. Of course, “success” in FPL can mean different things to different people, whether it’s achieving a great score or beating your mini-league rival or simply succeeding at having more fun. Here, we discuss the common player traps to avoid, ways to stay ahead of the dreaded FPL squad “template,” what fantasy tools and resources to utilize, and the importance of setting up that Bus Team at the start of each new gameweek. We also touch upon strategies for being more patient, less stubborn, and generally getting more enjoyment out of your FPL experience. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 25% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Team by Team FPL Preview, Liverpool to Wolves (Part 2 of 2) Aug 24, 2020

Our pre-season content continues with part two of our team-by-team FPL previews, featuring Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Newcastle, Sheffield United, Southampton, Spurs, West Bromwich Albion, West Ham, and Wolverhampton. What can we expect from each team's opening fixtures and how do we assess their key players and new and rumored signings? While this concludes our team-by-team coverage, stay tuned for much more preview coverage in the coming weeks. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 25% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Team by Team FPL Preview, Arsenal to Leicester City (Part 1 of 2) Aug 22, 2020

Our pre-season content continues with part one of our team-by-team FPL previews, featuring Arsenal, Aston Villa, Brighton, Burnley, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Everton, Fulham, Leeds, and Leicester City. What can we expect from each team's opening fixtures and how do we assess their key players and new and rumored signings? Stay tuned for part two of our team-by-team previews coming in just a few days. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 25% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ten Big Questions After the FPL Site Launch Aug 16, 2020

Oh my! The new FPL site has just launched for the 2020–21 season! While we still await the fixture announcements, on this episode, we offer up our first impressions and hot takes on the player prices, reclassified positions, and more. What team formation is immediately looking good? Is "big in the midfield" the new "big at the back?" Who are the heavy hitters, new players, and value picks that look best? Stay tuned to this feed for much more FPL preview content as we roll out team-by-team analysis and tips for fantasy success. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 25% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

FPL Player Price Predictions Aug 11, 2020

As we wait for the Fantasy Premier League site to relaunch, we take this moment to predict a handful of key player prices. From Ziyech and Werner to Mitrovic and Jiménez, along with the likes of Alexander-Arnold and De Bruyne, we discuss new signings, returning favorites, and those players who are ready to make that leap into the elite echelon of fantasy price tags. Stay tuned for much more pre-season podcast content in the coming weeks. Hail Cheaters!

Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 30% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always30/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bonus Episode: Golden Goal Aug 05, 2020

If you find yourself with more time on your hands during the Premier League off-season, then let us present to you "Golden Goal: Stories of Soccer Legends," the new podcast narrated by Always Cheating's own Brandon Kelley. Blue Wire Studios has crafted this wholly original show that devotes each episode to one soccer/football legend and the moment that made them. From Messi to Zidane to Maradona to Marta to Zlatan, along with Pelé's film career, the Dortmund Finishing School, and Megan Rapinoe's on- and off-the-field heroics, each compact Golden Goal delivers a custom soundtrack, archival match commentary, and player interviews.

Subscribe to Golden Goal wherever you get your podcasts. And, if you like what you hear, please consider rating and reviewing the show.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

End of Season Review (Look for the Helpers) Jul 28, 2020

Heartbreak! Triumph! Chaos! The 2019–20 Premier League season has finally reached its conclusion, and with it one of the longest and most challenging FPL campaigns in memory. So, what lessons did we learn that might help fantasy mangers in the future? What did we make of all of the recent controversy surrounding leaked team sheets? And, looking ahead to next season, which players will be nailed in our squads or flagged as rising stars, exciting new signings, and worthy punts?

Thanks to all of our listeners for yet another amazing year of podcasts. The show will be back, as usual, in a few weeks, ahead of the launch of the new FPL game. We'll talk to you then! Hail Cheaters!

This week's episode of the Always Cheating Podcast is presented by Manscaped. For precision-engineered male grooming tools, visit Manscaped.com and use the code CHEATING for 20% off plus free shipping.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Final Countdown (GW38+ & Free Hit Preview) Jul 21, 2020

At last, the final gameweek of this long, strange Premier League season is upon us. So, what can we expect from GW38? We know that some teams will have nothing to play for, while others will have European football on the line. Will matches between Chelsea & Wolves and Leicester & Manchester United be tight, cagey affairs, or wide-open goal fests? With Brandon using his Free Hit chip, we also discuss the best strategies for building a full fifteen-man roster and where players from Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal should fall in your list of priorities. Good luck to all and Hail Cheaters!

This week's episode of the Always Cheating Podcast is presented by Manscaped. For precision-engineered male grooming tools, visit Manscaped.com and use the code CHEATING for 20% off plus free shipping.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Big Questions for the Rest of the Season (Featuring Tom Campbell) Jul 13, 2020

We're joined this week by the FPL Mayor, Tom Campbell, to discuss the season's remaining big questions. Who are the top captain picks for the final three gameweeks? Is there an optimal time to activate your Free Hit chip? How are we recalibrating our personal fantasy goals as this season finally comes to an end? Plus, we take a closer look at GW36+ and the optimal Free Hit squad and captaincy favorites for the upcoming deadline. Hail Cheaters!