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      Transfer recommendations ahead of Gameweek 4 – target Champions League stars for healthy returns

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      GAMEWEEK 4 promises to be a high-scoring affair with 13 of the 20 teams set to play twice.Rotation is to be expected in the third round of the Carabao Cup but gaffers should expect strong line-ups from Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Aston Villa in the Champions League.Remember to confirm your transfers before Saturday’s 11am deadlineCredit: Dream TeamAs usual, we have prepared some transfer recommendations for the Gameweek ahead but we won’t waste anyone’s time listing obvious names such as Erling Haaland (£8.8m), Mohamed Salah (£7.3m), etc.And we refuse to rehash our suggestions from Gameweek 3, although we still firmly believe Morgan Rogers (£2.7m) and Andy Robertson (£4.8) are strong options – the former looked sharp for England Under-21s.Rico Lewis (£3.4m)Manchester City’s rotation will shift up a gear from this point onwards – Pep Guardiola has said as much himself.Going forward, the talented teenager will probably have to share more of his minutes with Kyle Walker (£4m), who has barely been involved at all across the first three Gameweeks.However, Lewis will still be a regular having shone brightly during the defending champions’ perfect start to the new campaign.Guardiola has praised Lewis but is conscious of overworking the 19-year-oldCredit: AlamyThe England international has amassed 22 points, which puts him above Josko Gvardiol (£4.8m) and every other Man City defender – he’s joint-seventh among all assets in his position.Lewis’ most-appealing attribute is his affordable price, which will probably rise again after the Gameweek 4 deadline – he’s an excellent enabler right now.Most read in FootballGuardiola’s troops are due to host Brentford on Saturday and Inter on Wednesday.Eberechi Eze (£4.6m)The European competitions are a huge aspect of Dream Team but managers shouldn’t be totally blinded.Looking elsewhere, Crystal Palace’s Gameweek 4 double header of Leicester (h) and QPR (a) looks mightily inviting on paper.Talent to burnCredit: GettyThe Eagles’ No10 is currently joint-second among midfielders having amassed 34 points via two goals and an assist.Some gaffers may be concerned that Eze will be rested in midweek but the fact he played all 90 minutes of Palace’s last Carabao Cup outing suggests he’s got a good chance of starting against his former club at Loftus Road.Looking further ahead, Oliver Glasner’s side aren’t one of the ten teams with two games to fulfil in Gameweek 5 but Eze has the talent to potentially make up a fixture deficit.At the very least, he looks like a great shout for Gameweek 4.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWLuis Diaz (£4.7m) and/or Dominik Szoboszlai (£3.9m)Liverpool’s Colombian winger is by far and away the most-popular recruit for Gameweek 4 and with good reason.His brace at Old Trafford prior to the international break propelled him to the top of the midfield rankings on 35 points.As Arne Slot’s first-choice left winger, Diaz appears to be an excellent option for Dream Team bosses.There might be some concern in the short term as the 27-year-old played 180 minutes for his country over the break (not to mention a long flight home) but he should get plenty of minutes with the Reds’ set to face Nottingham Forest and Milan this coming Gameweek.Dream Team’s top midfielder after three GameweeksCredit: GettyGaffers on a tighter budget would do well to consider Szoboszlai for the weeks ahead.The Hungarian playmaker has played every minute of Liverpool’s first three league games and looks set to continue as the most-advanced midfielder with Harvey Elliott (£3m) now sidelined with injury.READ MORE SUN STORIESSzoboszlai has already registered two assists and will be hopeful of plenty more going forward with Salah, Diaz and Diogo Jota (£4.8m) all in good form.Lock in your transfers before Saturday’s 11am deadline.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Score Predictor tips for Matchweek 4 – play for free and compete for £250 top prize this weekend!

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      THE international break is almost over and that means the return of all things Dream Team, including Score Predictor.As usual, we’re putting up £250 for the weekly prize – not bad for a free-to-play game, eh?Simply submit predictions for five selected Premier League games and earn points for accuracy – most points pockets the cash.Play Score Predictor ahead of this weekend’s action!Credit: Dream TeamRemember, you don’t have to get all five scores exactly correct – that’s ultra rare – you just have to outperform everyone else.Feel free to channel your gut instinct if that’s your preferred method but for those who would like some stats for each match-up, look no further…Liverpool v Nottingham ForestA fixture that will always transport fans of a certain age back to the late 1970s.And we have to rewind that to that era to find the last time Forest won at Anfield in any competition – a 1-0 win for the visitors in the League Cup in 1978.More relevantly, Liverpool and Manchester City are the only two teams to have won all three of their league games this season with the Reds yet to concede a single goal.Clearly the hosts are big favourites but Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have quietly started rather well themselves.Most read in FootballForest are among the seven sides yet to lose in the top flight and they’ve registered more shots than any other team at this early stage.Granted, they’ve only converted three of their 53 efforts into goals but their ability to create chances has to be admired.Our Prediction: 3-1 to LiverpoolArne Slot has started well very at LiverpoolCredit: GettyAston Villa v EvertonThe Toffees are bottom of the pile with zero points to show for their efforts this campaign.Their heartbreaking (and farcical) defeat to Bournemouth before the international break was a tough one to stomach and Sean Dyche would have hoped for an easier task this weekend than a trip to Villa Park, where the Villains have an excellent record since Unai Emery took charge.Everton actually won the last time they played Villa away but that was in the Carabao Cup amid considerable rotation – the last league meeting in the midlands finished 4-0 to the hosts.Villa have some injury concerns and will naturally have one eye on the Champions League in midweek but they should still have enough to beat an Everton outfit low on confidence.Our Prediction: 2-1 to Aston VillaScore PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWBournemouth v ChelseaThe Blues plagued Score Predictor users throughout 2023/24 and they’ve picked up where they left off with a win, draw and defeat in their first three outings this season.Predictably unpredictable, Chelsea smashed Wolves 6-2 in Matchweek 2 but defeat in the Conference League play-off second leg to Servette and a draw to Crystal Palace have since tempered expectations.Only Man City and Liverpool have mustered more xG than the Cherries in the league so far and their miraculous comeback at Goodison Park maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign.Enzo Maresca has a huge advantage in terms of the talent available to him but Bournemouth are a well-drilled side – it’s a tough one to call.Our Prediction: 1-1 drawCole Palmer is expected to be fit this weekend after pulling out of the England squadCredit: GettyTottenham v ArsenalThe North London derby is undoubtedly the standout fixture this weekend.Mikel Arteta will be without his entire first-choice midfield of Declan Rice, Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard which is clearly a significant hindrance.But recent history is on the Gunners side as they’ve won five of the last seven meetings with their fierce rivals.Last season’s two derbies yielded nine goals in total with Bukayo Saka and Son Heung-min being the standout performers.Both teams wobbled before the international break but North London derbies tend to exist in their own space – make room on that fence…Our Prediction: 1-1 drawRice is suspended for the North London derbyCredit: RexWolves v NewcastleGary O’Neil’s mob have mustered just one point and only Everton have conceded more goals across the first three Matchweeks.In contrast, the Magpies are sitting pretty in fifth with seven points to their name.However, dig a little deeper and some stats put these two teams much closer.Both Wolves and Newcastle are in the bottom four for shots taken and in the top four for shots faced.Of course, it’s still a small sample size and Newcastle’s numbers are somewhat skewed by their opening game against Southampton when they had to play with ten men for over an hour; something that changed the game state dramatically.Even so, Eddie Howe’s side haven’t quite got up to speed just yet and footage of Bruno Guimaraes limping out of Brazil training will have jangled a few nerves on Tyneside.READ MORE SUN STORIESOur Prediction: 2-1 to NewcastleEnter your predictions before Saturday’s 3pm deadline!BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Should Dream Team managers activate a Booster ahead of Gameweek 4?

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      HAVING endured an almost universally despised international break, Dream Team managers can now focus on preparations for Gameweek 4.With 13 of the 20 Premier League teams set to fulfil two fixtures, many gaffers will be tempted to activate a Booster; and perhaps with good reason.Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah’s form lends itself to a Booster in Gameweek 4Credit: Dream TeamBoosters are generally best saved for opportunities when the majority of players (and all the top teams) have two games at their disposal – Gameweek 4 seemingly fits the bill.GAMEWEEK 4 FIXTURES BY TEAM:Manchester City vs Brentford (h), Inter (h)Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest (h), Milan (a)Brighton vs Ipswich (h), Wolves (h)Arsenal vs Tottenham (a), Atalanta (a)Brentford vs Man City (a), Leyton Orient (h)Aston Villa vs Everton (h), Young Boys (a)Tottenham vs Arsenal (h), Coventry (a)Fulham vs West Ham (h), Preston (a)Manchester United vs Southampton (a), Barnsley (h)Crystal Palace vs Leicester (h), QPR (a)Wolves vs Newcastle (h), Brighton (a)Southampton vs Man United (h), Everton (a)Everton vs Aston Villa (a), Southampton (h)Newcastle vs Wolves (a)Bournemouth vs Chelsea (h)Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool (a)Chelsea vs Bournemouth (a)West Ham vs Fulham (a)Leicester vs Crystal Palace (a)Ipswich vs Brighton (a)Some managers may choose to rotate in the third round of the Carabao Cup but Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, Arne Slot and Unai Emery will want to get their respective Champions League campaigns underway with a win.It’s usually the case that European fixtures have a significant impact on the overall leaderboard (not mention Mini Leagues worldwide) and so Dream Team bosses could potentially get ahead of the game by playing a Booster in Gameweek 4.Aston Villa have Champions League fixtures to enhance their schedule this seasonCredit: GettyHere’s a quick reminder about each Booster’s effect:Goal Bonus: Goals are worth nine points instead of the usual six12th Man: Select an additional player for freeMax Captain: Automatically captains the player who top scores in your XI (double points)All three Boosters are viable in Gameweek 4 but Max Captain may not be necessary at this stage with Erling Haaland (£8.8m) in such devastating form.Most read in FootballThe Norwegian poacher has plundered 59 points in just three outings so far this season.If you activate your Max Captain Booster and Haaland ends up top-scoring, a relatively likely outcome, then that’s essentially a waste of a Booster because you probably would have captained him anyway.Of course, if Haaland missed out against Brentford and Inter at the same time one of your lesser-owned assets bagged two or three goals then the Max Captain Booster would have a hugely positive impact – it’s just that you don’t really want to be in a position where you’re betting against Man City’s No9.59 points and countingCredit: RexWith Haaland and Mohamed Salah (£7.3m) both in such good form, gaffers who own both might consider activating the Goal Bonus Booster.The pair have scored ten goals from six outings between them already this season and so Gameweek 4 has to be considered ripe with potential.Alternatively, Dream Team bosses who only own one of Haaland or Salah currently might want to activate 12th Man to recruit the other’s services for the upcoming Gameweek at least.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWWhile it’s undoubtedly a tempting time to play a Booster, it’s certainly not a necessity. We’re only three Gameweeks into the new campaign and many gaffers will want a clearer lay of the land before they pull out the big guns.Plus, it might be beneficial to wait until a Gameweek when Spurs, Man United (both Europa League) and Chelsea (Conference League) are active in Europe alongside the Champions League teams.READ MORE SUN STORIESRemember, you can only play each Booster once throughout the season; and each one lasts the duration of just one Gameweek.Read more about Boosters here.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Ollie Watkins, Martin Odegaard and other popular players yet to reach 20 points this season

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      IF nothing else, this unwelcome international break at least allows Dream Team managers some time to reflect upon the start of the 2024/25 season.With that in mind, let’s analyse the most-popular outfield players who are yet to reach the 20-point mark.Van de Ven had a minor issue in Gameweek 3Credit: RexMicky van de Ven (£3.8m)15 points10.9% ownershipThe Dutchman missed Tottenham’s trip to St James’ Park just before the break but given Ange Postecoglou’s troops suffered a 2-1 defeat, it’s unlikely he would have got the five points required to evade this list.That being said, Van de Ven’s average of 7.5 points-per-game is very healthy indeed, albeit from a tiny sample size.Emile Smith Rowe (£2.8m)14 points11.7% ownershipThe former Arsenal midfielder’s transfer to Fulham made him the bargain option of choice for a significant chunk of Dream Team bosses.Smith Rowe has started all three of the Cottagers’ league games but he’s yet to play more than 72 minutes at any one time.Most read in FootballThe 24-year-old scored against Leicester in Gameweek 2 but he’s mustered just five points from his other three outings combined.At least he’s not too expensive…Credit: RexBruno Fernandes (£5.8m)13 points12.2% ownershipSmith Rowe’s relatively modest returns aren’t a huge problem because he doesn’t take up much budget but that’s certainly not the case for Manchester United’s main man, who is one of the most-expensive players in the game.Fernandes has excelled in Portugal colours during the international break and certain Dream Team managers will be desperate for him to translate that form to the club arena when he returns to English shores.The Red Devils have SIX fixtures to fulfil across the next three Gameweeks – surely it’s only a matter of time before Fernandes resumes normal service?Kobbie Mainoo (£3.4m)15 points12.4% ownershipAnother Man United asset makes the list.Old Trafford’s homegrown hero was heavily backed prior to Gameweek 1, perhaps as a result of his performances at Euro 2024, and he repaid that faith in Gameweek 1 by earning maximum bonus points (five) against Fulham.However, seven points in total across Gameweeks 2 and 3 represents a regression to the mean Mainoo established last season.Here’s a interesting fact: Man United and Ipswich are the only two teams without a single player on 20+ points at this stage.Man United assets have struggled so farCredit: GettyMarc Guehi (£3.3m)14 points13.9% ownershipLike Mainoo, the Crystal Palace centre-back was a popular man off the back of the Euros.We tried to tell gaffers that Daniel Munoz (£3.1m) was a better option at a cheaper price but that advice fell on too many deaf ears – the Colombian wing-back has pouched 18 points via an assist and a whopping 14 tackles (joint-most among defenders).Guehi was heavily linked with a summer move to Newcastle but remains for Eagle for now – his ownership has decreased steadily since Gameweek 1.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWOllie Watkins (£5.6m)12 points16.6% ownershipAston Villa’s No11 played no part in pre-season following England’s European Championship campaign and has therefore had his minutes managed by Unai Emery so far.Watkins has played just over an hour in all three appearances this season and his withdrawal from the Three Lions’ squad confirmed that he’s not yet up to speed.His backers have a big decision to make as the Villains’ fixtures look ripe for points in the coming weeks with favourable match-ups around highly-anticipated Champions League nights.Watkins notched an assist in his last outing but he’ll be keen to score his first goal of 2024/25 as soon as possible – one at home to 20th-placed Everton this weekend would settle a few nerves.Odegaard may be facing a spell on the sidelinesCredit: SplashMartin Odegaard (£4.9m)12 points17% ownershipArsenal’s captain is the most-selected player yet to reach 20 points at the time of writing.But for how much longer?Odegaard suffered an ankle injury on duty for Norway on Monday night and was spotted on crutches Tuesday morning.The extent of the injury remains to be revealed but, at this stage, he seems likely to miss a handful of games at least.Gaffers uncertain what to do about Odegaard’s underwhelming returns across the first three Gameweeks have seemingly had their hand forced by this setback – a replacement will have to be identified before Saturday’s 11am deadline.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt’s still early days and all of the above assets (the non-injured ones at least) could rocket up the rankings with just one good performance.It’s up to Dream Team bosses to determine which players are worth sticking by and which need replacing ASAP.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Both Alexander Isak & Anthony Gordon among most transferred-out players ahead of Gameweek 4

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      BOTH Alexander Isak (£5m) and Anthony Gordon (£4.5m) are among the top five most transferred-out Dream Team players ahead of Gameweek 4.The former scored his first goal of the season just prior to the international break when Newcastle beat Tottenham 2-1 at St James’ Park.The Sweden striker has also provided two assists already in 2024/25.Isak still features in 27.5% of teamsCredit: GettyIsak’s tally of 25 points may pale in comparison to the humongous totals of Erling Haaland (£8.8m) and Mohamed Salah (£7.3m) – who have plundered 59 and 45 points respectively – but it’s a healthy return from just three Gameweeks.Even so, only Declan Rice (£3.9m) and Phil Foden (£6.2m) have been ditched by more Dream Team managers during the break.As for Gordon, he has mustered 22 points to date; a respectable tally but one that doesn’t quite align with his immense pre-season popularity.The England international took Bournemouth for 13 points in Gameweek 2 with a lively showing but he’s made little impact in his other three outings so far.As a result he’s currently the fourth-most transferred-out asset ahead of Gameweek 4.Gordon produced a fine showing against the Cherries but has struggled for points elsewhereCredit: AlamyOn the surface, this may seem rather curious.Newcastle are fifth in the table, undefeated in all competitions, and due to face 18th-placed Wolves on Sunday.Most read in FootballOnly Everton have conceded more league goals than Gary O’Neil’s side at this stage – it would not come as a surprise if Isak and Gordon prospered at Molineux.However, dig a little deeper and it’s easier to understand why so many gaffers are changing strategy.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWThe Magpies are one of just seven teams without two fixtures to fulfil in Gameweek 4.After a full round of Premier League games, Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool and Aston Villa begin their Champions League campaigns in midweek with a further nine top-flight clubs in Carabao Cup action.This is partially readdressed in Gameweek 5 when Eddie Howe’s side will be among the ten teams with two fixtures: Fulham (a) and AFC Wimbledon (a).However, Gameweek 6 brings a meeting with Manchester City, which is about as unfavourable as it gets.Newcastle lack European commitments this seasonCredit: GettyThe broader picture is that Newcastle will play four games across the next three Gameweeks, including that tricky match-up with Pep Guardiola’s machine.For comparison, Man City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Villa, Spurs and Man United will fulfil SIX fixtures each in the same time frame.Fixture count isn’t the only thing to consider when making transfers but it’s certainly an important factor.Additionally, while Newcastle’s results have been healthy enough, their performances haven’t been all that convincing.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn fact, only Ipswich have registered fewer shots than Howe’s troops while no team have faced more shots.Isak and Gordon are excellent players but it’s hard to argue against gaffers who are now looking elsewhere.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Luis Diaz and Joao Pedro among most transferred-in players but international commitments may affect Gameweek 4 minutes

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      LUIS DIAZ (£4.7m) is currently the most transferred-in player ahead of Gameweek 4.Many Dream Team managers have wasted no time in recruiting the Liverpool winger following his brace at Old Trafford last time out.Luis Diaz is a popular man among Dream Team bosses prior to Gameweek 4Credit: Dream TeamThe 27-year-old took Manchester United for 16 points in Gameweek 3 to take his overall tally for the season to 35.At this early juncture, he is ranked first among assets in his position, although only narrowly as Eberechi Eze (£4.6m) and Bukayo Saka (£6.3m) are joint-second on 34 points each.Given Diaz’s form and the Reds’ performances as whole so far this season, it’s understandable that he has experienced a surge in popularity during the international break – his ownership has increased to 22.3%.However, gaffers should be conscious of the possibility of rotation in Gameweek 4.Diaz captained Colombia against Peru on Saturday and is expected to start against World Cup champions Argentina in Barranquilla on Tuesday night.Diaz bagged a brace at Old Trafford in Gameweek 3Credit: GettyBarring any complications, he should participate in Liverpool training at the end of the week but some South American internationals have had their workload managed after long-haul flights in previous seasons.Dream Team bosses would appreciate an update on Diaz’s condition and availability when Arne Slot attends his pre-match press conference.The Dutchman has been relatively consistent with his team selections to date – Diaz has started in the front three alongside Mohamed Salah (£7.3m) and Diogo Jota (£4.8m) for every game this term.Most read in FootballAnd Diaz’s backers will hope for the same again when Liverpool host Nottingham Forest on Saturday.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWHowever, with a Champions League away day to Milan next Tuesday (also part of Gameweek 4) Slot may opt to make more use of his other attacking options – Cody Gakpo (£3.9m), Darwin Nunez (£4.2m) and Federico Chiesa (£4m) represent significant depth.To be clear, Diaz remains an excellent option and it may be the case that Liverpool aren’t overly concerned about such things at this early stage of the campaign; but it’s something for gaffers to bear in mind.Slot has favoured a front three of Salah, Jota and Diaz so farCredit: GettySimilarly, Joao Pedro (£3.8m) is the fourth-most popular recruit ahead of Gameweek 4 at the time of writing but there are concerns about his minutes this weekend too.The Brighton forward was a late call up for Brazil and while he may not actually get on the pitch during this international break (he played zero minutes against Ecuador on Saturday) the schedule is somewhat against him.The Samba boys are due to play Paraguay in the early hours of Wednesday morning (UK time) which gives Pedro a tight turnaround to make the Seagulls’ home game against Ipswich at 3pm on Saturday.However, it’s entirely possible he will start even if he doesn’t train fully with the rest of the squad, it all depends on Fabian Hurzeler’s viewpoint on such issues.Again, Dream Team managers will hopefully be given an indication of Pedro’s availability later in the week.The 23-year-old has scored against Manchester United and Arsenal in his last two outings and will surely retain his place in the starting line-up if deemed unhindered by international duty.Brighton are also due to face Wolves in the Carabao Cup in Gameweek 4.Joao Pedro has started the season in fine formCredit: APAll internationals that have racked up plentiful air miles during this break have to be considered a minutes risk to some degree; we’ve only highlighted Diaz and Pedro because they are both among the most transferred-in players for Gameweek 4.READ MORE SUN STORIESRemember, transfers can be reversed before Saturday’s 11am deadline if such action is necessary. Prior to the managers’ press conferences, it seems likely that Diaz and Pedro will get decent run outs across Gameweek 4, especially with Liverpool and Brighton having two fixtures each, but those hoping for 180 minutes may be disappointed.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Conference League omission a hammer blow to Cole Palmer’s long-term Dream Team prospects

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      COLE PALMER’S (£6.3m) long-term Dream Team prospects have been dealt a hammer blow.Chelsea have not included the 22-year-old in their squad for the Uefa Conference League in an attempt to manage his workload.Palmer’s backers will be frustrated by Chelsea’s decisionCredit: Dream TeamThe Blues qualified for the league stage of Europe’s tertiary competition after beating Swiss outfit Servette over two play-off legs.Enzo Maresca’s side are favourites to lift the trophy but Palmer’s omission from the squad suggests the Conference League isn’t a particularly high priority.The PFA Young Player of the Year has been Chelsea’s talisman since his transfer from Manchester City – he scored 25 goals in all competitions last season.More importantly, he’s become one of Dream Team’s most-popular assets.In fact, only Erling Haaland (£8.8m) features in more teams at the time of writing.A celebration we won’t be seeing in the Conference League any time soonCredit: ReutersPalmer’s owners would have been relishing the prospect of a top-tier performer being unleashed upon favourable opposition with Chelsea set to face the likes of FC Noah, Shamrock Rovers and Heidenheim in the coming weeks.The club’s decision to save their best player for domestic duties should stave off fatigue and improve their league prospects but Dream Team bosses will see nothing but a lorry-load of points going up in smoke.Such is Palmer’s pedigree, he remains an excellent option even without additional fixtures to bolster his schedule.Most read in FootballChelsea didn’t have any European commitments last season and the England international still racked up 350+ points when all was said and done.But it’s simply true that players active in Europe generally earn more points in the long run.Maresca evidently doesn’t see the Conference League as a high priorityCredit: REXPalmer is currently ranked fourth among midfielders having amassed 32 points via one goal and four assists.Will he be able to keep pace with the likes of Luis Diaz (£4.7m), Bukayo Saka (£6.3m) and Kevin De Bruyne (£6.6m) when the European games start coming thick and fast?Palmer may be added to Chelsea’s European squad after the league stage but there’s a danger he would have fallen too far behind by then.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWGaffers should be aware that the Champions League and Europa League are expected to be particularly profitable this season due to the revamped format.Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Tottenham and Manchester United are guaranteed eight continental fixtures each throughout the league phase, with the knockouts to follow for those that qualify.Palmer has been a passionate points hoarder in Chelsea blue but he’s suddenly giving up a significant number of fixtures to his rivals.It will be interesting to see to what extent his ownership decreases as a result of his omission from the Conference League squad – Romeo Lavia (£2.8m) and Wesley Fofana (£2.6m) are the other big names left out.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Which teams have the most favourable fixtures in September? Gaffers to target European competitions

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      THE English summer is hanging on by a thread amid the first international break of the season.Dream Team managers have until 11am on September 14th to confirm their set-up for Gameweek 4 so there’s plenty of time to reflect upon the campaign so far and plan for the weeks ahead.Dream Team managers should look ahead at the rest of SeptemberCredit: Dream TeamOne crucial factor to consider when devising a strategy for the upcoming Gameweeks is the fixtures, in relation to both difficulty and volume.With that in mind, let’s analyse the September schedule (and beginning of October in some cases) for all 20 Premier League clubs, covering Gameweeks 4 to 6.MANCHESTER CITYBrentford (h)Inter (h)Arsenal (h)Watford (h)Newcastle (a)Slovan Bratislava (a)Pep Guardiola’s side are one of six teams facing three consecutive double Gameweeks after the international break.And with the way the chips have fallen in the Champions League and Carabao Cup, Erling Haaland (£8.8m) and company have the luxury of four home games in a row.Inter, Arsenal and a trip to St James’ Park have to be considered relatively difficult match-ups but most Dream Team bosses will know that points flow freely when City have to play every few days.The points will surely continue to come thick and fast for HaalandCredit: GettyLIVERPOOLMost read in FootballNottingham Forest (h)Milan (a)Bournemouth (h)West Ham (h)Wolves (a)Bologna (h)Like Man City, Arne Slot’s troops have four home fixtures across the next three Gameweeks.Given the Reds have won all three of their games so far without conceding a goal, they won’t be overly concerned about their upcoming schedule at all.The likes of Mohamed Salah (£7.3m), Luis Diaz (£4.7m) and Trent Alexander-Arnold (£5.8m) should continue to provide plentiful returns for their backers.BRIGHTONIpswich (h)Wolves (h)Nottingham Forest (h)Chelsea (a)Without European commitments the Seagulls’ workload appears comparatively light but their double header in Gameweek 4 (Ipswich in the league followed by Wolves in the cup) looks ripe for points.Fabian Hurzeler’s side are third in table having taken seven points from their opening three games and the young coach will be hopeful of positive results against the Tractor Boys and Forest on home soil to keep the ball rolling.Liverpool’s September appears relatively favourableCredit: GettyARSENALTottenham (a)Atalanta (a)Manchester City (a)Bolton (h)Leicester (h)PSG (h)September brings some tough tests for the Gunners with three tricky away days in succession after the break.Bukayo Saka (£6.3m), Kai Havertz (£4.6m) and William Saliba (£5.4m) have started the season in fine form and their owners will be happy to see them in action so frequently cross the next few Gameweeks but a slight dip in returns is to be expected.Arsenal have been the best defensive side in England across the last year or so but they’ll have to work seriously hard to keep their sheets clean this month.NEWCASTLEWolves (a)Fulham (a)AFC Wimbledon (a)Manchester City (h)The Magpies’ home record is far superior to their away record under Eddie Howe so it’s not an ideal schedule for gaffers backing Alexander Isak (£5m), Anthony Gordon (£4.5m) and friends.On the bright side, the quality of the opposition isn’t all that daunting… until City come to town.BRENTFORDManchester City (a)Leyton Orient (h)Tottenham (a)West Ham (h)The Bees have started brightly with two victories from three outings but their league form will be severely tested against City and Spurs.Bryan Mbeumo (£3.6m) has raced to 31 points but he didn’t feature at all in the Carabao Cup second round so he may not get much of a run out at home to the O’s, unless Thomas Frank changes tact.Both Isak and Gordon are among the most transferred-out players ahead of Gamweek 4 currentlyCredit: PAASTON VILLAEverton (h)Young Boys (a)Wolves (h)Wycombe (a)Ipswich (a)Bayern Munich (h)German giants aside, it’s a friendly set of fixtures for the Villains this month.Ollie Watkins (£5.6m) has only played roughly an hour of each game so far in 2024/25 and the striker’s withdrawal from the England squad means he’s a minor doubt for Gameweek 4.However, a fully-fit striker would be licking his lips looking at Villa’s schedule – Watkins will be a popular recruit if he gets up to speed.BOURNEMOUTHChelsea (h)Liverpool (a)Southampton (h)The Cherries have half as many fixtures as the busiest teams across the next three Gameweeks, with one being a trip to Anfield.Antoine Semenyo’s (£2.8m) ownership has increased as a reflection of his impressive form but he’d have to transform into prime Messi to justify his selection with just three games at his disposal.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWNOTTINGHAM FORESTLiverpool (a)Brighton (a)Fulham (h)It’s a similar story for Nuno Espirito Santo’s mob; just three fixtures including Liverpool away.Forest are unbeaten this season (their penalty shootout defeat to Newcastle in the cup technically goes down as a draw) with Chris Wood (£2.8m) having amassed 24 points but it seems as if their returns are about to dry up.TOTTENHAMArsenal (h)Coventry (a)Brentford (h)Qarabag (h)Manchester United (a)Ferencvaros (a)It’s been a mixed bag for Spurs so far with one win, one draw and one defeat from their first three outings.An emotionally-charge North London derby is a difficult match-up to predict but gaffers should be eyeing up the rest of September.Their Europa League fixtures look particularly inviting.Europa League commitments should boost Spurs assets this seasonCredit: RexCHELSEABournemouth (a)West Ham (a)Barrow (h)Brighton (h)Gent (h)A home draw against League Two’s Barrow is a hugely favourable match-up on paper but it’s not all that easy for Dream Team bosses to predict the Blues’ line-up for that game.The Conference League has historically been a reliable source of Dream Team points for the English teams so it’s all eyes on Gent’s visit to Stamford Bridge in early October.FULHAMWest Ham (h)Preston (a)Newcastle (h)Nottingham Forest (a)A middling set of fixtures that will force backers of relatively popular assets Emile Smith Rowe (£2.8m) and Antonee Robinson (£3.4m) to either stick or twist.Gaffers without pressing issues elsewhere should probably explore potential alternatives.WEST HAMFulham (a)Chelsea (h)Liverpool (a)Brentford (a)It’s a similar story for the Hammers.Max Kilman (£2.8m) and Jarrod Bowen (£5m) have started well enough but their viability drops without European commitments.Palmer’s owners will be desperate for him to start as many games as possibleCredit: ReutersMANCHESTER UNITEDSouthampton (a)Barnsley (h)Crystal Palace (a)Twente (h)Tottenham (h)Porto (a)The Red Devils are among the busiest teams from now until the end of Gameweek 6 but back-to-back defeats to Brighton and Liverpool have dampened the mood around Old Trafford.None of their players have broken the 20-point barrier at this stage with Bruno Fernandes (£5.8m) among the most-disappointing performers so far – the Portuguese midfielder has mustered just 13 points. LEICESTERCrystal Palace (a)Everton (h)Walsall (a)Arsenal (a)The Foxes are without a win since promotion and so Dream Team managers are understandably hesitant to shop around the King Power.Moving swiftly on…CRYSTAL PALACELeicester (h)Queens Park Rangers (a)Manchester United (h)Everton (a)Only Luis Diaz has more points than Eberechi Eze (£4.6m) among midfielders right now and the latter’s backers will be hopeful of further returns in Gameweek 4.The Eagles’ No10 played the full 90 minutes last time out in the Carabao Cup and therefore has a good chance of starting against his former club in the third round.Eze is among a select group of talented individuals capable of keeping pace with players active in Europe – especially if Palace go deep in the domestic cups.Replacing Eze with a player active in Europe may not be necessaryCredit: ReutersIPSWICHBrighton (a)Southampton (a)Aston Villa (h)A newly-promoted team without a win, with just three fixtures across the next three Gameweeks.It’s a black hole of Dream Team points.WOLVESNewcastle (h)Brighton (a)Aston Villa (a)Liverpool (h)All four of Wolves’ September opponents are currently in the top seven of the league table – a brutal run.SOUTHAMPTONManchester United (h)Everton (a)Ipswich (h)Bournemouth (a)Saints fans will start to get very twitchy if they don’t see some positive results this month.No Southampton player features in more than 0.9% of Dream Teams currently – that says it all.Wolves face a tough run of fixtures after the international breakCredit: AlamyEVERTONAston Villa (a)Southampton (h)Leicester (a)Crystal Palace (h)READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Toffees are rooted to the bottom of the table after a disastrous start to the campaign, amplified by their traumatic loss to Bournemouth last weekend.Against the odds, Dwight McNeil (£3.2m) is joint-fifth among all midfielders having racked up 31 points but most Dream Team bosses should be repelled by Everton until their form as a collective improves dramatically.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £60 in free bets — HERE*New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 6x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 2 x £10 Bet Builder, 2 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. 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