More stories

  • in

    Transfer recommendations ahead of Gameweek 35 – Noni Madueke among tempting differentials

    EVERY transfer counts at this late stage of the season.Ahead of Gameweek 35, the majority of Dream Team managers will be focused on the six teams set to fulfil two fixtures: Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Brighton, Newcastle and Tottenham.With this in mind, allow us to suggest some recommendations…PLAY SCORE PREDICTOR AHEAD OF THIS WEEKEND’S ACTION – SOMEBODY MUST WIN £500 IN CASH!A huge differential optionCredit: Dream TeamNoni Madueke (£3.1m) Chelsea’s No11 is among the tempting differential options for Gameweek 35 with a current ownership of just 0.2%!The 22-year-old didn’t do his reputation any favours when he attempted to take a penalty off Cole Palmer (£5.4m) a few weeks back but there’s no doubt his performances have improved lately.In fact, Madueke is statistically the third-most in-form midfielder in the game right now having added 34 points to his tally across his last three outings.His 17-point return against West Ham last time out was his best haul of the season – he scored one goal and assisted another as the Blues thrashed the Hammers 5-0.More broadly, he’s notched four goals and three assists in his last ten games during a spell in which Mauricio Pochettino’s side have looked increasingly effective.Most read in FootballChelsea arguably have the most-favourable double header in Gameweek 35 in the form of Nottingham Forest and Brighton.Josko Gvardiol (£4.1m)Only Ben White is in better form among Dream Team defendersCredit: AlamyManchester City assets will be hugely popular this week and with good reason.Not only are they among the six teams with two fixtures this coming Gameweek (against Fulham and Spurs) they are guaranteed a game in Gameweek 37 thanks to the FA Cup final.Generally, Pep Guardiola’s defenders have underwhelmed this season but Gvardiol has done his best to rectify that in recent weeks.The Croatia international has plundered 52 points from his last six games and 77 points from his last ten appearances.This fruitful run has featured four clean sheets, three goals and two assists.City assets are always at risk of rotation but Gvardiol’s form should earn him the bulk of the remaining minutes this term.Erling Haaland (£6.9m), Phil Foden (£5.8m) and Kevin De Bruyne (£6.2m) all fall under the category of blindingly obvious transfer suggestions this week.Bruno Guimaraes (£4.4m)Bonus ballCredit: Getty We’ve tipped Alexander Isak (£4.6m) and Anthony Gordon (£4m) often enough in recent weeks so there’s no need to repeat ourselves in that regard.But let’s throw Newcastle’s all-action midfielder into the mix as well.Guimaraes is Dream Team’s bonus point king having racked up 76 of them this season – only seven other players have more than 50 to their name.And he’s been among the goal involvements since the start of February with five goals and four assists across the last 13 Gameweeks.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Brazilian averages 5.8 points-per-game this campaign and so it’s reasonable to expect a double-digit haul from him in Gameweek 35 with the in-form Magpies set to take on Brighton and Manchester United.Lock in your transfers before Saturday’s 11:30am deadline.talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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

  • in

    Clarification on Dream Team’s final Gameweeks of the 2023/24 season – plus key Score Predictor dates

    WE’RE aware that some Dream Team managers are uncertain how and when the 2023/24 season will conclude.Allow us to clear a few things up.PLAY SCORE PREDICTOR AHEAD OF THIS WEEKEND’S ACTION – SOMEBODY MUST WIN £500 IN CASH!Man City players should be popular for the final few GameweeksCredit: Dream TeamJust one fixture remains in Gameweek 34 – Aston Villa’s trip to Olympiacos for the second leg of their Europa Conference League semi-final.Once that’s complete, there will be three Gameweeks left before the campaign ends.Gameweek 35 gets underway at 11:30am this coming Saturday (May 11th) and features a full round of league fixtures plus three additional midweek games.Tottenham, Manchester City, Brighton, Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle are the six teams set for double headers.After that, Gameweek 36 consists entirely of the final day of the Premier League campaign, in which all 20 teams will kick-off at the same time (4pm) on Sunday 19th May.Finally, Gameweek 37 will feature the FA Cup final between the two Manchester clubs and the Europa Conference League final if Unai Emery’s side muster a comeback in Greece this week.However, with the Villains 4-2 down on aggregate at present, it seems likely that Man City and Man United will be the only teams active in Gameweek 37.Most read in FootballVilla face an uphill task to qualify for the Europa Conference League finalCredit: GettyIt’s important to note that Gameweek 37 will work the same way as every other Gameweek in terms of transfers.Dream Team bosses will be given two transfers to use before the deadline, which will be an hour before kick-off as usual.Those who opt to carry transfers over will have more at their disposal.Gaffers will have to select a captain as normal and they can even play a Booster if they wish, unless they’ve already used all three of course.GAMEWEEK BREAKDOWN:
    GW35: 13 Premier League fixtures (Spurs, Man City, Brighton, Chelsea, Man United and Newcastle all play twice)
    GW36: 10 Premier League fixtures (everyone plays once)
    GW37: FA Cup final (Man City v Man United) and Europa Conference League final if Aston Villa qualify
    From strategic viewpoint, gaffers should be drawn to the Manchester clubs as they have four fixtures each remaining while 13 clubs have just two games left.A guaranteed fixture in Gameweek 37 makes City assets even more appealing than usualCredit: GettyAs for Score Predictor, the nature of the game means the final Matchweek will coincide with the last round of Premier League fixtures.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs usual, users will have to predict the results of five selected games as they compete for the final weekly prize of the domestic season – the overall leaderboard winner will also be decided!Once all of that is wrapped up, focus will switch to our Euros fantasy game – the fun never stops!talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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. Begambleaware.org More

  • in

    Dream Team Euros leak! Get sneak peek at player prices for Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe and others

    DREAM TEAM are hugely excited to launch our Euros fantasy game ahead of this summer’s tournament.Gaffers won’t have to wait very long at all before they’re able build teams and with unlimited changes available before the first Matchday deadline, there’s every reason to dive straight in.To whet the whistle, we’re prepared to leak the starting prices for seven players likely to among the most popular in the game by the time Euro 2024 gets underway.CLICK HERE TO PLAY EUROS BRACKET CHALLENGE NOW – FREE TO PLAY, IPHONE 15 PRO MAX UP FOR GRABS!Hey JudeCredit: GettyJude Bellingham
    England
    Midfielder
    £6million
    Gareth Southgate’s ace in the hole has transformed from promising youngster to global superstar in the last year or so with some even tipping him to win the Ballon d’Or.The 20-year-old has registered 22 goals and ten assists for Real Madrid this season playing as an advanced No10.For the Three Lions, he’ll play behind Harry Kane with Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden likely to fulfil the wide roles in what is arguably the best attacking unit at the tournament based on this season’s form.We can reveal that Bellingham is not the most-expensive midfielder in Dream Team Euros but he’s right up there.Most read in Dream TeamAntonio RudigerA key figure for the hosts this summer?Credit: Getty
    Germany
    Defender
    £4.5million
    Real Madrid’s resident hard man will almost certainly start at the heart of defence for Die Mannschaft this summer.It wasn’t that long ago the hosts felt the need to replace Hansi Flick with Julian Nagelsmann because results were so bad but wins over France and Netherlands in March dramatically improved the mood among German fans.Bayer Leverkusen’s incredible success combined with impressive showings from Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich in the Champions League have reflected well on German football at just the right time.Rudiger and company will take on Scotland, Hungary and Switzerland in Group A.But is £4.5m reasonable for the physical centre-back?RodriA class actCredit: Getty
    Spain
    Midfielder
    £4million
    Manchester City’s linchpin is widely regarded as the best player in his position in world football right now.In previous iterations of Dream Team fantasy games, defensive midfielders rarely earned enough points to justify selection but our new and improved scoring system has changed that dynamic for the better.Rodri has 233 points in our regular fantasy game this season at an average of 5.5 per game.Plus, he’s not shy of goal involvements these days – he’s notched 22 at club level this season!£4m seems reasonable at this stage but it’s worth noting La Roja have been dealt a difficult group alongside Italy, Croatia and Albania.Robert LewandowskiA proven goalscorer for club and countryCredit: Getty
    Poland
    Striker
    £5million
    Barcelona’s No9 will turn 36 later in the summer but he’s still among Europe’s purest goalscorers.He’s scored 24 goals for Barca in 2023/24, not to mention nine assists, but it’s his historical record at international level that makes him stand out from the crowd.Poland have generally played conservative football for much of Lewandowski’s career and yet still he’s plundered 82 goals – only eight players have scored more goals in the history of international football.Gianluigi DonnarummaWill the real Donnarumma please stand up?Credit: Getty
    Italy
    Goalkeeper
    £4million
    Some questions have been asked of the 25-year-old lately among fans of the Azzurri.Donnarumma has already racked up 61 caps at senior level but there are some calls for him to drop to the bench in the wake of some avoidable errors.However, other fans believe the PSG custodian deserves to keep his place, with many citing his heroic efforts at the last Euros.At his best, there are few better shot-stoppers in the game but it all depends which Donnarumma (and which Italy) shows up in Germany this summer.Jeremy DokuThe trickiest of tricky wingersCredit: Getty
    Belgium
    Midfielder
    £5million
    The 21-year-old winger is certainly an exciting pick for gaffers.His amazing dribbling helps him earn plenty of bonus points and when everything clicks for him in the final third he looks unstoppable.Granted, his end product has sometimes been lacking but his high ceiling makes him a formidable asset.Belgium’s group looks relatively favourable on paper: Romania, Slovakia, Ukraine.Kylian MbappeWill Mbappe be the most-popular player among gaffers this summer?Credit: Getty
    France
    Striker
    £7.5million
    The big one.Many neutrals have Les Bleus as favourites to lift the trophy come July 14th and their superstar forward is a huge reason for that.Every football fan remembers Mbappe’s efforts at the World Cup 18 months ago, when a hat-trick in the final helped him claim the Golden Boot as compensation for France’s penalty shootout defeat to Argentina.He’s scored 43 goals in 46 appearances for PSG this term in what has become the norm for a truly special player.Nobody costs more than Mbappe in Dream Team Euros but one player will start at the same price – feel free to guess before all is revealed soon.Not long now…Credit: Dream TeamPlease be aware that not all players will be present upon the launch of Dream Team Euros.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis is simply because the squads are yet to be announced but rest assured all selected players will be added to the game once officially confirmed.Click here for more information about our Euros fantasy game.talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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. Begambleaware.org More

  • in

    In-form Nicolas Jackson emerges as unlikely Dream Team option for season climax

    NICOLAS JACKSON (£3.9m) has copped plenty of stick this season.Earlier in the campaign, the Chelsea forward was statistically among the most wasteful finishers in the Premier League and he didn’t do himself any favours when he and Noni Madueke (£3.1m) tried to take a penalty away from Cole Palmer (£5.4m) a few weeks backs.However, while some of the criticism has been justified, the Senegal international has unquestionably improved as the season has progressed.CLICK HERE TO PLAY EUROS BRACKET CHALLENGE NOW – FREE TO PLAY, IPHONE 15 PRO MAX UP FOR GRABS!Improving all the timeCredit: Dream TeamIn fact, after his brace against West Ham on Sunday, Jackson now boasts a tally of 13 league goals in 2023/24.To put that into perspective, Stamford Bridge legend Didier Drogba only scored more league goals in two of his nine seasons with the Blues.Obviously that statistic lacks context and fails to tell even a fraction of the story of the Ivorian’s Chelsea career but it illustrates that Jackson is certainly a player who was written off too soon by many.An overall return of 16 goals in all competitions is perfectly respectable for a 22-year-old in his first year on English shores.There are clearly aspects of his game that need addressing but he’s shown Mauricio Pochettino what he’s capable of since he returned from the Africa Cup of Nations.Dream Team managers have also started to take note of his positive attributes.Most read in FootballJackson scored two goals and assisted another during his side’s 5-0 win over West HamCredit: GettyJackson has registered eight goals and five assists in 18 outings since the start of Gameweek 22 for a return of 120 points.That works out at 9.2 points per Gameweek since the start of February.At the time of writing, only Erling Haaland (£6.9m) has scored more points than Jackson in Gameweek 34 – the latter banked 19 against the Hammers.And he looks to be a potentially smart option for Gameweek 35 too with Chelsea among the group of six clubs with two fixtures to fulfil.Pochettino’s side are due to face Nottingham Forest and Brighton which is arguably the most-favourable double header of the lot next Gameweek.The outlook now seems brighter for Pochettino at Stamford BridgeCredit: PAMore broadly, only Manchester City and Arsenal have taken more points than Chelsea from their last ten league games.Rewind a few months and the idea of Jackson as a viable Dream Team striker would have sounded ridiculous but that’s the truth of it as the campaign draws to a close.It will be interesting to see how he and Chelsea start 2024/25.talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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. Begambleaware.org More

  • in

    Dream Team Euros fantasy game coming very soon – everything you need to know!

    THE Premier League season is set to draw to a close this month but there will barely be time to digest the dramatic conclusion before Euro 2024 gets underway.The international actions kicks off in Germany on June 14th with 24 teams set to compete for continental supremacy.And the best news? Dream Team will be launching a Euros fantasy game to accompany this summer’s highly-anticipated tournament!In fact, our latest fantasy offering will be available to play very soon.CLICK HERE TO PLAY EUROS BRACKET CHALLENGE NOW – FREE TO PLAY, IPHONE 15 PRO MAX UP FOR GRABS!Nearly there…Credit: Dream TeamYou will be invited to select a competitive XI on a £50million budget with no restrictions on the number of players from any one country.However, well-known superstars from teams tipped to go deep in the tournament will cost more than players from the less-fancied nations.And so it may be that managers need to shop around for a couple of underrated bargains to offset the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and Cristiano Ronaldo. We’ve predicted the core members of each team for the initial phase but more players will be added as the squads are officially announced. Eventually, you will be able to choose from all 624 players selected for Euro 2024. Mbappe is sure to be a popular selectionCredit: GettyOur Euros fantasy game is free to play with no fewer than 22 cash prizes on offer – we’re set to give away £50,000 overall!As always, we encourage you to spread the word and compete in Mini Leagues against your mates, colleagues, family members, etc.After all, we all know that bragging rights are a satisfying prize in their own right.Once the tournament is underway, you will be able to react to the unfolding drama by making transfers to improve your team’s fortunes.The deadline for transfers will be one hour before kick-off each Matchday.Matchday 1 comprises of the first full round of group games, Matchday 2 includes the second round of group games, and so on.Players will score points through goals, assists, clean sheets, tackles, shots on target, big chances created and saves, with bonus points also available.Full details on transfers and scoring to be revealed soon.Gaffers will have to second-guess Gareth Southgate’s starting line-upCredit: PAIf you’ve played our regular fantasy game this season then our Euros offering will have a familiar feel.That being said, we have implemented some improvements based on thousands of responses to our recent user survey.New features include:
    Vice-captain – selected player earns double points if captain doesn’t play
    Six points for a goal and three points for each assist
    Goal Bonus Booster (replaces Park the Bus) – players earn TEN points for each goal for one Matchday only
    Improved bonus point opportunities for goalkeepers
    You’ll be able to make unlimited changes to your XI before the first deadline on the opening day of the tournament so there’s no need delay – dive head first into our Euros game as soon as possible.Play our Bracket Challenge now!Credit: Dream TeamIn other related news, our Bracket Challenge game is already live!It couldn’t be easier to play, simply predict the standings for the group stages and knockout fixtures from the round of 16 to the all-important final of Euro 2024.You’ll earn points for accurate predictions and if you rack up more than any other user, you’ll win an iPhone 15 Pro Max* (worth £1,199)!Dream Team are on hand to enhance your experience of Euro 2024 this summer.talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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. Begambleaware.org More

  • in

    Injuries & suspensions update ahead of Gameweek 34 – latest on Bruno Fernandes, Phil Foden and more

    DREAM TEAM brings you all the latest injury, suspension and availability news ahead of Gameweek 34 in one easily digestible dose.At the time of writing, Phil Foden is the second-most transferred-out player ahead of tonight’s deadline but the Manchester City midfielder is thought to be available having recovered from illness.The same is true of centre-back Ruben Dias, who also missed the defending champions’ win over Nottingham Forest last time out.Additionally, Ederson has resumed training this week and “feels good” according to Pep Guardiola so there’s a chance the Brazilian starts against Wolves, despite pessimistic rumours earlier in the week.PLAY SCORE PREDICTOR AHEAD OF THIS WEEKEND’S ACTION – SOMEBODY MUST WIN £500 IN CASH!Foden is back in contention for Man CityVirgil van Dijk is a major doubt ahead of Liverpool v Tottenham on Sunday.The Dutchman may have returned to partial training today but at this stage it’s unlikely he’ll be risked with the Reds no longer in the title race for real.Speaking on his frosty disagreement with Mohamed Salah last weekend, Jurgen Klopp told journalists that things were “completely resolved”.Fabian Schar may be out for the remainder of the campaign having injured his hamstring last time out, adding to Newcastle’s defensive absentees.In more positive news for the Magpies, late calls will be made on Nick Pope, Miguel Almiron and Joelinton following the trio’s return to training.Saturday’s trip to Turf Moor comes too soon for Kieran Trippier.Fernades is incredibly durable but currently a doubt for Monday nightCredit: Dream TeamBruno Fernandes has never missed a game for Manchester United through injury but the durable midfielder is a doubt for Monday night’s visit to Crystal Palace.However, Erik ten Hag also said: “We all know Bruno, never rule him out for any game. He will do his best to be available.”Scott McTominay is also a doubt having hyper-extended his knee – the Scotsman hasn’t yet trained this week.As for the Eagles, they’ve been boosted by the news that both Marc Guehi and Eberechi Eze are deemed fit enough to feature against the Red Devils in some capacity at least.Levi Colwill and Christopher Nkunku are the players most likely to return to action among Chelsea’s crocked crop when the Blues take on West Ham on Sunday.Reece James and Raheem Sterling also returned to partial training prior to the West Londoners’ win over Tottenham but the pair seemingly require more recovery time before they are reintroduced to the matchday squad.Nkunku has hardly featured for Chelsea this seasonCredit: GettyMikel Arteta told reporters that “everyone is fit and available” ahead of Arsenal’s home game against Bournemouth.There’s a chance Jurrien Timber may feature after his lengthy spell on the sidelines – the defender has played twice for the Under-21s in recent weeks.Pedro Neto, Santiago Bueno and Jean-Ricner Bellegard are all available for Wolves again having rejoined training this week but Gary O’Neil did not provide an update on Rayan Ait-Nouri, who has been hampered on and off for a few weeks now.Everton will be without full-backs Nathan Patterson and Vitaliy Mykolenko against Luton this evening with the latter out for the rest of the season.In better news, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Seamus Coleman are back in contention.ARSENALInjuries: NoneSuspensions: NoneASTON VILLAInjuries: Tyrone Mings, Emi Buendia, Boubacar Kamara, Jacob Ramsey, Alex Moreno, Emi Martinez (doubt), Youri Tielemans (doubt)Suspensions: NoneBOURNEMOUTHInjuries: Ryan Fredericks, Chris Mepham, Luis Sinisterra, Tyler Adams, Marcus TavenierSuspensions: Milos KerkezBRENTFORDInjuries: Aaron Hickey, Rico Henry, Josh Dasilva, Ben MeeSuspensions: NoneBRIGHTONInjuries: Solly March, James Milner, Jack Hinshelwood, Kaoru Mitoma, Evan Ferguson, Tariq Lamptey, Jan Paul van Hecke, Adam Lallana, Pervis EstupinanSuspensions: NoneBURNLEYInjuries: Luka Koleosho, Nathan Redmond, Aaron Ramsey, Ameen Al-Dakhil, Jordan BeyerSuspensions: NoneCHELSEAInjuries: Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia, Lesley Ugochukwo, Reece James, Christopher Nkunku (doubt), Levi Colwill (doubt), Robert Sanchez, Ben Chilwell, Raheem Sterling, Enzo Fernandez, Axel Disasi, Thiago Silva, Carney Chukwuemeka, Malo Gusto, Suspensions: NoneCRYSTAL PALACEInjuries: Cheick Doucoure, Rob Holding, Matheus Franca, Sam Johnstone, Jefferson Lerma (doubt)Suspensions: NoneEVERTONInjuries: Dele Alli, Lewis Dobbin, Seamus Coleman (doubt), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (doubt), Nathan Patterson, Vitaliy MykolenkoSuspensions: NoneFULHAMInjuries: Harrison Reed (doubt)Suspensions: NoneLIVERPOOLInjuries: Thiago Alcantara, Ben Doak, Joel Matip, Conor Bradley (doubt), Virgil van Dijk (doubt), Diogo JotaSuspensions: NoneLUTONInjuries: Tom Lockyer, Marvelous Nakamba, Mads Andersen, Jacob Brown, Amari’i Bell, Dan Potts, Issa Kabore, Chiedozie OgbeneSuspensions: NoneMANCHESTER CITYInjuries: Ederson (doubt)Suspensions: NoneMANCHESTER UNITEDInjuries: Tyrell Malacia, Anthony Martial, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Raphael Varane, Jonny Evans (doubt), Scott McTominay (doubt), Victor Lindelof, Marcus Rashford (doubt), Bruno Fernandes (doubt), Willy KambwalaSuspensions: NoneNEWCASTLEInjuries: Matt Targett, Nick Pope (doubt), Joelinton (doubt), Callum Wilson, Kieran Trippier, Jamaal Lascelles, Miguel Almiron (doubt), Lewis Miley, Sven Botman, Joe Willock, Fabian ScharSuspensions: Sandro TonaliNOTTINGHAM FORESTInjuries: Taiwo Awoniyi (doubt), Nicolas Dominguez (doubt), Neco Williams (doubt)Suspensions: NoneSHEFFIELD UNITEDInjuries: Daniel Jebbison, John Egan, Chris Basham, Rhys Norrington-Davies, Max Lowe, Rhian Brewster, Tom Davies, George Baldock, Oli McBurnieSuspensions: NoneTOTTENHAMInjuries: Ryan Sessegnon, Manor Solomon, Fraser Forster, Destiny Udogie, Timo Werner, Ben DaviesSuspensions: NoneWEST HAMInjuries: Nayef Aguerd, Konstantinos Mavropanos (doubt)Suspensions: NoneWOLVESInjuries: Criag Dawson, Leon Chwome, Rayan Ait-Nouri (doubt)Suspensions: NonetalkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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. Begambleaware.org More

  • in

    Captaincy & Booster strategies for Gameweek 34: Alternatives to Ollie Watkins double header

    OLLIE WATKINS (£5m) remains the standout captaincy option for Gameweek 34 but some Dream Team managers will be open to other suggestions after Aston Villa’s defeat on Thursday night.Unai Emery’s side are the only team with two fixtures to fulfil this coming Gameweek in the form of Brighton (a) and Olympiacos (a) and so their top scorer is seemingly the logical choice.However, the appeal of this double header has waned in the wake of the Villains’ 4-2 loss to the Greek giants in the first leg of their Europa Conference League semi-final.PLAY SCORE PREDICTOR AHEAD OF THIS WEEKEND’S ACTION – SOMEBODY MUST WIN £500 IN CASH!Can Watkins dig Villa out of a hole in Greece next week?Credit: Dream TeamThat being said, Watkins did score at Villa Park, his 24th goal of the season in all competitions no less.Gaffers who adopt a fixture-centric approach will captain Watkins without a second thought but who are the leading alternatives?Erling Haaland (£7m) came off the bench against Nottingham Forest last weekend to score his 32nd goal of the campaign (all comps) and is currently the most-popular recruit among Dream Team bosses this week.Assuming the Norwegian poacher is fit enough to lead the line from the get-go at home to Wolves on Saturday, he has to be considered a viable skipper.Haaland averages 8.8 points-per-game this season and with Manchester City homing in on another Premier League title, it’s difficult to envisage them slipping up against a bottom-half team on home soil – although Gary O’Neil’s upset the odds in the reverse fixture back in September.Captain material?Credit: AFPAlexander Isak (£4.5m) backers must be tempted to double his points in Gameweek 34 with Newcastle set to face Burnley.Most read in FootballGranted, the Clarets have shown more resolve in recent weeks but the Magpies’ form has picked up too, mostly because of the potent threat provided their Swedish striker and his accomplice Anthony Gordon (£3.9m).Isak is now an outsider for the Golden Boot having scored nine goals in his last eight league games – a fruitful spell that has also yielded 79 Dream Team points.Bukayo Saka (£5.8m) is generally among the most-popular captains when available and with good reason.Arsenal’s No7 averages 7.9 points-per-game this season and is now within three points of Phil Foden (£5.8m) at the top of the overall rankings.The Gunners host Bournemouth this Saturday lunchtime and while the Cherries are an opponent to be respected having jumped into the top half of the table, it’s simply a fact that only West Ham and the bottom four clubs have conceded more league goals this term.Isak is among Dream Team’s most in-form players right nowCredit: GettyMikel Arteta’s side remain highly motivated amid a two-horse title race while Andoni Iraola’s men have earned the right to be ‘on the beach’ psychologically.Saka was among the best performers in Gameweek 33 having taken neighbours Tottenham for 16 points last weekend.In terms of Booster strategies, selecting the aforementioned Watkins as a 12th Man seems the most sensible play for those who have the option.READ MORE SUN STORIESGaffers with Park the Bus and/or Max Captain still in holster should wait for Gameweek 35 when six teams will play twice.Lock in your transfers, captain and any Boosters you wish to play before tonight’s 7pm deadline!talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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. Begambleaware.org More

  • in

    Play Score Predictor this weekend and compete for £500 in CASH – top tips for Matchweek 37!

    THE top prize for Score Predictor Matchweek 37 is once again £500 in cash!And given it’s free to play, there’s no excuse for not getting involved.Simply gaze into your crystal ball and foresee the scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and you’ll earn points based on the accuracy of your predictions.You don’t have to get all five scores exactly correct – something Matt Chouffot achieved against astronomical odds last month – you just have to muster more points than anyone else to claim the weekly prize.CLICK HERE TO PLAY SCORE PREDICTOR FOR FREE – £500 CASH PRIZE MUST BE WON!Play now and you could be £500 richer by Monday nightCredit: Dream TeamManchester City v WolvesGary O’Neil’s side beat the defending champions at Molineux back in September but it’s a foolish punter who bets against Pep Guardiola amid a title run-in.Kevin De Bruyne is creating more chances than ever and Erling Haaland marked his return from injury with a goal against Nottingham Forest last time out.Man City have looked a tad leggy of late but they just keep churning out positive results.Add in the fact they are the only team in the England’s top four leagues that remain unbeaten at home in 2023/24 and it’s hard to envisage anything other than three points for the hosts.Most read in FootballOur Prediction: 3-1 to Man City32 goals and counting this seasonCredit: GettyBrighton v Aston VillaFans of the Seagulls can’t wait for the season to end.Only Sheffield United, Luton and Nottingham Forest have earned fewer points than Roberto De Zerbi’s side in their last ten league games.This dip has caused Brighton to slip to 12th in the table, 23 points shy of the Villains in fourth.Ollie Watkins and company ripped Brighton to shreds in the reverse fixture (a 6-1 win at Villa Park) but there’s a chance they’ll be somewhat hampered by Europa Conference League commitments this week and next.The visitors should still have enough to edge out their increasingly disinterested counterparts on the south coast.Our Prediction: 2-1 to Aston VillaWatkins scored a hat-trick against Brighton in SeptemberCredit: GettyChelsea v West HamThe Hammers are another team limping towards the finish line.A draw at home to Liverpool last weekend was perfectly respectable but the broader view of seven points from their last eight league games is rather dismal.The Blues are likely to leapfrog West Ham in the table soon, possibly this evening if they earn at least one point against Spurs.However, Maurcio Pochettino’s troops are unpredictable while David Moyes’ side have done pretty well on the road this term.A tough one to judge.Our Prediction: 2-2 drawWest Ham are drifting towards a mid-table finishCredit: GettyLiverpool v TottenhamArguably the standout contest of the weekend but one that carries less weight now the Reds have fallen away in the title race.Joel Matip’s 96th-minute own goal handed Spurs three points in the reverse fixture but that was the first time Liverpool have lost to the North Londoners in any competition since 2017.Score Predictor users will remember that Ange Postecoglou’s side had a helping hand from a VAR mishap in that controversial encounter.Neither of these teams are at their best right now, as evidenced by the fact they’re tenth and 13th in the form table respectively.Still, this match-up has all the ingredients for an entertaining affair. Our Prediction: 3-2 to LiverpoolLuis Diaz was wrongly denied a goal against Spurs earlier this seasonCredit: ReutersCrystal Palace v Manchester UnitedThe Eagles have adopted a confident swagger ever since Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze were reunited in the starting line-up.And Jean-Philippe Mateta deserves to be recognised as one of the Premier League’s most in-form forwards currently.Oliver Glasner’s side have taken ten points from their last four games and provided their supporters with plenty of entertainment in the process – the quality of their goals has been very high of late.The Red Devils are equally entertaining but in a way that brings their fans less joy.Erik ten Hag’s side continue to concede a high volume of shots and a return of ten points from their last nine games has to be considered below par.Man United made hard work of it against Sheffield United and Burnley and so it wouldn’t be all that surprising if they were turned over on Monday night.Our Prediction: 2-1 to Crystal PalaceREAD MORE SUN STORIESPalace have scored eight goals in their last three gamesCredit: ReutersShow us how it’s done by entering Score Predictor before the action gets underway on Saturday!CLICK HERE TO PLAY SCORE PREDICTOR FOR FREE – £500 CASH PRIZE MUST BE WON!talkSPORT BET Welcome offer
    Get £30 in free bets when you bet £10 – CLAIM HERE
    18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £10 on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 3x £10 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. BeGambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly
    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. Begambleaware.org More