The FFFL 2019/2020 Season Preview

The 26th FFFL season is now upon us, the auction has taken place and the season has just begun.
Based on current squads and how managers have fared and performed in recent seasons, FFFL Blog Sports take a closer look at the runners and riders, the favorites for league title, those fighting to avoid the wooden spoon and who might triumph in in the CNDP Cup. Let's preview The Fareham Fantasy Football League 2019/2020.

Manager: Alan Lee
Team: FC Dinamo Basingard

So, what are Alan’s chances for the season ahead? As Kevin Keegan said “We would love it” if he gave it a go and finished above the bottom spot.

After his sacking from Under Andover at the end of last season, Alan now finds himself as the newly appointed head coach of Dinamo Basingard.Since taking the reins at his new home, there has been much familiarity in his approach, with the usual auction strategy of buying relatively cheap squad players and saving £20 plus million for a top goal-scoring forward (A strategy that must have worked well for Alan at some point).In goal Mr Lee has put his faith in the Watford duo of Foster and Dahlberg for just £1.55m, and to be fair on last season’s showing they were decent if not spectacular performers (we won’t mention the FA Cup Final).   In defence Al might be a little short on numbers with his biggest financial out-lay being Joe Gomez of Liverpool for £5.1m.  Gomez was on top form last season until he got injured and it is likely he shall be battling it out with Joel Matip for that centre back spot alongside Virgil Van Dijk, although he could also provide a more defensive option to Alexander-Arnold at right back.  To add to Gomez, Alan has raided his old club Under Andover in retaining the services of Tarkowski, as well as well as snapping up Monreal of Arsenal and former Liverpool centre back Sakho (now of Palace).

The midfield is not very creative with goals and assists most likely to come from Andros Townsend, whilst Hojbjerg, Capoue and Freeman could be likely starters.
It is in attack where we think Alan shall score most points, as the Kenny Jacket of Basingstoke spent a total of £22.75 million on forwards.  Alan’s most expensive purchase was Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at £14.6m, prizing the Gabonese striker away from FC Banhameclona with what is understood to be a Chinese type salary offer.   Aubameyang was not only Alan’s most expensive buy, but it was also the highest paid single transfer fee at this year’s auction. To accompany the Arsenal man in attack is Joshua King at a relatively smaller fee of £5.2m.  The Bournemouth striker has left Championship winning Big Tone’s Tattooed Madmen for pastures new in hope of regular game time, and Alan shall be expecting goals and KCs from the Cherries designated penalty taker.  To further cement a very competent forward trio is Alex Iwobi who moved on deadline day from Arsenal to Everton.
It is not a bad squad assembled by Alan, the forward line looks very good and he appears to have enough numbers in midfield, it is just the defence that perhaps is slightly lacking.  If Alan goes 4-3-3, not opting for his usual conventional 4-4-2 and regularly looks at which players are playing to avoids ghosts, then just maybe he could finish above bottom place. If instead of picking his turnips out of his allotment, Mr Lee instead picks the rotten vegetables out of his team he could avoid that wooden spoon shot.  That is a lot of ifs, and just like John McClane old habits die hard, and any reluctant to put a team in shall cost him.  Due to previous history we are predicting the wooden spoon again for Alan.
League Prediction: 14th
Cup Prediction: Group stage
Key Player: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Manager: Benny Hutchings
Team: Jumpers For Goalposts
Benny had a decent campaign last season, but dampeners were put upon his mid-table finish as he came one place below his Berkshire rival, Pat Whelan.
At FFFL Blog Sports we like the look of Benny’s squad for the season as he looks to restore bragging rights and finish above his near nemesis.
Between his jumpers for goalposts shall be the West Ham keepers, with the impressive shot stopper Fabianski as his first choice.  West Ham can be inconsistent at the back, when a clean sheet is expected they let you down, yet when you expect them to concede goals they miraculously keep the ball out of the net.
The Jumpers have a good selection of choice in defence with David Luiz (Now Arsenal), Ben Mee (Burnley), Luke Shaw (Man Utd), Lewis Dunk (Brighton) and Juan Foyth (Spurs).  Even more impressive is Benny’s midfield options with likely goals and key contributions from Pedro, Lamela, Sessegon, Mata, as well as favourites James Ward Prowse and Gylfi Sigurdsson.

Benny is very excited about the prospect of Sigurdsson and Ward Prowse forming a blossoming partnership in his midfield, and the same can be said for the midfield duo.

On returning back to his spiritual home Sigurdsson said “ As soon as I heard Jumpers For Goalposts were interested in me there was no hesitation in signing,” the  Icelandic international continued

with a wry grin, “there are not many managers I would have left Sir Ian Fox for apart from Benny Hutchings, he makes me feel loved and wanted, he also cancels training sessions 3 days a week so he can go down the bookies.”

On signing a one year extension, Ward Prowse spoke exclusively to FFFL Blogs from Benny’s van. “After getting in the back of the van last season, I had no hesitation to do so again and I am looking forward to another exciting journey.” The fact that Ward Prowse was never let out the van might also have something to do with the extended contract.
In attack Benny has more numerous options with Son, Deulofeu and Woods, as well as Chelsea duo Giroud and Batshuayi (Benny shall be hoping Tammy Abraham is not first choice).
Overall there is a really nice balance to Benny’s squad and although we do not feel he shall be challenging for major honours, there is much optimism for a decent campaign of entertaining some fantasy football. 
League Prediction: 11th
Cup Prediction: Group stage
Key Player: Son Heung-min

Manager: Darrell Newbury

Team: The Club BFC

Armed with a case of 0% alcohol Peroni for his auction drinking, it was blatantly clear that Darrell was taking the FFFL very seriously this season.

In goal Darrell has kept faith with Leno of Arsenal who signed a one year extension with The Club BFC, although due to last season’s frailties at the back a low risk clean sheet pay structure has been put in place.  In defence the gamble of Alderweireld at £2.6m seems to have paid off, as for the second season running it looks like the Belgium international is staying at Spurs. To add to those options Mr Newbury is hoping that United improve their defensive duties as he spent big (£4.1m) on ex-Palace (no shame) right back Wan-Bissaka and Arsenal enforcer Sokratis £(2m).  Relatively cheaper defender purchases were then made in Norwich, Palace (no shame again), Watford and Aston Villa.  However, we still felt Darrell was missing one more quality defender to make a real difference and it was apparent that the South Londoner had also identified this.  Darrell patiently waited and on transfer deadline day he secured the final piece in his defensive jigsaw with the astute signing of Manchester City’s Joa Cancelo  for just £200k.

Midfield, now this is where it gets interesting, as prior to the auction it seemed that both Pogba and Eriksen could be leaving the Premiership, destination La Liga.  Now though, with the transfer deadline in England closed, Pogba (£4.3m) and Eriksen (£7.6m) are still with United and Spurs, meaning both buys are appearing to be money very well spent (unless they still go overseas which is looking more and more unlikely). With these 2 players in midfield there should be plenty of goals and KCs to rack up consistent points, with Darrell hoping of no January sale.
It is In attack though that led to all other mangers kicking themselves, leaving the FFFL world in complete and utter shock (probably even Darrell was too), with The Club BFC boss managing to bring in Mo Salah for just £5m.  Previous to Salah, Darrell had already offered Marcus Rashord a new lucrative £10.5m a year contract, which the Manchester United forward duly signed and with the option of Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic it is a formidable forward line.
The Club BFC are fancied by many of the managers to take the title this season, but as we have learnt from previous auctions, what looks a stand out team on paper does not always equate to the final result.  For Darrel and his team much shall depend on Pogba and Eriksen, but with Salah and Rashford up top Darrell shall definitely be in the hunt for a third league title.  We have Darrell as favourite, and although United and Arsenal need to tighten up at the back Cancelo is a great buy to assist in that area to add even more points to his attacking options.
League Prediction: Champions

Cup Prediction: Runner-up
Key Player: Mo Salah

Manager: Duncan Bennett

Team: N17
It has been 16 years since Dunk and his N17 side lifted the league title, and after an indifferent 5 seasons where his North London outfit appeared to be just making up the numbers, there is optimism from within the club that they are back on track as true challengers.
Last season saw N17 run Big Tone’s Tattooed Madmen right up to

the wire, in what ended up being an exciting two-horse race for the league title.  Dunk was magnanimous in defeat, claiming the peoples champion won and although losing out he enjoyed downing his runners-up shots.

To the season ahead and Dunk is hoping that United perform at the back with David De Gea in goal and Chris Smalling a possible option in defence, although the signing of Harry Maguire is putting that into jeopardy.  Elsewhere in his back line there should be clean sheets and assists with Leicester’s Ricardo Pereira, Davies a left back possibility with Spurs and namesake Ryan Bennett of Wolves.In midfield, there appears more love in for Manchester United with quite a hefty lay-out on professional social media poster and part-time footballer Jessie Lingard.  Lingard performed poorly last season and although his price tag was £2.4m, his stock has risen to double at £5m. It is hoped that Bennett can bring out a more mature Lingard for the season ahead.

Since the auction Dunk has seen 2 of his midfielders leave the club in Knockaert and Gueye, but he still has potential goals and creativity with Pereyra, Norwood, Saint-Maxim and quote Duncan Bennett “Bargain of the auction!” – Lanzini.   At £500k we cannot argue.
In attack there as far is a bit of a gamble in the signing of ex-gooner Alexis Sanchez, but if he performs to his previous Arsenal days he could become a snip at £4.4m.  Elsewhere Troy Deeney is usually a decent return for at least 10 goals and Perez returning to N17 should deliver a good points total.  It is however the purchase of Sadio Mane for an absolute bargain of £4.7m (probably even more so than Lanzini) that could be the difference between a mid-table finish and being a league and cup challenger.
To conclude, Dunk always concentrates on his team selections and he has proven to be a quality manager, but at present there does appear to be lack of defensive cover and midfield quality. We feel that some extra signings are required If Mr Bennett wants his N17 outfit to be as competitive as last season. However with Mane in your side there is always a chance of a MOM and a nice shot of chilli vodka.
League Prediction: 9th
Cup Prediction: Group stage
Key Man: Sadio Mane

Manager: Sir Ian Fox
Team: Nobby’s No-Hopers
Last season was the worst season for 14 years for Sir Ian as his Nobby’s No-Hopers finished in 10^th position, fourth from bottom.  FFFL’s most successful manager was questioned on why a team that had the likes of Allison, Sigurdsson and Firminio had not finished higher, in which the self-proclaimed ‘Special One’ and 8 times league winner responded “I have to give others a chance, I get bored of being this good.”
So what are Ian’s chances for the season ahead? In goal there is Kasper Schmeichel, which is a solid choice, with many expecting a good season for Leicester now that  bleached teeth Brendan Rodgers has taken charge. There is also back up for Foxy with Southampton’s Angus Gunn.
In defence the No-Hopers can boast the two most expensive defenders at this year’s auction, as the Foxmesister showed his muscle with the signing of Andrew Robertson for £8.2m, only to smash the record bid 10 minutes later with the £8.9m purchase of Virgil Van Dijk.  Judging on last season’s performances these two are as good as having any top quality forward having both outscored the attacking talent of Aguero, Aubameyang, Kane and Mane.  In fact it was only Salah and Sterling who scored more points, and that was only by a margin of 16.  Elsewhere at the back, Ian shall be hoping that Mina is the choice alongside Keane at Everton with Zouma now back at Chelsea, and he also has Schar of Newcastle to finalise what would probably be his first choice back 4.
After spending £26.75m on goalkeepers and defenders there appeared to be a look of slight panic and worry in Foxy’s face, in-fact we had not seen such a worried look since Ian thought he was going to be kicked out of his home after instigating the theft of a case of Chataeu-neuf du-Pape.

There was no worry needed as he spent wisely on a midfield at a total cost of £13.55m.  In central midfield he has the free-kick expertise and creativity of Neves and Maddison, as well as investing in young talent such as Barnes of Leicester and McNeil of Burnley. Trossard from Brighton appears to be a player who could score goals and he has the banker 2 pointer in Kante.

In attack, Foxy is expecting Calvert-Lewin to have his breakthrough season, although this could be squandered by Everton’s signing of Moise Kean, fortunately for Ian he managed to sign the former Juve man after the auction.  To partner Calvert-Lewin or Kean, Roberto Firmino has signed a new contract and is preparing himself for a second season at Nobby Park.  There was much delight from Foxy in Firmino putting pen to paper, with a punch in the air and shouting “Get in there”, but what followed put a dampener on the celebration with Salah going for £5m.  It is very easy to look on in hindsight (and all managers apart from Darrell and Duncan would feel the same for their teams), but had Ian waited and purchased Mane or Salah, we would probably be looking at another Foxy title.
All in all though it is a good squad from the champion of champions and we expect much improvement from last season.  The No-Hopers should be making a challenge in both league and cup, with success very much depending on Van Dijk and Robertson being defensively as good as last season.
League Prediction: 2nd
Cup Prediction: Semi final
Key Player: Andrew Robertson

Manager: Jason Toman
Team: I’m Spartacus
Over the last 2 seasons it has been very much what could have been for Jase if it had not been for goalkeeping issues.  Mr T has finished 5^th in the last 2 seasons, but stats have shown that he would have been close to winning the league had it not been for a goalkeeping crisis that led to fielding ghost keepers for long durations.This season Jason has Tom Heaton in goal, who has recently moved from Burnley to Aston Villa and shall be a guarantee starter. He also has Begovic and Bourc of Bournemouth, although there has been some mystery on who shall be the Cherries number 1.

As usual Jase has plenty of options in defence, he wisely picked up both Tottenham right backs in Trippier and Aurier and although Trippier has left he has the money to spend (it would be just Jase’s luck that Foyth or Walker-Peters takes that right back spot).  To add to the Spurs contingent he has Danny Rose at left back, and unless there is movement from overseas he could well be staying at Tottenham.  Another decent purchase is Zinchenko who ended up being the chosen left back for Man City last season and he has Liverpool’s Matip as well as the world’s greatest centre back Dejan Lovren (self-proclaimed of course).  His final top 4 club defender is Alonso of Chelsea, it shall be interesting to see if Lampard chooses him or Emerson as his preferred choice at left back.
The big money buy in midfield is the creative and goal scoring Ryan Fraser at £6m who was in fantastic form last season.  If you take into account Eden Hazard has left the premiership, whilst Salah, Sterling and Mane have moved to forwards, Fraser was the highest scoring midfielder last season on 147 points.  To support key contributions and goals in midfield Jason also has options of  Willian, Albrighton and James, and although some of the Trippier money could be spent to strengthen these positions, there is an expectation of a 4-3-3 approach from Jase.
It is in attack where I’m Spartacus have some real quality options.  Harry Kane is the main man following his £8.8m transfer from Under Andover and if Danny Ings stays injury free he shall be in line for some goals and assists.  Unfortunately Leroy Sane who racked up a total of 129 points last season has torn his ACL, but Jase has been able to add Arsenal’s £72m Nicolas Pepe to his attacking ranks. There are some other decent choices from two of the newly promoted sides Sheffield United and Aston Villa, with Jota (not to be mistaken for Wolves Dioga Jota) of Villa one worth looking out for.
There is a good mix to Jason’s I’m Spartacus, plenty of options especially in defence and attack and although the squad is not as mouth-watering as last season’s Eriksen, Sterling, Sane and Mane side, there is still some good quality. With a goalkeeper in toe we expect Jase to have another decent season and with Kane in attack I’m Spartacus should be flirting in and around the hunting pack.
League Prediction: 3rd
Cup Prediction: Group stage
Key man: Harry Kane

Manager: Iain ‘Jiggy’ Deuchars
Team: Charge of the Ox-Brigade
Jiggy has suffered a bit over the years in the FFFL. Having finished runner up in the league and cup in 2010/2011, he only followed up and mirrored it again 3 seasons later in 2013/2014.  It appears that these events really knocked the stuffing out of Iain, so much in-fact that he actually changed his team name to Jiggy’s Bottlers.
Since those so near yet so far seasons there has not been a real challenge, and in the last 2 seasons he has finished 11^th.  Last season by all accounts could have been a title challenge, but when you sign De Bruyne for £14m and he spends most of the season injured it is a bit of a choker.  Having mentioned that though, it is still a mystery on how, when you have the likes of Salah, Neves and Jimenez you still find yourself 3^rd from bottom.
Onto new horizons now, and with a new team name of Charge of the Ox-brigade there appears to be cause for optimism at Hell’s Kitchen. Deuchars has spent big on his man between the sticks, splashing out £6.1m on the undisputed number 1 goalkeeper (154 points) from last season Alisson. However, there was serious cause for concern when Mignolet left Liverpool, and with no back up
keeper, Jiggy had a sleepless night over Adrian.

The defence is made up of some solid performers with the purchase of Arsenal right back Hector Bellerin, Seamus Coleman of Everton, Connor Coady from Wolves and Watford’s Craig Cathcart.

To the midfield, and judging by the choice of team name it shall be very much dominated by former Southampton and Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, although elsewhere in the middle of the park there does not appear to be too much support in key contribution points and goals, apart from perhaps Matt Ritchie.

It is In attack though where Jiggy does have a good choice, with the likelihood of a 4-3-3 formation, Jota, Lacazette and Richarlison should provide plenty of goals and key contributions.

Overall it might be a bit of a struggle again at the wrong end of the table for Jiggy. The Liverpool goalkeepers and goal scoring attack could be let down by what appears to be potential limited points from midfield and a lack of any extra depth to his defence. Sorry Jiggy, but it looks like you might be waiting another season for that long overdue trophy, but on the plus side Mr Deuchars shall probably miss out on any Russian roulette chilli vodka shot.
League Prediction: 13th
Cup Prediction: Group stage
Key Player: Alisson Becker

Manager: Leon Garner

Team: Olympique Leonnais
Mr Garner returns to the league after eventually taking that long overdue sabbatical from the FFFL.  We are unsure on what Leon has been doing whilst away from the league, but it appears he could have been spending time learning the ropes of football procurement from his beloved Liverpool Football Club.  We all know the real-life history of Liverpool procuring Southampton players, and it seems Garner is copying the same strategy and trying to unearth the young talent at Southampton.  Key signings in his defence, midfield and attack all apply their trade at St Mary’s, with right back Yann Valery, winger Moussa Djenepo and centre forward Che Adams all moving to the Stadium of Shite, in-fact the only product from the current Liverpool side is defensive midfielder Fabinho.  It is not known if Leon has been in touch with Jurgen Klopp or that he just has a soft spot for his local side.

However, what is clear, that whilst away he has been scouting for potential and promising players and he obviously sees a good points return from these 3 Saints.
In goal Leon has Rui Patricio, Wolves claimed 9 clean sheets last season and never let in too many goals per games, in doing so they claimed the fifth best defensive record along with Everton.  There is also the option of Brighton’s Matt Ryan if Wolves have a particular difficult fixture one week, but last season Wolves performed better than most against any of the top 6.
In defence there should be enough to avoid ghosts and produce some decent point scoring with Chillwell, Holding, Diop, Emerson, Nathan Ake and the previous mentioned Valery in the mix.
On paper Leon’s midfield seems quite defensive, and although Fabinho, Douglas-Luiz, Rodri and Dndombele should be guaranteed 2 points most weeks they could be lacking in any real creativity for goals and key contributions.  It shall be interesting to see how new boys Rodri and Dndombele perform on the FFFL stage.
In attack Leon arguably has the best options of all managers with Wilfred Zaha, Calum Wilson, Che Adams and Jamie Vardy.  However it could become a bit of a headache in choosing which players to pick each week and which one he drops, especially if the player who misses out on selection scores while the others draw a blank. It is not a bad headache to have mind.
In review Leon has a good defensive spine with a very competent keeper in Rui Patricio, and although the midfield would appear a bit lightweight the Man City and Spurs new boys could turn out to be exceptional buys.  It is in attack where Mr Garner is deemed the strongest and with a formidable choice and a 4-3-3 formation he could surprise a few.  Although a title challenge is not anticipated a decent cup run and a delightful MOM shot could potentially be on the cards.
League Prediction: 10th
Cup Prediction: Group stage

Key man: Jamie Vardy

Manager: Mark Banham
Team: FC Banhamcelona
Consistency from Banhamcelona over the past few seasons has meant regular qualification for champions league football, but since the double runner-up spot to Sega Tigers in 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 there has not been a real title challenge and we see no difference this season.
Banham’s auction started off in fine fashion obtaining Man City’s Ederson for £4.8m and this was followed up with Banhamcelona’s number one target and most expensive purchase Trent Alexander-Arnold at £7.9m.

However, defensive quality did not continue as the value of defenders went sky high with Banham withdrawing bids for identified targets. In adding to Man City and Liverpool to keep out the goals there is the decent purchase of Johnny Castro Otto of Wolves, but then there are bottom half defenders and a heavy reliance on both Southampton and Newcastle. To be fair Newcastle had the 6th best defensive record last season and the 7th best record for clean sheets, but with Rafa now in China expectations are not as high under Steve Bruce. Any further rotation shall be with newly promoted Norwich (Matt Aarons) and Aston Villa (Bjorn Engels).
Midfield is probably where Mark has the best options for quality. Key contributions should come via set pieces from Joa Moutiniho and Pascal Gross, plus there are goals and assists in Youri Tielemans and Nathan Redmond.  Competition for midfield places has seen Banham scout the championship for the gifted Emi Buendia of Norwich, Aston Villa’s John McGinn, as well as the on loan Harry Wilson.

In attack the star man is Raul Jimenez who was exceptional for Wolves last season, the expectation shall be for him to reproduce once again in KCs and goals. As well as Jimenez, Banham has wisely signed Patrick Cutrone to cover any rotation, along with West Ham’s creative attacker Pablo Fornals and Teemu Pukki of Norwich.  If Norwich’s top scorer from last season can match half of his goal tally then the £1.35m out-lay shall be money well spent. Overall Banhamcelona have a decent squad with potentially a few hidden gems, but the lack of options of teams in defence could become costly, especially if there is an injury or loss of form to Alexander-Arnold.  Due to this we just cannot see a title challenge.
Key Player: Trent Alexander-Arnold
League Prediction: 5th
Cup Prediction: Group stage

Manager: Pat Whelan

Team name: Making Emile Of It
Pat had a fantastic second season in the FFFL finishing 7^th (above Berkshire rivals Jumpers For Goalposts) and reaching the CNDP Cup Final.  On producing such a decent season much pressure shall be added on the shoulders of Mr Whelan, so how shall Pat fare in his third season?
In goal is current England number 1 Jordan Pickford who has moved from N17 across to Making Emile Of It.  Pickford achieved 14 clean sheets last season which was the fourth best in the premiership. To add to his Everton contingent is the much in demand Lucas Digne.  Digne was sorted after by many of the top FFFL clubs, but he decided to stay and sign a new contract and show some loyalty.  Another player who has extended his stay is the impressive Matt Doherty of Wolves who provided plenty of assists, goals and clean sheets.  To add to Pat’s back line is Man Utd’s and expected Harry Maguire partner Victor Lindelof, as well as returning Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma.  This back four looks very solid with clean sheets and key contributions a plenty.

In midfield Bernardo Silva shall be pulling the strings and his quality shall produce many points, support is likely to be from of Wijnaldum, Kovacic, Stiepermann and Torreira, with the rest of the midfield very much bit part players.  Maybe Pat shall be on the phone to his Uncle Ronnie for a cameo.

In attack Martial and Moura are the big money signings, costing a total of £9.2m.  It shall be hoped that these 2 can  produce consistently and warrant a regular first team place for their real-life clubs.  If they can, then it could be a good partnership with both capable of scoring a decent return.

Overall Pat has assembled a decent defence with the loyal Digne and Doherty in-particular expected to produce the goods. With Bernard Silva in midfield there shall be plenty of key contributions, but perhaps he is lacking elsewhere in this position to support. In attack much improvement shall be expected of Martial who now has the number 9 shirt at Utd, whilst Moura shall require to do his champions league heroics often. We can see another good cup run for Pat this season, but we know his main priority shall be to finish above Benny.
League Prediction: 7th
Cup Prediction: Semi Final
Key Player: Bernardo Silva

Manager: Mark Sager
Team Name: Sega Tigers
When you set such high standards it then becomes difficult to match your achievements and this is what has happened to Mr Sager and his Sega Tigers.  After winning back to back titles in 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 the past 2 seasons have been somewhat of a disappointment with finishes of 8^th and 6^th.  So, can Sager regain his mojo and win the title for a third time in 5 seasons?
When checking the latest scores on a Saturday afternoon there is no doubt Mark shall be hoping to hear or read Tottenham nil and Manchester City nil, this is because he has 7  players from these 2 clubs in his goalkeeper and defender positions.  In goal is Hugo Lloris (plus Paulo Gazzaniga), then there are defenders Kyle Walker and Jan Veronghen who are likely to be starters, with further City options of Otamendi, Stones and Angelino.  There are some choices away from City and Spurs with Palaces’ Van Aarnhol and Andreas Christensen from Chelsea the pick of alternatives.
Reviewing the whole of Mr Sager’s squad we are expecting a likely 4-5-1 formation, with midfield points in-particular coming from Milivojevic and yet another Man City signing in David Silva.  In support of these two, Hernandez of Norwich could be added value, whilst you guessed it, another Man City signing Fernandinho maybe a regular along with Jack Wilshere (if injury free).
In attack it shall all be down to one man, yes, MANCHESTER CITY’S goal machine Sergio Aguero.

The only downfall here could be if any injuries or squad rotation occur because there is a severe lack of depth in the forwards department, unless young Man Utd forward Greenwood delivers.

With being able to field a defence of City and Spurs players, Mr Sager should definitely have a half decent season, any title challenge though shall very much hinge on the fitness of Aguero. If he stays fit most of the season, don’t be surprised to see the Tigers challenging, if however too many injuries occur, then squad limitation shall hinder Mark’s chances.
League Prediction: 8th
Cup Prediction: Group stage
Key Player: Sergio Aguero

Manager: Steve Hennessy
Team: The Portchy Plunderers

Steve finished second from bottom last season even though he had a decent squad, much of this then must have been down to him having the highest number of ghost players in the league (48).  With his last top 8 finish being back in 2011/2012, we think it is about time we saw an improvement from one of the eight original FFFL managers.
To this seasons squad and taking the number 1 jersey shall be Martin Dubrvka of Newcastle who performed well last season with 11 clean sheets and only 48 goals conceded, the stats meant he made the top 5 list of the best performing FFFL goalkeepers.  A huge gamble has been made on Man City left back Benjamin Mendy at £4.3m, the potential of points are high, but as Mr Sager shall tell you after having had him for 2 seasons, he spends most of his time on the treatment table.  If Mendy does finally return to full fitness he could be a great signings, although he might now be out of favour under Pep. Other options of defenders for the Plunderers include Boly of Wolves and Duffy from Brighton, along with Johnny Evans (Leicester), Michael Keane (Everton) and the recent signing of Kieran Tierney (Arsenal).  Some great choices.
In midfield the stand out signing is Kevin de Bruyne at £9.2m, having recovered from last season’s injury it is expected that he could be the top point scorer from midfield this coming campaign. There is more from the City midfield in Steve’s squad with Mahrez returning for a second season at The Plunderers, in what could be a bargain price of £3.6m.  Mahrez had limited game time last season, but with Sane injured and the pattern of Guardiola signing players and then implementing them more in the second season, it could be Mahrez points of old like when at Leicester.  To add to the quality  there are also some typical Steve signings in midfield, we all know Steve likes a workman like midfielder, so he has purchased Milner, McArthur and Dier, as well as shelling out £4.2m on Harry Winks.
Going into forwards and Steve had miscalculated his spending at the auction leaving him only £5.6m left for his attack. With limited funds a total of just £3.7m was spent on this area with Lukaku (£1m), Murray (£1m) and Benteke (£850k) his most expensive purchases.  With the balance of £1.9m left over and both Lukaku and Koscielny departing after the auction, it has allowed Steve to further strengthen his squad and he has since added the previously mentioned Kieran Tierney, as well as Spurs midfielder Giovani Lo Celso.  With what money Steve still has available a centre forward must surely now be of priority, otherwise he shall be heavily relying on Brighton’s Glenn Murray and Palace’s Christian Benteke.
Steve has a capable goalkeeper and some really great options in defence and with De Bruyne in your midfield and the potential of Mahrez scoring points like he did in his Leicester days there is a lot of positives.  It is in attack however where the portchy’s could plunder and a decent points in return forward might be required.  Like Alan we have to look at previous performances, Steve has more calibre in seasons gone by of performing well, but with 48 ghosts last season he shall need to carefully study his starting 11.  On paper Steve should do a lot better than last season, he might have to do that though via a 4-5-1 unless he recruits in attack.
League Prediction: 12th
Cup prediction: Group stage
Key man: Kevin De Bruyne

Manager: Tony Smithers
Team name: Big Tone’s Tattooed Mad Men
Big Tone produced a phenomenal campaign last season as he claimed not only the league title, but also the cup. 

This was quite a feat considering he had a very a competitive title race with Dunk’s N17 and in doing so he became only the third manager to achieve the league and cup double in the new champions league cup format (Sir Ian Fox and Mark Banham being the other two).

Onto the season ahead and it is a tough ask to retain the league title, with only Sir Ian Fox and Mark Sager achieving this within the past 25 years, but could Tony do it? We think he could be in with a shout.

In goal he has of course gone for Kepa of Chelsea and with the transfer embargo implemented on his beloved blues it shall be interesting to see how Chelsea fare this season, particularly in defence (much could depend on Rudiger). To add to Kepa, Dave returns to the fold as Azpilucutea signed a new contract to stay with Tone’s Tattooed  Mad Men, as has also Laporte of Manchester City.  We are unsure if there was a salary increase for these two, but an insider at the club has informed us that Tony’s negotiation skills involved a double head lock and knuckle rubbing on their heads until they signed.  Adding to the back line is ex Chelsea and Champions League winner Ryan Bertrand who looks a likely regular, but £1.2m Arsenal signing Mustafi might find himself out in the cold, meaning Tone’s selections is narrowed down to Cahill, Manquillo or Hanley.
Into the midfield and Eden Hazard is irreplaceable for Tone, so instead he has gone for quantity to plug that hole whilst looking at Raheem Sterling in attack to produce those missing Hazard points.  Declan Rice, Sean Longstaff, Mason Mount, Hudson-Odo, Jorginho and Keita provides plenty of choices, meaning there should rarely be a ghost.
In attack, as mentioned, Raheem Sterling shall lead the front line.  This signing has perhaps been overlooked with all the talk of Mane and Salah going so cheaply, but at £8m this is an absolute steal and Sterling could well be the highest points scorer this season.  To assist Raheem up front is Wesley Moraes from Aston Villa who appears to be the number one forward for Aston Villa.  As well as Wesley, Ashley Barnes was in a negotiation head lock and has another season with Tone and the £100k purchase of Tammy Abraham completes his options up top.
For Tony to repeat last season’s success could very much depend on his back up in defence and the reliance on 2 Chelsea players to provide those clean sheets (Rudiger and Kante are key). However, when you have the likes of Laporte and Sterling amongst your squad then you have a chance.
League Prediction: 6th
Cup Prediction: Semi final play off
Key man: Raheem Sterling

Manager: Ian Thompson
Team Name: The Battling Brummies
Finishing third last season was quite an accomplishment for Ian when you think he went into defenders having already spent over £8m on goalkeepers.  Having set very high standards over the years though Thompo deemed finishing third failure, and for a man with such pedigree in the FFFL he wants an improvement for the season ahead.

At this years’ auction Thompo went totally against the previous year as he spent the lowest amount of all mangers on goalkeepers at just £1.3m.  All the Palace keepers were signed for just £700k and he also wisely snapped up Nick Pope of Burnley for £500k, no doubt this was part of his strategy  fully aware that Tom Heaton was being touted to move away from Turf Moor.As usual the finest manager to come out of Nottingham since Brian Clough has a huge list of defenders at his disposal, the pick of them being Maguire and Rudiger, with the hope Sanchez gets more game time at Spurs than last season.  Any other selection can consist of numerous players from Villa, Bournemouth, West Ham, Sheffield United and Watford.
In midfield Thompo was given an early blow with David Brooks picking up an injury that could see him side-lined for up to 3 months, whilst Dele Ali is to miss the start of the season with a hamstring injury.  This though should not be of major concern as also in the Brummies’ midfield are Jack Grealish, Ross Barkley, Miguel Almiron, Phil Foden and the after auction purchase of Dani Ceballos.  Could Barkley finally shine this season and shall it be Foden’s breakthrough season?  This is bound to happen under Thompo.
In attack and straight after the auction Thompo might not have been totally satisfied with Jay Rodriguez, Fillipe Anderson,  Callum Robinson and hoping Gabriel Jesus shall share more game time with Sergio Aguero.  But with £2.4m left in the bank, money was wisely spent as he outbid all other managers to recruit Sebastian Haller and Joelinton, this has given him some great options.
Had the after auction signings of Haller and Joelinton not been made, then we might of been looking at an unusually poor season for The Battling Brummies. However, these two acquisitions have now changed the whole playing field for Ian, and if Gabriel Jesus plays a more pivotable role for Man City this season, then a title challenge shall look likely. We all know Thompo loves the cup, and after narrowly missing out on the final last season, we see a cup run that could venture one step further.
League Prediction: 3rd
Cup Prediction: Winner

Key man: Sebastian Haller

This concludes our preview of the forthcoming FFFL 2019/2020. Agree? Disagree? Then predict your own final league table standings below in the comments.