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Xavi Simons (knee), Wilson Odobert (knee) and Dejan Kulusevski (knee) are still out for Tottenham Hotspur, although fellow long-term absentee Mohammed Kudus (thigh) is “close”.

On Friday, Roberto De Zerbi gave mixed news on Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie, Micky van de Ven and Dominic Solanke.

While Porro’s no-shows are down to a deep run in the World Cup, the other two defenders have been nursing minor issues. As for Solanke, he’s not featured since a 45-minute run-out against Chelsea on August 1.

Two are fit, and two are not. But James Maddison and Matheus Fernandes, who featured in what was effectively a B-team friendly last weekend, will be involved.

“Micky [van de Ven] is not on the list tomorrow, like Pedro Porro. The other players are all inside [the squad list]. James Maddison is inside, Dom Solanke is inside, Udogie is inside, Matheus Fernandes is inside.” – Roberto De Zerbi

Pape Matar Sarr (abductor) is another addition to the injury list.

Check out our predicted XIs for the Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Gameweek 1 clash between Brentford and Tottenham Hotspur.

The match at Gtech Community Stadium kicks off at 17:30 BST on Saturday 22 August.

PREDICTED FPL GAMEWEEK 1 LINE-UPS

More in-depth team news is available here, updated with the latest press conference information.

The below line-ups could change after the pre-match pressers.

BRENTFORD

TOTTENHAM

PRE-SEASON FORM

Using our ultimate, in-depth pre-season guide, FPL managers can quickly find all 20 team previews, alongside articles on transfer activity, Pro Pundit team reveals and the best players for each price point.

There’s also a breakdown of the game’s new rules for 2026/27.

Our latest Fantasy Premier League (FPL) 2026/27 team preview focuses on Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham Hotspur, who keep spending big.

Here, we discuss their best FPL picks for the upcoming campaign. We’ll also attempt to predict the line-up for Gameweek 1, review pre-season, look at their set-piece takers and more.

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL

NEW ARRIVALS

After flirting with relegation, Tottenham have made a real statement of intent this summer, bringing in six new players, from the big-money midfield acquisitions to some savvy frees at the free.

Mateus Fernandes (£6.0m), Sandro Tonali (£5.5m), Jan Paul van Hecke (£5.0m), Marcos Senesi (£6.0m), Andrew Robertson (£4.5m) and Martin Dubravka (£4.0m) have already joined the squad, adding some much-needed Premier League experience.

De Zerbi has recently insisted that Spurs aren’t yet done in the transfer market, either.

THE DE ZERBI EFFECT

Just one point above the relegation places at the point of Igor Tudor’s departure, Tottenham ended 2025/26 with three wins, two draws and only one defeat from their final six matches.

De Zerbi injected new life into Spurs, with progress made at both ends of the pitch:

Tottenham conceded only four goals and kept two clean sheets in their last five matches, so there is a quiet confidence ahead of De Zerbi’s first full season in charge.

The importance of a full pre-season with his squad cannot be underestimated after he took over from Tudor at a very chaotic time, too.

REASONS TO BE FEARFUL

LACK OF CREATIVITY

Tottenham have been active in the summer transfer window, but after a poor season in front of goal, much more is needed up top.

In 2025/26, Spurs ranked 17th for expected goals (xG), with 40.04, which tells us there were real creativity issues.

Richarlison (£6.0m) was their top Premier League goalscorer with 11, but after that, there was a drop-off, with Joao Palhinha (five), Cristian Romero, Mathys Tel (£6.0m) and Micky van de Ven (£5.0m, all four) their next highest.

Injuries played a part, notably to creators such as Xavi Simons (£6.0m), James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus (all £6.5m), but there is clear work for De Zerbi to do from an attacking perspective.

Indeed, going into Gameweek 1, and despite all the money spent, we’re looking at Richarlison, Tel and even Mikey Moore (£5.0m) forming the front three!

N17 FORM

Tottenham’s home record in the Premier League was pitiful last season.

They won only three matches, with their total of 15 points fewer than every other team apart from relegated duo Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley.

In contrast, they secured 26 points while playing away, which is 11 points more than they achieved at home.

If Tottenham are to achieve anything in 2026/27, their home form simply has to improve.

TOTTENHAM: SUMMER TRANSFER ACTIVITY

Key Transfers In:

Key Transfers Out:

TOTTENHAM: PRE-SEASON FPL REPORTS

Form Players: Tel (1 goal, 3 assists), Richarlison (3 goals), Solomon (3 assists), Moore (2 goals), Fernandes (1 goal, 1 assist)

OPENING FIXTURES

Spurs’ first six matches sit in the middle of our Fixture Ticker. Last season’s equivalent fixtures ended with four defeats, one draw and that dramatic final-day home win over Everton.

Then again, their poor recent record versus Newcastle – six losses from nine in all competitions – means almost nothing, considering the huge changes at both clubs.

Gameweek 7 is where the schedule improves, ranked as the Ticker’s second-best between then and Gameweek 13.

Such a spell has them at home to two newly promoted teams, alongside solid trips to Leeds United and Sunderland.

With players back from injury and the transfer market shut by that point, this might be the time to pounce in FPL.

PENALTY + SET-PIECE TAKERS

Our latest Fantasy Premier League (FPL) 2026/27 team preview focuses on Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham Hotspur, who keep spending big.

Here, we discuss their best FPL picks for the upcoming campaign. We’ll also attempt to predict the line-up for Gameweek 1, review pre-season, look at their set-piece takers and more.

REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL

NEW ARRIVALS

After flirting with relegation, Tottenham have made a real statement of intent this summer, bringing in six new players, from the big-money midfield acquisitions to some savvy frees at the free.

Mateus Fernandes (£6.0m), Sandro Tonali (£5.5m), Jan Paul van Hecke (£5.0m), Marcos Senesi (£6.0m), Andrew Robertson (£4.5m) and Martin Dubravka (£4.0m) have already joined the squad, adding some much-needed Premier League experience.

De Zerbi has recently insisted that Spurs aren’t yet done in the transfer market, either.

THE DE ZERBI EFFECT

Just one point above the relegation places at the point of Igor Tudor’s departure, Tottenham ended 2025/26 with three wins, two draws and only one defeat from their final six matches.

De Zerbi injected new life into Spurs, with progress made at both ends of the pitch:

Tottenham conceded only four goals and kept two clean sheets in their last five matches, so there is a quiet confidence ahead of De Zerbi’s first full season in charge.

The importance of a full pre-season with his squad cannot be underestimated after he took over from Tudor at a very chaotic time, too.

REASONS TO BE FEARFUL

LACK OF CREATIVITY

Tottenham have been active in the summer transfer window, but after a poor season in front of goal, much more is needed up top.

In 2025/26, Spurs ranked 17th for expected goals (xG), with 40.04, which tells us there were real creativity issues.

Richarlison (£6.0m) was their top Premier League goalscorer with 11, but after that, there was a drop-off, with Joao Palhinha (five), Cristian Romero, Mathys Tel (£6.0m) and Micky van de Ven (£5.0m, all four) their next highest.

Injuries played a part, notably to creators such as Xavi Simons (£6.0m), James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus (all £6.5m), but there is clear work for De Zerbi to do from an attacking perspective.

Indeed, going into Gameweek 1, and despite all the money spent, we’re looking at Richarlison, Tel and even Mikey Moore (£5.0m) forming the front three!

N17 FORM

Tottenham’s home record in the Premier League was pitiful last season.

They won only three matches, with their total of 15 points fewer than every other team apart from relegated duo Wolverhampton Wanderers and Burnley.

In contrast, they secured 26 points while playing away, which is 11 points more than they achieved at home.

If Tottenham are to achieve anything in 2026/27, their home form simply has to improve.

TOTTENHAM: SUMMER TRANSFER ACTIVITY

Key Transfers In:

Key Transfers Out:

TOTTENHAM: PRE-SEASON FPL REPORTS

Form Players: Tel (1 goal, 3 assists), Richarlison (3 goals), Solomon (3 assists), Moore (2 goals), Fernandes (1 goal, 1 assist)

OPENING FIXTURES

Spurs’ first six matches sit in the middle of our Fixture Ticker. Last season’s equivalent fixtures ended with four defeats, one draw and that dramatic final-day home win over Everton.

Then again, their poor recent record versus Newcastle – six losses from nine in all competitions – means almost nothing, considering the huge changes at both clubs.

Gameweek 7 is where the schedule improves, ranked as the Ticker’s second-best between then and Gameweek 13.

Such a spell has them at home to two newly promoted teams, alongside solid trips to Leeds United and Sunderland.

With players back from injury and the transfer market shut by that point, this might be the time to pounce in FPL.

PENALTY + SET-PIECE TAKERS

Five-time top 1k finisher Tom Freeman hosts our weekly Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Q&A, answering your burning questions.

Q: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (£6.5m) or Iliman Ndiaye (£6.0m)?

(via waltzingmatildas)

A: Dewsbury-Hall and Ndiaye are the two main options to consider from the Everton attack.

Dewsbury-Hall is asked to do a bit of everything in midfield.

In his first season on Merseyside, he averaged 5.0 points per start, with eight goals and seven assists in 31 matches.

Ndiaye, meanwhile, provides the flair.

He netted six goals and supplied three assists in 32 matches, but only averaged a shot every 64.7 minutes, which is poor, particularly for an inside forward.

Here’s how Dewsbury-Hall and Ndiaye compared for minutes per expected goal involvement (xGI) last season:

Dewsbury-Hall might deliver a few corners and free-kicks, but he isn’t the main taker for Everton, whereas Ndiaye is on penalties.

Ndiaye also has the superior defensive contribution (DefCon) point potential:

Dewsbury-Hall: 7.9 DefCons per 90

Ndiaye: 9.22 DefCons per 90

I’d subsequently lean towards Ndiaye, especially as he’s cheaper.

Q: Has Roberto De Zerbi tightened up the Spurs defence, making Jan Paul van Hecke (£5.0m) and Marcos Senesi (£6.0m) viable options?

(via Pompel)

A: It’s hard to know just how defensively resilient Tottenham Hotspur will be this season.

It’s a very small sample size, but Spurs had a solid defensive structure under Roberto De Zerbi earlier this year.

The Italian is known for his attacking approach, but they didn’t do much of that at all. Instead, they went into survival mode, with only seven goals conceded and two clean sheets in seven matches.

In fact, from De Zerbi’s appointment in Gameweek 32, their xGC was the lowest of any top-flight team, including Arsenal:

I’m just not sure how much those numbers actually mean. With plenty of time on the training pitch this summer, I’d certainly expect Tottenham to play a more attacking, front-foot style this season.

But the early fixtures certainly aren’t the worst, and there are no European distractions either.

Micky van de Ven (£5.0m) hasn’t kicked a ball for Spurs in pre-season, so they will likely start with a centre-back partnership of van Hecke and Senesi.

Senesi is £6.0m, which is way too expensive in my opinion, so I’d probably fade him out.

However, van Hecke is much cheaper and should get some DefCons, having hit the threshold in 36.1% of his starts for Brighton last season. He’s a threat from set plays, too, so I think he’s fine to own.

Q: Is Sandro Tonali (£5.5m) a good Bench Boost option? He seems to be the more exciting pick compared to the likes of Mamadou Sangare (£5.5m), Ethan Ampadu (£5.5m) etc.

(via Buck The Trent)

A: I think Sandro Tonali is probably a wait-and-see.

He certainly improves Tottenham’s midfield; I’m just not convinced we’ll get much actual FPL output from him.

Last season, the majority of Tonali’s goal attempts were from outside the box (see image below), which resulted in a low 0.05 xG per shot figure.

A chance created every 80 minutes also wasn’t much to shout about.

It’s not like he’s a regular supplier of DefCons either, having hit the required threshold in only 11.4% of his starts for Newcastle United last season.

You could of course get lucky on a Bench Boost, but I much prefer the two £5.5m players we’re about to talk about…

Q: Mamadou Sangare or Pascal Gross (£5.5m)?

(via G-Whizz)

A: I really like both of these players, and consider them among the best £5.5m midfielders in the game.

Helped by a role on set plays, Gross’ creativity is key to his appeal.

He delivered six assists in 19 matches for Brighton last season, and was the fourth-best player for chances created (39) in that time.

His goal potential could be on the up, too.

While his open play threat is extremely limited (182.3 minutes per shot in the box in 2025/26), Gross might be the man to take penalties after Danny Welbeck’s (£6.0m) departure.

As for Sangare, I think he’ll go straight into the Brentford XI.

He was a DefCon monster in France (14.2 per 90!), so even in the tougher fixtures, has the potential to tick over with points.

He doesn’t have as many routes to points as Gross, so I think his ceiling is lower. However, his ball-winning ability looks perfect for Brentford, and he will sometimes arrive in central areas to shoot.

Given Brighton’s European involvement on either side of Saturday’s home encounter with Tottenham, plus some tricky fixtures in Gameweeks 2 and 5, I slightly prefer Sangare, but it is very close.

Q: Is playing Diego Gomez (£5.0m) viable?

(via Jacquet of all trades, mast…)

A: Brighton played the first leg of their European play-off tonight.

The fact that Diego Gomez (£5.0m) has started is a positive in my opinion, having limped off in last weekend’s friendly win over Bologna.

Assuming he came through Thursday unscathed, I think he’s a decent option for Gameweek 1, particularly with Karou Mitoma (£6.0m) and Yankuba Minteh (£6.0m) both out injured.

Longer-term, I think better £5.0m midfielders will emerge, likely the ones who tick over with DefCons.

However, as a short-term Bench Boost option, I think Gomez is fine to include.

Q: Is a 4-4-2 a viable formation to start with this season?

(via Jaws)

A: Yes, a 4-4-2 formation is absolutely viable to play.

In fact, it’s the system I plan to roll out in Gameweek 1, before potentially switching to a 5-3-2 the week after.

Centre-backs provided so much value last season thanks to DefCons, so if that volume continues, these types of formations should serve us well.

FPL pre-season: Thiaw goal + DefCon, Moore brace, still no Porro

August 17

FPL Marc

Continuing our look at the final pre-season friendlies before 2026/27 begins, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur both featured twice at the weekend.

And here are our Scout Notes for Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers…

NEWCASTLE UNITED 1-2 Bayer Leverkusen

Goals: Thiaw

Assists: Elanga

Saturday’s Newcastle United XI: Hornicek; M Miley (Pivas 81′), Thiaw, Botman, Hall; Steur, L Miley (Finneran HT); Elanga, Woltemade (Neave 86′), Barnes; Wissa

NEWCASTLE UNITED 1-1 Strasbourg (2-3 on penalties)

Goals: Osula

Assists: Murphy

Sunday’s Newcastle United XI: Jaouen; Shahar, Schar (Johnson HT), Burn (Pivas HT), Charlton; Bamba, Ramsey; Murphy (Neave 75′), Willock (Finneran 87′), Toure; Osula

SCOUT NOTES:

Matthias Jaissle picked a stronger XI on Saturday, versus Leverkusen, where Lewis Miley (£5.5m) played his first summer minutes. He came off at half-time, as planned.

But it only took 44 seconds for the clouds to gather once more, because Ibrahim Maza’s edge-of-the-box stinger flew past Lukas Hornicek (£5.0m).

Neatly summarising the Magpies’ summer, they had to change kit during the first-half hydration break because black-and-white looked too similar to Leverkusen’s very pale blue. Apparently lilac made things clearer!

Just before half-time, Malick Thiaw (£5.0m) headed in Anthony Elanga‘s (£6.0m) corner. He’s the best way to cover Newcastle’s backline, having been last season’s second-best defender for big chances (10) and third for expected goals (xG, 4.72). Here, Thiaw finished on 15 defensive contribution (DefCon) actions.

ABOVE: Defensive contributions for Malick Thiaw, Lewis Hall and Sven Botman versus Leverkusen, according to FotMob

Not that the team looks ready to keep any clean sheets. Substitute Victor Boniface won the match for Leverkusen.

Meanwhile, Sunday’s completely different lineup gave the Strasbourg friendly a Newcastle v Chelsea reserve match vibe.

For new club captain Dan Burn (£5.0m), these were his first 45 minutes since returning from England duty.

William Osula (£6.0m) netted five times during 2025/26’s closing seven matches, and looked bright here. He racked up five attempts, three shots on target and two big misses. However, he successfully scored when meeting Jacob Murphy‘s (£6.0m) cross.

As for DefCon, midfielders Aladji Bamba (£5.0m) and Joe Willock (£5.0m) both reached the 12-action threshold. Though the latter is probably on his way out.

Overall, Newcastle assets lack appeal because of lineup uncertainty, their new expected signings, and the generally negative feeling of how this season will go.

No player is currently owned by more than 4% of FPL managers, due to the worrying combination of defensive leakiness and being low on attacking ideas.

Full-back Amar Dedic is about to arrive from Benfica and should come straight into the Gameweek 1 lineup at home to Liverpool. Yes, 17-year-old Mason Miley played well there, but the Bosnian knows Jaissle’s requirements – such wisdom is needed right now.

Newcastle are lumbered with a shocking league record against Liverpool – no victory in 19 matches.

Whereas they have a good one versus the following opponent, Tottenham. Six wins in eight.

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 3-0 Hoffenheim

Goals: Richarlison, Moore (x2)

Assists: Robertson, Tel (x2)

Saturday’s Tottenham Hotspur XI: Kinsky; Gray, van Hecke, Senesi (Hardy 81′), Robertson; Tonali, Bergvall (Donley 87′); Moore (Adewole 81′), Gallagher (Hall 81′), Tel; Richarlison (Elliott-Parris 81′)

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 2-2 Hoffenheim

Goals: Davies, Williams-Barnett

Assists: Fernandes, Sarr

Sunday’s Tottenham Hotspur XI: Austin; Tye Hall, Danso, Davies, Souza (Byrne 69′); Fernandes, Sarr (Donley 87′), Bentancur; Williams-Barnett (Tyrese Hall 87′), Maddison (Elliott-Parris HT), Ajayi (Adewole 69′)

SCOUT NOTES:

Although things should go differently this time in Gameweek 2.

In the meantime, Spurs faced Bundesliga side Hoffenheim on consecutive days, with the first featuring a stronger XI in front of supporters.

Marcos Senesi (£6.0m) played his first pre-season minutes, but there was still no Pedro Porro (£5.5m) or Micky van de Ven (£5.0m), making it hard to justify picking the World Cup-winning Spaniard right now.

Despite matching their hosts’ 10 shots and having more touches in the opposition box, Hoffenheim lost Saturday’s clash 3-0.

New left-back Andrew Robertson (£4.5m) could be a handy, same-priced alternative to popular goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky (£4.5m). It was he who assisted Richarlison‘s (£6.0m) swept-in left-footed finish by the penalty spot. That’s three pre-season strikes for the Brazilian.

Later, a menacing Mathys Tel (£6.0m) run set up Mikey Moore (£5.0m), and the same duo made it 3-0 when Tel spotted a good gap, allowing Moore to control and place into the far bottom corner.

The 19-year-old scored seven times during last season’s loan spell at Rangers, and started the previous weekend’s meeting with Getafe.

Perhaps the cheap FPL asset has earned an initial place as Roberto De Zerbi’s right-sided winger, but be aware that Moore is being linked with another loan, this time to Koln.

‘DefCon watch’ credits Archie Gray (£5.0m) and Jan Paul van Hecke (£5.0m) with 14 and 12 actions respectively.

Elsewhere, the interesting team news from Sunday’s training ground friendly is that James Maddison (£6.5m) made his first start in almost a year. Back from a serious knee injury, he made way at half-time.

A penalty put the visitors ahead, but Matheus Fernandes‘ (£6.0m) cross was soon glanced in by Ben Davies (£4.0m).

Thanks to Pape Matar Sarr (£5.0m) setting up Lucá Williams-Barnett, Spurs overturned the deficit.

Not long after Valentin Gendrey equalised, centre-back Kevin Danso‘s (£5.0m) header hit the bar.

So, Spurs positively enter the 2026/27 campaign, unbeaten across all friendlies. Of course, they began last season with three victories and clean sheets in four, before things became calamitous.

Their defensive assets are well-owned, but it’s not the same in attack. Probably because none of Tottenham’s first five matches will be against either the top few or the newly promoted.

FPL pre-season: Estevao superb, Pedro unlucky + Tzolis debut

August 2

FPLReactions

Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal all continued their pre-season preparations on Saturday.

We round up the key Fantasy Premier League (FPL) talking points from both matches.

CHELSEA 1-2 SPURS

Goals: Estevao | Tonali, Richarlison

Assists: Gittens | Solomon, Donley

Chelsea starting XI: Sharman-Lowe; Palestra (Acheampong 80), Fofana (Tosin 80), Colwill (Sarr 80), Hato (Anselmino 62); Essugo (Watson 80), Lavia (Nicoll-Jazuli 46); Estevao (Satpayev 69), Palmer (Walsh 80), Gittens (Kellyman 80); J Pedro (Delap 80)

SCOUT NOTES

Chelsea suffered a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in Sydney, but the scoreline failed to reflect their dominance after the break. Xabi Alonso’s side controlled the second half following Kevin Danso‘s (£5.0m) dismissal and created enough chances to win the match, only to come up against an inspired Antonín Kinsky (£4.5m).

Alonso again stuck with a 4-2-3-1 formation rather than the back-three many expected when he arrived at Stamford Bridge, suggesting it could become Chelsea’s preferred system heading into the new campaign.

The match also brought several important returns. Levi Colwill (£5.0m) made his first start after the long-term injury that ruled him out for much of last season, while Roméo Lavia (£5.0m) returned after missing Chelsea’s previous friendly with a minor muscle issue. Jorrel Hato (£4.5m) also started at left-back after returning from his break, although reports continue to link the Blues with another signing in that position, leaving some uncertainty over who will start once the Premier League season begins.

One player who continues to strengthen his FPL appeal is Estêvão (£6.5m). The Brazilian scored his first goal of pre-season after drifting away from his marker to power home Jamie Gittens’ (£6.0m) inviting cross at the back post. He also took one of Chelsea’s indirect free-kicks and could easily have added to his tally after the interval. João Pedro (£7.5m) slipped him through after winning possession high up the pitch, but Kinský produced an outstanding save before denying him again from close range minutes later. On another day, Estêvão could easily have left Sydney with a hat-trick.

Gittens also impressed again. The winger supplied Estêvão’s goal with an excellent delivery and continued the encouraging form he showed in Chelsea’s previous outing. His direct running repeatedly stretched the Tottenham defence, and he looks increasingly comfortable under Alonso.

João Pedro was unfortunate not to register an attacking return despite another influential display. The Brazilian missed a good chance from close range early on before using his pace to burst through on goal shortly after half-time. Danso hauled him down with only the goalkeeper to beat, leaving the referee with little choice but to produce a red card. Pedro then created another excellent opportunity for Estêvão and later saw a close-range effort brilliantly kept out by Kinský.

Chelsea’s attack created plenty of opportunities after the dismissal. Cole Palmer (£9.5m), again operating as the No 10, curled the resulting free-kick narrowly wide before later seeing another effort blocked after good work from Marco Palestra (£5.5m), who continued to show his attacking instincts by regularly getting forward from right-back and looking to deliver crosses into the box.

The Blues’ only real defensive concern came from Tottenham’s opening goal, when a deflected effort wrong-footed Teddy Sharman-Lowe. They otherwise restricted Spurs to very little after the interval before conceding a frustrating stoppage-time winner through Richarlison (£6.0m) following Jamie Donley‘s strike against the post.

After the match, Alonso admitted Chelsea struggled to control possession during spells of the first half but praised his side’s organisation before the game changed after the red card:

“The first half was really tight. There were moments where we could have kept the ball a little bit more, especially in the last 10 minutes. We were not conceding, so it was important not to lose our shape and not to lose our plan in those moments.” – Xabi Alonso

The Chelsea head coach also felt the second-half performance deserved more:

“The context changed completely with 10 men. We were really close to scoring. You want to win, but that isn’t the important thing at this stage.” – Xabi Alonso

Overall, Chelsea produced another encouraging attacking display despite the defeat. Estêvão, Gittens and João Pedro all impressed again. Alonso has now used a 4-2-3-1 formation in consecutive friendlies. That is another trend worth monitoring. Whilst they did lose, FPL managers should be extremely interested ahead of the new season based on that display.

Tottenham Hotspur XI: Kinsky, Gray, van Hecke (Danso 46), Davies (Takai 81), Robertson (Kyerematen 72, Tingey 90), Bergvall (Tye Hall 72), Tonali (Donley 81), Gallagher (Hardy 54), Solomon (Moore 67), Solanke (Richarlison 46), Tel (Williams-Barnett 76)

SCOUT NOTES

Tottenham Hotspur maintained their unbeaten pre-season with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Chelsea. That was despite playing almost the entire second half with 10 men following Danso’s dismissal. Roberto De Zerbi named his strongest side of pre-season so far, offering several fresh clues for FPL managers ahead of the new campaign.

There was also an important fitness update before kick-off. James Maddison (£6.5m) and Mateus Fernandes (£6.0m) both remained absent after picking up minor issues. However, De Zerbi insisted neither problem is considered serious:

“James has a small problem. I don’t want to take any risks, especially because he suffered a long injury last season. He’s an important player for us.

“The same for Mateus Fernandes. It is not the right moment to take risks. We will work again when we are back in London.” – Roberto De Zerbi

The match also saw several key players return. Dominic Solanke (£6.0m) started after missing the previous friendly as a precaution, while summer signings Jan Paul van Hecke (£5.0m) and Andy Robertson (£4.5m) both made their first starts for Spurs. Antonín Kinský (£4.5m) also returned between the posts after Martin Dúbravka (£4.5m) featured last time out and produced an outstanding display that should strengthen his case to begin the Premier League season as first-choice goalkeeper.

De Zerbi again used a 4-2-3-1 formation. Conor Gallagher (£5.5m) partnered Sandro Tonali (£5.5m) in central midfield, while Mathys Tel (£6.0m) started on the left, Manor Solomon operated from the right, and Solanke led the line.

Tottenham looked sharp during the first half and deservedly took the lead after 17 minutes. Solomon slid the ball into Tonali’s path, and the Italian drilled a low effort into the net via a slight deflection. It continued an encouraging trend for the summer signing, who has regularly looked willing to test the goalkeeper from distance whenever opportunities arise.

Solomon impressed again. The winger carried his strong pre-season form into another lively display and supplied Tonali’s goal with an intelligent cut-back after good work down the right flank.

Tel also continued to strengthen his FPL credentials. The Frenchman fired a first-time effort over following a loose Chelsea pass before producing another driving run that forced Sharman-Lowe into a smart save. Like previous friendlies, he looked confident whenever he received possession and remained one of Tottenham’s biggest attacking threats.

The game changed shortly after the restart when half-time substitute Danso was sent off for hauling down Pedro as the last defender. Chelsea dominated possession from that point, but Spurs refused to buckle.

Much of that resilience came from Kinský. The goalkeeper produced a string of outstanding saves. He first tipped Estêvão’s deflected effort onto the crossbar before denying the Brazilian again from close range. Kinsky then reacted brilliantly to keep out João Pedro after a dangerous back pass almost gifted Chelsea a goal. It was arguably the standout individual performance of the match.

Robertson also offered encouragement from an attacking perspective. The Scotland international took Tottenham’s indirect free-kicks and looked creative whenever opportunities arose to deliver into the box before eventually making way late on.

Their decisive moment eventually arrived deep into stoppage time. Donley struck the post from range. Richarlison reacted quickest to convert the rebound from close range, maintaining Tottenham’s unbeaten pre-season record.

After the match, De Zerbi praised his players for the performance:

“We played very well in the first half. The red card changed the game for us and for Chelsea. It’s important to change the habits. We have to believe in the result until the end, even if we stay one player less.” – Roberto De Zerbi

The Spurs boss also highlighted several players who exceeded their planned workload:

“Sandro Tonali, Archie Gray and Ben Davies all played more than the plan before the game. I am so happy for the young players because they have been very important for us.” – Roberto De Zerbi

Kinský also received special praise after another excellent display:

“He has all the qualities to become one of the best, especially with his build-up and distribution.” – Roberto De Zerbi

Overall, Spurs produced another encouraging display. Tonali continued to catch the eye in midfield, while Tel and Solomon both remained lively in attack. Kinský was outstanding and may now have moved into pole position to start the season in goal. De Zerbi has also continued with a 4-2-3-1 formation, another tactical trend worth monitoring over the coming weeks.

ARSENAL 4-1 GIRONA

Goals: Havertz, Tzolis, Dowman, Jesus

Assists: Dowman, Calafiori, Lewis-Skelly, White

Arsenal XI: Arrizabalaga (Meslier 61), White (Clarke 61), Mosquera (Copley 61, Julienne 85), Hincapie (Salmon 32), Calafiori (Ogunnaike 61), Lewis-Skelly (Ibrahim 61), Havertz (Vieira 32, Clarke 61), Nwaneri (O’Neill 61), Dowman (Nelson 61), Tzolis (Kabia 61), Gyokeres (Jesus 32, Agustien 85)

SCOUT NOTES

Arsenal opened their public pre-season schedule with a convincing 4-1 victory over Girona in Spain.

The match itself looked fairly balanced statistically, but Arsenal showed far more quality in both boxes. Mikel Arteta’s side took their chances well and responded quickly after conceding early in the second half.

Several major names missed out. Bukayo Saka (£9.5m), Declan Rice (£7.5m), Gabriel Magalhães (£8.0m) and William Saliba (£6.0m) were among the notable absentees, with Saliba facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury.

Kai Havertz (£7.5m) operated in midfield rather than leading the line, while Viktor Gyökeres (£7.5m) started up front. Havertz, Gyökeres and Piero Hincapié (£5.5m) all featured for around half an hour as Arsenal managed their workloads following the World Cup.

Havertz opened the scoring after an excellent pass from Max Dowman (£5.5m) released him through the middle. The German carried the ball into the area and calmly finished past Paulo Gazzaniga.

It marked an encouraging return for Havertz, who later confirmed he feels ready for the new season:

“I feel good, feel strong and I’m ready to go. You saw already the connections we had on the pitch. It was a good test for us and I think we played strong.” – Kai Havertz

Dowman produced one of the standout performances. The teenager created the opening goal before adding Arsenal’s third with a superb long-range finish after cutting inside from the right.

He also drove into the Girona box shortly before half-time and appealed for a penalty. The referee waved play on, but his confidence and direct running caused problems throughout. Arteta praised Dowman after the match:

“We know what he’s capable of doing. We want to be more consistent in terms of the performances and the actions that he can deliver. I think today he had a really good game.” – Mikel Arteta

Summer signing Christos Tzolis (£6.5m) also made an immediate impact on his Arsenal debut. The winger started on the left and took an early indirect free-kick, which led to Calafiori heading straight at the goalkeeper.

Tzolis then scored Arsenal’s second goal. Calafiori fed him down the left before the Greek international drove into the box and powered a low finish into the far corner. He also created a promising opening for Gyökeres, although his pass arrived slightly behind the striker. That prevented the Swede from making clean contact. Arteta highlighted Tzolis’ direct style and early adaptation.

“I’m very pleased with him. First of all, the way he has adapted to the club and to the team. He’s a very direct player. He’s really good at linking up. He comes with so much hunger and wants to prove it.” – Mikel Arteta

Gyökeres led the line but struggled to make a major impact before leaving the pitch after around 30 minutes. Arsenal’s best moments often came through Havertz, Dowman and Tzolis attacking the spaces around him.

Gabriel Jesus (£6.0m) replaced Gyökeres and added Arsenal’s fourth shortly after Girona pulled one back. Ben White (£5.5m) won the ball high up the pitch, allowing Jesus to race clear and finish decisively.

Girona’s goal came from a corner. Arnau Martínez escaped his marker and powered a header beyond the goalkeeper, providing Arsenal’s only major defensive setback of the contest.

Kepa Arrizabalaga (£5.0m) started between the posts before Illan Meslier (£5.0m) made his Arsenal debut after the hour mark. Meslier quickly produced two smart saves to deny Abel Ruiz. His arrival could create further uncertainty around Kepa’s long-term future at the club.

Arsenal continued to control the match after making nine substitutions. The changes reduced the tempo, although the younger players still gained valuable minutes. Arteta felt the performance offered several positive signs:

“I’ve seen a lot of things that make me very, very positive. We know the qualities and the capacity that we have to compete with any other team. We need to prove that we belong at this level.” – Mikel Arteta

Overall, Arsenal made an impressive start to pre-season. Dowman stole the show with a goal and an assist, while Tzolis marked his debut with a confident finish. Key players are yet to return, though. So we could see Arsenal go from strength to strength during pre-season.

Next on our 2026/27 price list analysis, a look at the best budget Fantasy Premier League (FPL) goalkeepers, starting at £4.0m and £4.5m.

Can a £4.5m option match Caoimhin Kelleher‘s (£5.0m) achievements from last season and finish as the second-highest scoring goalkeeper? Third-placed Robin Roefs (£5.0m) also began there.

And, although the £4.0m bracket seems to lack starters, which players could be their club’s number two?

Let’s take a look…

BEST £4.5m GOALKEEPERS

BART VERBRUGGEN (BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION)

A recent article compared last season’s points to this year’s prices, and one interesting conclusion is that Verbruggen is 2026/27’s best value £4.5m goalkeeper.

Brighton needed to wait until November for their first clean sheet but, near the end, had a run of five in 10. In fact, from Gameweek 28 onwards, they limited opponents to a league-low 18 big chances.

Of all regularly seen stoppers, Verbruggen could claim the second-best rate at saving shots on target (74.6%), partly explaining why the Seagulls conceded the third-smallest number of goals (46, see image below), fourth-fewest shots on target (142) and fifth-lowest expected goals conceded (xGC, 49.13).

As well as being good value, our ‘Rate My Team’ (RMT) points projection tool thinks such late momentum can carry over. He’s predicted to be the top scorer at this price between Gameweeks 1 and 6, helped by early meetings against Leeds United and Coventry City.

ANTONIN KINSKY (TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR)

Currently, Guglielmo Vicario (£4.5m) is next-best on RMT. But with the Italian expected to leave Spurs, that tally can instead be shifted onto Kinsky, whose late-season redemption arc will have massively boosted his confidence.

Having started well with three wins and clean sheets in four matches, Spurs had a terrible season, once again finishing 17th. New Year’s Day began a horror spell of gaining just six points from the next 15 matches. It made relegation look not only possible, but likely.

So, when Vicario’s hernia injury put Kinsky between the sticks, fans feared the worst. After all, the young Czech had recently been humiliated when two huge Champions League errors versus Atletico Madrid led to a brutal 17th-minute substitution.

However, great closing saves from Joao Gomes (£5.5m), Joe Rodon (£4.5m) and Sean Longstaff (£5.0m) helped clinch survival. Should Roberto De Zerbi keep faith in the 23-year-old, he could be a good pick – though Spurs don’t face a promoted side until Gameweek 7.

DJORDJE PETROVIC (BOURNEMOUTH)

After Verbruggen, the second-best £4.5m goalkeeper for points per million per match (PPMPM) is Petrovic. Bournemouth boast the longest active unbeaten run throughout Europe’s top five leagues, not losing in an incredible 18 matches.

Under Andoni Iraola, the Cherries’ defence was especially strong at home, placing second for xGC (16.55) and being the best at limiting opposition big chances (20, see image below).

It’s worth mentioning the huge overachievement of Gameweeks 24 to 30, mind. They conceded three goals in seven matches, despite 11.41 xGC. This explains why, overall, Petrovic needed to make the joint-third most saves (109).

Yet a few challenges await Bournemouth. They’ll be juggling European football for the first time in their history, on the back of losing Marcos Senesi (£6.0m) and Iraola.

Furthermore, new head coach Marco Rose inherits a tough early six-game schedule, ranked second-worst on our free Fixture Ticker. They won’t meet a promoted team until Gameweek 10.

BERND LENO (FULHAM)

There’s also a new boss at Fulham, an appointment that arguably looks risky. As well as saying goodbye to Marco Silva, supporters have seen Raul Jimenez and Harry Wilson (£6.5m) leave for free, without any newly-bought starters at the time of writing.

If hiring Alvaro Arbeloa doesn’t pay off, the Cottagers could be in trouble.

While Fulham conceded the fifth-fewest shots on target (145), they also allowed the third-most big chances (96), making it hard to assess their true defensive quality.

This is partly why Leno is currently the lowest-owned of these four candidates, though fixtures don’t help. A tough first five, before things improve, facing Ipswich Town (a), Hull City (h) and Coventry City (a) in succession.

THE PROMOTED SIDES

Speaking of which, let’s switch attention to the three newbies.

COVENTRY

FPL have Ben Wilson at £4.5m, but he was only seen in cup games due to Carl Rushworth‘s (£4.5m) loan spell.

The latter started all 46 league matches, helping the Sky Blues have the tightest backline (45 conceded).

Frank Lampard wants to buy Rushworth permanently but, regardless, their opening six matches fare poorly on the Ticker.

IPSWICH

Whereas second-placed Ipswich are moving Christian Walton (£4.5m) to the side for new purchases Kayne van Oevelen (£4.5m) and 6ft 9in giant Kjell Scherpen.

After a low start of one clean sheet in 10, the team successfully shut out 15 of their final 32 opponents to settle on a total of 17. They came second for xGC (46.60).

Whoever Gary O’Neil proceeds with, Ipswich rank fourth for fixtures up to Gameweek 6.

HULL

As for the play-off winners, they’ve moved Ivor Pandur to Rangers and bought Jack Butland (£4.5m) in exchange. But Konstantinos Tzolakis is rumoured to be joining too.

Either way, Hull weren’t exactly known for a tight Championship defence. They got promoted despite conceding the fourth-most goals (66) and second-most expected ones (80.10).

BEST £4.0m GOALKEEPERS?

Because the promoted trio had someone priced at £4.5m before signing their true number one, we can’t even say that these have a £4.0m primary back-up!

As of now, there are seemingly only four minimum-priced goalkeepers who are one injury or suspension away from stepping in: Fraser Forster (Bournemouth), Jason Steele (Brighton), Benjamin Lecomte (Fulham) and Martin Dubravka (Tottenham).

Basically, the Petrovic, Verbruggen, Leno and Kinsky understudies.

Unless there’s a desire to own multiple attackers, it might be worth doubling up on such clubs. Alternatively, which of those four starters is most likely to be dropped? Perhaps Kinsky for Dubravka.

FPL pre-season: Jesus again, Wilson debut + why DCL missed out

July 27

FPLReactions

Nottingham Forest, Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur all continued their pre-season preparations over the weekend.

We’ll take a look at the key talking points from these matches, including team selection, minutes, injuries, tactical changes and the players who stood out from a Fantasy perspective.

LEEDS 2-3 WREXHAM

Goals: Longstaff, Piroe

Assists: Longstaff, Mills

First half XI: Cairns, Ampadu, Rodon, James, Longstaff, Piroe, Justin, Gnonto, Cresswell, Lienou, Mills.

Second half XI: Perri, Bogle, Rodon, Ampadu, Justin, Tanaka, Stach, Wilson, Nmecha, Gnonto (Chadwick 75’), James (Pickles 75’).

SCOUT NOTES

Leeds United began their pre-season preparations with a 3-2 defeat to Wrexham in Florida. Despite the result, Daniel Farke’s side created the better chances for much of the contest.

Sean Longstaff (£5.0m), Harry Wilson (£6.5m), Lukas Nmecha (£5.5m) and Lucas Perri (£4.5m) all featured. Farke also handed valuable minutes to several academy players.

Leeds travelled without Illan Meslier (£5.0m), who recently joined Arsenal. New signing Tarik Muharemovic (£5.0m), along with Noah Okafor (£6.0m), Brenden Aaronson (£5.5m) and Gabriel Gudmundsson (£4.5m), also missed out after featuring at the World Cup.

According to The Athletic’s Beren Cross, Dominic Calvert-Lewin (£6.0m) has suffered a small injury setback. Jaka Bijol (£5.0m) missed the match with a knee knock. Leeds also chose not to risk Sebastiaan Bornauw (£4.5m).

Farke again mixed experience with youth. He named separate XIs for each half. Joe Rodon (£4.5m) and Ethan Ampadu (£5.5m) featured in both defensive units. Academy youngsters Callum Mills, Jayden Lienou and Alfie Cresswell all started.

Longstaff impressed in the middle of the park. The midfielder supplied the assist for Joel Piroe’s (£5.0m) clever backheel equaliser. He then curled Leeds’ second goal into the top corner before half-time.

Piroe endured a mixed afternoon. The Dutch striker missed an early penalty after Daniel James (£5.0m) won the spot-kick. However, he responded well by finding the net later in the half. James also looked dangerous throughout. His pace caused Wrexham problems whenever Leeds attacked.

Wilfried Gnonto (£5.0m) also impressed. He forced Arthur Okonkwo into another smart save moments after the restart. The Italian linked up well with Piroe and James throughout the match.

Wilson made his Leeds debut after replacing Piroe at half-time. The Wales international almost scored in stoppage time. His curling effort drifted narrowly over the crossbar. FPL managers will no doubt be monitoring him this season after a fantastic 2025/26 campaign.

Leeds looked less convincing at the back. Kieffer Moore opened the scoring inside the opening minute. Bailey Cadamarteri restored Wrexham’s lead before half-time after breaking through the Leeds defence. Farke’s side controlled long spells after the break. However, Sam Smith struck the winner on the counter five minutes from time.

Farke refused to dwell on the result:

“Normally we should have won this game. We had more possession, we had more chances and should have scored more goals than them, but they were effective.” – Daniel Farke

The Leeds boss also revealed his players had trained twice a day throughout the week. They even trained on the morning of the match. Farke stressed that building fitness and integrating new signings remain the priorities at this stage of pre-season.

SPURS 2-0 AUCKLAND

Goals: Scarlett, Richarlison

Assists: Solomon, Tel

Spurs: Austin, Tye Hall (Russell-Denny 87), Hardy (Byrne 79), Takai (Tingey 87), Kyerematen (Davies 62), Donley (Fernandes 62), Gray (Gallagher 62), Williams-Barnett (Tel 62), Moore (Yang 62), Solomon (Tyrese Hall 79), Scarlett (Richarlison 62).

SCOUT NOTES

Tottenham Hotspur continued their pre-season with a 2-0 victory over Auckland FC in New Zealand. Roberto De Zerbi again rotated heavily, handing opportunities to several youngsters before introducing a host of senior players just after the hour mark.

Spurs were without several first-team players once again. Pedro Porro (£5.5m), Djed Spence (£4.5m) and summer signing Marcos Senesi (£6.0m) remained absent after featuring at the 2026 World Cup. Cristian Romero (£5.0m) also missed out amid continued speculation over his future. Rodrigo Bentancur (£5.5m) and Pape Matar Sarr (£5.0m) remain on extended leave.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Kudus (£6.5m), Xavi Simons (£6.0m), Dejan Kulusevski (£6.5m) and Wilson Odobert (£5.5m) continued their rehabilitation at Hotspur Way. Guglielmo Vicario (£4.5m) also stayed behind after picking up a minor knock in training. Rumours continue to circulate about his eventual departure from Spurs. James Maddison (£6.5m), Destiny Udogie (£4.5m), Andy Robertson (£4.5m), Micky van de Ven (£5.0m) and Jan Paul van Hecke (£5.0m) were also absent but have all been confirmed in the travelling squad for the remainder of the tour.

De Zerbi again trusted his younger players from the start. Archie Gray (£5.0m) captained a youthful side featuring eight academy graduates, while many of Tottenham’s senior names only entered the game shortly after the hour mark.

Manor Solomon continued his encouraging start to pre-season after another lively display. The winger had already impressed against MK Dons. He again caused problems down the left, setting up Dane Scarlett’s (£4.5m) opener after his volley was saved. Solomon also missed a big chance of his own before making way late in the second half.

Scarlett opened the scoring after just 12 minutes. The striker reacted quickest after Solomon’s effort had been parried and tapped home from close range. He remained a threat throughout the first half and twice tested goalkeeper Michael Woud before being replaced.

Gray also impressed. The midfielder won possession high up the pitch to begin the move for Tottenham’s opener and repeatedly drove Spurs forward. His performance highlighted why De Zerbi entrusted him with the captain’s armband.

The game changed after 62 minutes when De Zerbi introduced more experienced players, including Ben Davies (£4.0m), Conor Gallagher (£5.5m), new signing Mateus Fernandes (£6.0), Mathys Tel (£6.0m) and Richarlison (£6.5m).

Tel immediately made an impact. The French forward looked dangerous every time he attacked down the left and created Tottenham’s second goal with an excellent run and cut-back for Richarlison, who converted from close range. Tel also came close to adding a goal himself late on before seeing his shot blocked.

Richarlison made an immediate impression from the bench. The Brazilian needed just one clear opportunity to score his first goal of pre-season and looked sharp after replacing Scarlett.

The recently acquired Martin Dubravka (£4.0m) stayed on the bench during the match.

Tottenham controlled most of the contest but still relied on Brandon Austin (£4.0m) at key moments during the opening half. The goalkeeper produced two important saves, including an excellent stop to deny Sam Cosgrove in a one-on-one.

Speaking after the match, De Zerbi outlined his priorities for the remainder of pre-season:

“We are looking to improve our physical condition, improve our level of play, improve the connection between the players and the relationship with the players.”

The Italian also stressed that building a strong team culture is just as important as tactical work:

“To build a new team with the qualities, with big players, but with soul, with passion, with all the values we have.”

Tottenham have now won both of their pre-season matches under De Zerbi. Solomon has carried his impressive form into a second consecutive game, while Tel and Richarlison made an immediate impact from the bench.

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 1-1 VITORIA DE GUIMARAES

Goal: Jesus

Assist: Aina

SCOUT NOTES

Nottingham Forest’s unbeaten start to pre-season continued with a 1-1 draw against Vitória de Guimarães during their training camp in Portugal.

The friendly took place behind closed doors, meaning Nottingham Forest released only limited information from the contest. As a result, there were few tactical clues or details on team selection compared with their opening two friendlies.

New signing Xaver Schlager (£5.0m) linked up with his new teammates after completing his move to the City Ground. The Austria international joined training for the first time following his World Cup campaign but was not involved in the match.

One player who continues to impress is Igor Jesus (£6.0m). The Brazilian made it three goals in three pre-season appearances after reacting quickest when Ola Aina’s (£4.5m) effort was saved. Having also scored against Notts County and Blackburn Rovers, the striker has quickly emerged as Forest’s standout pre-season performer under Oliver Glasner.

Morgan Gibbs-White (£8.0m) almost produced an early breakthrough after forcing an error from the Vitória goalkeeper before sending an ambitious effort narrowly off target. Neco Williams (£5.0m) also continued to pose a threat going forward. After regularly occupying advanced positions against Blackburn, the Welsh international again found himself close to goal but was denied from close range.

Vitória improved after the interval and equalised from the penalty spot after Tyler Bindon (£4.0m) was adjudged to have fouled Zeega inside the box. Forest nearly restored their lead through Taiwo Awoniyi (£5.5m), but the Nigerian lifted his effort just over the crossbar.

With no line-ups released, it is difficult to draw many tactical conclusions from the match. Glasner had previously changed his entire XI at half-time in each of Forest’s opening two friendlies, so workload management is likely to have remained the priority during the club’s training camp.

Despite the draw, Forest’s encouraging start under Glasner continued. They have now scored six goals across three friendlies, while Jesus has found the net in every appearance.

Brighton and Hove Albion have signed Croatian centre-back Luka Vuskovic from Tottenham Hotspur for a club-record fee of £46m.

That transfer fee could rise to £50m if various criteria are met.

Jan Paul van Hecke had moved in the opposite direction last month.

Despite being highly rated and capped by Croatia (he featured in this summer’s FIFA World Cup, indeed), Vuskovic never played a Premier League game for the Lilywhites.

Officially joining Spurs last summer, having agreed to do so back in 2023, he was loaned to Hamburg in 2025/26.

While clean sheets were in short supply for the sleeping German giants – this was their first season back in the Bundesliga after seven years away – Vuskovic did impress.

He even claimed a spot in the league’s official Team of the Season.

Vuskovic also caught the eye at the other end of the field. A total of six goals scored, from just 27 starts, was the best of any Bundesliga defender.

Fantasy managers may also recall his two attacking returns for Spurs in pre-season a year ago.

We’ll delve more into the 19-year-old stopper in a Moving Target piece to come.