Always Cheating: A Fantasy Premier League Podcast (FPL) (Blue Wire)

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 2020–21 season was difficult for many reasons, but it was also filled with moments that reflected the Always Cheating mantra of 'Make Fantasy Fun Again.' Now that this campaign is finally behind us, this episode is dedicated to reflecting on what went right, what went wrong, and what takeaways there out that can help us once the next Premier League race kicks off. Thank you to everyone who has tuned in throughout this strange year. We're grateful for our place in this community and have enjoyed interacting with so many of you—from Twitter threads and rate-my-teams to hundreds of therapeutic GIFs. Enjoy the summer and we'll see you all soon enough! Hail Cheaters! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

We're joined by special guest Eric Freeman to review the action from GW10 and give a pep talk to some FPL managers who have had a rough time of it. After cracking the world's top 10,000 rankings for the first time in his fantasy career, Eric also discusses how he thinks he has succeeded so far this season. What can others do to "make the leap" to that next level? Plus, we debate player differentials, Ivan Toney's usefulness (or lack thereof), and Ronaldo's potential FPL comeback, as well as our transfer and captaincy thoughts ahead of GW11. Hail Cheaters! A big thank-you to Always Cheating supporter John Reynolds for this week's outro music! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

This season's opening fantasy gameweek saw some standout performances and big scores, especially from popular picks Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes. What does this mean for those maverick FPL managers who attempted to go against the grain? Looking ahead to our GW2 squad selections and captaincy picks, we review last weekend's notable over-performers, under-performers, and players and clubs that simply left us scratching our heads. Were Aston Villa and Arsenal really that bad? Were Spurs and Everton really that good? Is it already time to consider dumping Jack Grealish or Ivan Toney? Plus, we debate the bandwagons now building around Paul Pogba, Saïd Benrahma, and Watford stars Ismaïla Sarr and Emmanuel Dennis. Hail Cheaters! Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Josh and Brandon as they debut their 'FPL After Dark' show for YouTube Live and reminisce about the 2013/14 Premier League season. Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's episode, the Cheaters recap the wild non-results of blank GW29 and discuss what went wrong—and what could've gone worse—on the Free Hit chip. With the season's final international break ahead of us, we also take a beat to consider our strategies for the fantasy season's run-in, including the potential of remaining double gameweeks and chips. Then it's time to revisit our beloved feature: Kings of the Gameweek! Looking at top scorers in GW21–29, what lessons can we learn and what patterns can we discern from the teams, players, and positions that appear in the Fantasy Premier League site's often overlooked feature? Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1TIu9C0OqZU #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW29 #MFFA #hailcheaters #kingsofthegameweek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

Sure, the Premier League and FPL have all but vanished. But what else do we miss? From the solitude of a morning commute and the taste of movie theater popcorn to that tactile, emotional feeling of hugging your friends, in this episode of Always Cheating we're drafting our favorite little things that we never knew we'd struggle to live without. Hail Cheaters! Please consider supporting our beloved Black Horse Pub in Brooklyn: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-black-horse-staff Presented by BetOnline.ag. Set up an account today and use promo code BLUEWIRE for a welcome bonus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The FPL site is officially live for the 2024/25 Premier League season, meaning it's again time to log in, secure a low team ID, and get down to business. In this episode, we run through initial thoughts on player pricing and changes to the overall game mechanics. Which players are priced too high, too low, or just right? Can we possibly afford Erling Haaland at £15 million—officially the most expensive asset in history? And how are we feeling about the new ability to bank up to five free transfers? Plus, we of course discuss ways we'll make this FPL season more fun than the last. Hail Cheaters! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qN5xkoMaI7o #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This weekend produced a brutal run of results for fantasy managers, resulting in a low-scoring GW11 and a continuation of one of the toughest seasons in memory. Josh and Brandon look to bounce back with their upcoming trip to the U.K. and a GW12 filled with fixtures that will hopefully be easier to predict. Maybe? On this episode we discuss Arsenal's form and injury crisis, as well as Darwin's double personality, Doku's sudden emergence, and Watkins' mysterious track record. If you're in the London area, please join us for a listener meet-and-greet this Friday, November 10, at The Dugout at Belushi's London Bridge starting at 7:00 PM. No ticket required, 18+ venue, cash bar. Hope to see you there! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the GW10 highs and lows and look ahead to key decisions for the upcoming GW11. Salah rewarded the FPL faithful with a classic goal versus Brighton—standard service has either resumed or it never went away. Meanwhile, against Bournemouth, Haaland again disappointed. As we audition our preferred three premium (three-mium) assets, this feels like THE critical moment for the Norwegian. Stick, twist, or gloat for not having had him for weeks? And no longer a passing fad, Chris Wood continues his dominant run, surpassing even every Arsenal asset in total fantasy points. Finally, we look ahead to the last gameweek before another international break and discuss if Solanke and Spurs are for real this time. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/8H6OvBLwkJw Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW10 #GW11 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

The FPL site is officially live for the new 2023/24 Premier League season, meaning it's suddenly time to log in and get down to the business of winning our mini leagues and finishing with a high overall rank. In this episode, we're getting listeners up to speed with some early transfer deals, fantasy position reclassifications, and the controversial new player pricing within the fantasy game. Then Josh and Brandon hit upon early premium asset strategies, team formations, and the endless (mindless?) pre-season tinkering. Plus, we of course discuss new ways to make this FPL season as—or more—fun than the last. Hail Cheaters! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A wildly unpredictable weekend in the Premier League has provided fantasy managers with far more questions than answers as this new season lurches forward. What are we meant to take away from Leicester's demolition of Manchester City? Or Chelsea's disorganized draw at the Hawthorns? Or Wolves' capitulation to West Ham? We discuss what the GW3 results could mean for wildcard teams (including Brandon's) before turning our attention to GW4 transfer targets and captaincy picks. Hail Cheaters! Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 15% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

After a chaotic final gameweek, FPL will hit pause for the 2022 World Cup. It's a good moment for the Cheaters, Josh and Brandon, to take a look at how their fantasy seasons have gone so far and what strategies might help them kick on after the break. After some unpacking of GW16—from Haaland's blank to braces for Toney, Darwin, and Ødegaard—it's then time to turn the focus to Qatar, including ways to consume and enjoy World Cup content, early tournament favorites, and a "homer" assessment of the U.S. men. Join us on this feed for daily World Cup podcasts starting Sunday, November 20. Hail Cheaters! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the GW9 highs and lows and look ahead to key decisions for the upcoming GW10. This weekend, despite scoring early against Southampton, a heavily-captained Haaland still managed to disappoint owners, especially in the face of masterclasses from Chris Wood and Bryan Mbeumo. While many of us still fence sit on the Norwegian, is it at least time to consider a refreshed captaincy strategy? Meanwhile, other key premium assets in Palmer, Saka, and Salah all continue to perform as we grasp for more clarity when optimizing our fantasy budget. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/GQAlJcxxfFc Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW9 #GW10 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

This weekend’s GW24 fixtures saw returns for many key fantasy assets who set the table for a double gameweek showdown with Liverpool and Manchester City both getting their say in GW25. But with European competitions coming back into the picture, and a blank for some clubs in GW26, some fantasy decisions this deadline aren’t as easy as they look. On this episode, we look at the best transfer targets for the doublers, including Luton Town and Brentford, and what ripple effects we should keep in mind. Along with a lengthy Darwin Nunez vs Ivan Toney chat, there’s also an on-air toggle of the Triple Captain chip. #BlueWireVideo To see it unfold on video, check out video for this episode on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fN5HYMjWq9Y&t=702s Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's less than one week to prepare for the start of the new FPL season and we still have a number of unanswered questions. Join Josh and Brandon as they discuss their final team selection dilemmas—which positions and players are locks and where will there be some last-minute GW1 deadline decisions? We also look at how recent transfers—like Grealish to Manchester City, Ings to Aston Villa, and Lukaku to Chelsea—impact our fantasy drafts and if we've pinpointed any assets flying under the radar. Thank you for joining Always Cheating during our pre-season coverage and we're wishing all of our listeners the best of luck for the 2021/22 campaign. Hail Cheaters! Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

Join Josh and Brandon as we recap the highs and lows of double GW25, including the continuing saga of the Assistant Manager chip. How are we feeling about Slot, Emery, and the other FPL gaffer options as we head into our first single gameweek in some time? Plus, we take the temperature on our Aston Villa, Brentford, Chelsea, Newcastle, and other debatably under-performing fantasy assets. Have we missed any picks or punts amidst the recent chip-planning chaos? And, of course, we look ahead to key transfers and captaincy options for GW26. Hail Cheaters!  Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/GuWaJ7A6ArE Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW25 #GW26 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Premier League drama was in full force for GW38 and it felt like a fitting way to bid farewell to another fantasy season. With the tumultuous campaign now behind us, it's time to reflect on what we did well and what we need to improve upon as FPL managers. We discuss the data revolution's complexity, the value (or lack thereof) of knowing effective ownership, and learning how to play your own game. A big thanks to everyone who has tuned in throughout this year. We're grateful for our place in this community and have enjoyed interacting with so many of you. Enjoy the summer and we'll see you all soon enough! Hail Cheaters! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we catch up on news from the international break and look ahead to our squad selection and captaincy picks for this weekend's GW4. Plus, Josh debates various wildcard strategies as he looks to settle on the best setup for the upcoming Premier League fixtures. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/-GjFsWPxH94 Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always $500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW4 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

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

Recorded live at Fest NYC in Brooklyn's beautiful Sunset Park Rooftop, Josh and Brandon enjoy a wide-ranging FPL conversation with Fantasy Football Scout founder and FPL BlackBox co-host Mark Sutherns. We discuss Mark's early days of founding the legendary Scout website, as well as his days working for the Premier League, and how his fantasy management style has evolved through many years and various highs and lows. The Fest NYC audience takes part in a Q&A section, getting thoughts from Mark and the Cheaters on current dilemmas like ditching Salah, playing a wildcard, and the sudden uncertainty of fixture postponements and rescheduling. Thanks to all who attended our inaugural Fest NYC. We had an amazing day despite the lack of live matches. Let's do it again, shall we? Hail Cheaters! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the GW8 red card–infused results. It was fantasy carnage with Arsenal as Saka missed out entirely and the air continues to escape their defensive balloon. Plus faithful Haaland managers took another massive blow as the captaincy favorite blanked against Wolves. With the Saints up next (at the Etihad no less), but three blanks in a row, can we easily persist with the big Norwegian? Turning our attention to the marquee GW8 matchup of Salah vs Palmer, has Mo done enough to move up the Premium Asset Power Rankings? Then we look ahead to key transfer targets and non-Haaland captaincy ideas for GW9 and beyond. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/8tB8D24Vqrk Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW8 #GW9 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Next in our series of 2020–21 season preview episodes, we outline our Ten Tips for FPL Success. This is the fifth installment of our regular pre-season feature, so this year we’re applying a healthy amount of hindsight and experience to the chat. Of course, “success” in FPL can mean different things to different people, whether it’s achieving a great score or beating your mini-league rival or simply succeeding at having more fun. Here, we discuss the common player traps to avoid, ways to stay ahead of the dreaded FPL squad “template,” what fantasy tools and resources to utilize, and the importance of setting up that Bus Team at the start of each new gameweek. We also touch upon strategies for being more patient, less stubborn, and generally getting more enjoyment out of your FPL experience. Hail Cheaters! Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 25% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

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

Instead of the usual team-by-team previews in alphabetical order, this season we're trying something new by predicting the Premier League table and discussing each team's FPL prospects as we go. Which clubs have we predicted to go down? And which ones might surprise us with marginal fantasy value? In part one of two, we look at who we believe will comprise the bottom half of the table, spots 20 to 11. Tune in next week for part two and spots 10 to the champions. Hail Cheaters! Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Join Always Cheating at the Wynn Las Vegas for Fútbolfest 2021 happening August 20–22. This three-day event will include live football content in the Wynn's podcast studio, club quizzes, cocktail hours, FIFA tournaments, watch parties for the weekend's GW2 fixtures, and a whole lot more. For information visit: futbolfest2021.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Premier League restart is only a few days away and this episode focuses on the opening FPL fixtures, which happen to be a double gameweek. So, what are the best approaches for playing the double? Just how good, from the jump, do we expect Manchester City to be? Are Arsenal even worth the trouble? And in what ways can we mitigate the risk of inevitable team rotation? We delve into some chip theory with free hit and bench boost discussions, and also touch upon single-gameweek players that are worth transferring in. Plus, stay tuned for some bold predictions from our listeners on how they envision the next nine fantasy gameweeks shaking out. Good luck this week! Hail Cheaters! Presented by BetOnline.ag. Set up an account today and use promo code BLUEWIRE for a welcome bonus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

There's no rest for the FPL weary as GW34 rolls on while we're already forced to turn our attention to the next batch of doubles just around the corner. What that means for both Josh and Brandon is activating their wildcards ahead of GW35 when Chelsea and Spurs will play twice. But who (apart from Cole Palmer, of course) on these mercurial teams can fantasy managers trust? Is Nicolas Jackson poised to surprise or disappoint? Can the defenses of either club produce more points than injuries? Plus, as part of our wildcard planning, we look ahead to the GW37 doubles and key teams like Manchester City, Manchester United, and Newcastle. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6tcWr7uH0k #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW34 #GW35 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the Premier League and fantasy results from this weekend's GW5. After a feisty match between Man City and Arsenal, Haaland continues to pull away from the rest of the herd. Can Salah catch up—in our FPL estimation—despite is apparent lack of concentration and goals? GW6 also marks a big fixture turn for the Gunners and an opportunity for wildcarders to shuffle the pack. Which picks are in, out, and on hold? Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWdfnzoDSZo Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating $500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW5 #GW6 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join the Cheaters, Josh and Brandon, as we unravel the news and results from GW30 and quickly look ahead to this big decisions for GW31, which kicks off on Tuesday—right around the corner. Of course, we give our thoughts on Sunday's big clash between Manchester City and Arsenal and consider Salah's performance against Brighton and what it portends for the midweek scores. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORIcntARvmk #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW31 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

Join Josh and Brandon as we discuss the GW17 highs and lows, including a sublime Isak hat trick, an ill-timed Saka injury, and a typical Salah masterclass. So what are we doing with Saka? Who are the obvious or not-so-obvious replacements while he sidelined? With the festive period officially here, time is of the essence as Premier League matches and FPL deadlines stack up fast. Plus we focus on GW18 and the Boxing Day slate and look for any last-minute, end-of-year fantasy edge. Happy Holidays and Hail Cheaters! Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW17 #GW18 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hail Cheaters! In the first ever (to our recollection) Always Cheating Main Feed solo pod, Josh discusses the newly announced DGW25 and who will be in it based on this week's League Cup results, how the new Assistant Manager Chip has played out early on and what we can take away from it, the success of Triple Captain Salah, January transfer news, and more.  Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/4Rv6s63L0N0 Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW24 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we debate the key players and strategies from this season's opening three fantasy gameweeks. While it seems daunting with so many premium assets delivering (in a big way), in this episode we look for common sense FPL takeaways beyond the usual "you can't have everyone" cliché. Is it possible (nay crucial) to have both Salah and Haaland? Is Cole Palmer as much of a factor as some think? And who are the obvious mid-price and bargain options that we've simply missed? There's much to discuss as we head into the international break. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Lkrt-h1r1M Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always $500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW3 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the Premier League and fantasy results from this weekend's GW6. Wildcarders held the narrative during the transfer window, but Cole Palmer takes all the headlines with an incredible four-goal performance against an abject Brighton. So how are FPL managers meant to react? Is Palmer a required premium asset going forward? Or can we keep taking his bursts of points on the chin? Haaland, Salah, and Saka could all hang in the balance. Plus we look ahead to GW7 with key transfer targets and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnEv_LjtGsk Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW7 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The big fantasy news from this international break has been the official announcement of the doubles in GW34. With the double fixtures in GW37 also coming into focus, it's time to get serious about our strategies for maximizing points in the run-in. In this episode, the Cheaters take a closer look at the key clubs and players who will impact GW34 and how we plan to use our remaining chips. Most importantly, when are we thinking we'll wildcard? Plus, as to not forget the gameweek right in front of us, we talk about GW30 transfer targets, captaincy options, and just how quickly Salah might be playing his part. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lR--32sRv8 #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW30 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're joined this week by the FPL Mayor, Tom Campbell, to discuss the season's remaining big questions. Who are the top captain picks for the final three gameweeks? Is there an optimal time to activate your Free Hit chip? How are we recalibrating our personal fantasy goals as this season finally comes to an end? Plus, we take a closer look at GW36+ and the optimal Free Hit squad and captaincy favorites for the upcoming deadline. Hail Cheaters! Presented by BetOnline.ag. Set up an account today and use promo code BLUEWIRE for a welcome bonus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Oscar Bobb injury! Valentín Barco minutes risk! Important, late-breaking Fantasy Premier League news is all over the place! In our final pre-season episode, we're joined by friend-of-the-show Dave Weigner-Lodahl to take one last look at our GW1 squads and tackle all of those nerve-racking deadline dilemmas. Hail Cheaters! Win at FPL! Join Fantasy Football Hub this season with 50% off your membership at any tier using this link: https://www.fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/csNCCd-izfY #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW1 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chelsea are crowned European champions after Thomas Tuchel again out-smarts Pep Guardiola. The Cheaters Josh and Brandon take to the Locker Room app to discuss their thoughts on an engaging Champions League final and also get reactions from listeners. Did Pep predictably overthink his tactics? Just how good was Mason Mount's assist on Kai Havertz's match-winning goal? And what does this final tell us about next season's Premier League title race? Join us each week on the Locker Room app for real-time conversations with Josh, Brandon, and other Always Cheating listeners. Follow us on Twitter at @hailcheaters for exact times each week and download the Locker Room app at joinlockerroom.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Josh and Brandon hop on Locker Room this week to chat with listeners about the CONCACAF Nations League Final between the U.S. and Mexico. How are we feeling at the moment about Gregg Berhalter's talented young squad now with a fair amount of European experience? Plus, we get into some of the Premier League off-season gossip, including transfer rumors and promoted club prospects. Join us each week on the Locker Room app for real-time conversations Follow @hailcheaters for exact dates/times and download the Locker Room app for iOS here: https://joinlockerroom.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

Join Josh and Brandon as we recap the highs and lows of GW26—including a postmortem on our Assistant Manager chip experiences—then quickly look ahead to Tuesday's midweek GW27 deadline. A key question is on Cole Palmer and whether he can reemerge as an FPL darling with the two best home fixtures of any fantasy pick in the next two gameweeks. Do we dare we give Cole the armband? Plus, we discuss how the GW29 blanks for Liverpool, Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace should impact our upcoming transfer and chip strategies—speaking of, what even is the optimal chip strategy at the moment? Let's dig in. Hail Cheaters!  Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/mDSRz82R3TE Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW26 #GW27 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

As we make our way through the rest of GW32+, we take some time to look at the remaining fixtures for all twenty Premier League clubs. Based on what we've learned thus far from the league's restart, which teams are likely to be the best fantasy prospects? That is, which teams have players that FPL managers should to look to buy, sell, or hold? Plus, we preview the GW33+ match-ups and discuss our preferred captain picks. Hail Cheaters! Please complete this audience survey to help us learn about the podcast content that most interests you and for your chance to win a Blue Wire t-shirt, hoodie, or a pair of AirPods:https://bit.ly/2Ybr18V Presented by BetOnline.ag. Set up an account today and use promo code BLUEWIRE for a welcome bonus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Always Cheating podcast is thrilled to announce tickets are now available for Fest NYC, the inaugural Fantasy Football Fest event in the United States. Join Josh and Brandon in Brooklyn, NY, on September 10th for an exclusive Premier League watch party with superstar FPL guests including Fantasy Football Scout founder Mark Sutherns and Premier League pundit Gianni Buttice. Enjoy a raucous live Always Cheating podcast recording, a Q&A with Mark, Gianni's halftime football quiz (with prizes), a kick-around on our venue’s indoor pitch, and so much more. Tickets will go fast, so visit Fest-NYC.com now for details and purchase information. Special thanks to our featured sponsor FPL Gameweek. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The Premier League insanity continues with outrageous shorelines and results occurring throughout GW4. But, with still so much volatility within the league and FPL, who's fantasy stock is up as we head into the international break? And whose stock is actually going down? We discuss all twenty teams and attempt to pinpoint which of them are currently worthy of our time and investment. Always Cheating will return next week with a full preview of the GW5 fixtures and captaincy picks. Hail Cheaters! Always Cheating listeners can now enjoy a 15% discount on memberships at Fantasy Football Hub. To learn all about the Hub's powerful FPL tools and features, and to secure your membership, visit: https://fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

Ahead of this calendar year's final International Break, Josh and Brandon present the FPL Quarter-Season Awards! We sift through all twenty Premier League clubs to find the fantasy winners and losers and talk about what's surprised us most through the first eleven game-weeks. With plenty of narrative around the game's premium assets, alongside some emergent budget picks, there's plenty to celebrate. Plus, we offer some thoughts on this weekend's GW11 action, from Salah's armband to a resurgent Bruno Fernandes. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/ViCSk_otMmE Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW11 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

The trickiest position to fill at the start of this FPL season could very well be the forwards, mostly due to the large pool of very qualified candidates. So, before a ball is kicked, what's the best way for us to determine which strikers have the best potential? This week, Josh and Brandon break all of the options into three categories, based on price, and then compare the data and statistics for each player against various intangible qualities. Will we go big with the premium-priced Harry Kane? Or is it more appealing to field three forwards in the lower price brackets? Regardless of the approach, we have some serious decisions to make. Hail Cheaters! Receive a 25% discount on your Fantasy Football Hub membership: fantasyfootballhub.co.uk/always Join Always Cheating at the Wynn Las Vegas for Fútbolfest 2021 happening August 20–22. This three-day event will include live football content in the Wynn's podcast studio, club quizzes, cocktail hours, FIFA tournaments, watch parties for the weekend's GW2 fixtures, and a whole lot more. For information visit: futbolfest2021.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

Join us as we look ahead to the final double-gameweek of the 2023/24 FPL season! Josh and Brandon have each activated their Bench Boost chip, so there's plenty of talk about what to expect from both the high and low fantasy assets filling out our squads. Who are the best cheap defenders? Can Chelsea keep their form going? Is Richarlison an overlooked gem? Will Haaland go supernova again or is there a clear alternative for the armband in GW37? And so much more. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52yHzU8AHNo #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW36 #GW37 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In anticipation of the June 17 restart, this week we're checking in on all twenty Premier League clubs. Among them, who has the most to play for? How do their remaining fixtures look? Have any of their key players recently returned from injury? As we discuss the teams, we zero in on the top performers and differentials that will fit into our updated fantasy line-ups. Hail Cheaters! Presented by BetOnline.ag. Set up an account today and use promo code BLUEWIRE for a welcome bonus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

Join hosts Josh and Brandon as we break down the Premier League and fantasy results from this weekend's GW6. Wildcarders held the narrative during the transfer window, but Cole Palmer takes all the headlines with an incredible four-goal performance against an abject Brighton. So how are FPL managers meant to react? Is Palmer a required premium asset going forward? Or can we keep taking his bursts of points on the chin? Haaland, Salah, and Saka could all hang in the balance. Plus we look ahead to GW7 with key transfer targets and captaincy favorites. Hail Cheaters! Watch this episode unfold in video format on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OS7j6JB91t0 Support the Cheaters and get exclusive ad-free FPL content: https://www.patreon.com/alwayscheating $500 GIFT CARD GIVEAWAY! Complete this audience survey and help us give you a better advertising experience: http://bluewirepods.com/survey Our network partner Blue Wire is giving away two (2) $500 gift cards for participating. For a chance to win, you must complete the entire survey, including entering your name and email so we can get in contact with you. All responses and data will be de-identified. You will not be added to any mailing lists as a result of taking this survey. By taking this survey you agree to Blue Wire's Terms of Service: https://www.bluewirepods.com/bw-terms-of-service #bluewirevideo #FPL #PL #GW6 #GW7 #MFFA #hailcheaters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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