#the df all fit into the young ones roles so well

[f0x-gl0ves]

Dragonfriends/the young ones

The crossover that literally no one asked for but some people are actually enjoying so I'll share it here yw xx

[wuhuha]

Isaz Mano - The mentor who got a sad backstory

An entry in my WOA art series aka Wu's Oc Academy. Were I take all my OCs and try fitting/reimagine them all existing in the same made up fantasy setting.

Who was this Oc originally?

Keeping it short: Do you know what Adventure Quest is and Artix Entertainment? One of the franchise's game is named DragonFable. Well that's the origin point on Isaz Mano. His name literally just means Ice Moon, dangerously close to Moon Moon ngl. Okay so in DragonFable there is a class known as Soulweaver, that I mostly mained, and in that storyline your 'main' elemental dmg kinda defaults to ice. That's the tl;dr.

As the story goes- I've reused and recycled this Oc and funnily over time he aged. Like I think Isaz is the only one of my Oc that I've imagined/drawn visibly older as time passes. So naturally he takes an mentor role in my Oc crossover universe, as he is one of the first character consciously I fitted into several fictional universe.

Wu's Oc Academy ver.

Introduction:

Working for WOA as a teacher, Isaz teaches History magic and Elemental evocation.

From a young age, Isaz was surrounded by the beauty of snow and ice, learning the ways of the cold and its power. His brother and sister-in-law were skilled practitioners of elemental magic. The brother specializing in wind magic and his sister in-law being a descendants of the elemental sister who had the gift of the air. Eventually Isaz's brother would have a child named Mara.

Their family was beloved. They were known for their compassion and their talents, helping their coven's nearby villagers to survive the most brutal winters. Unfortunately one night a terrible fire was set ablaze on the their home, with the perpetrator being unknown. At the time Isaz was away and wasn't present to act. In the aftermath of the disaster, his niece managed to escape with nothing but her familiar in her arms. The coven and home was destroyed and so much was lost. Two of them being his brother and his sister in-law. Despite a deep part of him seeking justice for the fire that claimed his family, he still had to care for his niece, Mara and his job at WOA.

Carrying a deep guilt for not being present for the incident, today Isaz lives with a dual purpose: to protect and guide the young as overseer of the Winters Blessed at WOA, and to seek the truth behind the fire that took almost everything from him.

He doesn’t believe that some form of vengeance will fully heal him, but he knows that seeking answers and using his power to protect the next generation, is what gives him  purpose. The cold is his constant companion, figuratively and literally, but with each spell he casts, he hopes that one day, he will find warmth again. If not for himself, then for those he vows to protect.

Fun facts:

Isaz familiar is an ice elemental he's know since his childhood. Yes, the desing it's just Aegis from DF but smol.

Due to his mastery of the element of ice, the spirits of wind and ice follow his, thus always lowering his body temperature. (He is always 'cold'.)

So Dragonfable kinda defaults your characters personality to be a bit of a quippy meme lord. This is just the tone of the game and Artix games in general, no biggie. But it never really matched with who I imagined Isaz to be, so I decided to do a write up on what I imagine his personality being.

...It ended up begin very long. Not sure if I will post it, but I'm suprised on how much Isaz is my blorbo lol.

[violetparakeetdraweroffurries]

tbh the major plot points of the SE work very, very well w/ Dovewing's character, especially since my desired outcome is Dovewing leaving the Clans all the way back in OOTS, Dollhouse-style

Dove learns that she's pregnant, and since the Clans in general are both very conservative and embroiled in a crisis, she runs away to avoid ostracisation

She meets the Guardian cats, who are depicted as more peaceful, flexible, and tolerant than the Clans, as well as having an easier life, and don't know about her past as a prophecy cat. This is ideal for her, and she considers raising her kits here.

She meets Spire, who has strange dreams about the Clans telling him that Dove belongs in the Clans because they need her, much to her concern, and Blaze, an orphan who decides he wants to join the Clans based on Dove's description, also to her concern

Ivypool follows Dovewing, fulfilling Tigerheart's role, and she has a harder time fitting in with the Guardians, resulting in more conflict between the sisters. There's some deeper psychology stuff behind Dove and Ivy's motivations, but that's for another post.

Dove struggles as a mother, even with the Guardians & Ivy's help, mostly bc they're very young adults and have a lot of trauma-related baggage that they haven't resolved. Dove starts questioning if she really wants to be a mother, or that's just what Clan culture expected of her. She concludes the latter, and confides this to Ivy.

She reexamines her love triangle and slowly comes to the realization that she latched on to both Tiger and Bumble as much as she did because of her prophecy-induced isolation making her desperate for someone to be close to. She also discusses this w/ Ivy, which has its own revelations for Ivy but that's another story.

Ivy also gets some character development as she has to confront the reality staring her in the face: Dove is not happy with Clan life and will never be, and if Ivy cares about her, she should let her go.

Shadowkit has epilepsy and special visions, which is extra hard on Dovewing on account of the whole Clan-life-induced trauma.

Fog and her rogue gang are still there, but mostly so that Ivy can show off her Epic Dark Forest Skillz(tm). Between the rogues and the other dangers of city life, Dove starts to wonder if the city really is safe enough for her kits, especially since the Clans live further from Twolegs, are larger, and have better fighters to protect the kits.

She has some internal conflict regarding whether or not she should go back and fulfill the prophecy, let Blaze join the Clans, Shadowkit's visions, the validity of Spire's visions, etc. and settles on a compromise: she'll only return to the Clans to help them one last time, drop off Blaze and her kits, and then leave, only returning once a season. Ant and Cinnamon go with them for extra protection.

On the way back, they meet Berryheart (who's still pregnant) & Sparrowtail, who fled the Clans bc they found out about the Dark Forest. They question whether the Clans are worth fighting for, which prompts Dove & Ivy to give two different answers.

Spire still dies saving Pouncekit, but this time a DF spirit kills him, and Dove is fatally wounded by an gang of DF spirits while protecting the kits; Ivypool has the really fucking stupid idea of throwing Dove into the Moonpool thinking that since StarClan can grant extra lives and it needs Dove for her powers, they have to save her or else they'll lose the war against the DF

This somehow works, which causes a crisis in faith for both sisters

In the end, Dove and Ivy part ways. Ant & Cinnamon both stay in the Clans, partially out of pity since so many cats died, partially for Blaze's sake. Dove says goodbye to her family and her kits, has a heartfelt discussion w/ cats like Ivy, Briar, etc., and promises to visit them next season. Briar offers to raise Dove's kits for her.

Dove has a huge argument w/ Jay and Lion, who want her to stay, which ends with her calling them out for causing so much of her suffering, cutting ties with them, and leaving the Clans

Dovewing's Shadow >>>>> Tigerheart's Shadow

[lnevada]

Bilsky Billions: Too many jokes to react to.

The whole episode was a setup for a ‘watch ya mouth’ board game/mouth piece joke? That tracks.

Also, not to overhype it, but S2E13 may actually be my favorite episode of Danger Force?!?!

I love Mika’s hair with the dyed braids. I want to dye my hair so bad!!

I know I’m older/in a different generation than the DF kids because Ray’s mustache looks amazing & I’m not bothered by the teeth either? (They’re straight & clean/cost $$$$?!) On my second watch, the teeth look even more natural & this is just Ray to me now (but I know prosthetics are difficult to talk through, Cooper did great, & they’ll be gone next episode). I also get the kids needed something new to rip on, especially Chapa and I loved all her puns!!

Why are all the kids so fashionable? We know Chapa is a gender envy inducing style icon, but wasn’t Miles also super into fashion/pants in the Manlee Man episode? But facts, the yoga pants are lit.

Sidebar: are there really so many characters that the writers feel a need to write out kids from week to week to give Ray & Schwoz or guest/secondary characters more lines & screen time? Because Bose was “out of town” (offscreen) in S2E12. Now Miles is “out of town” (although I liked his mini scene giving an interview which is more than Bose got) in S2E13? Is it conflicts with the actors’ schedules or are the girls going to take turns being gone, too? Schwoz has been super prominent/getting bigger roles with the plots the last 2-3 episodes, but in this episodes his lines were pinned down to the first scene he appeared in & then he only made appearances in the no-speaking montage. Interesting how the roles are divided up.

Mistakes: 1. Miles complained about yo-yo yoga bit, but is going to an ENTIRE retreat based on the activity? For the fashion? 2. The clones plot was in S2E10, so the joke doesn’t make mathematical sense (they fought clones 3 weeks ago). 3. Jeff ripped his pants. Not his underwear. What are they acting like he’s nude for? What’s ‘disturbing’, black boxers that look like more pants? Whatever. Nice gag for the blurring effect though. 4. No one says ‘Jeff!’ the entire episode!! The tradition has been broken, unbelievable!

Ray looked to his best friend (besides Henry/most present bff at this time) for validation on his change in look/style and Schwoz completely dismissed him! I’m so disappointed in Schwoz & sad for Ray!! Especially after the whole ‘material girl’ (tiktok joke) plot line in S2E12.

Compliment to Schwoz: I love his first fit/costume of the episode? I think it’s because he’s usually in the jumpsuits/mechanic suits/lab coats and his chains pair so well in ‘everyday clothes’.

I can’t believe Ray has a ‘savings account’ because I thought Captain Man had an unlimited money stream from the Vice Mayor.

I think the ‘kids these days’ jokes are the DF equivalent to HD’s ‘hmm’ & similar repeating jokes.

‘Oh look, a distraction!’ We love meta jokes.

Awwww, Ray’s favorite thing to do is eat, and the teeth probably hurt if they’re new/not glued/grills. So sad!!

I love the Bliskys & Tiny Ray! And Officer Walnut is so funny (I miss her partner from HD. The actors have great voices/cadences for the characters, & paired well in scenes due to shared chemistry.)

The reason I’m so obsessed with HD/DF is because Ray is, in actually, a vigilante and my IRL favorite genre is gangster/crime syndicate films/shows. The legal jargon, especially coming from super young kids, is so smooth/cute & refreshing to see since the writers usually bypass legalities for the sake of time/comedy in this ‘kids show’. Plus, the kids being so crime/prison reform positive is so progressive/modern and adult/mature for these child actors to be tackling. It’s wonderful!!

I’m making a formal declaration: Ms. Shappen is an asexual icon (with an aesthetic attraction only to men she’s shown interest in, mainly CM/Ray). Her #1 priority in life is money. Her #2 is her cat(s). As soon as her job/money is called into question, she forgets about any man she has a fleeting aesthetic attraction to & becomes all about business. Plus, as soon as Ray’s aesthetic attraction was altered/faded, she lost all interest in him. Also, she is literally me saying ‘a wealthy husband with a week to live’, ICONIC!

That cold open has to be the longest ever (& they’re getting longer)! I don’t mind, I felt this episode was super long/jammed packed, but it was super relevant/informed. (*Whispers: make the episodes longer.)

We’ve met momma Bilsky, & she would kick her kids out of homeschool. But the fact the brothers used their full names when addressing each other over a serious matter in a serious tone is my favorite Bilsky lore/update, omgz, adorable!!

Mitch was made so sympathetic (until he ran off with his inheritance & became a crummy capitalist/top 0.01%). I was rooting for him. And the montages are always good/cute. Great direction/mashup of talents/specialities (plus, the Tr*mp reference. Dang, this show is so political, I’m here for it!!!)

Is that actually Mitch’s actor singing? Because dang! Nice!

Planet/body part humor. Back to a kid’s show.

Ray standing up for civilian rights & using his privilege for good (on his property) against a cop (who is barging in without a warrant/probable cause - since Mitch had eye witness alibis) is so (sexy) commendable. But then he had to ruin it by making it about him/his finances (but also the writers had to defuse the tension of the previous line to keep it child friendly/comprehensible, so I get it).

I got sooooooo excited when I thought Chapa was standing up for Mitch & telling him to run from the law while the group covered for him. But……then another diffuser line, making a joke about Ray. Oh well.

I want to feed Ray……..(someone should call him ‘good boy’ every once in a while).

I love/hate the whole ‘using Ray’s body to get attention/a favor from someone thing’ (& leading Shappen on in that way). Obviously, it’s hilarious and I adore Ray in wifebeaters. But it makes Shappen look desperate/creepy & Ray look loose. But I’m also proud of Cooper for using his seniority & not fully stripping. He shouldn’t have to/be expected to.

Sailor. Cackling!

Those toe nails track.

Chapa would be into competitive arm wresting.

Poor Bilskys and their ‘curse’.

Yay! Mitch won!!! He graduated & changed his fate. His character arc is complete! Actually so satisfying to see.

Mika being a ‘mom friend’ to Ray is my favorite thing. Her main through line/character arc needs to be becoming the mom friend to everyone. She already is to Bose.

[diaboliktheology]

3 tropes!!

For every “Trope” I get, I will post a TV trope for my muse. for @senjounochou

Tsundere Type B:  These Tsundere have deredere as their default mood. They are sweet, kind and generous, but just happen to have a hidden violent side as well. Don’t confuse the sweet tsundere with Bitch in Sheep’s Clothing because in this case, they have a temper almost always triggered by someone or something else, usually a Love Interest. Either they have Belligerent Sexual Tension, are an Accidental Pervert, or just have no idea how to handle feelings of love and attraction. In some cases, an Armoured Closet Gay character may act like a Tsundere to mask their feelings for the object of their same-sex affection. May also overlap with Violently Protective Girlfriend if her Love Interest is threatened or in danger.

So I think I’ve touched on it with a few friends but I’ve yet to fully explain Yui’s stance on romantic love. I’m not going to do it here either because I plan to explain it in a more developed HC I have in the works but here goes. Now Yui certainly suits this in she’s extremely inexperienced when it comes to love of a romantic nature having been homeschooled and being essentially raised by a Catholic clergy, she in canon also fits the violently protective girlfriend trope *see my mini canon on Yui’s ‘switch’. The violence may not be pointed at the threat head on but she’ll find a way to fuck up whoever is hurting her people/person so WATCH IT O_O*. 

Now, I wanted to add on to this and mention a point where my portrayal does deviate from canon in that a reason behind Yui being a classified Tsundere Type B is that she is uncomfortable being in love. Yes, this partly ties into her being inexperienced but in my portrayal and my default verse that’s set sometime after the second season of the anime and after the DF game and before LG Yui has had more than enough time to likely experience some aspects of romantic love. However, its due to these experiences and more so the individuals she’s experienced it with Yui remains somewhat opposed to the idea of romantic love/if not subconsciously frightened of it and what the feelings of it do to her. Yui actively fights feelings of this nature, she damn well rails against them and I’m not certain if she even realizes it as it’s more subconscious defense more than anything. In game canon Yui recognizes falling for any one of the vampires is a bad idea and it’s liable to end in emotional pain if not heartbreak for her. However, this doesn’t deter her and she essentially makes the decision to do so anyway at some point in each boys’ route. This is not certain for my portrayal. Yui…,doesn’t like being in love. There is so much uncertainty in that, not to mention the potential for all manner of pain and—,she’s already been through so much. This isn’t just in regards to ‘canon’ love interests. Yui will pointedly misinterpret or not understand cues and romantic gestures, and scenario’s with both the vampires and anyone else who shows a romantic nature in her, more so those outside canon. This is because there is an added element of danger for anyone who gets involved with her, much less in a romantic way because of her life circumstances *glares at the possessive vamps*. It’s why its in my rules that shipping with this girl canon or not probably isn’t going to be as easy as her outward nature makes it seem at first glance.

Hair of Gold, Heart of Gold: The character is a blonde. Therefore, obviously, she is beautiful, good, pure, young, kind, and innocent. Sweet, wholesome, kind, and feminine tend to be included, and the innocence can range up to Virgin Power. If she fights, it’s reluctantly and she tends to avoid violence where she can.

This one is pretty obvious as Yui hits ALL OF THESE POINTS PERFECTLY. She’s blonde, she’s stunning, she is genuinely kind and good as a person, even to the jerkass vampires that everyone who knows canon agrees that THEY DON’T DESERVE HER. Yui is a person who is more or less the epitome of warm sunshine given human form who does nothing but shower others in warmth, love and the opportunity to grow as people. Like, she is nothing but LOVE. She is the type of person who’d rather see herself dead and do the deed herself than to see those she cares about suffer. She’s my altruistic bab and yes its to a point that even with strangers I’d say her caring nature is damn near unhealthy but its who she is~.

Unlucky Everydude:  The Unlucky Everydude is similar to the Ordinary High-School Student but has some overt problem(s), which he usually points out in the first episode. He is not so much average as below average concerning some trait, possibily Book Dumb. The extent of this issue varies quite widely depending on the comedic or dramatic mood of the series. The most common one is, naturally, an inability to deal with women, for various reasons. As unlucky as he is he’s more The Everyman than The Unfavourite or the Butt Monkey. You could say that his lack of luck is more in his head than real.How effective and likeable his personality is often depends on the other characters’ personalities. In a Magical Girlfriend series, their personality tends to be more moderate since they will inevitably get together with the lead. In a Harem Series, the extremity of his character is needed to make him appealingly harmless to the other girls. His most important trait, weirdly enough, is intrusiveness. He will try to help people long after everyone else has given up or declared things “private matters”. He will also fill any basic role the girls project on him.

My dudes….. For all of Yui’s good points and personality features, she remains one of the most karmically unbalanced heroines I’ve EVER seen. Let’s do a rundown shall we?

She was orphaned as a baby, her parents likely murdered by Richter

She’s unknowingly made the vessel of the bitch queen herself Cordelia’s heart *something that leads to some hella unhappy times for her later*

She’s adopted by the very vampire hunter/priest that probably had a mark on him from the time he murdered Reiji and Shu’s mother who was a very high-class lady among the vampire aristocracy and one of the three wives of Vampire King Karlheinz. This may well have had a hand in her being selected as a sacrificial bride since canon is fuzzy on if it was all planned/preordained or not.

Pretty sure she had at least one nasty experience if not brush with death via drowning in her childhood. Her not being able to swim has to come from somewhere and I’m willing to bet good money trauma was what stopped her from learning. *Yui’s too much of a people pleaser and curious girl to not have wanted to learn at some point*

Through her childhood, she’s left alone for most of it due to her adoptive father being away for missions trips that some were likely covers for vampire hunting trips *and to think this jackass never thought to consider teaching her any amount of proper self-defense!?* Which meant she was more or left raised by the clergy itself wich left her with abandonment issues and a shitty sense of self-esteem for what little of it there is.

This clergy later offers her up as a sacrificial bride to a family of six bloodlusty and sadistic vampires :D ……… *rages*

Said vampires proceed to abuse and traumatize her physically, mentally, and emotionally during her time with them to the point where she either breaks, dies, or they just straight up kill her in some routes of the game.

In the anime and in some routes of the game she actually ends up possessed by the before mentioned bitch queen Cordy who does her damned best to break what’s left of Yui by using her body to do abhorrent things including hurting her love interest or the brothers who in the anime she’s come to care for enough to kill herself for in a moment of control via stabbing herself with a dagger she’d earlier been given in case Subaru needed the extra help in committing suicide. Something she told him she’d never be able to do, despite him telling her he had to unless she wanted to die herself.

And in later games, she’s routinely kidnapped and put through similar amounts and types of abuse and trauma by the other vampires, and first bloods.

Events that the Sakamaki’s tend to blame and ‘punish’ her for despite her having no way to defend herself or overpower beings that have supernatural strength :|, and that really if they didn’t want it to happen they should’ve been keeping a better eye on her.

In closing, unlucky is an understatement. The only time things get better for her is post her love interest reciprocating at least some of her feelings and even then THINGS DONT GET THAT MUCH EASIER.

[pete-and-pete]

DraftKings Week 5 Showdown: Cowboys vs. Texans Top Optimal Lineups

The NFL is offering up a battle for the state of Texas on Sunday Night Football in Week 5 between the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans. And to go along with the big prime-time matchup, DraftKings is featuring quite a few showdown games for daily fantasy football players.

The headliner as always is the massive $10 game with 150-max entries, and this one features $800,000 guaranteed and $200,000 going to first place. There’s also a 20-max entry $3 game that has $100,000 guaranteed, a $6 single-entry option with $20,000 guaranteed and multiple few others.

I’m going to break down the Sunday Night Football showdown slate by offering two optimal lineups and a few of the key names I’ll be mixing into my other lineups. While there are quite a few intriguing targets on both the Cowboys and Texans, much of how you build lineups will come down to what type of game you’re playing.

In 150-max games, you’ll want to get more unique with players who could potentially be lower-owned. In the single entries, having a few more “chalk” plays is fine, but differentiating a bit there as well makes sense. Before diving into the lineup, here’s a quick look at how showdown games on DraftKings work.

Six total players (one captain, five flex players)

Captain selection costs 1.5 times standard salary but scores 1.5 times the standard points

Can choose from any position (QB, RB, WR, TE, K, DST)

$50,000 salary cap

You can use more than one quarterback

*Note: ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed the Texans are “pessimistic” about Lamar Miller’s chances of playing. I’m creating lineups under the assumption Miller does not play but will update if that changes ahead of kickoff, so be sure to check back.

UPDATE: Lamar Miller is active for the game, but Adam Schefter revealed he’s not likely to play. In turn, Alfred Blue remains in consideration for me as an option.

With Lamar Miller nursing a chest injury, Alfred Blue will start tonight at running back for the Texans, per source. Miller will be active, but is “not likely to play,” per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 7, 2018

Cowboys vs. Texans Sunday Night Football Optimal Lineup No. 1

CAPTAIN: Geoff Swaim ($4,200)

Deshaun Watson ($12,200)

Ezekiel Elliott ($8,800)

DeAndre Hopkins ($11,000)

Will Fuller ($8,800)

Jordan Akins ($1,400)

**This is the optimal lineup for 150-max games.

Aside from the top players, this game has a lot of question marks in terms of who’ll produce. The Cowboys offense has been incredibly inconsistent, but the Texans defense hasn’t been very good. On the flip side, the Cowboys have had a very strong defensive unit, but the Texans are loaded on offense and playing on their home field.

In turn, I’ve opted to go with an inexpensive captain who I think has sneaky upside here in Geoff Swaim in order to open up the rest of the lineup and fit more top players in.

Swaim has seen 12 targets over the past two games, resulting in eight catches for 86 yards and one touchdown. He also saw two red zone targets last game, one of which he hauled in. It seems the young tight end is slowly becoming Dak Prescott’s safety blanket, taking on Jason Witten’s former role.

A big selling point for me on Swaim is how much the Texans have struggled against tight ends this season. They’ve allowed 18 receptions for 236 yards and three touchdowns, and in turn, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Cowboys tight end receive a few targets in the end zone.

Using Swaim in the captain spot allows us to get in Deshaun Watson with his top-two targets in DeAndre Hopkins and Will Fuller. To be honest, this isn’t an ideal spot for either wideout, as the Cowboys have been solid against opposing receivers. They’ve given up 589 yards and four touchdowns on 39 receptions.

What stands out there is that the Cowboys are susceptible to giving up big plays to receivers. This is why Fuller is a key play for me, as he can hit a home run at any point, while Hopkins is more than capable of doing the same. I expect both players to garnish high ownership, but based on the lack of high-upside players in the Cowboys passing attack, eating the chalk and playing them makes sense.

Ezekiel Elliott will probably have 70-85 percent ownership or higher in almost all formats, but not using him is too risky. Maybe if you’re doing 20 of the 150-max games I’d hold him out of one or two, but he’ll be in the bulk of my builds. The Texans aren’t bad against the run, allowing 350 yards and one touchdown on the ground on 98 attempts, but the issue is that they’ve given up three receiving touchdowns to running backs.

I can’t blame anyone for not using Texans tight end Jordan Akins (or knowing fully who he is). But in a massive tournament like the $10 one, you need to differentiate, and the young tight end has my attention. Here’s a look at Akins’ offensive snap counts since Week 2, per Football Outsiders:

Week 2: 22 percent (15 snaps)

Week 3: 37 percent (25 snaps)

Week 4: 43 percent (37 snaps)

In Week 1, the Texans gave Akins 50 percent of the snaps, and it seems the team didn’t feel the former minor league baseball player was ready for such a big workload. But since that point, his snaps have increased he’s seen some work in the passing game, catching 2-of-3 targets for 24 yards last week and even getting a red zone target.

The Cowboys defense is surprisingly good this year, and Akins is going to be under 5 percent owned. I’ll happily take a chance in a 150-max game on a player who could see around 50 percent of the work in a pass-first offense who will likely be without their starting running back.

Cowboys vs. Texans DraftKings Showdown Optimal Lineup No. 2

CAPTAIN: Geoff Swaim ($4,200)

Deshaun Watson ($12,200)

Ezekiel Elliott ($11,400)

Dak Prescott ($9,600)

Will Fuller ($8,800)

Brett Maher ($3,400)

**This lineup is for single entries or smaller tournaments.

I’ll keep my core of Geoff Swaim at captain, Deshaun Watson, Ezekiel Elliott, and Will Fuller. Akins is too risky for single entries in most cases, and I wanted to build a lineup around my projected game flow.

The addition of Dak Prescott comes due to the fact that the Texans have had major struggles against quarterbacks. On the season, they’ve allowed opposing signal-callers to complete 104-of-150 passes for 1,155 yards for 10 touchdowns and just one interception. Prescott has the potential to play efficient football while being incredibly smart, and that’ll benefit him here.

Based on that thought process, I also used Brett Maher, who’s quietly been reliable for the Cowboys after replacing Dan Bailey. He’s made his last eight field goals over a three-game stretch while scoring 15, nine and eight DraftKings points dating back to Week 2. If Dallas moves the ball well it obviously benefits Prescott, Elliott and Maher as well.

Additional Notes & Intriguing Plays

I’ll have ownership in Texans running back Alfred Blue, assuming Lamar Miller is out. After the top players here, Blue will be one of my next highest-owned options as his price tag of $4,600 is appealing. For a very well-balanced lineup, I’m fine getting Blue into the mix, even considering it’s not an ideal matchup.

*See note on Miller above – he is active, but not likely to play. I will still use Blue.

The Cowboys wideouts are painful to choose between, but their matchup is solid, as Houston has allowed 61 receptions for 740 yards and four touchdowns this season. I’ll be using Cole Beasley as my favorite target, along with Allen Hurns and a little of Deonte Thompson.

Hurns has seen his targets increase over the past two weeks, as he’s totaled nine looks and five receptions for 52 yards. The numbers aren’t great, but he’s just $4,200 and eventually, he and Prescott are going to connect, so stacking them in a few spots makes sense.

Texans wideout Keke Coutee is also worth putting in a few bigger tournaments, and if playing a large number of 150-max games, I’m fine mixing in Tavon Austin as well. Finally, since we’re rolling with Maher, I have no issue with Ka’imi Fairbairn, who’s been a solid fantasy producer this season.

READ NEXT: Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Makes Final Decision on Dez Bryant

source https://heavy.com/sports/2018/10/draftkings-showdown-cowboys-texans-fantasy-targets-lineups-dfs/

[mayramoss-blog1]

Dates to Remember: When Every Stoke City Player's Contract Is Due to Expire

As the end of the season draws near, it's time for clubs to start assessing the contracts of their talent and make decisions on their future. 

With Stoke potentially on the verge of relegation, they may be eager to get some of high-earners of the books come summer. Including loan deals, the Potters have seven players out of contract this summer, all of whom could be allowed to leave on a free. 

With other potential departures tied down to contracts, here's a look at exactly when each first team player's current deal is set to expire...

1. Expiring 30th & 31st June 2018

Charlie Adam (MF) -  Hasn't featured as much as he'd have liked to this season and has already expressed interest in game time elsewhere if he's not going to be a regular starter. 

Stephen Ireland (MF) - Injuries have played a significant part in Ireland's career, only featuring twice in the last two years. He earned himself a six-month extension in January but has still failed to establish a role in the side.   

Glen Johnson (DF) - Another player who's barely featured this season, with just seven appearances. Turning 34 this year, Johnson has lost a few yards and is expected to be released in summer. 

Jakob Haugaard (GK) - Got a chance to impress after an injury to Jack Butland, he conceded 11 goals in five games. An unsuccessful loan spell at Wigan followed, and he is unlikely to be offered a new deal. 

Kurt Zouma (DF) - Mark Hughes proclaimed him to be a £40m player upon his loan arrival, but Stoke are very unlikely to retain his services in summer and he'll probably be set for a loan spell elsewhere. 

Kostas Stafylidis* (DF) - A short term fix to a long term problem, a late attempt to add some depth to the squad, will surely return to his parent club FC Augsburg.  

Jese Rodriguez (FW) - Arrived as a marquee loan deal, personal circumstances and poor attitude have kept him away from the club. PSG allegedly sent him out on loan because of said attitude, his future remains unclear - apart from the fact that it will be away from Stoke. 

2. Expiring 30th June 2019

Peter Crouch (FW) - Crouch will be 38 at the end of his contract, he has ambitions to play longer but has already begun taking his coaching badges just in case. One way or another, don't be surprised to see him extend his time at Stoke. 

Ibrahim Afellay (MF) - Currently on suspension from the club for his behaviour at training, he's expected to have the final year of his contract torn up.

Darren Fletcher (MF) - Fletcher has joined his last two clubs on a free transfer, and fell out form this season. Stoke are unlikely to look to retain his services if he wishes to leave. 

Lee Grant (GK) - Last season's player of the year, Grant could have a big future at Stoke should number one choice Jack Butland leave - meaning that he is likely to enter negotiations over his future this summer. 

Marc Muniesa* (DF) - Popular amongst fans but never really found a place in the squad under Mark Hughes, the dynamic defender's future rests entirely with Paul Lambert's assessment. 

3. Expiring 30th June 2020

Xherdan Shaqiri (FW) - Expected to leave whether Stoke stay up or not, he's a big name talent under a decent contract. Stoke are bound to dig their heels in over a good price. 

Mame Biram Diouf (FW) - Part of the core of this Stoke team, Diouf is a fan favourite for his work rate and he doesn't attract too many suitors with form.

Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting (FW) - Recently arrived on a free transfer, he hasn't made a huge impact with a modest goal return. There are no signs of him heading anywhere but he may not be offered a new deal.

Geoff Cameron (MF) - The most underrated player in the side, Cameron is a mainstay of the squad. He's attracted interest from relegation rivals, but Stoke aren't likely to sanction a move.

Erik Pieters (DF) - A steady performer with two years remaining on his contract, he'll be staying put for the time being. However, that could change if Stoke go down and stay down - wages could be an issue. 

Bojan Krkic* (FW) - At the height of his Stoke career, Liverpool enquiries were being fended off. Since then he's been loaned out twice, with neither spell proving especially fruitful, but could still play a role in this substandard Stoke squad. 

4. Expiring 30th June 2021

Joe Allen (MF) - Stoke's player of the season has already been the subject of a cheeky bid from West Ham. Stoke won't like it, but he's a excellent player in his prime, they'll struggle to hold onto him if they go down.  

Ryan Shawcross (DF) - Shawcross has slowed down since a serious back injury, now 30 as well, he's likely to begin to feature less regularly, eventually retiring at the club.  

Tom Edwards (DF) - Only made a couple of appearances but an exciting local youth prospect, will hopefully get more opportunities to impress after a shake-up of the squad. 

Jack Butland (GK) - Attracting interest from Arsenal and Liverpool, as well as been heavily tipped to be the future England keeper, Butland looks certain to leave - with some sources reporting figures as high as £40m.  

Giannelli Imbula* (MF) - A one-time club record signing who never worked out, Stoke were willing to listen to offers in summer but want to recoup as much of that large fee as possible.

5. Expiring 30th June 2022

Saido Berahino (FW) - The striker has now gone over two years without a professional goal, having never netted for the club. With more reports of attitude issues, he's likely to leave if Stoke can find anyone willing to a chance on the one-time England hopeful. 

Ramadan Sobhi (FW) - A close friend of Egyptian teammate Mo Salah, Sobhi is being lined up for a switch to Anfield to help keep the forward happy and hopefully develop the rare glimpses of brilliance he's shown at Stoke. 

Badou Ndiaye (MF) - The midfield combatant only joined in January but is expected to head back to the Turkish Super Lig if Stoke go down, likely he has a release clause in his contract. 

Bruno Martins Indi (DF) - Indi has suffered from injuries this season keeping him out of contention, which Stoke are hoping will deter potential suitors. He has a big future at Stoke having only arrived in the summer. 

Kevin Wimmer (DF) - Another big money blunder, not match fit and not in the match day squad. He's still young and could prove his worth after a summer of fitness training, but Stoke would cut their losses for the right offer. 

Moritz Bauer (DF) - A January addition, Bauer has been quick to impress. There's no word on a release clause so expect Bauer to be plying his trade at Stoke next season. 

Julien Ngoy* (FW) - Made the long list for the European Golden Boy and had a big impact in the academy drawing comparisons to Luis Suarez, a potential huge prospect for Stoke. 

Thibaud Verlinden* (FW) - Another expected to have a huge impact in the long-term future of the club, if Stoke nourish their youth talent correctly. The young winger is very highly rated at the club.

Josh Tymon* (DF) - A summer signing from Hull, he was expected to provide cover this season but looked out of his depth, his future will be assessed once he returns from his current loan deal. 

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[apsbicepstraining]

The Premier League proceeds: how are the title contenders determining up?

With the top-flight back in action this weekend, we take a look at the top sevens fortes, penchants, force profundity and leading player before asking whether they have got what it required in order to acquire the league

The Premier League is back after the international break and, following a breathless start to the season, we assess the top seven slopes in the conference in search for evidences as to which area will lift the trophy come May. Manchester City are the early pacemakers but their defeat at Tottenham Hotspur have given the rest of the clubs hope. It is also worth remembering that seven games into last season, Louis van Gaals Manchester United were top, West Ham United third and eventual wins Leicester City eighth

What have they done right thus far?

Manchester City

They won their opening six activities and so guide the hasten by a object from Tottenham Hotspur. The manager may be brand-new but his passing game has been speedy to berthed in and bewitch antagonists. The display of Pep Guardiolas full-backs moving into central midfield is a further poser. The 45 -year-old has done all of the above while also bombing out Joe Hart, discarding Yaya Tour, blocking Wi-Fi at the training base and banning pizza from players foods. It is as close to a change as has been witnessed in the division since Arsne Wenger strode into Arsenal in 1996. Jamie Jackson

Tottenham

The 2-0 home win over Manchester City before the international terminate was a occasion of a better quality that Mauricio Pochettino has instilled and an illustration of what can happen when everything clicks. Tottenham are guaranteed connection for the purposes of the Argentinian and the lucidity of his high-octane physical approach. The director wielded his actors harder than ever in pre-season( mindful of the additional stress of a Champions League campaign) and it is clear that their conditioning is a major plus. Even when they have not been at the most appropriate thus far, they have delved out a outcome and their defensive miserliness bodes well. The summer contract Victor Wanyama has been good and Son Heung-mins resurgence has been a boon. David Hytner

Arsenal

Once they get over the ill-prepared opening day shocker against Liverpool, what Arsenal have found is greater efficiency. That happens to be one of Wengers favourite words. It was the causes of his greatest resentment last-place season that the rate between decent fortunes created and actual goals to change competitions was not efficient enough. The deployment of Alexis Snchez at centre-forward has encouraged a far pacier and mobile criticizing cadence. Arsenal have tallied three goals or more in half of their tournaments in all challengers. The plan to seeing how they can be at the most appropriate as evidenced when they blew Chelsea away is there. Amy Lawrence

Possession

Possession

Liverpool

Jrgen Klopp improved Liverpool as an attacking personnel by the rotation of its first year but their threat has improved again this season with 18 purposes acquiring them the joint highest scorers in the Premier League. Liverpool have looked excessively impressive on the front hoof while the players willingness to buy into the managers methods is reflected in them contributing the practice in terms of lucks caused, shots, guides, sprints and distance crossed. They have also successfully steered what seemed a knotty start to the season along the road because of redevelopment work at Anfield obtaining seven points from visits to Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Andy Hunter

Everton

Ronald Koeman has started his Everton predominate by focusing on the glaring weakness that his predecessor, Roberto Martnez, could not correct and contributed significantly to his downfall defending as a squad. Everton relinquished an average of 1.45 goals per competition last season and leaked objectives from set pieces but has all along been carried only 5 in seven league games under the Dutch coach. Simply Tottenham Hotspur have conceded fewer. The crew are more solid, more disciplined and, thanks to Idrissa Gueyes impact, better protected than in recent seasons. When Yannick Bolasie influences a game, they likewise have a better render wire to Romelu Lukaku. Andy Hunter

Manchester United

This is an interesting question as the search for a 21 st championship has so far been uneven and unconvincing. The excellent act likely is that United remain only five points from the top, despite two overcomes from seven accords. Another plus is that three of Jos Mourinhos summer buys Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul Pogba and Eric Bailly are all integrated into the side, and prospects is likely to be further boosted if the fourth the Bundesliga player of the year, Henrikh Mkhitaryan can join them. The course in which Marcus Rashford has forced his road into the firstly XI is also good information for entitlement desires. Jamie Jackson

Chelsea

They have taken items from all the teams they have met outside the top bracket and have speedily established that Antonio Conte, for all his undoubted characters as a motivator and tactician, is unlikely to be able to work amazements with a squad that remains preferably imbalanced. Ensuring that the owner and hierarchy have acknowledged as much is half the combat towards rendering some long-term deliberation, with heavy investment in the market foresaw over the next two delivery spaces. They have integrated NGolo Kant, their key summer newcomer, into the side and are clearly not going to endure the same distressing safarus as last occasion round. An progress on mid-table is insure. Dominic Fifield

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba have slotted into the Manchester United side after signing in the summer. Picture: Oldham/ BPI/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Whats their main weakness?

Manchester City

Their sole conference win came last time out when Tottenham outpressed them. This is intriguing as being the ascendant chase-and-hasslers is a founding timber of Guardiolas ethos. Celtic also tallied a moral victory by, if not flogging, then at least parallelling City at their own pressing game in the 3-3 draw in the Champions League group meeting. Here, then, is a ploy that will be studied by competitives to see if City can be interrupted repeatedly this space. JJ

Tottenham

Their implosion towards the end of last season reminded everybody that this remains a young crew and there can be lawful questions about their ability to handle the pressure when it is at its most extreme. On the other side, they will surely be more appropriate for its expertise and the lessons learned. The Champions League represents a brand-new frontier for many of the players, very. Will they be able to cope with its challenges? DH

Arsenal

Four consecutive clean membranes leading up to the international separate have suggested defensively Arsenal have found an encouraging solid pulpit, based upon the growing rapport between the superb Laurent Koscielny and the determined beginner Shkodran Mustafi, with Hctor Bellern and Nacho Monreal so reliable on either side. But in the spirit of old dress succumbing hard it is not difficult to imagine fragility at the back haunting them in a pressurised play. An hurt in a now colonized back four could bring complications. AL

Liverpool

Just as scoring points has been a welcome feature of Klopps first time in charge at Liverpool, failing to prevent them has furthermore been a long-lasting problem. Liverpool have not prevented a clean expanse in the Premier League this season and, with 16 of the 50 league aims conceded under Klopp coming from free-kicks or angles, their problems with set pieces are glaring. A striving Swansea City side noticed opening between Liverpools central champions frequently last-place time out but shortage a better quality to take full advantage. AH

Everton

By contrast to the work on Evertons defence, the brand-new manager is hitherto to have the same impact on the teams frontline. Three competitions without a acquire including elimination from the EFL Cup by Norwich City have provided as an unpleasant remember that a change to an intense pressing style will not occur overnight. Evertons assaulting alternatives Lukaku, Bolasie and Ross Barkley impress sporadically and demonstrate why Koeman was so keen to strengthen that department in the summer. He will try again in January. AH

Manchester United

Their two losses resulting from City and Watford derived from the kind of sluggish, disjointed play that is reminiscent of the football under Louis van Gaal. “Theres” fault-lines in apology specially along the sides where full-backs Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia have been clumsy and United still absence a midfielder with bite and aggression. As City proved in the first half of their derby prevail, this intends the quick tempi that they are able perforate punctures in Mourinhos humankinds can be established with ease. JJ

Chelsea

Their defence persists clumsy, error-prone and, against the better teams, obliging. Conte had targeted drafts from Serie A over the summer but, in the frenzied streetcar panache on deadline date, purposed up sanctioning David Luizs return from Paris Saint-Germain. He has most varied calibers to those initially expected. Cesc Fbregas, extremely, has fallen out of privilege and will not enjoy life on the peripheries. DF

Chelseas Cesc Fbregas has fallen out of favour this season. Image: Matt West/ BPI/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Whats the strength of the substitutes terrace?

Manchester City

Guardiolas bench features the fraternity skipper in Vincent Kompany( fitness permitting) and Pablo Zabaleta, Leroy San, Kelechi Iheanacho, Gal Clichy, Fabian Delph and Jess Navas are all equally capable as deputies. But held John Stones import to the Guardiola project, if he goes down could Kompany or Tosin Adarabioyo really slot into the ball-playing Gerard Piqu-esque role the Barnsley-born defender provisions? JJ

Tottenham

Pochettino has greater depth than last-place season. Few beings thought that he required Moussa Sissoko but “hes been gone” and signed him anyway for a guild record-equalling 30 m. Sissoko and Wanyama have bulked up his alternatives while the manager has confidence in young players such as Cameron Carter-Vickers, Josh Onomah and Harry Winks. Another brand-new sign, Georges-Kvin Nkoudou, looks like a potential gamechanger. Pochettino was without five key players for the Champions League tie at CSKA Moscow. His crew issued a statement with the 1-0 acquire. DH

Shot conversion

Arsenal

It expressed loudness that in their last match before the break Arsenal tried to break down Burnley goalless going into stoppage time and did not have a single striker on their terrace. There is but one attacking participate of any description in the replacements radical( Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ). That persuasivenes in depth is a question exclusively seven games in is divulging. AL

Liverpool

In periods of goalkeeper and attacking alternatives, better than it has been for several seasons. Loris Karius knows he must make a self-confident start, with Simon Mignolet pushing to regain his situate, while Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and the fit-again Danny Ings who has scored nine objectives in five impressions for the under-2 3s this season are all having to bide their day for inclusion. Defence could be pulled by hurts, however. AH

Everton

The bench is arguably a fair thought of where Everton stand in the Premier League overall better than most, with promising youngsters such as Tom Davies and Mason Holgate given an opportunity, but weak in comparison to the leading lights. AH

Manchester United

Wayne Rooney( currently) honcho a reasonable number of substitutions who also include Anthony Martial, Mkhitaryan, Michael Carrick, Marouane Fellaini, Morgan Schneiderlin, Matteo Darmian, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Tim Fosu-Mensah, Ashley Young and Memphis Depay. It is not perfect: if Pogba is inaccessible who can impressively deputise for the midfielder? The same theme is also able to is in relation to Valencia/ Chris Smalling in defence. JJ

Chelsea

There is a certain depth if one considers Fbregas and Pedro Rodrguez, both World Cup wins, tends to frequent the bench, while Michy Batshuayi, appearing his lane into English football, is clearly a knack. Kurt Zouma will too return from injury soon. DF

Liverpool have run 80 km more than Manchester United

Liverpool have lead 80 km more than Manchester United

Which player can they not yield to lose to injury?

Manchester Citys John Stones clears from precisely near his goalline against Manchester United. Image: Tom Jenkins for the Guardian

Manchester City

Stones. Guardiola bought him to be the decisive human in his pinball pass-and-move gambling. A lane to illustrate how important Stones ability to find space and time to ignite criticizes is if he were to be injured Guardiolas firstly thought would be which midfielder could supersede him Fernandinho( perhaps ), David Silva( if he could undertake, certainly) just as the coach-and-four distributed vocation schemer Javier Mascherano in the centre-back slot at Barcelona. JJ

Tottenham

Mousa Dembl has felt indispensable but the team has coped without him this season, when he has been unavailable ditto, Harry Kane and so, perhaps, it is Toby Alderweireld who can be described as the boulder. Since the centre-half is participating in the summer of last year, Tottenham have had the best defensive enter in the separation. Comfortable on the ball or protecting one versus one, his interpret of video games is superb.

Arsenal

Koscielny. Alluring to say Snchez merely because his flow acquires Arsenal stretch units in a way they dont so easily when geared around Olivier Giroud. But Koscielny is a defender in superb figure who results by illustration. A essential attendance. AL

Liverpool

Sadio Man. Unlike previous years and other self-confident starts, Liverpools strength this season has been their collectiveness. Klopps team is not reliant on an individual but People speed, plus his intelligence with and without the ball, has improved their attacking play. He was also absent from Liverpools merely demolished so far at Burnley.

Everton

Lukaku. An obvious refute but Koemans only alternatives up front, having given the 13.5 m Oumar Niasse the cold shoulder, are the deadline-day lend ratify Enner Valencia and Arouna Kon. AH

Manchester United

Last season it was Martial, this year the voting rights be applicable to Rashford as his coalesce of searing tempo, directness and goalscoring ability is unique within Mourinhos ranks. JJ

Chelsea Diego Costa. The forward is back to his bullying best from the title-winning safarus of 2014-15, enraging markers and producing the line selflessly and aggressively. He have so far been scored six durations in the Premier League. Even if Batshuayi has his own excellences, this unit revolves around Costa. DF

Which month is likely to be key in their designation chase?

Manchester City

December. City have to face not one but two claim competitors in Chelsea and Arsenal and may have to beat Celtic in their final Champions League radical recreation to advance. This makes it an even more crucial month for them. JJ

Tottenham

November searches fruity. On top of potentially sapping Champions League ties against Bayer Leverkusen and Monaco, there are derbies with Arsenal( away ), West Ham United( home) and Chelsea( away ). DH

Arsenal

The conventional nightmare November towers. After five straight winnings in the Premier League, Swansea, Middlesbrough and Sunderland are up next. But what a change of speed come November. Tottenham, Manchester United and Paris-Saint Germain in consecutive parallels will tell us a lot about whether certain challenges can be sustained. AL

Liverpool

April. March delivers more glamorous plays Arsenal and Manchester City but six tournament meetings in April could express the benefits of a season without European football for Liverpool. A month that may result in potential deed rivals being disconcerted by Champions League quarter-finals begins with a Merseyside derby and includes recreations against West Bromwich Albion, Crystal Palace and Watford, all of whom took degrees from Klopps team last-place season. AH

Everton

December, although it is extending it to say Everton are prosecuting the entitle. A frenetic planned that includes residence games against Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool, plus a journey to the endorses, Leicester City, on Boxing Day could influence Koemans first season in charge. AH

Manchester United

December. Six league outings, including information against Spurs, plus a trip-up to Odessa in the Europa League, make this the slog-fest of all months for United. Last year Van Gaal emerged from a torrid December that boasted zero prevails for the first time in the clubs biography as a dead man limping. JJ

Chelsea

It is alluring to say the seven-week period from Saturday, when Chelsea confront the champs Leicester, Manchester United, high-flying Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and call Southampton and Manchester City. But, in reality, it will be January when the sorority will attempt to make a splashing in the market. DF

Chances formed

Chances developed

Finally, can they acquire the claim?

Manchester City

Certainly: but we will know more by 1 January.( A cop-out of an answer? Could be) JJ

Tottenham

The leagues only unbeaten crew have to be considered, at the least, as authentic challengers. Strong excuses triumph championships. DH

Arsenal

Possibly but dont extend potting any residences hitherto. AL

Liverpool

That question has preoccupied Liverpool for 27 years and has always caused the same explanation but, given their start, their directors title-winning pedigree and their fixture schedule is comparable to rivals in the Champions League, their hopes have foundation. AH

Everton

Koeman said it himself: If I tell you the authorities concerned will fight for the entitle I envision most people will tell you that gentleman is crazy. Thats a no then. AH

Manchester United

Having tipped United at the start of the season the response here has to be, yes, but it seems a less than 50/50 shooting, currently. JJ

Chelsea

Highly unlikely. That designation objection may come next season after Conte has made this squad more his own. DF

The post The Premier League proceeds: how are the title contenders determining up? appeared first on apsbicepstraining.com.

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[junker-town]

USWNT star Mallory Pugh signs with Washington Spirit, who bet everything on her being a superstar

Despite reports that she was unwilling to play for the Spirit, Pugh has decided to join after the team made it clear they would not trade her rights.

Mallory Pugh has announced that she’s joining the Washington Spirit, much to the surprise of the women’s soccer world. When Pugh announced three weeks ago that she’d be leaving UCLA to turn professional, this appeared to be the least likely outcome. But the Spirit refused to buy into that narrative, and as it turns out, they were right. They’ve got the player they built their entire offseason plan around acquiring.

This offseason, the Spirit made a series of trades to move up to the top spot in the unattached allocation order, meaning that they’d have first dibs if a player having their salary paid by the American or Canadian federation were to enter the league without going through the draft. They were banking on Pugh or another player becoming available, which is exactly what happened.

Though Pugh’s preference was to play for the Portland Thorns, the Spirit was reportedly unwilling to negotiate a trade of the No. 1 unattached allocation slot, despite Pugh negotiating with Paris Saint-Germain. Had Pugh gone to France, the Spirit would have ended up with nothing and lost an opportunity to flip Pugh’s rights for valuable assets.

And now all of that concern is irrelevant, because Pugh is a Spirit player. So what does that mean?

Pugh should make the Spirit better immediately

Even though Pugh is a 19-year-old rookie, her play with the United States women’s national team suggests that she’ll instantly be one of the Spirit’s best players. Because their roster was effectively gutted this offseason in the pursuit of Pugh and other younger players that head coach and general manager Jim Gabarra thought would fit into his system, they’re thin everywhere and she’ll be a starter very quickly.

What’s her best position?

This is to be determined. Pugh has played as a winger, attacking midfielder, striker and even wingback under Jill Ellis for the USWNT. While the latter position can be ruled out entirely, the other’s can’t. We might see Pugh as a second striker next to Francisca Ordega or Katie Stengel up top, on one of the wings, or as the Spirit’s most attacking midfielder.

The other thing making Pugh’s best position hard to pin down is that Gabarra hasn’t settled on a formation. He favors athletic players and quick counter-attacks over possession, but he’s shown a willingness to play 4-3-3 and 3-5-2 during his time with the Spirit. Pugh could play as an attack-minded center mid in either formation, as a wide player in the former and as a striker in the latter.

Hopefully Gabarra provides some insight into how he wants to utilize Pugh on Saturday.

So, did the Spirit win their roundabout tradeapalooza?

The jury’s out, but probably not. When you put all related trades together, assuming the draft picks they let go of stay the same, it looks like this.

Spirit trade:

DF Ali Krieger DF Megan Oyster MF Morgan Andrews FW Margaret Purce

Spirit receive:

FW Mallory Pugh MF Kristie Mewis DF Kasey Kallman

Right now, it’s impossible to judge most of these players. Pugh hasn’t played a pro club game, Andrews has been limited while finishing her degree, and Purce is a spectacular athlete who was always likely to be a longer-term project than other first-round players because she didn’t play at the highest level in college. It also helps the Spirit’s argument for these being good deals that Krieger is in poor form with Orlando Pride at the moment.

But Mewis and Kallman haven’t played like more than solid squad players for most of their NWSL careers, and have not yet looked more than serviceable for the Spirit. Meanwhile, Oyster has been a major part of Boston’s turnaround after a disastrous 2016, while the Spirit — who have let in six goals so far — look like they could really use her. Andrews has also been effective in limited substitute duty, and her performances at every USWNT youth level suggest she’s on a path to being a well above-average NWSL starter.

We can probably separate out Krieger and Purce for Mewis and Kallman as a fairly even swap of a declining star who is now a decent starter and a low floor, high ceiling prospect for two solid role players. The real meat of the deal is Oyster — a very good starter — and Andrews — a high upside and low-risk prospect — for Pugh.

So a club has bet the farm on a 19-year-old. No pressure!

The Spirit thought it was worth doing everything they could this summer to have the best chance of landing Pugh in the event that she decided to turn pro. They rated her highly enough to get rid of good starters who were popular with their fans and first round draft picks to have a shot to land her. So for the Spirit to come out ahead in these trades, they need Pugh to be a huge on-pitch and business boom. Her presence needs to be directly attributable to wins, sellouts, and new sponsorship.

Pugh is much more than just another talented young player. She’s the new face of a franchise and the emerging face of NWSL. If she’s anything less than an NWSL Best XI candidate by next season, she’ll likely be considered a bust.

And that narrative wasn’t decided by me or anyone else but Washington Spirit management — the trades made to get her dictate that. They gave up two very good starters with USWNT caps, plus the No. 3 and No. 9 overall picks. Not for a guarantee of signing Pugh, but for the chance to sign Pugh. Forgive the cross-sport analogies, but in other leagues, that’s roughly the going rate for the rookie version of Bryce Harper or Elena Delle Donne. If you prefer an NWSL analogy, it’s more than the Orlando Pride gave up to get established superstar Alex Morgan, so Pugh seems to be the most valuable player in the league.

Soon, we’ll find out if she was worth it.

[apsbicepstraining]

The Premier League proceeds: how are the title contenders determining up?

With the top-flight back in action this weekend, we take a look at the top sevens fortes, penchants, force profundity and leading player before asking whether they have got what it required in order to acquire the league

The Premier League is back after the international break and, following a breathless start to the season, we assess the top seven slopes in the conference in search for evidences as to which area will lift the trophy come May. Manchester City are the early pacemakers but their defeat at Tottenham Hotspur have given the rest of the clubs hope. It is also worth remembering that seven games into last season, Louis van Gaals Manchester United were top, West Ham United third and eventual wins Leicester City eighth

What have they done right thus far?

Manchester City

They won their opening six activities and so guide the hasten by a object from Tottenham Hotspur. The manager may be brand-new but his passing game has been speedy to berthed in and bewitch antagonists. The display of Pep Guardiolas full-backs moving into central midfield is a further poser. The 45 -year-old has done all of the above while also bombing out Joe Hart, discarding Yaya Tour, blocking Wi-Fi at the training base and banning pizza from players foods. It is as close to a change as has been witnessed in the division since Arsne Wenger strode into Arsenal in 1996. Jamie Jackson

Tottenham

The 2-0 home win over Manchester City before the international terminate was a occasion of a better quality that Mauricio Pochettino has instilled and an illustration of what can happen when everything clicks. Tottenham are guaranteed connection for the purposes of the Argentinian and the lucidity of his high-octane physical approach. The director wielded his actors harder than ever in pre-season( mindful of the additional stress of a Champions League campaign) and it is clear that their conditioning is a major plus. Even when they have not been at the most appropriate thus far, they have delved out a outcome and their defensive miserliness bodes well. The summer contract Victor Wanyama has been good and Son Heung-mins resurgence has been a boon. David Hytner

Arsenal

Once they get over the ill-prepared opening day shocker against Liverpool, what Arsenal have found is greater efficiency. That happens to be one of Wengers favourite words. It was the causes of his greatest resentment last-place season that the rate between decent fortunes created and actual goals to change competitions was not efficient enough. The deployment of Alexis Snchez at centre-forward has encouraged a far pacier and mobile criticizing cadence. Arsenal have tallied three goals or more in half of their tournaments in all challengers. The plan to seeing how they can be at the most appropriate as evidenced when they blew Chelsea away is there. Amy Lawrence

Possession

Possession

Liverpool

Jrgen Klopp improved Liverpool as an attacking personnel by the rotation of its first year but their threat has improved again this season with 18 purposes acquiring them the joint highest scorers in the Premier League. Liverpool have looked excessively impressive on the front hoof while the players willingness to buy into the managers methods is reflected in them contributing the practice in terms of lucks caused, shots, guides, sprints and distance crossed. They have also successfully steered what seemed a knotty start to the season along the road because of redevelopment work at Anfield obtaining seven points from visits to Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Andy Hunter

Everton

Ronald Koeman has started his Everton predominate by focusing on the glaring weakness that his predecessor, Roberto Martnez, could not correct and contributed significantly to his downfall defending as a squad. Everton relinquished an average of 1.45 goals per competition last season and leaked objectives from set pieces but has all along been carried only 5 in seven league games under the Dutch coach. Simply Tottenham Hotspur have conceded fewer. The crew are more solid, more disciplined and, thanks to Idrissa Gueyes impact, better protected than in recent seasons. When Yannick Bolasie influences a game, they likewise have a better render wire to Romelu Lukaku. Andy Hunter

Manchester United

This is an interesting question as the search for a 21 st championship has so far been uneven and unconvincing. The excellent act likely is that United remain only five points from the top, despite two overcomes from seven accords. Another plus is that three of Jos Mourinhos summer buys Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul Pogba and Eric Bailly are all integrated into the side, and prospects is likely to be further boosted if the fourth the Bundesliga player of the year, Henrikh Mkhitaryan can join them. The course in which Marcus Rashford has forced his road into the firstly XI is also good information for entitlement desires. Jamie Jackson

Chelsea

They have taken items from all the teams they have met outside the top bracket and have speedily established that Antonio Conte, for all his undoubted characters as a motivator and tactician, is unlikely to be able to work amazements with a squad that remains preferably imbalanced. Ensuring that the owner and hierarchy have acknowledged as much is half the combat towards rendering some long-term deliberation, with heavy investment in the market foresaw over the next two delivery spaces. They have integrated NGolo Kant, their key summer newcomer, into the side and are clearly not going to endure the same distressing safarus as last occasion round. An progress on mid-table is insure. Dominic Fifield

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba have slotted into the Manchester United side after signing in the summer. Picture: Oldham/ BPI/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Whats their main weakness?

Manchester City

Their sole conference win came last time out when Tottenham outpressed them. This is intriguing as being the ascendant chase-and-hasslers is a founding timber of Guardiolas ethos. Celtic also tallied a moral victory by, if not flogging, then at least parallelling City at their own pressing game in the 3-3 draw in the Champions League group meeting. Here, then, is a ploy that will be studied by competitives to see if City can be interrupted repeatedly this space. JJ

Tottenham

Their implosion towards the end of last season reminded everybody that this remains a young crew and there can be lawful questions about their ability to handle the pressure when it is at its most extreme. On the other side, they will surely be more appropriate for its expertise and the lessons learned. The Champions League represents a brand-new frontier for many of the players, very. Will they be able to cope with its challenges? DH

Arsenal

Four consecutive clean membranes leading up to the international separate have suggested defensively Arsenal have found an encouraging solid pulpit, based upon the growing rapport between the superb Laurent Koscielny and the determined beginner Shkodran Mustafi, with Hctor Bellern and Nacho Monreal so reliable on either side. But in the spirit of old dress succumbing hard it is not difficult to imagine fragility at the back haunting them in a pressurised play. An hurt in a now colonized back four could bring complications. AL

Liverpool

Just as scoring points has been a welcome feature of Klopps first time in charge at Liverpool, failing to prevent them has furthermore been a long-lasting problem. Liverpool have not prevented a clean expanse in the Premier League this season and, with 16 of the 50 league aims conceded under Klopp coming from free-kicks or angles, their problems with set pieces are glaring. A striving Swansea City side noticed opening between Liverpools central champions frequently last-place time out but shortage a better quality to take full advantage. AH

Everton

By contrast to the work on Evertons defence, the brand-new manager is hitherto to have the same impact on the teams frontline. Three competitions without a acquire including elimination from the EFL Cup by Norwich City have provided as an unpleasant remember that a change to an intense pressing style will not occur overnight. Evertons assaulting alternatives Lukaku, Bolasie and Ross Barkley impress sporadically and demonstrate why Koeman was so keen to strengthen that department in the summer. He will try again in January. AH

Manchester United

Their two losses resulting from City and Watford derived from the kind of sluggish, disjointed play that is reminiscent of the football under Louis van Gaal. “Theres” fault-lines in apology specially along the sides where full-backs Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia have been clumsy and United still absence a midfielder with bite and aggression. As City proved in the first half of their derby prevail, this intends the quick tempi that they are able perforate punctures in Mourinhos humankinds can be established with ease. JJ

Chelsea

Their defence persists clumsy, error-prone and, against the better teams, obliging. Conte had targeted drafts from Serie A over the summer but, in the frenzied streetcar panache on deadline date, purposed up sanctioning David Luizs return from Paris Saint-Germain. He has most varied calibers to those initially expected. Cesc Fbregas, extremely, has fallen out of privilege and will not enjoy life on the peripheries. DF

Chelseas Cesc Fbregas has fallen out of favour this season. Image: Matt West/ BPI/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Whats the strength of the substitutes terrace?

Manchester City

Guardiolas bench features the fraternity skipper in Vincent Kompany( fitness permitting) and Pablo Zabaleta, Leroy San, Kelechi Iheanacho, Gal Clichy, Fabian Delph and Jess Navas are all equally capable as deputies. But held John Stones import to the Guardiola project, if he goes down could Kompany or Tosin Adarabioyo really slot into the ball-playing Gerard Piqu-esque role the Barnsley-born defender provisions? JJ

Tottenham

Pochettino has greater depth than last-place season. Few beings thought that he required Moussa Sissoko but “hes been gone” and signed him anyway for a guild record-equalling 30 m. Sissoko and Wanyama have bulked up his alternatives while the manager has confidence in young players such as Cameron Carter-Vickers, Josh Onomah and Harry Winks. Another brand-new sign, Georges-Kvin Nkoudou, looks like a potential gamechanger. Pochettino was without five key players for the Champions League tie at CSKA Moscow. His crew issued a statement with the 1-0 acquire. DH

Shot conversion

Arsenal

It expressed loudness that in their last match before the break Arsenal tried to break down Burnley goalless going into stoppage time and did not have a single striker on their terrace. There is but one attacking participate of any description in the replacements radical( Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ). That persuasivenes in depth is a question exclusively seven games in is divulging. AL

Liverpool

In periods of goalkeeper and attacking alternatives, better than it has been for several seasons. Loris Karius knows he must make a self-confident start, with Simon Mignolet pushing to regain his situate, while Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and the fit-again Danny Ings who has scored nine objectives in five impressions for the under-2 3s this season are all having to bide their day for inclusion. Defence could be pulled by hurts, however. AH

Everton

The bench is arguably a fair thought of where Everton stand in the Premier League overall better than most, with promising youngsters such as Tom Davies and Mason Holgate given an opportunity, but weak in comparison to the leading lights. AH

Manchester United

Wayne Rooney( currently) honcho a reasonable number of substitutions who also include Anthony Martial, Mkhitaryan, Michael Carrick, Marouane Fellaini, Morgan Schneiderlin, Matteo Darmian, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Tim Fosu-Mensah, Ashley Young and Memphis Depay. It is not perfect: if Pogba is inaccessible who can impressively deputise for the midfielder? The same theme is also able to is in relation to Valencia/ Chris Smalling in defence. JJ

Chelsea

There is a certain depth if one considers Fbregas and Pedro Rodrguez, both World Cup wins, tends to frequent the bench, while Michy Batshuayi, appearing his lane into English football, is clearly a knack. Kurt Zouma will too return from injury soon. DF

Liverpool have run 80 km more than Manchester United

Liverpool have lead 80 km more than Manchester United

Which player can they not yield to lose to injury?

Manchester Citys John Stones clears from precisely near his goalline against Manchester United. Image: Tom Jenkins for the Guardian

Manchester City

Stones. Guardiola bought him to be the decisive human in his pinball pass-and-move gambling. A lane to illustrate how important Stones ability to find space and time to ignite criticizes is if he were to be injured Guardiolas firstly thought would be which midfielder could supersede him Fernandinho( perhaps ), David Silva( if he could undertake, certainly) just as the coach-and-four distributed vocation schemer Javier Mascherano in the centre-back slot at Barcelona. JJ

Tottenham

Mousa Dembl has felt indispensable but the team has coped without him this season, when he has been unavailable ditto, Harry Kane and so, perhaps, it is Toby Alderweireld who can be described as the boulder. Since the centre-half is participating in the summer of last year, Tottenham have had the best defensive enter in the separation. Comfortable on the ball or protecting one versus one, his interpret of video games is superb.

Arsenal

Koscielny. Alluring to say Snchez merely because his flow acquires Arsenal stretch units in a way they dont so easily when geared around Olivier Giroud. But Koscielny is a defender in superb figure who results by illustration. A essential attendance. AL

Liverpool

Sadio Man. Unlike previous years and other self-confident starts, Liverpools strength this season has been their collectiveness. Klopps team is not reliant on an individual but People speed, plus his intelligence with and without the ball, has improved their attacking play. He was also absent from Liverpools merely demolished so far at Burnley.

Everton

Lukaku. An obvious refute but Koemans only alternatives up front, having given the 13.5 m Oumar Niasse the cold shoulder, are the deadline-day lend ratify Enner Valencia and Arouna Kon. AH

Manchester United

Last season it was Martial, this year the voting rights be applicable to Rashford as his coalesce of searing tempo, directness and goalscoring ability is unique within Mourinhos ranks. JJ

Chelsea Diego Costa. The forward is back to his bullying best from the title-winning safarus of 2014-15, enraging markers and producing the line selflessly and aggressively. He have so far been scored six durations in the Premier League. Even if Batshuayi has his own excellences, this unit revolves around Costa. DF

Which month is likely to be key in their designation chase?

Manchester City

December. City have to face not one but two claim competitors in Chelsea and Arsenal and may have to beat Celtic in their final Champions League radical recreation to advance. This makes it an even more crucial month for them. JJ

Tottenham

November searches fruity. On top of potentially sapping Champions League ties against Bayer Leverkusen and Monaco, there are derbies with Arsenal( away ), West Ham United( home) and Chelsea( away ). DH

Arsenal

The conventional nightmare November towers. After five straight winnings in the Premier League, Swansea, Middlesbrough and Sunderland are up next. But what a change of speed come November. Tottenham, Manchester United and Paris-Saint Germain in consecutive parallels will tell us a lot about whether certain challenges can be sustained. AL

Liverpool

April. March delivers more glamorous plays Arsenal and Manchester City but six tournament meetings in April could express the benefits of a season without European football for Liverpool. A month that may result in potential deed rivals being disconcerted by Champions League quarter-finals begins with a Merseyside derby and includes recreations against West Bromwich Albion, Crystal Palace and Watford, all of whom took degrees from Klopps team last-place season. AH

Everton

December, although it is extending it to say Everton are prosecuting the entitle. A frenetic planned that includes residence games against Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool, plus a journey to the endorses, Leicester City, on Boxing Day could influence Koemans first season in charge. AH

Manchester United

December. Six league outings, including information against Spurs, plus a trip-up to Odessa in the Europa League, make this the slog-fest of all months for United. Last year Van Gaal emerged from a torrid December that boasted zero prevails for the first time in the clubs biography as a dead man limping. JJ

Chelsea

It is alluring to say the seven-week period from Saturday, when Chelsea confront the champs Leicester, Manchester United, high-flying Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and call Southampton and Manchester City. But, in reality, it will be January when the sorority will attempt to make a splashing in the market. DF

Chances formed

Chances developed

Finally, can they acquire the claim?

Manchester City

Certainly: but we will know more by 1 January.( A cop-out of an answer? Could be) JJ

Tottenham

The leagues only unbeaten crew have to be considered, at the least, as authentic challengers. Strong excuses triumph championships. DH

Arsenal

Possibly but dont extend potting any residences hitherto. AL

Liverpool

That question has preoccupied Liverpool for 27 years and has always caused the same explanation but, given their start, their directors title-winning pedigree and their fixture schedule is comparable to rivals in the Champions League, their hopes have foundation. AH

Everton

Koeman said it himself: If I tell you the authorities concerned will fight for the entitle I envision most people will tell you that gentleman is crazy. Thats a no then. AH

Manchester United

Having tipped United at the start of the season the response here has to be, yes, but it seems a less than 50/50 shooting, currently. JJ

Chelsea

Highly unlikely. That designation objection may come next season after Conte has made this squad more his own. DF

The post The Premier League proceeds: how are the title contenders determining up? appeared first on apsbicepstraining.com.

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[apsbicepstraining]

The Premier League proceeds: how are the title contenders determining up?

With the top-flight back in action this weekend, we take a look at the top sevens fortes, penchants, force profundity and leading player before asking whether they have got what it required in order to acquire the league

The Premier League is back after the international break and, following a breathless start to the season, we assess the top seven slopes in the conference in search for evidences as to which area will lift the trophy come May. Manchester City are the early pacemakers but their defeat at Tottenham Hotspur have given the rest of the clubs hope. It is also worth remembering that seven games into last season, Louis van Gaals Manchester United were top, West Ham United third and eventual wins Leicester City eighth

What have they done right thus far?

Manchester City

They won their opening six activities and so guide the hasten by a object from Tottenham Hotspur. The manager may be brand-new but his passing game has been speedy to berthed in and bewitch antagonists. The display of Pep Guardiolas full-backs moving into central midfield is a further poser. The 45 -year-old has done all of the above while also bombing out Joe Hart, discarding Yaya Tour, blocking Wi-Fi at the training base and banning pizza from players foods. It is as close to a change as has been witnessed in the division since Arsne Wenger strode into Arsenal in 1996. Jamie Jackson

Tottenham

The 2-0 home win over Manchester City before the international terminate was a occasion of a better quality that Mauricio Pochettino has instilled and an illustration of what can happen when everything clicks. Tottenham are guaranteed connection for the purposes of the Argentinian and the lucidity of his high-octane physical approach. The director wielded his actors harder than ever in pre-season( mindful of the additional stress of a Champions League campaign) and it is clear that their conditioning is a major plus. Even when they have not been at the most appropriate thus far, they have delved out a outcome and their defensive miserliness bodes well. The summer contract Victor Wanyama has been good and Son Heung-mins resurgence has been a boon. David Hytner

Arsenal

Once they get over the ill-prepared opening day shocker against Liverpool, what Arsenal have found is greater efficiency. That happens to be one of Wengers favourite words. It was the causes of his greatest resentment last-place season that the rate between decent fortunes created and actual goals to change competitions was not efficient enough. The deployment of Alexis Snchez at centre-forward has encouraged a far pacier and mobile criticizing cadence. Arsenal have tallied three goals or more in half of their tournaments in all challengers. The plan to seeing how they can be at the most appropriate as evidenced when they blew Chelsea away is there. Amy Lawrence

Possession

Possession

Liverpool

Jrgen Klopp improved Liverpool as an attacking personnel by the rotation of its first year but their threat has improved again this season with 18 purposes acquiring them the joint highest scorers in the Premier League. Liverpool have looked excessively impressive on the front hoof while the players willingness to buy into the managers methods is reflected in them contributing the practice in terms of lucks caused, shots, guides, sprints and distance crossed. They have also successfully steered what seemed a knotty start to the season along the road because of redevelopment work at Anfield obtaining seven points from visits to Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. Andy Hunter

Everton

Ronald Koeman has started his Everton predominate by focusing on the glaring weakness that his predecessor, Roberto Martnez, could not correct and contributed significantly to his downfall defending as a squad. Everton relinquished an average of 1.45 goals per competition last season and leaked objectives from set pieces but has all along been carried only 5 in seven league games under the Dutch coach. Simply Tottenham Hotspur have conceded fewer. The crew are more solid, more disciplined and, thanks to Idrissa Gueyes impact, better protected than in recent seasons. When Yannick Bolasie influences a game, they likewise have a better render wire to Romelu Lukaku. Andy Hunter

Manchester United

This is an interesting question as the search for a 21 st championship has so far been uneven and unconvincing. The excellent act likely is that United remain only five points from the top, despite two overcomes from seven accords. Another plus is that three of Jos Mourinhos summer buys Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paul Pogba and Eric Bailly are all integrated into the side, and prospects is likely to be further boosted if the fourth the Bundesliga player of the year, Henrikh Mkhitaryan can join them. The course in which Marcus Rashford has forced his road into the firstly XI is also good information for entitlement desires. Jamie Jackson

Chelsea

They have taken items from all the teams they have met outside the top bracket and have speedily established that Antonio Conte, for all his undoubted characters as a motivator and tactician, is unlikely to be able to work amazements with a squad that remains preferably imbalanced. Ensuring that the owner and hierarchy have acknowledged as much is half the combat towards rendering some long-term deliberation, with heavy investment in the market foresaw over the next two delivery spaces. They have integrated NGolo Kant, their key summer newcomer, into the side and are clearly not going to endure the same distressing safarus as last occasion round. An progress on mid-table is insure. Dominic Fifield

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba have slotted into the Manchester United side after signing in the summer. Picture: Oldham/ BPI/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Whats their main weakness?

Manchester City

Their sole conference win came last time out when Tottenham outpressed them. This is intriguing as being the ascendant chase-and-hasslers is a founding timber of Guardiolas ethos. Celtic also tallied a moral victory by, if not flogging, then at least parallelling City at their own pressing game in the 3-3 draw in the Champions League group meeting. Here, then, is a ploy that will be studied by competitives to see if City can be interrupted repeatedly this space. JJ

Tottenham

Their implosion towards the end of last season reminded everybody that this remains a young crew and there can be lawful questions about their ability to handle the pressure when it is at its most extreme. On the other side, they will surely be more appropriate for its expertise and the lessons learned. The Champions League represents a brand-new frontier for many of the players, very. Will they be able to cope with its challenges? DH

Arsenal

Four consecutive clean membranes leading up to the international separate have suggested defensively Arsenal have found an encouraging solid pulpit, based upon the growing rapport between the superb Laurent Koscielny and the determined beginner Shkodran Mustafi, with Hctor Bellern and Nacho Monreal so reliable on either side. But in the spirit of old dress succumbing hard it is not difficult to imagine fragility at the back haunting them in a pressurised play. An hurt in a now colonized back four could bring complications. AL

Liverpool

Just as scoring points has been a welcome feature of Klopps first time in charge at Liverpool, failing to prevent them has furthermore been a long-lasting problem. Liverpool have not prevented a clean expanse in the Premier League this season and, with 16 of the 50 league aims conceded under Klopp coming from free-kicks or angles, their problems with set pieces are glaring. A striving Swansea City side noticed opening between Liverpools central champions frequently last-place time out but shortage a better quality to take full advantage. AH

Everton

By contrast to the work on Evertons defence, the brand-new manager is hitherto to have the same impact on the teams frontline. Three competitions without a acquire including elimination from the EFL Cup by Norwich City have provided as an unpleasant remember that a change to an intense pressing style will not occur overnight. Evertons assaulting alternatives Lukaku, Bolasie and Ross Barkley impress sporadically and demonstrate why Koeman was so keen to strengthen that department in the summer. He will try again in January. AH

Manchester United

Their two losses resulting from City and Watford derived from the kind of sluggish, disjointed play that is reminiscent of the football under Louis van Gaal. “Theres” fault-lines in apology specially along the sides where full-backs Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia have been clumsy and United still absence a midfielder with bite and aggression. As City proved in the first half of their derby prevail, this intends the quick tempi that they are able perforate punctures in Mourinhos humankinds can be established with ease. JJ

Chelsea

Their defence persists clumsy, error-prone and, against the better teams, obliging. Conte had targeted drafts from Serie A over the summer but, in the frenzied streetcar panache on deadline date, purposed up sanctioning David Luizs return from Paris Saint-Germain. He has most varied calibers to those initially expected. Cesc Fbregas, extremely, has fallen out of privilege and will not enjoy life on the peripheries. DF

Chelseas Cesc Fbregas has fallen out of favour this season. Image: Matt West/ BPI/ Rex/ Shutterstock

Whats the strength of the substitutes terrace?

Manchester City

Guardiolas bench features the fraternity skipper in Vincent Kompany( fitness permitting) and Pablo Zabaleta, Leroy San, Kelechi Iheanacho, Gal Clichy, Fabian Delph and Jess Navas are all equally capable as deputies. But held John Stones import to the Guardiola project, if he goes down could Kompany or Tosin Adarabioyo really slot into the ball-playing Gerard Piqu-esque role the Barnsley-born defender provisions? JJ

Tottenham

Pochettino has greater depth than last-place season. Few beings thought that he required Moussa Sissoko but “hes been gone” and signed him anyway for a guild record-equalling 30 m. Sissoko and Wanyama have bulked up his alternatives while the manager has confidence in young players such as Cameron Carter-Vickers, Josh Onomah and Harry Winks. Another brand-new sign, Georges-Kvin Nkoudou, looks like a potential gamechanger. Pochettino was without five key players for the Champions League tie at CSKA Moscow. His crew issued a statement with the 1-0 acquire. DH

Shot conversion

Arsenal

It expressed loudness that in their last match before the break Arsenal tried to break down Burnley goalless going into stoppage time and did not have a single striker on their terrace. There is but one attacking participate of any description in the replacements radical( Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ). That persuasivenes in depth is a question exclusively seven games in is divulging. AL

Liverpool

In periods of goalkeeper and attacking alternatives, better than it has been for several seasons. Loris Karius knows he must make a self-confident start, with Simon Mignolet pushing to regain his situate, while Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and the fit-again Danny Ings who has scored nine objectives in five impressions for the under-2 3s this season are all having to bide their day for inclusion. Defence could be pulled by hurts, however. AH

Everton

The bench is arguably a fair thought of where Everton stand in the Premier League overall better than most, with promising youngsters such as Tom Davies and Mason Holgate given an opportunity, but weak in comparison to the leading lights. AH

Manchester United

Wayne Rooney( currently) honcho a reasonable number of substitutions who also include Anthony Martial, Mkhitaryan, Michael Carrick, Marouane Fellaini, Morgan Schneiderlin, Matteo Darmian, Phil Jones, Marcos Rojo, Tim Fosu-Mensah, Ashley Young and Memphis Depay. It is not perfect: if Pogba is inaccessible who can impressively deputise for the midfielder? The same theme is also able to is in relation to Valencia/ Chris Smalling in defence. JJ

Chelsea

There is a certain depth if one considers Fbregas and Pedro Rodrguez, both World Cup wins, tends to frequent the bench, while Michy Batshuayi, appearing his lane into English football, is clearly a knack. Kurt Zouma will too return from injury soon. DF

Liverpool have run 80 km more than Manchester United

Liverpool have lead 80 km more than Manchester United

Which player can they not yield to lose to injury?

Manchester Citys John Stones clears from precisely near his goalline against Manchester United. Image: Tom Jenkins for the Guardian

Manchester City

Stones. Guardiola bought him to be the decisive human in his pinball pass-and-move gambling. A lane to illustrate how important Stones ability to find space and time to ignite criticizes is if he were to be injured Guardiolas firstly thought would be which midfielder could supersede him Fernandinho( perhaps ), David Silva( if he could undertake, certainly) just as the coach-and-four distributed vocation schemer Javier Mascherano in the centre-back slot at Barcelona. JJ

Tottenham

Mousa Dembl has felt indispensable but the team has coped without him this season, when he has been unavailable ditto, Harry Kane and so, perhaps, it is Toby Alderweireld who can be described as the boulder. Since the centre-half is participating in the summer of last year, Tottenham have had the best defensive enter in the separation. Comfortable on the ball or protecting one versus one, his interpret of video games is superb.

Arsenal

Koscielny. Alluring to say Snchez merely because his flow acquires Arsenal stretch units in a way they dont so easily when geared around Olivier Giroud. But Koscielny is a defender in superb figure who results by illustration. A essential attendance. AL

Liverpool

Sadio Man. Unlike previous years and other self-confident starts, Liverpools strength this season has been their collectiveness. Klopps team is not reliant on an individual but People speed, plus his intelligence with and without the ball, has improved their attacking play. He was also absent from Liverpools merely demolished so far at Burnley.

Everton

Lukaku. An obvious refute but Koemans only alternatives up front, having given the 13.5 m Oumar Niasse the cold shoulder, are the deadline-day lend ratify Enner Valencia and Arouna Kon. AH

Manchester United

Last season it was Martial, this year the voting rights be applicable to Rashford as his coalesce of searing tempo, directness and goalscoring ability is unique within Mourinhos ranks. JJ

Chelsea Diego Costa. The forward is back to his bullying best from the title-winning safarus of 2014-15, enraging markers and producing the line selflessly and aggressively. He have so far been scored six durations in the Premier League. Even if Batshuayi has his own excellences, this unit revolves around Costa. DF

Which month is likely to be key in their designation chase?

Manchester City

December. City have to face not one but two claim competitors in Chelsea and Arsenal and may have to beat Celtic in their final Champions League radical recreation to advance. This makes it an even more crucial month for them. JJ

Tottenham

November searches fruity. On top of potentially sapping Champions League ties against Bayer Leverkusen and Monaco, there are derbies with Arsenal( away ), West Ham United( home) and Chelsea( away ). DH

Arsenal

The conventional nightmare November towers. After five straight winnings in the Premier League, Swansea, Middlesbrough and Sunderland are up next. But what a change of speed come November. Tottenham, Manchester United and Paris-Saint Germain in consecutive parallels will tell us a lot about whether certain challenges can be sustained. AL

Liverpool

April. March delivers more glamorous plays Arsenal and Manchester City but six tournament meetings in April could express the benefits of a season without European football for Liverpool. A month that may result in potential deed rivals being disconcerted by Champions League quarter-finals begins with a Merseyside derby and includes recreations against West Bromwich Albion, Crystal Palace and Watford, all of whom took degrees from Klopps team last-place season. AH

Everton

December, although it is extending it to say Everton are prosecuting the entitle. A frenetic planned that includes residence games against Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool, plus a journey to the endorses, Leicester City, on Boxing Day could influence Koemans first season in charge. AH

Manchester United

December. Six league outings, including information against Spurs, plus a trip-up to Odessa in the Europa League, make this the slog-fest of all months for United. Last year Van Gaal emerged from a torrid December that boasted zero prevails for the first time in the clubs biography as a dead man limping. JJ

Chelsea

It is alluring to say the seven-week period from Saturday, when Chelsea confront the champs Leicester, Manchester United, high-flying Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and call Southampton and Manchester City. But, in reality, it will be January when the sorority will attempt to make a splashing in the market. DF

Chances formed

Chances developed

Finally, can they acquire the claim?

Manchester City

Certainly: but we will know more by 1 January.( A cop-out of an answer? Could be) JJ

Tottenham

The leagues only unbeaten crew have to be considered, at the least, as authentic challengers. Strong excuses triumph championships. DH

Arsenal

Possibly but dont extend potting any residences hitherto. AL

Liverpool

That question has preoccupied Liverpool for 27 years and has always caused the same explanation but, given their start, their directors title-winning pedigree and their fixture schedule is comparable to rivals in the Champions League, their hopes have foundation. AH

Everton

Koeman said it himself: If I tell you the authorities concerned will fight for the entitle I envision most people will tell you that gentleman is crazy. Thats a no then. AH

Manchester United

Having tipped United at the start of the season the response here has to be, yes, but it seems a less than 50/50 shooting, currently. JJ

Chelsea

Highly unlikely. That designation objection may come next season after Conte has made this squad more his own. DF

The post The Premier League proceeds: how are the title contenders determining up? appeared first on apsbicepstraining.com.

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