Well, it was a rock-n-roll week four and with the unusual double games spaced out over two weeks the roller coaster ride was interesting. New England, Vancouver and Dallas were the teams to bet on and Oscar Pareja rotated his lineup a bit. That's will probably be an ongoing concern with Dallas.
One of the things to attempt to discern, when looking at the crystal ball of the table is who might have the most attractive fixtures forthcoming and attempt to add the two players most likely to enjoy an impact without damaging some folks who have proven effective across the board.
There are a couple of injury concerns among the top players. Robbie Keane has had an arthroscopic procedure on a knee and appears out for 4-6 weeks. Pedro Morales was subbed off with a hip flexor issue after 19 minutes and appears doubtful this weekend. Matt Besler is in the concussion protocol and Peter Vermes has indicated it unlikely that he be available Saturday. Benny Feilhaber has returned and went 90 with a penalty. Mauaro Diaz, apparently sat out the Saturday match as a precaution and should be ready. Cyle Larin had a hamstring concern and will bear watching as to his status. David Accam may be available. Keep an eye on the injury reports for the status of each of these and some others, not mentioned. It is that time of year, already.
Anyway, my recommendation is to take a hard look at the upcoming double game weeks next week and make your decisions with those fixtures in mind. Let's take a look at the week's selections.
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Goalkeepers:
I don't particularly think it is the week to shuffle your goalkeeper. There are better options, but if you need one, here are some areas to look.
Bobby Shuttleworth has emerged as a premier shot stopper and the New England defense appears solid, early.
Travis Worra, whom I have, might be a rotation risk, as DC United have picked up Tally Hall and Charlie Horton. Right now, Worra continues to hold the inside track. Worra is only 4.0.
David Ousted delivered two shutouts last week and Vancouver's defense also appears to be rounding into form, just as the schedule stiffens.
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Defenders:
Sporting Kansas City has some double game fixtures approaching and some value bargains. A lot of people have added Nuno Coelho, Chance Myers and Amadou Dia. Beware the rotation of the double games, even defenders are at risk.
Vancouver posted two shutouts last period and anyone from their defense is worth considering. Jordan Harvey is priced at 7.1 if you are on a budget, Kendall Waston is priced at 9.2, if you have cash to splash.
There are also some bargains still available. Axel Sjoberg has started all three matches for Colorado and they have a dgw approaching next week. He is 5.5. Daniel Steres is starting for Los Angeles at 5.2. Jonathan Campbell from Greensboro, North Carolina is starting and only 5.0. Philadelphia's Fabinho has delivered points at 6.7
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Midfielders:
Benny Feilhaber is back from his pre season injury and should be set to play through the double game week.
Diego Valeri was huge for Portland, even though they were spanked 4-1 at Orlando. Add him if you don't have him, but he has a bye in week 7.
Mauro Diaz is a very good performer and Dallas enjoys two matches next week.
Kaka delivered big time for Orlando Sunday night, the big question is can his body hold up to a MLS season.
Andrew Wenger has two attractive home fixtures approaching for Houston and value priced at 7.2.
Diego Fagundez has been solid for New England this season and appears to be their most reliable scoring option.
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Forwards:
Max Urruti plays the single forward position for Dallas and should be on your squad.
Joao Plata appears to be the player for Real Salt Lake if you like their chances
Magic Mike Mcgee has been a revelation for Los Angeles and will probably continue to start in Robbie Keane's absence.
Dom Dwyer for Sporting KC is a very good option priced at 10.1. Again, double game weeks ahead.
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I had a roller coaster of a period, after the first matches I had moved up to 35th overall, then fell to 256th by April 1, then actually eased back up to 61st off of Valeri's strong performance at Orlando. But ultimately finding myself at 89th overall when the auto sub points were added in.
My current team from last week: Worra, Kemp, Parker, Redding, Diaz, Porales, Piatti, Valeri, Urruti, Villa, Giovinco. I also have 3.8 in salary cash.
I am looking at either Feilhaber or Kaka for Porales and adding a defender. I may need a goalkeeper if Worra does not continue.
Anyway, is there anyone outside of the above picks that you believe is worthy of consideration? How does your own squad look? What is your thinking heading into the double games next week?
Best,
Charles