Man United

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I started this post saying how the FA Cup weekend offers little guidance as to fantasy tips and only serves as a series of games in which our players get injured. However, I then tuned into the late kick off at Old Trafford in time to see Berbatov look incredibly dangerous and Ronaldo impotent once more. I have previously stated my recommendation to hold two United defenders over the next 5-6 weeks which means I only have room for one of these men in the side.

I, along with many others, have held Ronaldo all season, who despite being the 5th top points scorer, has failed to justify his lofty price tag. My original strategy was to hold him until at least the two double gameweeks pass, but I am now leaning towards Berbatov to capitalise on this scheduling anomaly. Berbatov's cup goal today gives him 4 goals in 5 along with 5 bonus points in his last 4 premier league outings. Ronaldo on the other hand hasn't scored in the league since 15 November.

Berbatov is himself rather pricey at 9.7m, 1.6m more than my most expensive striker - Defoe. However, selling Ronaldo frees up at least 2.6m and that's assuming I go with the next most expensive option (Gerrard). This would allow my defense to be significantly upgraded to include 2 United regulars along with say a Liverpool and Arsenal defender.

One of the issues that will define the next few weeks is who will best rested by the big teams due to the Champions League. Ronaldo has played every league game he has been available for, and has only been rested once in the Champions League when qualification was already assured. Berbatov's place in the side has been less guaranteed, which may actually serve him well going forward as fatigue is unlikely to play a factor. With Rooney unable to stay fit and Tevez not scoring, Berbatov looks like he'll play in the lion's share of games.

How are you guys going to play your United players? Is everyone going with two defenders or do you think their run must end soon? Our you still loyal to Ronaldo? Let me know your thoughts.

Comments

Rick said…
I've been plaing Berbatov, Carrick, and O'shea. Carrick has underperformed, but O'shea has been great. Of course it's always a risk having him start, but Man United has had a lot of defensive troubles of late.

I just traded out Reina for Schwarzer to free up a few bucks to look at Defoe for Zaki if the Spurs transfer is effective, or to backfill O'Shea.
January 24, 2009 at 3:30 PM
Chris said…
Rick,
I was considering ditching Reina myself for a cheapo keeper and playing Schwarzer as you have done. This could be used to upgrade an average player (Luke Young) to a premium defender (Evra when he returns). Definately worth thinking about.
January 25, 2009 at 2:13 PM
rushi said…
not sure whom to to play....
Reina or Schwarzer...
January 27, 2009 at 3:51 AM
Unknown said…
I'm sticking to one Chelsea, one ManU, and one Liverpool defender for the rest of the campaign. Well, that's the plan anyway.

I've got Skrtl, A.Cole, and O'Shea (until Evra returns) at the moment. I'm pretty sure that's the best value you can get from each team. As far as reliable starters go, anyway. Was gonna get Carvalho for Cole - but he can't make it through more than a game or two without injury these days, it seems. And Cole's play has been VERY attack-minded. I like what I've seen from him.

With Paintsil and R.Taylor as my other defenders, I don't see how any of the other "big boys" could be better value.
January 27, 2009 at 12:57 PM
Chris said…
Looks like I should have got Berbatov. Ronaldo cruising to another 6 pointer (as captain). Great.
January 27, 2009 at 3:59 PM
TD Ocho said…
Ha Chris, I bet you're happy with your selection now!
January 27, 2009 at 7:00 PM
Chris said…
looks like i spoke too soon! did anyone see the United game? any word on how ronaldo played? he picked up 1 bonus point but that doesnt mean a great deal. if he's playing better i might just keep him
January 28, 2009 at 3:05 PM
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