Hmmm what game to watch in Euro 2012 tonight to look at upcoming fantasy premier league players. Two great attacking teams in Spain and Croatia with Iniesta, Xavi and Modric on show or two sides obsessed with defence in Ireland and Italy with Glen Whelan, John O’Shea and Jon Walters on show……
So Croatia v Spain it is. So here’s my thoughts on individual players in this Euro 2012 game.
CROATIA
Luka Modric – Not really a fantasy premier league force due to the fact that he plays quite deep for Spurs as a player who keeps them ticking along rather than threatens by getting forward in the penalty box. One of the top chance creators in the premier league but without goals this hasn’t translated in to fantasy premier league points. In Euro 2012 its been a different story though and he’s played much further up the pitch. Tonight he was terrific and played close to the striker(s) most of the game. In fact in the early part of the second half he looked like a second striker. He was the one player that consistently kept possession. He also produced the one moment that could have turned the game Croatias way when he produced an outside the foot cross to Rakitic to head from the edge of the 6 yard box straight at Casillas. If he does stay at Spurs and plays in this position he could be a viable fantasy premier league option although his lack of goal output will always make me reluctant.
Jelavic
Was a real Euro 2012 success but in this game came on at the 66th minute and never really had a chance to change Croatia’s fortunes.
A real success last year and will be a force next year. Has great shots per minute stats and shots on target percentage. I’m a big fan and have big expectations even within a fairly defensive Everton team.
SPAIN
Silva
In this Euro 2012 game Silva played on the right in a front three and was often in advanced positions and a potential goal threat. Fluffed three “shots” in the first half and one blocked shot in the second. Played as the lone striker for a short period before going off in the 73rd minute.
Doesn’t shoot enough as a midfield option for me but is still an option given Man Citys goal scoring threat in the premier league. Can’t be ignored for next season
Torres
This was more like the Torres of last year. Anonymous and with limited goal threat. Kept quiet by Corluka. I mean come on! Not an option for me, terrible shooting stats and just plain terrible.
