Rule Changes
Not a lot has changed, the chips are still as they were and they are not going to change a winning formula too much. Having said that, there are two key things to note;
1 – The deadline has been pushed forward to 90 minutes ahead of the first kick-off each week. Last year a lot of ‘In The Know’ accounts sprung up on Twitter, who would leak team sheets ~15 minutes prior to the deadline. This was possible because team sheets must be handed into broadcasters and officials 90 minutes in advance of the match, therefore there was half an hour where the team was known by a select few and the deadline was still not passed, so those lucky few could tell others or make changes themselves.
Many found this unfair because it gave an advantage to those who were willing and able to scour Twitter for half an hour before kick-off and adjust their side accordingly. I took advantage when I was able but with two young children that was not too often! Whether you agree it’s unfair or you think it’s just another thing for super-engaged managers to use to their advantage, it’s no longer possible, just make sure you don’t get caught out by the change in deadline
2 – The first wildcard now only is valid until GW16. Usually, the wildcards are set up to split the season in two, however with the late start this year it has been pushed forward to stop it overlapping with the January transfer window. Just like with the new deadline this shouldn’t be an issue, just make sure you don’t get caught out in December!