What have I got to look forward to?

• Detailed historical stats table
• Summary of averages of key indicators since 2014
• Round by round detailed stats for the 2017 season
• 2017 averages broken down by thirds
• My observations & commentaries
• My prediction & verdict
• List of any 'value' and/or 'underpriced' players of interests
• Potential 'breakout' players where applicable

I hope that you'll find this a useful resource in your deliberation of starting Premiums for your team.

Without further to do, let's kick off the series with the 1st of our 6 top priced DEF Premiums with...

Michael HURLEY



You'd find it hard to believe that he missed the whole of the 2016 season with how his 2017 season unfolded. Admittedly, his first four rounds were nothing to get excited about which given he's had a year away from football is understandable. After blowing out those cobwebs during the early rounds, he went on to amass an impressive average of 108 for the remaining 16 games of the season. Was tasked with kick-in and intercept duties which are imperative attributes for a 'true' defender scoring potential. He has really taken a liking to playing this defender role since moving there permanently during the 2014/2015 seasons, and all his key metrics have been on the improved since. I don't see his role changing for this season and struggle to think of anyone else who could take either of those roles or do them better. Obviously, the addition of Saad may have an impact but I feel that this will be minimal as he'll most likely replace the role that McGrath was occupying in their defensive structure. The only concern of note is his durability, has never played more than 20 games over 8 seasons. However, this is less of a factor whilst playing as a defender as highlight by his recent games count. He's a legitimate premium defender who can realistically push 100+ average and has the game to sustain it. His SC to DT ratio is also elite for his position.

Prediction: 95-110
Verdict: Strongly consider