With due respect to the BackPage boys who I work with on The Big Interview and my books, it’s time for a grown up to take the floor. I don’t think I’m always going to show my hand like this, but as it’s the first run of the Graham Hunter Podcast Challenge on FanDuel, here’s the line-up you have to beat if you want to win one of the cash prizes and the shout-out that goes along with the top spot.
I covered Spain at the three tournaments they won from 2008-12, and I did that job when things didn’t go their way in the last two. Four players I spent time with during that period are in action on Saturday – they were nice to me, so I’m standing by them.
It’s been a rough time for Víctor Valdés since I covered his glorious era at Barcelona and as one of the squad members who made Spain’s success such a group thing. At his best he’s exceptional and Middlesbrough may end up with one of the coups of the season if he can reach those heights again.
It doesn’t take a genius to see the value in selecting David Silva every time he laces up his boots. Is he under-rated in this league, where we’re always looking at the latest arrival for a bit of excitement? An elegant and effective player who I’ll never tire of watching.
I expected Álvaro Negredo to be more of a hit in the Premier League first time around. He hasn’t played enough since then, and it’s another roll of the dice for Boro, a ‘damaged goods’ signing that may give them a valuable asset during the 30-year-old’s loan spell. I still think he’s a great fit for this league.
Nolito fitted into Spain’s 4-3-3 during the highlights of their Euro 2016 campaign and I think he’ll be perfect for Pep Guardiola in that system at City. Direct and dangerous, he’ll be good for both goals and chances created. In FanDuel, player’s values are revised week-to-week based on their performance. My guess is that his will go up, so get him while he’s relatively inexpensive.
Of course, my team also features many players I’d love to get on the podcast – and one who’s already featured. Listen to my interview with Darren Fletcher here and hear how Mourinho described how he ‘eats opponents in defensive transition’. That translates to tackles, interceptions and passes – all worth points for my team!
Finally, as you have gathered, loyalty is a big part of my managerial ethos. I’ll stand by Ashley Williams whether he starts the season in Swansea white or Evertonian blue.
Graham
Join in by picking your team for opening day at FanDuel. Use promo code BIGINTERVIEW and then join the GRAHAM HUNTER PODCAST CHALLENGE in the ‘competitions’ list. It’s £1 to play, there’s lots of cash prizes and the winner gets a shout-out on the podcast.
See you there!
Use bonus code BIGINTERVIEW here