Why you should try to kick that statistical analysis addiction

If you flipped from six to midnight when Cesc Fabregas bagged two goals and two assists this weekend, chances are you have a fantasy football team and the Spaniard is your captain. Bully for you. Spoiler correspondent Ben Baker provides ten reasons why you’re obsession with your personal Premiership XI isn’t healthy… 

It’s time consuming
You’re at work, it’s lunch time and the sun is shining. You should probably get out for some fresh air, but first you will have a five minute tinker with your side to see if you can fit Lampard in. That five minutes turns into half hour, and that quickly turns into an hour. It isn’t long before that hour turns into a P45.

It’s more of a commitment than a mortgage and having children combined
Once you have committed yourself to the world of Fantasy Football, there is no escaping it. Constant ribbing from your friends will force you to soldier on. And if you miss a week then you will inevitably be out of the race. So don’t even think about going on holiday during the season.

It rewards individuals instead of team players
Javier Mascherano is arguably one of Liverpool’s most important players, breaking up opposition attacks and starting his own. But not according to fantasy stats - his contributions are paled into significance as he gets too many yellow cards and doesn’t score enough goals.

It changes the way you watch the game
Fantasy football takes away your ability to see the big picture