Hugo Rodallega to put QPR under pressure | Never Captain Nicky Butt

Funny Feeling Friday: Hugo Rodallega

That's the face of someone who's just scored.. Can he do it this week?

With Wigan’s new star (and Charles N’Zogbia replacement) Victor Moses rated at just 50/50 to play this weekend with a groin injury, I had to look elsewhere for a ‘Funny Feeling Friday’ selection. I was always planning on going with Moses after his excellent attacking displays in Wigan’s first two games but lack of any fantasy return (zero assists, zero goals, zero bonus points, and a deduction for a yellow card). So, leaving Moses behind, I’ve decided to turn to another very risky selection – Hugo Rodallega.

Why is Rodallega risky? Well, first, he has not started a game this season. Rodallega came off the bench for just 20 minutes last weekend in Wigan’s 0-0 draw with Swansea. Not only that, but their have been rumors that Liverpool as well as a number of other clubs are interested in acquiring the South American stud – which further places a black cloud over his mental (and physical) state heading into this weekend…

But I don’t mind the risk. That’s the point of this column. Take a look at players that others aren’t even considering. Aren’t thinking about. And aren’t popular. Rodallega fits the bill and more. He’s yet to start this season, costs just 6.5M, and takes on QPR at home this weekend. In that price range there are better in-form strikers (Welbeck and Klasnic) and better long-term selections (Long, Fletcher, Kenwyne Jones and last week’s FFF Agbonlahor) but let’s stick with Rodallega.

Rodallega has a proven track record of scoring in the league. He finished with 10 goals and 7 assists in a superb 2009-2010 fantasy season and has the potential to reach those heights again this year.

So if he starts, look for Rodallega to threaten QPR and come up with a goal or an assist. It’s a major risk as his starting role is in doubt, but if it does come off, the legend of the Funny Feeling Friday will continue. So why not. Rodallega it is.

Your Funny Feeling Friday.