Fantasy Premier League Insights: Fixtures Review and Expert Debate
As we delve into the upcoming fixtures beyond the Gameweek 8 matches, it’s crucial for Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers to strategize effectively. The analysis provided by The Scout offers foresight on clubs with favorable and challenging schedules and serves as an excellent resource for planning your next moves, particularly with the option to save up to five free transfers.
Arsenal: Tough Times Ahead?
Arsenal’s upcoming matches present potential challenges for FPL managers. Following their visit to AFC Bournemouth, the Gunners will confront Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Chelsea in a grueling stretch that has all three matches rated with a Fixture Difficulty Rating (FDR) of four or five. This scenario compels many managers to reconsider their Arsenal selections.
Arsenal’s Fixtures from GW9
| GW | Opponent | FDR |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Liverpool (H) | 5 |
| 10 | Newcastle (A) | 4 |
| 11 | Chelsea (A) | 4 |
Despite this difficult run, certain players could still prove to be valuable. Goalkeeper David Raya (£5.6m) and defender William Saliba (£6.0m) are among the most-selected players, with both found in over 32% of squads. Additionally, the forward Bukayo Saka (£10.1m) remains a major asset, boasting a 34% ownership with only one blank in seven appearances this season—an appealing option to hold onto despite the challenging matchups.
Newcastle: Mixed Bag for Fantasy Managers
Newcastle’s schedule is equally mixed, further complicating decisions for Fantasy managers. Their immediate fixtures feature tough opponents, notably facing Chelsea and Arsenal in Gameweeks 9 and 10.
Newcastle’s Fixtures from GW9
| GW | Opponent | FDR |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Chelsea (A) | 4 |
| 10 | Arsenal (H) | 5 |
| 11 | Nottingham Forest (A) | 2 |
But, there is light at the end of the tunnel. A softening schedule kicks in after Gameweek 16, which includes matches against Leicester City and Ipswich Town. Here, assets like goalkeeper Nick Pope (£5.0m) and forwards Anthony Gordon (£7.3m) and Alexander Isak (£8.3m) could become essential picks for your FPL team.
Fulham: An Opportunity for Growth
In contrast, Fulham is facing a run of fixtures that is particularly favorable, suggesting that now may be the time to invest in their players. With five out of their next six matches rated at two on the FDR, including encounters against Everton and Brentford, there are ample opportunities to rack up points.
Fulham’s Fixtures from GW9
| GW | Opponent | FDR |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Everton (A) | 2 |
| 10 | Brentford (H) | 2 |
| 11 | Crystal Palace (A) | 2 |
Emile Smith Rowe (£5.7m), with a 27% ownership, stands out as a key option, having scored all his points at home this season. Meanwhile, Raul Jimenez (£5.6m) is a strong cut-price forward, while defender Antonee Robinson (£4.7m) could provide lucrative attacking returns.
Expert Interview and Discussion
To provide a more in-depth analysis of the situation, we are joined today by retired footballer and FPL analyst, Jamie Carragher, who will share his insights on the fixtures and their potential implications for FPL managers.
Interviewer: Jamie, with Arsenal set to face Liverpool, Newcastle, and Chelsea in the next few matches, do you think holding onto players like Saka and Raya is advisable?
Jamie Carragher: Absolutely. While Arsenal’s fixtures are tough, Saka has shown he can deliver even against top defenses. His ownership suggests confidence from the manager and fans alike. As for Raya, he’s a solid choice in goal, especially considering the Gunners’ overall defensive strength.
Interviewer: Moving on to Newcastle, their upcoming fixtures look daunting until mid-December. Should managers look to offload players from their squad?
Jamie Carragher: It depends on your strategy. If you’re currently heavily invested in Newcastle, it would be wise to reassess your options, focusing on those matches against Chennai. They will face tough opponents, but after this rough patch, a favorable schedule should bring some Newcastle players back into the fold.
Interviewer: Finally, what are your thoughts on Fulham’s extended favorable run? Do you see them as a potential dark horse for FPL managers?
Jamie Carragher: Definitely. Fulham has the potential to rack up points, and with players like Jimenez and Smith Rowe showing form, they could be crucial in the upcoming weeks. Their fixtures could provide the perfect opportunity for them to capitalize on weaknesses in the schedules of their opponents.
As we conclude our discussion, we would love to hear from our readers. How do you plan to approach your Fantasy Premier League line-up given these fixtures? Are you considering making any drastic changes or holding onto your current players? Share your thoughts and strategies in the comments below!
