Is Mbeumo the New Star in Our FPL Team of the Week Without Haaland?

This article delves into the latest Fantasy Premier League (FPL) insights, focusing on player selections and strategies for the upcoming game week. With key players like Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah in contention, managers face tough choices on who to include in their teams. Strategies around these players and others will be vital for maximising points as the season progresses.

Last updated: 19 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways for FPL Managers

Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah remain crucial choices for FPL teams.
Defensive players from teams facing struggling attacks can be valuable picks.
Players with high expected goals (xG) should be prioritised for midfield and forward slots.
Budget-friendly selections like Lucas Paqueta and Antoine Semenyo can enhance team flexibility.
Monitor player injuries and form closely for optimal squad adjustments.

Understanding the Player Choices

Every week in Fantasy Premier League presents managers with unique challenges. The ongoing debate between selecting Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah reflects broader strategies in FPL. Both players have consistently proven their value, yet their upcoming fixtures raise questions about form and fixture difficulty.

Erling Haaland: The Goal Machine

Despite a recent disappointing outing, Erling Haaland remains one of the most potent forwards in the league. His performance in the recent Manchester derby, where he scored two goals, highlights his capability to change games single-handedly. However, facing an Arsenal defence that has yet to concede from open play presents a significant hurdle.

Mohamed Salah: The Merseyside Maestro

Mohamed Salah's impressive record against Everton, with eight goals in 11 matches, makes him an attractive captain choice. Although his recent form has been less than stellar in open play, his ability to score from various situations keeps him an essential asset.

Strategic Considerations for Team Selection

When constructing an FPL team, especially under the Free Hit strategy, it is crucial to consider not just individual player form but also the overall dynamics of upcoming matches. Defensive picks are particularly important this week, given the likelihood of low-scoring matches.

Defensive Picks to Consider

With teams struggling offensively, selecting defenders from teams expected to secure clean sheets can provide a solid foundation. Here are some recommendations:

Sam Johnstone (Wolves, £4.5m) - Predicted to face Leeds, who have struggled to score.
Joe Rodon (Leeds, £4m) - Solid defensive contributions make him a budget-friendly choice against Wolves.
Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, £6.1m) - A strong performer with potential for bonus points against Everton.
Joachim Andersen (Fulham, £4.5m) - Consistent bonus point earner expected to perform well against Brentford.

Midfield and Forward Highlights

In midfield and forward positions, the focus should be on players with high xG and those in form. Here are standout selections:

Antoine Semenyo: Rising Star

Antoine Semenyo has quickly become a must-have midfielder, boasting statistics that rival even the top forwards. With a significant number of shots and expected goals, he’s an asset that could yield substantial returns.

Bryan Mbeumo: The Underrated Pick

Manchester United’s struggles in front of goal have been highlighted by their high xG relative to actual goals scored. Bryan Mbeumo stands out as a leading performer in this environment, making him a valuable pick for those seeking midfield options.

Joao Pedro: Essential Forward

For forwards, Joao Pedro has emerged as a key player, consistently returning points. His form against a shaky Manchester United defence makes him a priority for managers looking to maximise their forward slots.

Potential Budget Picks

Budget constraints in FPL can limit options, but there are notable players who offer good value. Lucas Paqueta, priced at £5.9m, is one such option who, as a penalty taker, can provide key contributions in matches where West Ham seeks to recover from poor performances.

Team of the Week Overview

Based on current prices and anticipated performance, the following represents the selected team of the week under a £100m budget:

Goalkeeper: Sam Johnstone (Wolves, £4.5m)
Defenders: Joe Rodon (Leeds, £4m), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, £6.1m), Joachim Andersen (Fulham, £4.5m)
Midfielders: Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth, £7.5m), Bryan Mbeumo (Manchester United, £8.1m), Mohamed Salah (captain, Liverpool, £14.5m), Lucas Paqueta (West Ham, £5.9m)
Forwards: Joao Pedro (Chelsea, £7.8m), Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest, £7.6m)

This team totals approximately £97m, leaving room for flexibility. Regular updates and adjustments based on player form and fixtures will be essential as the season progresses.

What’s Next for FPL Managers?

As the FPL season unfolds, keeping abreast of player performances, injury news, and tactical changes is crucial. Managers should consider long-term strategies for integrating stars like Haaland and Salah while also assessing budget-friendly options that can provide value in the coming weeks.

FAQs

What is the Free Hit strategy in Fantasy Premier League?

The Free Hit strategy allows FPL managers to make unlimited changes to their squad for a single game week, after which their team reverts to its previous state.

How do expected goals (xG) influence player selection?

xG is a metric that estimates the quality of goal-scoring chances. Players with high xG values are typically more likely to score, making them attractive selections for FPL teams.

Should I prioritise forwards or midfielders in my FPL team?

This depends on individual player form and fixtures. Generally, having a balanced team with strong performers in both areas is ideal, but focus on players with high returns in the current game week.

What factors should I consider for my defensive picks?

Consider the likelihood of clean sheets based on opponent form, as well as individual player contributions to defensive stats, such as tackles and interceptions.

How often should I change my FPL team?

Regularly assess your team each week based on player form, injuries, and upcoming fixtures. Adjustments can lead to significant point gains throughout the season.

As the FPL landscape continues to evolve, what strategies will you employ to gain an edge over your competitors? Stay informed and make your decisions wisely! #FPL #Football #PremierLeague