New Options
In a round of few goals, defensive options led the way. David de Gea has had his knockers this season but he’s been part of Manchester United’s resurgence in recent weeks and keeping a clean sheet last round against Wolverhampton means he got a great score and is on a price rise worth jumping on.
Ben Mee was among the top scorers for the round as Burnley continue to keep things tight at the back. His match-winning goal obviously aided that. Their defensive form line, leading to their move out of the bottom three, is worth analysis, particularly from a Fantasy Football perspective.
Leeds duo Ezgjan Alioski and Jack Harrison put their respective names up in lights last round with goals in a 5-0 win at West Bromwich, but with Tottenham next, you may need to consider if they’re worth grabbing for a price rise. Raphinha also grabbed a goal to keep his value skyrocketing.
Previous week lessons
You simply cannot take anything for granted during this period of hectic fixtures, with matches being postponed also adding to the chaos, with Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling owners left frustrated after Manchester City’s game against Everton was postponed.
Likewise Harry Kane and Son Heung-Min owners as Tottenham had their game against Fulham also postponed.
Chelsea’s defensive woes continued leaving owners of Edouard Mendy, Kurt Zouma and Reece Jones concerned although Ben Chilwell still found a way with an assist.
Who to captain?
The aforementioned lesson suggests lock in someone who’s definitely playing early. Postponed fixtures combined with player rotation means there’s no guarantees.
Bruno Fernandes is a seductive early option when Manchester United host Aston Villa on Friday night, while Tottenham are up against Leeds on Saturday, marking the return to action of Kane and Son who are ideal back-up options after a freshen-up.
Chelsea and Manchester City players may cancel each other out on Sunday, while Liverpool have a tricky trip to Southampton, so Mohamed Salah may not be as reliable as usual, particularly given their recent lack of goals.
Injury front
The frequency of fixtures means there’s no certainty around who’ll play and who won’t, with numerous fitness tests, including Adam Lallana, Danny Welbeck, Reece James, Hakim Ziyech, Mateusz Klich, Wesley Fofana and James Maddinson.
Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson has joined Kyle Walker and Gabriel Jesus on the sidelines after testing positive for COVID-19.
Gareth Bale will miss a few weeks for Tottenham, while Joel Matip is expected to be out for three weeks for Liverpool with a groin issue.
Villa’s Tyrone Mings and Manchester United’s Edinson Cavani are both suspended for their Friday fixture.