Another week, another Fantasy Premier League preview, and let’s hope that you’re all dominating the opposition in a similar manner to Manchester City.
The hectic winter period is in full swing, so be on the lookout for injuries and suspensions; both tend to happen more frequently during Christmas.
Last week was a low-scoring affair, particularly from big-money strikers. Almost a quarter of players (myself included) were left gutted when Alvaro Morata didn’t play, with Antonio Conte taking the decision to rest him… Harry Kane also fired a blank against Brighton.
Anyway, onto this week’s picks, which have to be submitted before 11:30 GMT on Saturday.
Three players to buy
David Silva – Manchester City - £8.2million
Arguably the best chance creator the Premier League has ever seen, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen him playing better than right now. He scored in the Manchester derby, then, backed that up with a brace against Swansea City on Wednesday night.
It’s a pretty obvious selection, but I fear you could get left behind in your leagues without the little magician. At £8.2million, he’s amongst the more expensive midfielders, but it’s worth it.
Riyad Mahrez – Leicester City - £8.5million
The Algerian star is the third-most transferred in player this gameweek, and it’s easy to see why. The former PFA Player of the Year winner is in fine form, propelling Leicester City up the table.
Mahrez has scored or assisted in each of his last four fixtures, which has seen his price creep back up to the £8.5million at which he started at. The Foxes take on Crystal Palace this Saturday lunchtime; another excellent opportunity for points.
Charlie Austin – Southampton - £6.2million
My dice-throw this week is Charlie Austin. After winning his place in the starting XI, he’s scored four goals in his last five, which is an excellent return for just £6.2million.
I love his low ownership at just over 4% and I’m surprised that more managers aren’t picking him up. He’s a proven Premier League goal-scorer, and could be an excellent option to switch in and out of your XIs based on the match-up he has going from week-to-week.
Three players to sell
Stephen Ward – Burnley - £5.2million
Stephen Ward had enjoyed an excellent run for Burnley, but he’s struggled for points recently. On top of that, he left the field against Stoke City with an apparent hamstring injury, which could see his price plummet.
Burnley also play Spurs and Manchester United back-to-back over Christmas, and you’d expect both those sides to hit the back of the net – wiping out those all-important clean sheet points.
Leroy Sane – Manchester City - £8.7million
I’ve found it tough when it comes to Manchester City players this season. Pep Guardiola has such a wealth of attacking options, he has the ability to change the team to suit his needs. Sane hasn’t been playing well recently, so don’t be surprised to see him benched for a game or two.
With his value standing at £8.7million, many FPL bosses are ditching the German winger and I think it’s the right move at this point. I’d urge a switch to Raheem Sterling or David Silva if you want to keep a City player in your midfield.
Pascal Gross – Brighton - £5.9million
Gross hasn’t scored in his last five games and it’s baffling me as to why 20% of players still have him in their squad. Chance creation has been tough for Brighton and they’re finding life in the Premier League tough, particularly when it comes to finding the back of the net.
As alternatives, I like Austin (as suggested above). I’m also keen on Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who’s actually cheaper at £5.3million.
