If you’re anything like me, you might have experienced a less-than-stellar start to the Premier League fantasy football season. The frustration is real, and the temptation to hit that wildcard button for gameweek five is strong. Some may have already succumbed to its allure, but before you make that fateful decision, let’s break down the wildcard dilemma.
I’ve personally chosen to exercise caution and hold onto my wildcard chip. It’s a valuable resource in the game, and I don’t believe my squad is in shambles just yet. However, there’s a rule of thumb from fantasy football expert Gianni Buttice that’s worth considering. Take a moment to evaluate your team for gameweek five. Forget about your goalkeepers and substitutes; focus solely on your starting outfield players. If you find yourself unhappy with three or four of them, it might be enough justification for a wildcard play. It’s a strategy worth testing with your own squad.
Now, let’s dive into the pros and cons of unleashing that wildcard. Statman Dave, our resident expert, weighs in on the matter. On the plus side, using your wildcard early can help you nab those in-form players before their prices skyrocket. It’s also an opportunity to rid your squad of underperforming players. However, there’s a downside to consider. You might regret playing it now when gameweeks nine and ten roll around, favoring teams like Aston Villa, Brighton, Liverpool, and Manchester United. So, I’ve decided to keep my wildcard in my back pocket for now.
Dave also makes a compelling point about free transfers. Before diving headfirst into the wildcard frenzy, remember that you have at least four free transfers at your disposal before gameweek nine. It’s wise to explore your options with these transfers before resorting to the wildcard, unless, of course, you’ve already taken the plunge.
Now, let’s talk captaincy—a pivotal decision that can make or break your fantasy week. This week, it might be a time for a calculated gamble. While Erling Haaland is the safe bet, facing an away game at West Ham, I’m eyeing Son Heung-min. I’m planning to transfer out Phil Foden and hand the armband to Son for Tottenham’s home game against Sheffield United. Son matched Haaland’s impressive 20 points in gameweek four, and I’m banking on him to deliver again if he continues as the center-forward in ‘Angeball.’
James Maddison is another tempting option, but my gut leans towards Son. Of course, there’s a smorgasbord of choices this week with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United attackers facing Everton, Bournemouth, Wolves, and Brighton, respectively. Brighton may not be pushovers, but they’ve yet to keep a clean sheet in the Premier League this season, making them prime targets for fantasy points.
While Haaland is the safest bet for captaincy, sometimes you’ve got to take a risk, especially if you’re trailing in your mini-leagues.
Now, onto fixtures worth targeting. Newcastle has endured a challenging start to the season, but their upcoming fixtures appear more favorable. Keep an eye on their defenders in the coming gameweeks. Kieran Trippier, though the priciest at £6.5m, offers creativity and bonus points. Fabian Schar, at £5m, poses a real goal threat. Sven Botman, a budget-friendly option at £4.5m, is a possibility, but watch out for his injury status. Finally, Nick Pope is a reliable choice in goal, but his £5.5m price tag may be steep for some.
Looking for differentials to shake up your strikeforce? Consider Taiwo Awoniyi, Odsonne Edouard, Gabriel Jesus, Rasmus Hojlund, and Carlton Morris. These players are all owned by less than 5% of managers and could be game-changers for your squad.
As for my gamble of the week, I’m giving Son the captain’s armband. Even if it backfires, at least I’ll have the satisfaction of proving Chris Sutton wrong. And here’s another bet to consider: Darwin Nunez for Liverpool’s clash with Wolves. He’s not breaking the bank like Mo Salah but has racked up 19 points in the last two gameweeks.
Remember to stay updated with the Fantasy 606 podcast for more insights, and if you haven’t already, join the Fantasy 606 league with the code ‘j03mnp.’ Good luck in gameweek five, fellow fantasy football geeks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Fantasy Football Strategy
Should I use my wildcard in gameweek five if my team is struggling?
It’s a tempting option, but not necessarily. Consider the rule of thumb: evaluate your starting outfield players. If you’re unhappy with three or four of them, it might be time for a wildcard. However, it’s a valuable chip, so exercise caution.
What are the advantages of using the wildcard early in the season?
Using the wildcard early allows you to grab in-form players before their prices rise and remove underperforming ones from your squad. It can be a strategic move to gain an edge.
Are there any downsides to using the wildcard now?
Yes, you might find yourself needing another wildcard when favorable fixtures swing for other teams in gameweeks nine or ten. It’s essential to think long-term.
How many free transfers do I have before gameweek nine?
You have at least four free transfers at your disposal before gameweek nine. Make the most of them before considering the wildcard.
Who should I consider for the captaincy in gameweek five?
While Erling Haaland is the safe choice, consider Son Heung-min. He matched Haaland’s points in gameweek four and could shine in Tottenham’s home game against Sheffield United.
Any other captaincy options?
James Maddison is a strong candidate. Additionally, attackers from Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United could excel in their fixtures against Everton, Bournemouth, Wolves, and Brighton, respectively.
Which teams have favorable fixtures in the coming gameweeks?
Newcastle’s fixtures are looking up, but be cautious in gameweek five against Brentford. Players like Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman, and Nick Pope could be worth considering.
Any under-the-radar players to boost my squad?
Consider differentials like Taiwo Awoniyi, Odsonne Edouard, Gabriel Jesus, Rasmus Hojlund, and Carlton Morris. These low-owned players could provide a boost to your squad.
What’s your gamble of the week?
I’m giving Son Heung-min the captain’s armband this week. Even if it backfires, there’s the satisfaction of proving Chris Sutton wrong. Another gamble to consider is Darwin Nunez for Liverpool’s match against Wolves.
How can I stay updated with fantasy football insights?
Keep an eye on the Fantasy 606 podcast for expert advice and insights. Also, join the Fantasy 606 league with the code ‘j03mnp’ to connect with fellow fantasy football enthusiasts. Good luck in gameweek five!
More about Fantasy Football Strategy
- Premier League Fantasy Football: Official Fantasy Premier League website for managing your fantasy team.
- Fantasy 606 Podcast: The Fantasy 606 podcast on BBC Sounds, featuring insights and discussions about fantasy football.
- Fantasy Football Expert Gianni Buttice: Follow Gianni Buttice on Twitter for expert tips and insights.
- Fantasy Football Expert Statman Dave: Stay updated with Statman Dave on Twitter for expert analysis and advice.
- Official Premier League Fixtures: Check the official Premier League fixtures to plan your fantasy football strategy.
- Fantasy Football Player Statistics: Explore player statistics on the Premier League website to make informed decisions.
- Official Fantasy Premier League Twitter: Follow the official Fantasy Premier League Twitter account for news and updates.
- Join Fantasy 606 League: Use the code ‘j03mnp’ to join the Fantasy 606 league and connect with fellow fantasy football enthusiasts.
