As we approach Fantasy Football Matchweek 21 of the Premier League, scheduled for January 14, to January 16 it’s essential for FPL managers to strategise effectively to maximize their points.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you in making informed decisions for your squad.
Fantasy Football Matchweek 21 Fixtures
The fantasy football deadline for this weekend is Tuesday, 14 January, 18:00 GMT.
Tuesday, 14 January
- Brentford vs Manchester United (19:30 GMT)
- Chelsea vs Bournemouth (19:30 GMT)
- West Ham United vs Fulham (19:30 GMT)
- Nottingham Forest vs Liverpool (20:00 GMT)
Wednesday, 15 January
- Everton vs Aston Villa (19:30 GMT)
- Leicester City vs Crystal Palace (19:30 GMT)
- Newcastle United vs Wolverhampton Wanderers (19:30 GMT)
- Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur (20:00 GMT)
Thursday, 16 January
- Ipswich Town vs Brighton & Hove Albion (19:30 GMT)
- Manchester United vs Southampton (20:00 GMT)
Injury Updates to Note
- Alexander Isak (Newcastle): One of the most in-form FPL players, Alexander Isak picked up a hamstring injury, missing the team’s FA Cup fixture against Bromley. For Matchweek 21, Isak has a 75% chance of playing.
- Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal): During Arsenal’s dramatic loss to Manchester United in their third-round FA Cup clash, Gabriel Jesus picked up a knee injury.
- Niclas Füllkrug (West Ham): West Ham forward Niclas Füllkrug is yet another player who got injured during the past weekend’s FA Cup action. The German has suffered a hamstring injury and is expected to be out for weeks.
- João Pedro (Brighton): Brighton striker João Pedro sustained an ankle injury in training following their 1-1 draw against Arsenal, in which he scored. The Brazilian did not feature in the club’s third-round FA Cup fixture and may ruled out for Premier League action until further notice.
Top Transfer Targets
- Erling Haaland (Manchester City): After a shocking deep in form Pep Guardiola’s men are finding their footing again, winning their last three games with 14 goals scored during that run. Erling Haaland (£14.8m) is worth considering, as he earned a total of 21 points in his last two fixtures, scoring 3 goals.
- Bruno Fernandes & Amad Diallo (Manchester United): Bruno Fernandes (£8.3m) registered a goal and an assist in his last two fixtures. Amad Diallo (£5.4m) has impressed and even managed a goal against Liverpool. With Ruben Amorim’s reign seemingly looking sustainable, the Portuguese and Ivorian midfielders may be good value for money as Manchester United set to face Southampton.
- Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool): Alexis Max Allister (£6.2m) is one of Liverpool’s more affordable fantasy football options. His recent form has been great, making him a great addition to any manager’s midfield. It is however worth noting that the Reds will face new giants Nottingham Forest, a fixture that will definitely keep Arne Slot’s men on their toes.
Players to Hold/Bench
- João Pedro (Brighton): It is unsure just how long Pedro will be out with his injury update. It would be best for fantasy football managers to keep the striker on the bench as they await an update from Brighton.
- Darwin Núñez (Liverpool): Darwin Núñez will serve his one-match ban this Matchweek. He will be available for picking in Matchweek 22.
- Alexander Isak (Newcastle): Isak recently picked up a hamstring injury. It would be best for fantasy football managers to keep the Swede in their squads as they wait for an update from Eddie Howe.
Players to Sell
- Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal): Gabriel Jesus’ knee injury could keep him out until the end of the season.
- Niclas Füllkrug (West Ham): Füllkrug’s hamstring injury is expected to keep him out for weeks.
Captaincy Picks
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah is a good pick for the captain role considering his ever-consistent form. However, a tough fixture against Nottingham Forest limits the possibility for maximum points from the Egyptian.
- Alexander Isak (Newcastle): Although his recent injury makes him an unlikely pick, Isak’s form is a promise worth holding on to as fantasy football managers prepare for the midweek fixtures. Newcastle will face Wolves this weekend, which should be a guaranteed win for the much more in form Newcastle team.
Strategic Considerations
Monitor Press Conferences: Last-minute injury updates and team news can significantly impact your decisions. Stay informed to make timely transfers.
By staying updated on the latest news and being strategic with your fantasy football transfers and captaincy choices, you can navigate the challenges of Matchweek 21 and boost your FPL performance.