As we approach Fantasy Football Matchweek 9 of the Premier League, scheduled from Friday, October 24, to Sunday, October 26, it’s essential for FPL managers to strategise effectively to maximise their points.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you in making informed decisions for your squad as we settle back into the football season.
Fantasy Football Matchweek 9 Fixtures
The Fantasy Football deadline for Gameweek 9 is Friday, October 18, 18:30 BST.
Friday, October 24
- Leeds United vs West Ham United (20:00 BST)
Saturday, October 25
- Chelsea vs Sunderland (15:00 BST)
- Newcastle United vs Fulham (15:00 BST)
- Manchester United vs Brighton & Hove Albion (17:30 BST)
- Brentford vs Liverpool (22:00 BST)
Sunday, October 26
- Bournemouth vs Nottingham Forest (15:00 BST)
- Arsenal vs Crystal Palace (15:00 BST)
- Aston Villa vs Manchester City (15:00 BST)
- Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Burnley (15:00 BST)
- Everton vs Tottenham Hotspur (17:30 BST)
Injury and Suspension Updates to Note
Chelsea’s Liam Delap is reportedly nearing a return, having trained with Enzo Maresca’s squad. However, his return to action is expected only as early as the Wolves vs Chelsea EFL Cup clash on Wednesday, October 29. Cole Palmer is still not expected until the end of November, however.
In the Reds’ return to winning ways in the Frankfurt vs Liverpool 5-1 UEFA Champions League win, Alexander Isak was subbed off with discomfort in his groin. His availability in Liverpool’s next fixture – Brentford – is unlikely.
Arne Slot will also be missing Ryan Gravenberch (ankle injury), Jeremie Frimpong (hamstring injury) and Alisson (muscle injury) for the Brentford vs Liverpool game.
Chris Wood did not feature in the Nottingham Forest vs Porto 2-0 win. Having missed a lot of training, he is said to be “touch and go,” making him an unlikely choice for Sean Dyche against Bournemouth.
Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma was expected back in action last week. FPL managers should note, however, that he remains a doubt for Matchweek 9.
Meanwhile, Tottenham’s Cristian Romero picked up what Thomas Frank described in midweek as a “minor problem,” likely ruling him out for the Everton clash.
Must-Have FPL Picks
Sean Dyche has been appointed as the new Nottingham Forest manager, and he has seemingly seamlessly returned the Tricky Trees to winning ways. His first game in charge was in the UEFA Conference League, in the Nottingham Forest vs Porto 2-0 game.
The Nottingham Forest win was their first win in European competition in 30 seasons. It was also only Forest’s second win of the season, and their first in 10 games, across all competitions.
Sean Dyche’s first Premier League game will be against Bournemouth, and unless you don’t want to make rash decisions, adding Morgan Gibbs-White (£7.3m) to your FPL squad may prove to be fruitful.
Estevao Willian (£6.5m) is not only Premier League-proven now, as he impressed in Chelsea’s 5-1 win over Ajax in midweek Champions League action. Reece James (£5.5m) was rested, missing the UCL action. Therefore, he is likely to start against Bournemouth.
Erling Haaland (£14.7m) has scored in all but one of the games he has played so far this season, for both club and country. I will live that there.
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FPL Captaincy Picks
- Estevao (Chelsea vs Sunderland)
- Erling Haaland (Aston Villa vs Man City)
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 9 and boost your FPL performance.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / PGS Photo Agency
Recording Date: 21.10.2025