Fantasy Premier League

FPL mini-leagues: Risk-free approach can ensure success

By The Scout 22 Jul 2020
Raheem Sterling, Man City

The Scout looks at the best tactics for managers looking to maintain their advantage over rivals in Gameweek 38+

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Just one Gameweek stands between success and failure for many managers in Fantasy Premier League.

Whether you are protecting a lead or chasing a mini-league rival, the first thing to be aware of is the Gameweek 38+ deadline.

It is 15:00 BST on Sunday, with all 10 matches then kicking off an hour later.

For those holding an advantage over their rivals, the idea is to minimise the risk involved with every decision.

Final-day selection

The late Gameweek 38+ deadline gives managers the chance to soak in the information from the final press conferences of the season before making any transfers.

This allows them to react to any potential late injury news for any of their key players. 

Providing you can field a strong starting XI, try to avoid taking a points hit.

Don't give your opponents an advantage by starting the Gameweek with a four-point or even an eight-point deduction.

Pep rotation

Kevin De Bruyne (£10.7m) and Raheem Sterling (£12.0m) could both bring in huge hauls at home against Norwich City, yet both have been benched recently.

Since the season resumed, they have each started six of Manchester City's nine FPL matches.

While owners of both will be confident of starts, there is no doubt Pep Guardiola's line-ups have the potential to spring a surprise or two.

More certain starters

Mohamed Salah (£12.5m), Sadio Mane (£12.2m), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (£10.9m), Harry Kane (£10.9m) offer strong armband alternatives.

All have favourable Gameweek 38+ fixtures and should start for their respective sides.

Similarly, Bruno Fernandes (£9.1m), Anthony Martial (£8.5m) and Marcus Rashford (£8.9m) have the form to prove decisive for Manchester United's visit to Leicester City.

Cover dangerous differentials

League leaders should also be assessing their rivals' squads for any big-hitting differentials.

If an opponent owns a player who could hurt your lead, consider bringing them in to block that advantage.

Man City pair Riyad Mahrez (£8.6m) and David Silva (£7.5m) are among the main names to watch out for.

Both look set to start against Norwich after being benched in midweek and have the explosive potential to bring in big returns.

See: Fantasy Premier League stats

Also in this series

Part 1: How will ties be decided in FPL mini-leagues?
Part 3: FPL mini-leagues: Differential attackers can be decisive

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