Key Highlights
- Bukayo Saka and Nick Woltemade are assessed as the best alternatives to Erling Haaland as FPL captain.
- Saka has scored in both his home starts this season and collected seven points against Fulham despite not being involved in the goal.
- Nick Woltemade is the most-bought player for Gameweek 9, with over 672,000 managers selecting him.
- Haaland remains the top choice captain, having scored two goals and earned a 26-point haul against Everton.
Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Strategy for Gameweek 9
The upcoming Gameweek 9 in Fantasy Premier League presents managers with a strategic decision: who should be their captain? The choice comes down to Bukayo Saka and Nick Woltemade, as they are the standout alternatives to Erling Haaland. This article delves into why these players stand out and what factors influence their selection.
Statistical Analysis
The statistical data over the last four Gameweeks paints a compelling picture of player performance. Jean-Philippe Mateta, despite his goal threat being greater than Haaland’s, is ruled out due to Arsenal’s strong defensive record. However, Saka and Woltemade present robust options based on their recent performances.
Bukayo Saka has demonstrated consistency in scoring, having netted in both of his home starts this season.
His performance against Fulham, where he earned seven points for a clean sheet and defensive contributions, highlights his value as captain material. Arsenal’s strong defense with nine clean sheets over 12 matches further enhances Saka’s appeal.
Nick Woltemade, on the other hand, is the most purchased player for Gameweek 9, with more than 672,000 managers opting for him. His form at Newcastle United, where he has scored in four of his five league outings, combined with his home match against Fulham, suggests a strong potential for high-scoring gameweeks.
Fixture Analysis
The team defensive data reveals that several clubs have struggled defensively recently. Notably, Nottingham Forest’s poor defense and Arsenal’s robust performance provide Saka with a favorable captaincy environment. The Gunners’ 12 matches across all competitions include nine clean sheets, conceding only three goals.
Nick Woltemade also benefits from Newcastle United’s defensive issues, which are reflected in his high big-chance involvement (five) over the last four Gameweeks. This indicates that Woltemade’s form and upcoming fixture could lead to significant points for managers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Haaland remains the top choice due to his incredible consistency and ability to deliver high scores, Saka and Woltemade present strong alternatives based on their recent performances and favorable fixtures. Managers should consider these factors when selecting their captain for Gameweek 9.
As the Fantasy Premier League season progresses, staying informed about player statistics and team defenses will be crucial in making optimal selections. The data provided here serves as a valuable guide to help managers make informed decisions.
