December is the most hectic month of the Premier League season. Gameweek 14 will see the first set of midweek fixtures, spread across Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Liverpool's win over Manchester City places the title race firmly in Liverpool’s control, with City losing out on Champions League spots as well. However, Arsenal and Chelsea remain credible challengers, capable of capitalizing on any slip-ups from Liverpool. Manchester United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, face a crucial test against Arsenal in the midweek. The biggest challenge for fantasy managers seems to be tracking all injuries, every fixture, and strategizing transfers within the two-day turnaround.
Key Takeaways from the Gameweek 13
Liverpool continued their strong form with a crucial 2-0 victory over Manchester City, extending their lead at the top of the table. Arsenal secured a convincing 5-2 win over West Ham United, while Chelsea also impressed with a 3-0 victory over Aston Villa. Manchester United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, made a statement with a 4-0 thrashing of Everton.
In other matches, Brighton and Southampton played out a 1-1 draw, while Wolves suffered a 2-4 defeat to Bournemouth. Crystal Palace and Newcastle United shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw, and Nottingham Forest secured a 1-0 win over Ipswich Town. Brentford cruised to a 4-1 victory over Leicester City, and Fulham held Tottenham Hotspur to a 1-1 draw.
Players to watch out for Gameweek 14
The Premier League season has surpassed the one-third mark, entering the busiest phase where teams often grapple with multiple injuries. Before exploring potential game-changers for your fantasy team, it's essential to remain vigilant about any significant absences from the starting lineups. These exclusions can wield a considerable impact on your team's performance in the fantasy league, underscoring the necessity of staying well-informed and adaptable in the ever-evolving landscape of fantasy sports:
Notable Absences
Aston Villa could be without their star goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez for the upcoming match against Brentford. Martínez suffered a hand injury during their recent loss to Chelsea. Fulham will be missing their goal scorer from the Tottenham Hotspur match, who is serving a three-match ban for a red card. Chelsea also have injury concerns, with defender Wesley Fofana potentially out for several weeks. Manchester United will face Arsenal without Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martínez, both suspended due to accumulating five yellow cards.
Forwards
a. Amad Diallo (Manchester United) impressed in Manchester United's 4-0 victory over Everton, providing two assists and playing a key role in setting up Zirkzee's first goal. The young winger has thrived under manager Ruben Amorim's new system and will be crucial for United's chances against Arsenal.
b. Phil Foden (Manchester City), who scored 19 goals last season, has yet to find the net in the Premier League this campaign. His recent form mirrors Manchester City's struggles, and his return to form could be crucial for the team's revival. Foden scored the opening goal in the same fixture last year against Nottingham Forest, and City fans will be hoping for a similar performance from him.
Tip: For 10.6 credits (577.8 points), Crystal Palace’s Jean-Phiippe Mateta could be a shrewd transfer choice for fantasy managers. As Crystal Palace face newly-promoted Ipswich Town, Mateta's form and potential impact against another promoted side, Leicester City, earlier this season make him an intriguing option.
Midfielders
a. Emile Smith Rowe's (Fulham) arrival at Fulham has added creativity and attacking flair to their midfield. His ability to play incisive passes, score goals, and create chances can help Fulham secure a comfortable mid-table position. As he continues to settle into the team, Smith Rowe's impact could be significant in helping Fulham achieve their season's objectives.
b. Enzo Fernández (Chelsea) has been in exceptional form for Chelsea recently, contributing two goals and two assists in his last three games. As Chelsea's fortunes seem to be improving, Fernández's adaptation to the Premier League has been impressive. The talented Argentine midfielder's performances suggest that he could be a key player in Chelsea's pursuit of trophies, mirroring his success with the Argentine national team.
Tip: For 9.3 credits (650 points), Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch is a potential bargain for fantasy managers seeking a solid defensive midfielder under 10 credits. The former Bayern Munich player has established himself as a key figure in Liverpool's midfield, contributing to their impressive league position. His defensive abilities, passing range, and composure make him a valuable asset for both Liverpool and fantasy managers.
Defenders
a. Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United) has surprised many with his recent goal-scoring form, doubling his Premier League tally in just two games. Known for his defensive prowess, the right-back has shown an attacking flair that could be crucial for West Ham United as they aim to improve under manager Julen Lopetegui.
b. Rayan Aït-Nouri (Wolverhampton Wanderers) has been a revelation for Wolverhampton Wanderers this season, with 3 goals and 2 assists in just 13 games. His attacking contributions from the left-back position are exceptional and have been crucial to Wolves' recent improved form. If he continues this level of performance, he could be a key player in Wolves' push for a higher league position.
Tip: For 5.7 credits (540 points), Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez could be a smart addition to fantasy teams. The Bournemouth left-back has been impressive this season and could play a crucial role in their upcoming match against Tottenham Hotspur. His attacking prowess and defensive solidity make him a valuable asset at a reasonable price.
Goalkeepers
a. David Raya (Arsenal) will need to be at his best to secure a victory, with Manchester United rejuvenated under their new manager. While Raya's form has been inconsistent this season, he has shown the ability to produce crucial saves in big matches. As the Gunners face a resurgent United side, Raya's performance could be pivotal in determining the outcome of this high-stakes encounter.
b. Matz Sels (Nottingham Forest) has been a standout performer for Nottingham Forest, being the only goalkeeper so far to Liverpool's potent attack at bay. As Forest prepare to face Manchester City, Sels will need to replicate his heroics to thwart City's attacking prowess which is eager to end their recent losing streak.
Tip: For just 4.8 credits (611 points), Brentford’s Mark Flekken seems to be a popular choice among the fantasy managers. The Dutch goalkeeper leads the league in saves with 62, highlighting his crucial role in Brentford's defensive setup. As Brentford continues to play an attacking style, Flekken's ability to make crucial saves will be essential.
What Next?
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