After a lengthy 15-day break between Gameweeks 29 and 30, the Premier League slams the brakes on for just 2 days before Gameweek 31 kicks off. The standings may not have seen a major shakeup last week, but the fortunes of Manchester United and Chelsea have taken a dramatic turn. Their upcoming clash is a mid-table skirmish, a far cry from the title fights they once dominated. Perhaps the most captivating matchup is Manchester City versus Aston Villa, a rematch of December's fixture where Villa shockingly dominated City. Another Villa victory could severely dent City's title defense. Fantasy managers are in for a frantic week, meticulously tracking injuries, form, and every bit of information to make the most profitable transfers before the short turnaround.
Key Takeaways from the Gameweek 30
The Premier League title race tightened further as Arsenal and Manchester City stalemated 0-0, allowing Liverpool to snatch the top spot after their 2-1 victory over Brighton. Newcastle emerged victorious in a thrilling 4-3 encounter against West Ham. Bournemouth and Tottenham secured narrow 2-1 wins over Everton and Luton Town respectively.
Manchester United's struggles continued with a 1-1 draw against Brentford, while Chelsea were held 2-2 by Burnley. Aston Villa picked up a comfortable 2-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Elsewhere, Sheffield United and Fulham battled to a 3-3 draw, while Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace shared the spoils in a 1-1 stalemate.
Players to watch out for Gameweek 31
The tight turnaround between gameweeks means FPL managers need to make strategic transfers that maximize points without compromising their core squad for the future. Injuries and suspensions add another wrinkle, making this a critical period where access to the right information is vital:
Notable Absences
Chelsea's fullback Malo Gusto is out injured. West Ham's first-choice goalkeeper, Alphonse Areola, is expected to miss their next match after being subbed off at halftime last time out. Newcastle United will be without Jamaal Lascelles, Miguel Almiron, and Lewis Livramento due to injuries, while Anthony Gordon misses out through suspension. Manchester City has a doubt over Nathan Ake for their clash against Aston Villa.
Forwards
a. Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth) scored the opening goal for their win against Everton in the last game. The forward is enjoying a wonderful season and finds himself second in the top goal-scorers list tied with Mo Salah and Ollie Watkins at 16 goals.
b. Luis Díaz (Liverpool) helped Liverpool equalize against Brighton before Salah scored the winning goal. The Colombian international might not always start for his side but always works hard and makes an impression whenever he plays.
Tip: For 11.5 credits (456.6 points), Burnley’s David Fofana could be a great gamble for fantasy managers. The forward has helped Burnley mount a late survival challenge scoring 4 goals in just 8 matches for them and would be crucial for them in the last 8 games of the season.
Midfielders
a. Pascal Groß (Brighton) leads the Premier League in the race for top assist provider this season. The versatile German midfielder is important for Brighton’s attempt to stabilize their season and finish the season better after their recent run of bad results including their exit from the Europa League.
b. Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest) helped Forest draw against Crystal Palace by assisting Chris Wood’s goal. The talented midfielder remains critical for Nottingham Forest's fight to survive after facing a setback in form points deduction.
Tip: For 10 credits (1298 points), Manchester United’s Scott McTominay can be a great transfer choice. United’s academy graduate has helped his team on multiple occasions this season including his brace against United’s next opponent Chelsea in their earlier match.
Defenders
a. Pedro Porro (Tottenham Hotspurs) has been impressive for Tottenham Hotspurs this season, contributing well in both the attacking and defensive sides. The Spanish fullback performed well against London rivals West Ham United when the two sides met earlier this season and Spurs would hope he could repeat this good performance.
b. Jarrad Branthwaite(Everton)’s good performance this season earned him his first England call-up earlier this month. The defender would be crucial for Sean Dyche’s side as they navigate the relegation battle for the third consecutive season.
Tip: For 6.5 credits (781.6 points), Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior is an interesting transfer choice. The fullback, who was not a regular starter for Arteta’s side at the start of the season, now seems to have settled well and has been contributing on the attacking side of things as well, proved by 1 goal and 2 assists in the last 5 matches.
Goalkeepers
a. Stefan Ortega (Manchester City) remains Manchester City’s starting goalkeeper in the absence of Ederson. Ortega kept a clean sheet in the last match against Arsenal and would hope to repeat the same against Aston Villa.
b. Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa) was impressive for Villa in their 2-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers. As Villa faces Manchester City in the next game, Martínez would be eager to showcase his abilities and prove his credentials as a big match player.
Tip: For 5.1 credits (1143.6 points), Brentford’s Mark Flekken is a popular choice among fantasy managers. The goalkeeper made 4 crucial saves against Manchester United that helped his side earn a late draw and they expect him to continue his great form against next opponent Brighton.
What Next?
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