As we dive into December, Fantasy Premier League managers are gearing up for a flurry of game weeks, with a full set of fixtures scheduled for midweek. This time of the year is marked by a relentless football calendar, with matches practically every day until the New Year.
This busy period poses a significant challenge for FPL managers, as they navigate through frequent games and the increased likelihood of player rotation. Strengthening your substitutes’ bench is crucial now, as all 15 players in your squad will likely be called into action over the next 30 days.
Ahead of Gameweek 15’s deadline, set at the unconventional time of 7:30 pm (BST) on Tuesday, December 5, Arsenal and Liverpool players are gaining popularity for transfers. Arsenal faces Luton, while Liverpool takes on Sheffield United, making assets from these teams attractive additions to FPL squads. Even if you already have some stars from these sides, considering additional acquisitions should be a priority for FPL managers.
Choosing a captain is what everyone looks forward to when we talk about the next Gameweek. Let’s have a look at the top 5 skipper options available for FPL GW 15.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool has emerged as a compelling FPL option, challenging Kieran Trippier for the title of the game’s best defender. Last week, there were doubts about whether selecting Alexander-Arnold was merely a knee-jerk reaction to his goal against Manchester City in Gameweek 13. However, after another impressive performance, it’s now argued that the 25-year-old is indeed in contention for the top defensive spot.
Despite Liverpool conceding three goals against Fulham at Anfield, Alexander-Arnold recorded an impressive 13-point score, courtesy of a goal, assist, and three bonus points. Interestingly, he could have earned even more points, as Liverpool’s first goal was initially credited to him before being later changed to a Bernd Leno own goal.
While Alexander-Arnold comes with a substantial price tag of £7.9m, his consistent ability to contribute points both defensively and offensively makes him a valuable asset. Over the last six rounds, he has amassed a total of 41 points, averaging 6.8 points per game. Notably, he only failed to provide a defensive or attacking return in one match, which was against Luton in Gameweek 11. In Gameweek 15, Liverpool faces Sheffield United away.
Also Read: Fantasy Premier League Team of the Week | FPL Gameweek 14
Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
Martin Odegaard of Arsenal has made a strong return to the pitch, finding the scoresheet once again in the recent match against Wolves. This goal marked his first since the 4-0 victory over Bournemouth in Gameweek 7, with injuries limiting his impact as Arsenal’s skipper in the intervening months.
Odegaard showcased his creative prowess in the last game, expressing frustration at not securing at least one assist alongside his goal. In total, the Norwegian playmaker created six chances, three of which were categorized as “big chances” by Opta, defined as situations where a player is reasonably expected to score.
Looking ahead to Gameweek 15, Arsenal faces Luton away. Although Luton has maintained a solid defensive record at Kenilworth Road, conceding eight goals in six games, they are yet to secure their first clean sheet in the top flight. It would be a significant surprise if they manage to achieve this against the table-topping Gunners.
Priced at £8.3m, Odegaard has accumulated 61 points so far in the season, making him an appealing option for FPL managers considering the upcoming fixture against Luton.
Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur)
Despite Tottenham Hotspur’s defensive vulnerabilities, expected to improve with Cristian Romero’s return after his ban, the team remains potent in attack. Son Heung-min, who experienced a dip in price after three consecutive scoreless performances, silenced critics by ending his goal drought at the Etihad.
Son’s recent strike marked his 10th goal contribution of the season, and he extended it to 11 (nine goals, two assists) in the second half by setting up Giovani Lo Celso to score. Regardless of absent players, Son is likely to continue receiving ample opportunities to add to his goal tally, given Spurs’ playing style. Additionally, with James Maddison unavailable for the foreseeable future, Son is now the clear first-choice penalty taker.
The upcoming London derby against West Ham on Thursday promises to be an entertaining clash, as both sides have struggled to keep clean sheets this season. West Ham has managed just one clean sheet in the league so far, and that came against Sheffield United.
Priced at £9.6m, Son has accumulated an impressive 94 points this season, making him an attractive FPL option, especially with the enticing Gameweek 15 fixture against West Ham at home.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle)
Alexander Isak is making a strong case for consideration by FPL managers after returning from injury. The striker has featured in Newcastle’s last two Premier League matches, starting in the absence of Callum Wilson. Notably, he scored in the impressive victory over Chelsea and showcased his skills, despite not finding the net in the recent win against Manchester United.
Isak’s expected goal involvement (goals plus assists) at St James’ Park was 0.98, indicating his significant impact despite limited minutes in recent weeks. With players like Anthony Gordon in good form and Kieran Trippier providing consistent service from the flank, Isak is poised to receive ample opportunities to contribute.
Newcastle has a favorable run of upcoming fixtures. After facing Everton away in midweek, they are set to play against Tottenham away, Fulham at home, Luton away, and Nottingham Forest at home before New Year’s Day.
Priced at £7.5m, Isak has accumulated 54 points so far this season, making him an intriguing option for FPL managers, especially with the upcoming Gameweek 15 fixture against Everton away.
Darwin Nunez (Liverpool)
Darwin Nunez experienced a goal drought throughout November in the Premier League for Liverpool, potentially impacting his confidence. However, under Jurgen Klopp, Nunez often assumes the central forward role and the upcoming Wednesday clash against Sheffield United presents an ideal chance for him to rediscover his scoring form.
Expected to lead the line, Nunez benefits from ample supply lines, particularly from the likes of Mo Salah. While his recent indifferent form might raise concerns, the favorable fixture against Sheffield United could entice FPL managers to take a chance on him, expecting him to find the back of the net in the upcoming game. Priced at £7.7m, Nunez could be an intriguing option for FPL managers willing to gamble on a potential return to goalscoring form.