With Christmas just around the corner, the Premier League is delivering an exciting season filled with multiple teams competing for the title, European spots, and the battle to avoid relegation. In the latest weekend fixtures, Arsenal continued their winning streak, while Manchester City secured a controversial draw against Tottenham.
Liverpool secured a narrow victory over Fulham, Newcastle surpassed with a win against Manchester United, and Burnley dominated Sheffield United with a convincing 5-0 triumph, lifting them off the bottom of the table. As we dive into December, the matches are coming thick and fast, with the next Fantasy Premier League Gameweek kicking off on Tuesday.
As managers strategize their moves, contemplating when to use transfers and whether it’s the right time to activate the wildcard (if still available), here are five Forwards to watch out for in Gameweek 15.
Darwin Nunez (Liverpool)
Having gone goalless throughout the entire month of November in the Premier League for Liverpool, Darwin Nunez might be grappling with a dip in confidence. However, Jurgen Klopp consistently positions him as the central forward, and the upcoming Wednesday clash against Sheffield United presents an ideal opportunity for Nunez to reignite his goal-scoring prowess.
Expected to lead the attacking line, Nunez is likely to benefit from quality service from the likes of Mo Salah, making it improbable for him to leave the match without finding the back of the net at least once. While his recent form has been inconsistent, the favorable fixture might entice Fantasy Premier League managers to take a gamble on him.
Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth)
Offering an affordable choice in the forward position, Dominic Solanke of Bournemouth has been making waves with a noteworthy return of 21 points in the last three gameweeks. Finding the net thrice in as many games, Solanke has been a pivotal figure as Bournemouth has maintained an average of two goals per game over their last four matches. With only 5.9% of Fantasy Premier League teams currently having him in their selection, now might present an opportune moment to include him.
Bournemouth’s upcoming midweek fixture against Crystal Palace adds to the appeal. Palace has conceded goals in four of their last five league games, displaying an unusual vulnerability at the back in recent outings.
Also Read: Fantasy Premier League: Top Five Captains for FPL Gameweek 15
Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Valued at £14.0m in Fantasy Premier League, Erling Haaland from Manchester City has been a standout performer this season, amassing an impressive tally of 14 goals and five assists. Currently, the second-highest scorer in the game, Haaland has maintained consistent point returns, blanking only once in his last six appearances.
Although Manchester City faces a challenging fixture away at Aston Villa, the Villains have conceded 20 goals (thirteenth in the league) with an expected goals conceded (xGC) of 27.03 (tenth). Despite Villa’s attacking prowess, their defensive record suggests vulnerability, and City, being the top-scoring team in the league with 33 goals, are poised to capitalize.
Under the management of Pep Guardiola, City not only lead the charts in goals scored but also boast the second-highest expected goals (xG) at 29.03. As strong favorites to win and score, they are the third favorites to net 2.5+ goals in Gameweek 15.
Anticipated as a high-scoring encounter, both teams feature quality attacking players and adopt an attacking style of play. Additionally, Haaland is a secure starter, takes penalties, and plays for the top-ranked team in the league, making him an enticing Fantasy Premier League option.
Alexander Isak (Newcastle)
Re-entering the considerations of Fantasy Premier League managers after a spell on the sidelines due to injury, Alexander Isak has made a strong comeback for Newcastle. Given the absence of Callum Wilson, Isak has been in the starting lineup for the last two Premier League matches, notably scoring in the impressive victory against Chelsea and putting on a commendable display in the recent win over Manchester United, despite not registering points.
Isak showcased sharpness at St James’ Park, with an expected goal involvement (goals plus assists) of 0.98, despite limited minutes in recent weeks. Supported by the excellent form of Anthony Gordon and consistent ammunition from the flank courtesy of Kieran Trippier, Isak is set to benefit from ample service.
Newcastle’s upcoming fixtures present a favorable outlook as well. Following the midweek clash against Everton (a), the Magpies are scheduled to face Tottenham (a), Fulham (h), Luton (a), and Nottingham Forest (h) before the turn of the year.
Priced at £7.5m and having accumulated 54 points, Isak offers an intriguing option for Gameweek 15, where Newcastle faces Everton away from home.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
A prominent forward choice in the Fantasy Premier League, Ollie Watkins represents Aston Villa with a price tag of £8.4 million. Currently ranking third out of 98, Watkins is in stellar form with a rating of 6.0 and an impressive average of 6.9 points per match, securing the second position in this category. In the recent Gameweek 14, he amassed 11 points, contributing to his noteworthy total of 96 points for the season. Watkins has earned 11 bonus points and boasts an impressive ICT Index of 129.7, positioning him at an impressive second out of 98 players. Notably, he holds a high Team Selected by Percentage (TSB%) of 37.9%, placing him at an impressive second spot among all players in the game.