03 Oct, 2024

Game Week 7: SamFPL’s Key Questions

GW6 Reaction: Palmer vs. Saka

Palmer has firmly established himself as the standout 10-11.0m midfielder so far, scoring 4 goals against Brighton’s disastrous high line. He also created 2 big chances while missing a further 2 himself. Meanwhile, Saka blanked, but he was very unlucky. He was at the heart of Arsenal’s creativity, delivering 8 key passes and creating 4 big chances against Leicester City. On another day, Saka could easily have had 4 assists.

Palmer faces Nottingham Forest and Liverpool in his next two matches, while Saka has Southampton (H) and Bournemouth (A). Liverpool have been defensively strong this season with 4 clean sheets and only 2 goals conceded. Nottingham Forest have also been solid, ranking 4th for xGC (expected goals conceded) and 3rd for big chances conceded, allowing just 9 big chances so far.

On the other hand, Saka plays Southampton, who have conceded 12 goals in 6 games and are the 3rd worst team for goals conceded. Bournemouth, while more average defensively, are still vulnerable, and Arsenal should punish them.

I don’t believe selling Saka to get Palmer is the right move. Find another way to bring Palmer into your squad, or wait until GW9 when Saka faces Liverpool. The only concern is Palmer’s price rise, but your priority should be maximizing FPL points, not preserving team value.

Keep or Sell?

L. Diaz:

Diaz didn’t get his usual number of chances in his last two games, with only 1 shot and playing deeper in both his Premier League and Champions League appearances. I’m also concerned about his starting position in GW7, but thankfully, Liverpool plays the first game on Saturday, so we may get early team news. If Diaz starts, give him one last chance. If not, sell him for Palmer or a Tottenham midfielder, depending on your budget.

Mazraoui:

Man United’s defence has been a mess! They left huge gaps for Spurs’ attackers, and the defenders looked naive and inexperienced. This issue has been noticeable since the Brighton game in GW2. For example, Van de Ven was able to stride unchallenged from his own half into United’s box. Man United are currently the second-worst team for big chances conceded—only Leicester is worse. Getting Mazraoui was a mistake, and it’s time to correct it.

GW7 Transfer Targets

Semenyo or McNeil?

Only Haaland has recorded more shots than Semenyo this season. Bournemouth’s top scorer has impressed with 3 goals and showed his talent in GW6. I picked him on my wildcard team last week, and he immediately rewarded me with a goal. On the other hand, McNeil bagged a brace and continues to be in good form.

Both are excellent value, alongside Smith-Rowe, at their price points. The key is targeting the right fixtures and rotating them. Everton arguably has the best schedule until GW14, while Semenyo faces Arsenal and City in the next 4 gameweeks. If you already own Semenyo, keep him. However, if you’re looking to pick one, McNeil might be the better option for long-term planning.

Tottenham

Spurs looked impressive against United last weekend, and several of their assets caught my eye. Their next 5 matches are very favourable, and I believe investing in their attackers is worthwhile.

Johnson was consistently in advanced positions alongside Solanke. He hit the post, had 3 solid chances, and deserved both his goal and assist. He thrives in counter-attacking situations and should exploit Brighton’s high line in the upcoming game week.

Solanke missed a big chance late in the game, which should have secured him a brace. He’s likely to be on penalties, especially with Son unavailable. Both Solanke and Johnson are Spurs’ top players for shots in the box, averaging 3 per game. Solanke leads the league in big chances per game, with 2, ahead of Haaland, Watkins, Palmer, and Salah. That’s double the tally of any teammate.

Maddison and Kulusevski are also great picks. However, I have some concerns about Kulusevski’s minutes and his security in the starting line-up. As for Maddison, he’s consistent but feels like a low-ceiling pick, doesn’t he?

By SamFPL

Last Updated: 03/10