17 Oct, 2024

Game Week 8: FPL Sam’s Key Questions

Keep or Sell?

Luis Díaz

We’ve noticed significant rotation at Liverpool early on, which even Salah has been subject to in recent weeks. Slot seems to prioritize resting his players, especially following the international break, where Díaz started in two matches. This makes him a doubt for getting substantial minutes against Chelsea next weekend. I think it’s enough for both Díaz and Jota. Even Salah might see reduced minutes going forward. Plus, the next two fixtures are against Chelsea and Arsenal.

Arsenal Assets

Defenders

As seen last season, Arsenal’s defence can be inconsistent at home, often conceding to weaker teams like Leicester and Southampton after leaving spaces. However, they tend to perform better in away matches, particularly against stronger opposition, using a low-block approach.

That said, Arsenal remain one of the most solid defensive teams in the league. Last season, they were top in most defensive stats, and this season they’ve kept three clean sheets in their first five matches, conceding only three goals despite facing tough opponents like Aston Villa, Spurs, and Man City. Similar challenges await in the upcoming game weeks, with fixtures against Liverpool, Newcastle, and Chelsea.

Bukayo Saka

Last game week, Havertz played deeper, while Sterling made his debut ahead of Trossard and Martinelli. This highlights Saka’s importance as he remains Arsenal’s most nailed-on attacker and the heart of their offensive play. He’s been lively, registering 6 shots in the box and creating 7 chances, including 3 big chances in just two games. In total, he’s created 27 chances and 12 big chances. You can treat him as a season long keeper. Though he picked up a knock during the internationals, he’s expected to be fit for next Saturday’s match against Bournemouth. If he’s fit and training, I recommend keeping him.

Transfer Recommendations

Cole Palmer: Buy or Wait?

Palmer is the joint-top scorer this season, with 11 attacking returns—more than any other player—averaging 9.6 points per game. He’s become Chelsea’s talisman, and even Nottingham Forest’s low block couldn’t prevent him from creating 6 chances and taking 4 shots in the box last game week. He’s a lively player and should be a season keeper. However, Chelsea face Liverpool at Anfield next weekend, and Liverpool, who have kept 5 clean sheets in just 7 games, presenting hia toughest defensive challenge yet. After the Liverpool match, though, I believe Palmer will be an essential pick and will be my top priority for Gameweek 9.

Brennan Johnson

One of the most in form players in the league right now, scoring 7 goals in his last 7 games. Spurs’ upcoming fixtures look promising, with 3 home games in the next 4 weeks, raising his potential for big returns. Tottenham are arguably one of the top attacking teams this season, leading the league in xG and shots in the box. Tottenham’s attack is one to target.

Over the past three game weeks, Johnson is tied with Maddison and Mbeumo for the most FPL points among mid-priced assets. He’s taken 21 shots on target this season, more than any of his teammates. Johnson is a great option if you’re looking for a replacement for players like Eze or Luis Díaz in game week 8.

Liam Delap

Over the last two game weeks, the former City forward has been in excellent form, scoring three goals. Delap has had 11 shots on target, the most among his teammates, with 8 of those coming from inside the box, and 5 classified as big chances.

He’s currently the second-highest scoring forward this season, with 4 goals—only Haaland has more. At just £5.7m, Delap is an absolute bargain. Ipswich’s next three fixtures are EVE (H), BRE (A), and LEI (H), making him a great budget option alongside Raul if you’re searching for a cheap forward.

Check out the Transfer Wizard to see who some of the best replacements are!

For more SamFPL, click here!

By SamFPL

Last Updated:16/10