Fantasy Premier League can be as challenging as it is rewarding. To improve your chances of success, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can derail your season. Here’s a list of frequent mistakes that FPL managers make and tips on how to steer clear of them.
1. Chasing Last Week’s Points
One of the biggest traps in FPL is transferring in players based solely on last week’s performance. Just because a player had a standout game doesn’t mean they’ll perform similarly in upcoming matches. Instead of chasing points, consider:
- Consistency: Look for players who have performed well over a series of gameweeks.
- Fixtures: Check if the player has favorable matches coming up.
2. Ignoring the Fixtures
Fixtures play a critical role in player performance. Overlooking a team’s upcoming schedule can lead to picking players who face tough opponents, which may limit their potential points. To avoid this, plan your transfers with the next 4-6 gameweeks in mind.
3. Making Early Transfers
Early transfers can be tempting, especially to save 0.1 million on a price rise. However, making changes before all matches are complete can backfire if players get injured or suspended later in the week. To minimize risks, wait until after press conferences to make transfers unless it’s absolutely necessary.
4. Overusing Chips Too Early
Chips like the Wildcard, Free Hit, and Bench Boost are valuable tools for gaining extra points, but using them too soon can leave you without options during critical points in the season. Instead:
- Save them for double gameweeks: Many chips are most effective when you have players playing twice in a gameweek.
- Use them strategically: Only deploy chips when they can provide a significant advantage in your mini-league or overall rank.
5. Ignoring Team Value
Building team value early in the season allows you to afford a stronger squad later. Monitoring price changes and picking players likely to increase in value can give you more flexibility when setting your lineup in the second half of the season.
6. Not Paying Attention to Deadlines
FPL deadlines are strict, so forgetting to set your team or make last-minute changes can lead to missed opportunities. Set reminders for each gameweek’s deadline, especially during busy periods with midweek fixtures.
7. Not Considering Differential Players
While it’s smart to include popular players, having a few “differential” players (those with low ownership) can help you gain points over competitors. However, balance is key — don’t fill your team with too many differentials. One or two high-potential differentials can be enough to make a difference in your overall rank.
Conclusion
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve your chances of a successful Fantasy Premier League season. Staying disciplined, planning ahead, and balancing risks with rewards can make all the difference. Good luck, and may your FPL decisions bring you success!