Picking the right captain each week is one of the most crucial decisions in Fantasy Premier League. Your captain’s score is doubled, so choosing wisely can make or break your gameweek. Here are some tips and strategies to help you select the best captain and maximize your FPL points!
1. Prioritize Form Over Fixtures
One of the most important factors when choosing a captain is the player’s form. A player who’s scoring or assisting consistently is usually a safer choice than someone with an easy fixture but no recent form. When possible, try to pick a captain who’s on a scoring streak or heavily involved in their team’s attack.
2. Check the Fixture Difficulty
Although form is important, the matchups should not be ignored. A player going up against a weaker defense has a better chance of scoring high. Some things to consider when analyzing fixtures:
- Defensive stats: How many goals has the opposition conceded recently?
- Home vs. away advantage: Players and teams often perform better at home.
- Opposition style: Teams with a more open style of play may allow more scoring chances.
3. Look for Reliable Star Players
Top-tier players, like Erling Haaland, Mohamed Salah, and Harry Kane, tend to be safer captain choices because of their consistency and high ceiling for points. Even on an off day, these players can still contribute assists or penalties, making them safer choices for the captaincy.
4. Consider Differential Captains in Competitive Leagues
In highly competitive mini-leagues, selecting a “differential” captain (a player with low ownership) can help you stand out. While riskier, this strategy can help you gain a significant advantage if your chosen player performs well. However, use this tactic sparingly and only if you’re confident in the player’s potential.
5. Analyze Underlying Stats
Stats such as expected goals (xG), expected assists (xA), and touches in the box can provide deeper insight into a player’s potential. A player with high xG but few recent goals could be on the verge of a scoring spree, making them a great captain choice. Some stats to focus on:
- Shots on target: A high volume of shots indicates a player’s scoring potential.
- Big chances created: Assisting players with high xA can offer potential for points.
- Touches in the opponent’s box: More touches usually mean more chances to score.
6. Follow Press Conferences and Injury News
Last-minute injuries or rotation risks can disrupt your captain plans. Keep an eye on press conferences to ensure your chosen player is likely to start. Following credible FPL news sources or official club updates can help you make a more informed decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the best captain in FPL requires a balance of player form, favorable fixtures, and data-driven analysis. By keeping these strategies in mind, you can increase your chances of consistently scoring big with your captain picks. Happy captaining, and may your captain choices bring you success every gameweek!