When Do You Get the Wildcard?
FPL provides two Wildcards each season:
- First Wildcard: Available from the beginning of the season and must be used before the halfway point, typically around Gameweek 18 or 19.
- Second Wildcard: Available after the halfway point and can be used until the end of the season.
Each Wildcard can only be used once, so managers must carefully consider the timing and impact of this chip.
Benefits of Using the Wildcard
- Squad Overhaul: Allows you to completely rebuild your team if your initial picks aren’t performing or if new players emerge as top scorers.
- Adapt to Fixture Changes: Enables you to respond to favorable or challenging fixture schedules, maximizing points potential over upcoming game weeks.
- Manage Injuries and Suspensions: If several of your players are sidelined, the Wildcard helps you replace them without point deductions.
When is the Best Time to Use the Wildcard?
There’s no single right answer for when to play your Wildcard, but here are some popular strategies:
1. Early Season Wildcard
Many managers use the first Wildcard early in the season, around Gameweek 4-6, to adjust their team based on initial form and fixture analysis. This is a great time to correct any early-season misjudgments or capitalize on emerging stars.
2. Mid-Season Wildcard
Using the Wildcard around the midpoint of the season, after the first Wildcard expires, is also popular. By this time, fixture difficulties may change, and player form becomes clearer, making it an ideal moment for a strategic overhaul.
3. Preparing for Double Gameweeks
A common strategy is to use the second Wildcard before a Double Gameweek (when certain teams play twice in a single game week). This setup allows managers to stack their team with players who have multiple fixtures, potentially leading to significant point gains.
4. Rescuing a Struggling Team
If your team has several underperformers or injured players, a Wildcard can help you recover and avoid multiple point deductions from excessive transfers.
How to Activate the Wildcard
To activate the Wildcard, go to the transfers page in FPL:
- Select the players you want to bring in and remove those you want to replace.
- Once satisfied, click the “Play Wildcard” button before confirming the transfers.
Remember, this action cannot be undone, and you won’t receive another Wildcard until the second half of the season.
Common Wildcard Mistakes to Avoid
- Playing Too Early Without Data: Avoid using the Wildcard in the first few weeks when player form and fixture difficulties are unclear.
- Chasing Points: Don’t select players based solely on a single high-scoring week; instead, focus on sustainable form and favorable fixtures.
- Ignoring Balance: Make sure your Wildcard team has a balanced structure across all positions to handle potential injuries or suspensions.
Conclusion
The Wildcard chip in FPL offers managers a powerful way to improve their team and optimize points. By using it strategically, you can adapt to changes in the season, capitalize on fixture runs, and recover from setbacks. Consider your options carefully, and make the most of this valuable chip to boost your FPL rank.