The Wildcard
The Wildcard allows you to make unlimited transfers in a single game week without incurring any point deductions. You receive two Wildcards per season—one for the first half and one for the second half.
Optimal Usage Strategies
- Early Season Adjustment: If your initial squad isn't performing as expected, using an early Wildcard can help you restructure your team based on emerging form and fixtures.
- Fixture Swings: Deploy the Wildcard when certain teams have a favorable run of fixtures, allowing you to bring in key players en masse.
- Double Gameweeks Preparation: Use it to set up your team ahead of double gameweeks, maximizing the potential for points from players who play twice.
Free Hit
The Free Hit chip lets you make unlimited transfers for one game week only. After the game week ends, your squad reverts to its previous state.
Optimal Usage Strategies
- Blank Gameweeks: Ideal for weeks when many teams aren't playing due to cup competitions, ensuring you can field a full team.
- Unexpected Crises: Useful if your squad is suddenly hit by injuries or suspensions that can't be addressed with free transfers.
- Capitalizing on Fixtures: When there are standout fixtures in a single game week, you can load up on players from teams with strong matchups.
Bench Boost
The Bench Boost chip counts the points scored by your bench players in addition to your starting XI for one game week.
Optimal Usage Strategies
- Double Gameweeks: Maximizes potential points when your entire squad has the opportunity to play twice.
- After a Wildcard: Use the Wildcard to build a strong 15-player squad, then activate Bench Boost in the following game week.
- Favorable Fixtures: When your bench players have good matchups, increasing the likelihood they'll score points.
Triple Captain
The Triple Captain chip triples your captain's points instead of the usual doubling, offering a chance for a significant points haul in one game week.
Optimal Usage Strategies
- Double Gameweeks: Your captain has two matches to accumulate points, enhancing the chip's effectiveness.
- Exceptional Form and Fixtures: Use when a star player is in excellent form and facing a particularly weak opponent.
- Assured Playtime: Ensure your chosen captain is a nailed-on starter unlikely to be rotated or substituted early.
Strategic Considerations
Effective chip usage requires careful planning and consideration of the FPL calendar, including potential double and blank gameweeks due to cup competitions or postponements.
Combining Chips
- Wildcard and Bench Boost Combo: Use the Wildcard to assemble a strong squad, then activate Bench Boost to capitalize on it.
- Free Hit in Blank Gameweeks: Navigate weeks with limited fixtures without long-term alterations to your team.
Monitoring Fixture Changes
Stay updated on fixture rescheduling to identify the best times to use your chips. Official announcements and community forums can provide valuable insights.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Premature Usage: Avoid using chips too early without a clear strategy, as better opportunities may arise later.
- Ignoring Team Balance: Don't compromise your team's long-term balance for short-term gains when using chips.
- Lack of Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust your plans if unexpected changes occur, such as injuries or fixture rearrangements.
Conclusion
Maximizing the use of FPL chips is all about strategic timing and planning. By understanding each chip's potential and aligning their usage with key points in the season, you can significantly boost your points total. Stay informed, be adaptable, and use your chips wisely to gain a competitive edge in your FPL leagues.