The exciting stage of Premier League has begun, Chelsea somewhat comfortably sits at the top with a 8 point lead and one more game to play. But the battle for the top four is becoming more fascinating as six clubs are in for the game of snakes and ladders to steal the other three spots. Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are in the top three places if we consider just the points for last six home and away games. But, on the other hand, City’s form dipped a bit in their last few games and they have to get back onto track to retain second place in League table. Among all these ifs and buts, we have a cracker of a gameweek coming up as Liverpool welcome the Red Devils at Anfield and the result of this match will play a key role in deciding top four. Now, we shift our focus to find the top players who will shine amid pressure and thereby pleasing their fantasy owners.
Goal-keepers and Defenders
Liverpool have conceded just three goals in their last six matches but their defenders may not have the luxury to keep clean sheet this time around as they have a confident Manchester United to outplay.
Man City, Southampton and Spurs look the likeliest candidates to keep a clean sheet whereas the league leaders Chelsea also have an outside chance to achieve the same. If things go as expected, Ivanovic, Zabaleta, Terry and Bertrand can be a major source of points.
Aston Villa have returned quite well under Tim Sherwood after their 4-0 thrashing of Sunderland but they will have a little tougher task to keep the Swans at bay. Matches like Stoke vs Crystal, QPR vs Everton, West Ham vs Sunderland, have reasons to be evenly matched from both ends, So, having a defender from these teams might not help your cause.
Midfielders
After returning from the little injury vacation, Alexis Sanchez has not been the same like before. Maybe it’s time to transfer out the 11.3 m priced midfielder. On the other hand, Eden Hazard is the only Chelsea player who looks in form now. Chelsea’s astonishing run have taken some jolt in recent times with the exception being Hazard.
David Silva is also inconsistent in terms of points. Last week’s away defeat at Turf Moor caused discontent over Silva among fantasy managers. Cheaper midfielders like Puncheon, Bolasie are becoming more favourites as Crystal Palace have rejuvenated their league campaign under Alan Pardew. But this week, Silva may again come to the limelight as he has great chance to be in the score-sheet against West Brom at home.
Cazorla (8.6) also remains a viable option as high-flying Arsenal prepares for their trip at St. James Park. Ramsey, on his return, fared well on the pitch and scored last week, even in this week’s UCL tie. Henderson, Sterling and Coutinho has served as the attacking force of Liverpool and they managed to contribute alternatively in the past weeks. So, it’s time to make a place for one of them in your fantasy team-sheet.
Southampton’s Mane can be trusted to bring points in an easy home fixture against Burnley. Eriksen and Chadli – Tottenham’s midfield maestros can have a major say in the points tally following an encounter against the low-lying foxes.
Forwards
Harry Kane, the biggest revelation in this year’s Premier League, can fancy his chances against an out-of-confidence Leicester side. The other regulars include Aguero, Austin and Costa. Aguero did not score in last three Premier League matches and this is his best chance to come back to usual form against the Baggies.
In absence of Van Persie and Wilson, Rooney is likely to start as the main forward against Liverpool. Looking at his present performances, he can be a big asset to a fantasy team. Lukaku and Giroud also can be added to this list of probables. Some low-priced alternatives include Berahino and Ings.
Transfer and Captain Tips
Fabregas and Downing needs to be transferred out. Silva, Cazorla, Eriksen are the possible options in place of Fabregas whereas Downing can be replaced for Puncheon, Bolasie or Ki. All odds point towards Aguero to run a goal-scoring spree against the Baggies. Silva also looks a good option. Harry Kane is the another option who can be entrusted with the skipper’s role.
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