FPL Injury Update: Key Players to Watch Ahead of the Weekend
As Fantasy Premier League (FPL) returns, the scramble to finalize teams before the deadline intensifies. With injuries playing a crucial role in early season strategy, Express Sport delivers the latest updates on key players like Dominic Solanke, Jack Grealish, Jamie Vardy, and others. These injury reports could significantly impact your FPL decisions ahead of this weekend’s Premier League action.
The Haaland Dilemma: A Worthy Investment or Not?
One of the biggest questions FPL managers face as the new season kicks off is whether to invest in Erling Haaland. Priced at a record-breaking £15 million, Haaland is the most expensive FPL player ever. While his goal-scoring prowess is undeniable, many managers are looking for alternatives who might offer better value for money. This brings us to Tottenham Hotspur’s new signing, Dominic Solanke.
Dominic Solanke: A Promising Pick or a Risky Bet?
After a stellar season with Bournemouth, where he netted 19 goals, Solanke secured a big-money move to North London. Priced at £7.5 million in FPL, he is being tipped as the ideal striker for Ange Postecoglou’s high-pressing system at Tottenham. However, Solanke’s fitness remains a significant concern for FPL managers.
Solanke managed less than 90 minutes of pre-season action with Bournemouth due to an unspecified issue, raising doubts about his readiness for Tottenham’s opening fixture against Leicester City. Despite this, over 25 percent of FPL managers have taken a gamble on Solanke, banking on his potential to lead the Spurs’ attack. But with the striker’s fitness in question, there’s a strong possibility he might start the season on the bench, making him a risky pick for your FPL squad this weekend.
Manchester City’s Selection Headaches: Bobb and Grealish in Doubt
Pep Guardiola is notorious for his unpredictable team selections, a constant source of frustration for FPL managers. This season is no different, as City’s injury list already poses a challenge.
Oscar Bobb, a young talent with high expectations, suffered a reported leg fracture during training this week. Bobb, who was unlikely to feature prominently in City’s starting lineup, is now confirmed to miss the season opener against Chelsea. This injury is a blow for those looking to pick a low-cost differential from City’s squad.
Adding to the uncertainty is the situation with Jack Grealish. The £100 million man missed City’s Community Shield win over Manchester United due to a minor injury. While not confirmed, there are concerns that Grealish might not be fully fit for the Chelsea clash. If you have Grealish in your squad, it might be worth considering other options or waiting for a last-minute update before the deadline.
Jamie Vardy: A Veteran’s Return but Limited Involvement
Jamie Vardy’s return to the Premier League with Leicester City has sparked interest among FPL managers who remember his past heroics. However, Vardy’s potential to influence games this season seems limited.
Leicester, now managed by Steve Cooper, did not use Vardy in any of their three pre-season friendlies, raising doubts about his match fitness. While Vardy’s name alone might tempt FPL managers, his expected limited role makes him a risky inclusion in your squad. For now, it’s best to steer clear of the veteran striker until his role becomes more defined.
Defensive Dilemmas: Schar and Branthwaite in Doubt
Selecting the right defenders can be a game-changer in FPL, especially when clean sheets and goal contributions are on the line. Unfortunately, two high-potential defenders are facing fitness concerns ahead of the opening weekend.
Fabian Schar, who was instrumental in Newcastle United’s solid defensive record last season, suffered a knock in their final pre-season match. The Swiss international limped off, casting doubt on his availability for Newcastle’s first game against Southampton. Schar’s absence could weaken Newcastle’s backline, making him a risky FPL pick this week.
Similarly, Everton’s young defender Jarrad Branthwaite is a doubt for their match against Brighton & Hove Albion. Branthwaite, who was expected to be a budget-friendly option in FPL, has not fully recovered from an injury sustained in pre-season. With Everton’s defensive options already limited, Branthwaite’s potential absence further complicates matters for FPL managers.
Final Thoughts: Monitor the Latest Updates
As the FPL deadline approaches, staying informed on the latest injury updates is crucial. While players like Solanke, Grealish, and Vardy offer high rewards, their fitness concerns make them risky picks for the opening weekend. Similarly, the defensive doubts surrounding Schar and Branthwaite could force managers to look elsewhere for reliable points.
Keep a close eye on the latest news, and be ready to make last-minute adjustments to your FPL squad. With careful planning and a bit of luck, you can navigate these early challenges and start the season strong.
