Managing Injured Liverpool Players in FPL: Effective Strategies
Liverpool players have been causing headaches for Fantasy Premier League (FPL) owners after a challenging Double Gameweek 25. The injuries to Curtis Jones, Diogo Jota, and Darwin Nunez have left many wondering how to navigate their FPL teams. With potential blanks in the schedule and a lack of playing time for injured players, it’s crucial to consider the best strategies for managing Liverpool assets.
Replacing Injured Jota
Diogo Jota has been ruled out for an extended period due to a knee injury sustained against Brentford. This makes him an obvious sell for FPL managers. Those who released Bukayo Saka to bring in Liverpool players should consider reversing that move. Saka has been in exceptional form, scoring six goals in the last four gameweeks, the most of any midfielder. He also leads in shots taken during this period with 20. Additionally, Saka is now Arsenal’s first-choice penalty taker. The only downside is that he may not have a fixture in Blank Gameweek 29 due to the clash with the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Other potential replacements for Jota include Jarrod Bowen and Son Heung-min, although both lack significant form. Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and Bournemouth’s Marcus Tavernier are also worth considering for their recent performances and upcoming fixtures.
The Dilemma of Mo Salah
The availability of Mohamed Salah remains uncertain, as Jurgen Klopp has been coy about his participation in upcoming matches. Salah is a high-priced player who is relatively low-owned considering his performance this season. Owners of Salah should consider their chip strategy when deciding whether to hold or sell him. If the second wildcard is still available, it provides an opportunity to easily bring him back later. For those who already have Salah and used their second wildcard early, holding onto him if possible is advisable.
Thriving without Darwin Nunez
Darwin Nunez has been in good form, but his recent injury raises questions about his immediate future in FPL. While it makes sense to sell him in the short term, planning to bring him back after the international break could be a wise move. With the 3-4-3 formation gaining popularity in FPL, forward options are limited. Dominic Solanke, Ollie Watkins, and Ivan Toney are players to consider for upcoming gameweeks, especially during the double gameweeks.
Rebuilding from the Back
Liverpool’s defensive stability has been a concern lately, with four consecutive gameweeks without a clean sheet. The absence of Alisson, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold has contributed to this issue. Given the uncertainty surrounding Alisson’s return, it is advisable to sell Liverpool defenders in FPL. Arsenal’s defense, which has kept the most clean sheets this season, presents an attractive alternative. Gabriel and William Saliba offer consistency and doubling up on Arsenal defenders could provide a differential strategy. David Raya and Neto from Bournemouth are also viable options.
Looking Ahead to Gameweek 29
Gameweek 29 is crucial to consider when making transfers in FPL. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez and center-back Pau Torres could be potential targets for this gameweek. With a struggling West Ham side as their opponent, they offer promising options. Using the Free Hit chip to navigate the disjointed schedule could provide greater flexibility in selecting transfer targets.
In conclusion, effectively managing injured Liverpool players in FPL requires careful consideration of replacements, chip strategies, and upcoming fixtures. Replacing Jota with in-form players like Saka and considering alternative forwards for Nunez can strengthen your team. Selling Liverpool defenders and investing in Arsenal’s defense can improve defensive stability. Lastly, keeping Gameweek 29 in mind when making transfers and utilizing the Free Hit chip wisely can provide an advantage in navigating the challenging schedule.