### Understanding the Assistant Manager Chip in Fantasy Premier League
As Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers gear up for the new season, one of the most intriguing additions to the game is the Assistant Manager chip, set to debut in Gameweek 24. This chip allows players to bring in a Premier League manager for three weeks, with their performance translating directly into FPL points. This innovative feature could change the way managers strategize moving forward, so let’s dive into the specifics of how to maximize its potential.
### How Does the Assistant Manager Chip Work?
When activated, the Assistant Manager chip allows you to select a manager whose team’s results will contribute to your FPL score. Here’s how points are allocated:
– **Wins**: 6 points
– **Draws**: 3 points
– **Goals Scored**: 1 point per goal
– **Clean Sheets**: 2 points
– **Table Bonus**: An additional 10 points for a win or 5 points for a draw when facing a team ranked at least five places higher.
While the pricing for managers is yet to be confirmed, it will likely range from £0.5m to £1.5m, impacting your budget significantly. Notably, this manager counts towards your limit of three players from any single club.
### Key Considerations for Using the Chip
1. **No Other Chips**: While the Assistant Manager chip is active, no other chips can be played. Therefore, it’s crucial to plan when to use other strategies like the Triple Captain or Wildcard effectively.
2. **Manager Transfers**: Changing your assistant manager does not cost a transfer, but swapping managers within the three-week span will cost you a transfer, similar to changing players.
3. **Choosing the Right Manager**: Top managers might not yield the highest points due to the table bonus mechanic. For example, while title contenders like Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta have had solid seasons, choosing a manager from a mid-table team with favorable fixtures might yield more points.
### Safe Choices: Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta
One of the safest bets for FPL managers is Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta. Following a strong performance against Crystal Palace, Arsenal appears to have regained its scoring form. In upcoming fixtures against Fulham, Everton, and Brentford, there’s a high likelihood of clean sheets and multiple goals. For instance, if they secure two clean sheets and score several goals across these matches, Arteta could easily net you around 30 points.
### The Clever Strategy: Chelsea’s Manager
For those seeking a more nuanced approach, Chelsea’s fixtures against Southampton and Leicester present a compelling opportunity. These matches could see Chelsea score heavily, with the potential for significant points. However, the away game against Arsenal poses a risk with low upside. A strategic move might involve transferring in another manager for the challenging matchup, allowing for optimal point accumulation.
### Double Gameweek Potential: Liverpool
Liverpool stands out as a potential powerhouse during the double gameweek, especially if the Merseyside derby is rescheduled. With fixtures against Bournemouth and potentially Everton, Liverpool is well-positioned to score heavily and capitalize on clean sheets. However, consider the implications of using the Triple Captain chip on star player Mohamed Salah during this period, as you cannot utilize two chips simultaneously.
### Outside-the-Box Thinking: Brentford
Brentford has shown they can score prolifically, even eclipsing teams like Liverpool in goal tally at times. With home fixtures against Aston Villa and a trip to Leicester, Brentford’s attacking prowess could yield a substantial points haul. Moreover, utilizing this chip strategically could leave room for other chips later in the season, particularly during double gameweeks created by cup competitions.
### High-Risk, High-Reward: Crystal Palace
For the adventurous manager, Crystal Palace under Oliver Glasner could be a bold choice. With matches against Villa and Ipswich, both of which present potential for victories, the upside is enticing. However, the away game against Newcastle poses a risk, as they could either excel or struggle significantly. This option is for those willing to embrace uncertainty for the chance of a high score.
### Final Thoughts on Chip Strategy
The introduction of the Assistant Manager chip adds a new layer of strategy to FPL. While there are numerous options, the best choice ultimately depends on your risk tolerance and willingness to adapt. As the season progresses, keep an eye on manager performances and fixture schedules to maximize your chances of success. If you have other strategies in mind or have spotted a better three-game streak for a manager, sharing insights in the community can foster discussion and improve collective strategies.