Selecting the Right Captain for Gameweek 12
As Dream Team managers gear up for Gameweek 12, the decision of who to captain is crucial. With a full round of Premier League fixtures and European competitions on the horizon, choosing a player likely to take the field twice can significantly impact your score. Here’s a look at the top captaincy options you should consider.
Evaluating Mohamed Salah’s Form
Mohamed Salah has been a standout player in recent weeks, consistently outperforming his rivals, including Erling Haaland. With a current valuation of £7.3 million, Salah has matched or exceeded Haaland’s point totals for four consecutive Gameweeks. His upcoming matches include a favorable fixture against 20th-placed Southampton, followed by a high-stakes clash with Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Analysts suggest that Salah’s excellent form, coupled with his team’s attacking prowess, makes him a logical captain choice for this week. Not only does he have the potential for a big haul against Southampton, but Liverpool’s home advantage against Real Madrid could also see him accumulating more points.
Understanding Erling Haaland’s Situation
Erling Haaland, priced at £8.6 million, remains a formidable option. However, Manchester City is currently facing challenges, having lost four consecutive matches. This raises concerns about the team’s overall morale and performance. Haaland’s double-header against Tottenham and Feyenoord presents opportunities for scoring, especially with Spurs missing key defenders. Yet, the inconsistency of City’s form may lead some managers to second-guess their decision to captain him.
The Case for Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes is emerging as a popular captain choice as well, particularly with Manchester United’s favorable fixtures this Gameweek. At £6.1 million, he is currently the most in-form Dream Team player, and his performance in Gameweek 11 was unparalleled, leading to increased recruitment before the upcoming deadline.
With his first match as manager against Ipswich, followed by a Europa League clash against Bodo/Glimt, Fernandes has a solid chance to continue his scoring streak. His ability to contribute both goals and assists positions him as a key player for managers looking to maximize points.
Considering Other Options
While Salah, Haaland, and Fernandes are strong contenders, other players may also warrant attention. Cole Palmer (£6.2 million) is expected to return for Chelsea’s trip to Leicester but won’t feature in their European match, limiting his chances for a double-point haul. Bukayo Saka (£6.6 million) is another popular choice; however, his availability is uncertain, which adds an element of risk.
Additionally, players like Alejandro Garnacho (£4.1 million), Luis Diaz (£4.6 million), and Dominic Solanke (£4.3 million) can be considered low-cost alternatives for managers looking to diversify their captaincy choices.
Making Your Final Decision
Ultimately, the decision on who to captain should reflect both current form and fixture difficulty. Mohamed Salah stands out as the most logical candidate due to his form and favorable fixtures. However, Bruno Fernandes’ recent scoring ability and Haaland’s potential to bounce back should not be dismissed.
As the deadline approaches, weigh the risks and rewards of your choices, and ensure your captaincy aligns with your overall strategy for Gameweek 12.