Fantasy managers have this afternoon been given notice of another double Gameweek to prepare after Sunderland confirmed the date for their rearranged home clash with Reading. Initially scheduled for Gameweek 2, the clash was called off due to a waterlogged pitch but has now been rescheduled for Tuesday December 11 – presumably affording both clubs a pair of fixtures in Gameweek 16.
Sunderland will now welcome Chelsea and Reading to the Stadium of Light in the Gameweek, while the Royals also have a trip to Southampton on their agenda. Although the Black Cats have been disastrous in front of goal in recent weeks, their backline has impressed at home – just two goals have been conceded in three matches in front of their own fans. Simon Mignolet and Carlos Cuellar (priced at 5.0 and 4.5 in Fantasy Premier League) are likely to garner extra attention, then, though with United, City and Spurs as three of their following four opponents, stocking up on the likes of Steven Fletcher could be a risky tactic. Martin O’Neill’s men do face a trip to QPR in Gameweek 15 and a trip to Southampton in Gameweek 18, perhaps making Fletcher that little bit more enticing.
For Reading, without a single clean sheet this season, investment at the back looks a risky option. Brian McDermott’s men have, however, seen an upturn in attacking output since rolling out a 4-4-2; they have scored seven goals in the previous three matches they have used this formation. Recent Watchlist candidate Jobi McAnuff, who has assisted five of his side’s 11 goals, will surely be earmarked by many; coming in at 5.1 in Fantasy Premier League, the winger looks a real contender, while Pavel Pogrebnyak (now down to 4.7 in FPL) is the only forward to start every game for McDermott’s side so far.
Reading do, however, face United at home in Gameweek 15 and then play Arsenal and City in the two Gameweeks immediately after the double, suggesting any over-investment in their assets could be come at a cost.
