A Watford wing-back and a Southampton striker bolster their CV’s as value acquisitions over Sunday’s encounters. Here’s the latest Stock Check from Gameweek 8…
On the Rise
Jose Holebas
A superbly struck drive provided a second goal of the season, which, coupled with a first Hornets clean sheet of the campaign, saw the Greek return a 15-point Fantasy Premier League (FPL) haul.
Still hovering on four bookings, one away from a ban, Holebas nonetheless represents a key defensive option at just 4.5.
The Greek benefited from Walter Mazzarri’s decision to revert to a 3-5-2, ensuring that Holebas was granted the freedom to push forward from wing-back.
Given his attacking prowess and prominence at dead-balls, Holebas appears to offer potential that can present value even when Watford’s fixtures stiffen.
Holebas faces Swansea City and Hull City in the next two Gameweeks.
Charlie Austin
His two goals in Southampton’s 3-1 victory over Burnley took him to four in his last four Gameweeks to promote his value as a 6.4 third striker option.
In a weekend that saw both Christian Benteke and Jemaine Defoe draw blanks, Austin has emerged as a clear alternative that can help to liberate valuable funds.
Austin appears to have assumed spot-kick duties from Dusan Tadic, and although he’s yet to complete 90 minutes this season, he’s started the last three for Claude Puel.
Nathan Redmond
Having suffered more than 200,000 FPL sales over the last five Gameweeks, the 5.9 midfield option returned to the scoresheet with his first strike since Gameweek 1.
Redmond has impressed in a striker role without scoring in recent weeks but appears to be integral to Puel’s attacking ploys.
However, with Sofiane Boufal approaching match fitness, it remains to be seen how Redmond slots into the Saints system in the weeks to come.
Tom Heaton
On the losing side, Heaton nonetheless boosted his stock with a stunning performance which saw him make 11 saves and earn three points plus bonus.
Heaton has now made 40 saves in total, fetching 10 points from saves this season – more than any other goalkeeper.
