Our analysis of the Community Shield final underlying data

4.0 defence options - a thorough summary.

They’re usually fools’ folly and the first few here are only for those looking to be different. As we move through all viable options, however, I think there’s case to be made for some really positive enablers this year. The options available may actually allow for 2 season-keepers at 4.0 which is something I’ve not previously seen.

Malone – HUD. Highest total points from last year and the most owned (at this price) but Wagner has basically stated that he won’t be playing. May feature as backup at some point.

McQueen – SOU. Unlikely to play but has had a few starts over preseason, has PL experience and could feature over the course of the season. Lots of competition at the back for SOU though so unlikely to beat his personal best tally of 23pts.

Schelleto – BHA. Has played 250+ mins over the preseason so Hughton not afraid to use him. Bruno is first choice though so would be doing well to beat last year’s 20pts. BHA alternative Suttner not getting picked.

Simpson – BOU. Has played approx. as many mins over pre-season as Aké, Cook and Francis. Could be a breakthrough year for him (may get 40+ pts?) but BOU defence not good and hardly worth the punt.

Benalouane – LEI. Will possibly start their first match. Has been favoured in first choice XI over pre-season at times and if starts well then could play a strong role throughout the season. Maguire likely to take his place when back from WC duty (but then again may get a transfer out). Likewise, Evans will probably start when back from injury. Potential to get 40+ pts if lucky.

Bennett – WLV. Getting into the territory of possible season-long starters now although would you really want a defensive starter from WLV? May be playing second fiddle to Saiss since his WC return but still getting game time in recent matches and has played 350+ mins over preseason so Nuno has an interest. Also has had 4 seasons in the PL. Outside bet at beating best ever tally of 47 if he gets the nod ahead of Saiss at times and if WLV defence starts well. WLV alternative Batth not in favour.

Peltier – CDF. Seems to now have gotten the nod to start at the back. Will possibly play 30+ games this season if keeps form. Two others at this price point for CDF (Connolly and Richards) who have gotten good game time over preseason but neither seem to have as much of a chance as Peltier. As good a chance as any to maintain a consistent spot but depends on your faith in the CDF defence.

Bednarek – SOU. On to what I consider an unprecedented 2 gems at this price. Bednarek came into PL late last season and started 5 of SOU’s last 6 games which ultimately lead them to safety. Picked up 2 clean sheets and a goal in this time and averaged 4.5+ PPG. He broke into Poland’s WC starting XI too, played in all 3 games and scored the winner with a CS in game vs Japan (vs teammate rival Yoshida!). Has started all 3 friendlies since returning from WC and appears to be in favour with Hughes. I can’t see why he dropped from 4.5 to 4.0 and if he can maintain his form under Hughes could have a good season with a team who have shown themselves capable of keeping CSs. Can never expect too much from 4.0 and I know I’m being overly-optimistic considering the competition in SOU backline but looks a solid pick to me.

Ban Wissaka – CPA. The apparent jewel in everyone’s crown, Hodgson seems to really favour this guy. Has PL experience having played plenty games last season and has been a mainstay over the preseason. Lots hoping for a breakthrough year for him and he looks as good a choice as any 4.5s for sure. Palace alternative Kelly (second most owned at this price) not getting near starting XI at present.

Conclusion
Foolish to look in the bargain basement? Perhaps. The golden age of the 4.0 defender? Not quite. There are options though! It seems everyone knows Wan Bissaka is a good pick. I think there’s enough to select from to have 2 X 4.0 - especially if you’d usually have 2 X 4.5 where the options are decidedly limited. Wan Bissaka and Bednarek have the potential to fetch 100+ points each if regularly starting. Peltier and Bennett may do ok but you might need to be someone who puts great faith in Championship defences to go there. If you are wild carding early, already have 3 from Palace or are just looking for a bit of craic then Simpson and/or Benalouane may offer some fun.