In the Fantasy EFL Gameweek 36 Scout Squad, our experts – Merlin, Louis, Jack and Danny – unveil their top picks.

Teams across the Championship, League One and League Two double this week, so there are plenty of options to choose from.

Our panel have nominated a 12-man long-list of players and a four-club selection. With no player prices or budgets to worry about, they’ve each picked the following names…

• READ MORE: Fantasy EFL Gameweek 36: Expert team reveals

THE FANTASY EFL SCOUT SQUAD: GAMEWEEK 36

JACK SAID…

GOALKEEPERS

There are several strong options between the sticks this week. Jackson Smith stands out as one of the best picks, with two favourable fixtures and a defence that has been performing well.

Elsewhere, Brad Young offers a similar level of appeal, combining solid clean sheet potential with a reliable defensive setup.

Another name to consider is Grant Smith, who looks well placed to return at least one clean sheet across his fixtures, particularly in the second match. That makes him a dependable alternative.

DEFENDERS

Defensively, Alfie Kilgour remains an excellent option. He continues to impress within a strong backline and offers high clean sheet potential once again this week.

There is also clear appeal in Curtis Nelson, who combines defensive solidity with a degree of goal threat, making him a well-rounded pick.

Meanwhile, Cameron McJannett returns to contention and could prove valuable given the fixtures ahead, with strong potential for returns.

MIDFIELDERS

Form is firmly on the side of Lewis Wing, who enters the Gameweek as one of the standout midfield options once again.

Kieran Green also catches the eye, particularly given the strength of the upcoming fixtures. If he maintains his current level, he could deliver another strong return.

Another solid option is Jack Moylan, who is expected to start both matches and remains a key part of his side’s attacking setup.

FORWARDS

Up front, Joe Taylor continues to offer strong potential. His fixtures come against sides that have not been particularly convincing defensively, giving him the opportunity to deliver big returns.

Fitness permitting, Lorent Tolaj also looks like a strong option, with decent fixtures that could reward managers willing to back him.

Andy Cook completes the shortlist, bringing consistent attacking threat and a favourable run of fixtures that should allow him to remain involved in returns.

TEAM PICKS

From a team perspective, Grimsby Town, Bristol Rovers, Lincoln City, and Coventry City all stand out as strong options this week, each offering solid upside across their respective fixtures.

MERLIN SAID…

GOALKEEPERS

There is no shortage of viable options between the sticks this week, with several sides offering strong clean sheet potential.

Among them, Grant Smith stands out. Despite a recent setback for Bromley, their overall defensive record remains strong, and the upcoming fixtures suggest they can return to form quickly.

Also worth considering is Carl Rushworth, who has been one of the most consistent goalkeepers this season. With multiple clean sheets already to his name and two fixtures ahead, he offers both reliability and upside.

Another solid option is Brad Young, whose recent performances have been encouraging. Given the fixtures, there is a clear path to returns, particularly if his side can maintain their defensive organisation.

DEFENDERS

At the back, there are several players who combine strong defensive potential with added upside.

Alfie Kilgour continues to impress and remains a key part of a well-drilled defence. His ability to deliver consistent returns makes him one of the standout picks once again.

There is also clear appeal in Curtis Nelson, who has returned from injury and quickly re-established himself. His defensive contributions, particularly clearances and bonus involvement, enhance his appeal.

Meanwhile, Omar Sowunmi looks like a reliable option in any Double Gameweek. His side’s defensive strength, combined with his own threat, gives him multiple routes to points.

MIDFIELDERS

In midfield, consistency remains key, and few players offer that more than Lewis Wing. Week after week, he continues to deliver, making him one of the safest picks available and a genuine captaincy contender.

Alongside him, Kieran Green offers a strong all-round profile. With both attacking involvement and defensive contributions, he has multiple ways of picking up points, and his recent form only strengthens his case.

For those looking to mix things up, Imran Louza presents an interesting alternative. His ability to influence games in advanced areas makes him a player capable of delivering returns across a Double Gameweek.

FORWARDS

The forward line is less straightforward this week, which makes form and fixtures even more important when selecting options.

Joe Taylor stands out as one of the most in-form forwards heading into the round. With goals in recent matches and favourable fixtures ahead, he looks well-positioned to continue delivering.

There is also growing interest in Dom Ballard, who offers a slightly different profile but remains a strong option given his attacking role and fixtures.

Another name to consider is Aribim Pepple, who could provide value for managers looking to move away from more popular picks. With the right opportunities, he has the potential to reward that selection.

TEAM PICKS

From a team perspective, several sides stand out based on both form and fixtures.

Grimsby Town look particularly strong, with favourable matchups that could translate into positive results across the Double Gameweek.

Bristol Rovers have also found form at the right time and appear to be building momentum, making them a reliable option.

Plymouth Argyle offer a slightly different route, combining attacking potential with decent fixtures, which could appeal to managers looking for upside.

Finally, Coventry City should not be overlooked. While they may not be the most obvious pick, their fixtures provide a genuine opportunity for returns, making them an interesting alternative.

DANNY SAID…

GOALKEEPERS

There are several strong options in goal this week, starting with George Wickens, who has been outstanding for Lincoln City. With 16 clean sheets this season, he has played a key role in their push towards the top of League One.

Elsewhere, Jackson Smith offers solid appeal with two favourable fixtures ahead, having already recorded clean sheets in his last two matches.

Another reliable option is Carl Rushworth, who has impressed throughout the campaign with 14 clean sheets. With two fixtures this week, he looks well placed to deliver further returns.

DEFENDERS

At the back, Alfie Kilgour continues to produce strong returns and looks set to maintain that form across the upcoming fixtures.

There is also value in Cameron McJannett, who has been consistent for bonus points this season and benefits from a promising set of matches.

Meanwhile, Curtis Nelson has returned from injury and quickly re-established himself as a key figure defensively. His clearance numbers and bonus potential make him a dependable option.

MIDFIELDERS

In midfield, Kieran Green stands out as a strong all-round option, offering multiple routes to points. He comes into the Gameweek off the back of an impressive 17-point return.

Consistency remains the key strength of Lewis Wing, who continues to deliver points on a regular basis, making him a difficult player to overlook.

There is also growing appeal around Jack Moylan, who looks capable of a big haul. He has been central to Lincoln City’s success this season and could be rewarded again this week.

FORWARDS

Up front, Joe Taylor is in strong form, with three goals in his last four matches and 13 for the season. Against weaker defences this week, he has the potential for further returns.

Another option to consider is Richard Kone, who comes into the Gameweek off the back of a brace and faces opponents who have shown vulnerability defensively.

Andy Cook also warrants attention, with favourable fixtures that should allow him to continue posing a threat in attack.

TEAM PICKS

From a team perspective, Grimsby Town stand out with two strong fixtures on paper, and there is a clear opportunity for maximum points.

Lincoln City continue to impress and could even secure promotion this weekend, depending on other results.

Chesterfield also appeal, particularly given their attacking potential and favourable fixtures.

Finally, Bristol Rovers have found form at the right time, losing just once in their last eight matches and winning their last three, making them another side to consider.

LOUIS SAID…

GOALKEEPERS

I still feel strongly about table toppers Bromley, even after their recent loss, which means Grant Smith remains a great pick in my opinion.

Lincoln City’s George Wickens and Grimsby Town’s Jackson Smith could also be excellent options between the sticks. There are so many good goalkeepers to pick from this week though.

DEFENDERS

Norwich City’s recent form and clean sheet record appeals to me this week. Along with the fact that he plays on the wing even though categorised as defender in the game, I really like Ali Ahmed as an option this week.

Bromley’s Omar Sowunmi always feels like an excellent pick in any given Double Gameweek, whilst Sonny Bradley of Lincoln City also stands out to me.

MIDFIELDERS

It’s very difficult not to advise people to pick Lewis Wing. He’s been the best asset in terms of consistency, which makes him a good captaincy option.

Similar things could be said about Oliver Norwood. Whilst his fixtures aren’t exactly great this week, I still think he’ll offer a solid floor of points that others won’t.

Stoke’s double is also very appealing. Whilst the game against Derby could be challenging, I think the fixture versus Sheffield Wednesday, who have lost nine of their recent 10 games, makes them a team to target. For that reason, and his safe floor, Sorba Thomas could be a good pick.

FORWARDS

Wigan’s Joe Taylor has been in very good form as of late, and striker picks don’t seem obvious this week. I think he’s a very good pick for the round ahead.

Barnsley’s David McGoldrick will always take my fancy, and seven goals and one assist in his previous 10 matches is impressive. I’d also add in Leyton Orient’s Dom Ballard as a very good alternative.

TEAM PICKS

I think Bromley will bounce back this week, so they are a great option.

Purely fixture and form-based then Bristol Rovers and Grimsby Town are excellent options. None have been as consistent as Bromley, but I really like both as options this week.

Stevenage will no doubt go under the radar. Fixtures look good for them, and it’s a great opportunity to get into the play-off spots.