A long time ago, Fantasy Premier League (FPL) introduced some chips to make the game more interesting and strategic, with the Bench Boost now being one of FPL’s funnest parts.
Every manager gets two of these per season.
What is an FPL Bench Boost?
Usually, the four players who’ve been left on the substitutes’ bench will not contribute to that Gameweek’s points tally.
However, the Bench Boost gives managers one opportunity to receive points from all 15 individuals.
Two chances, to be precise. One to be used before Gameweek 19’s deadline, and another at some point afterwards.
How to activate a Bench Boost
Via a computer, select the ‘Pick Team’ tab. Above the starting XI and substitutes bench is a ‘Play’ button that needs clicking and confirming. Hit ‘Save Your Team’ next.
Meanwhile, using the official FPL app, go to ‘Pick Team’ and, in the top left, press ‘Play Bench Boost’ and confirm.
The Bench Boost can be cancelled at any time before the deadline.
The best times to Bench Boost
Many managers usually follow the logic of using the chip during a Double Gameweek. This will ideally bring in eight extra matches rather than four.
It also has the dilemma of squad depth versus budget. Having high-quality ‘substitutes’ for the 15-man Bench Boost is great, but it then leaves a big chunk of investment sidelined in future weeks, restricting what can be done to your starting XI.
That’s why some like activating it just before or just after resetting their squad with a Wildcard. Using these unlimited free transfers immediately afterwards will eliminate the above problem, whilst using it right before Bench Boost allows well-thought-out preparation to help navigate the upcoming schedule.
But chips can be used in a variety of situations – that’s the beauty of them. Although standard advice is to use Bench Boost during a Double Gameweek, sometimes a manager’s gut feeling wants it elsewhere.
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