Spot the Differential

The best FPL differentials to consider for the new season

The Gameweek 1 deadline is now upon us which gives us an opportunity to have a look at some differential options for the start of the season.

As always, we’ve selected three players with an ownership of 5% or less at the time of writing, who represent viable alternatives to some of the more popular assets out there.

Christian Pulisic

Willian and Pulisic make case for Chelsea double-up with Norwich on horizon
  • FPL ownership: 6.6% (4.8% at the time of writing)
  • Price: £8.5m
  • GW1-5 fixtures: bha | LIV | wba | CRY | SOU

Despite a slow start, Christian Pulisic (£8.5m) enjoyed a fine first season at Chelsea, and hit top gear upon the Premier League’s resumption back in June.

The United States international contributed a combined eight goals and assists in just nine league appearances during Project Restart, and went on to score in the FA Cup final defeat to Arsenal.

That kind of output suggests a big campaign lies ahead.

In yesterday’s press conference, manager Frank Lampard confirmed Pulisic is in contention for Monday’s trip to Brighton, and with an ownership of just 4.8% at the time of writing, could be an explosive differential for those willing to gamble on him starting. Saying that, an appearance off the bench might not be the end of the world for owners, considering his ability to haul from limited minutes, as evidenced at Anfield last season.

The Blues’ opponents in Gameweek 1, Brighton and Hove Albion, head into the season with plenty of optimism themselves after a busy transfer window, though it’s worth noting they shipped 11 goals in just three home games against Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United during the restart, while doubts linger over their ability to keep things tight against the best attacking setups in the league. 

Following the arrivals of Kai Havertz (£8.5m), Hakim Ziyech (£8.0m) and Timo Werner (£9.5m), competition for places at Chelsea is fierce right now. However, we think this could have a positive effect on Pulisic, who could now take his game to another level and thrive alongside such quality.

James Ward-Prowse

  • FPL ownership: 4.7%
  • Price: £6.0m
  • GW1-5 fixtures: cry | TOT | bur | WBA | che

James Ward-Prowse (£6.0m) may only have registered nine attacking returns last term, but with the Saints going from strength-to-strength, we’re backing the England international to kick on this season.

A product of the Saints academy, Ward-Prowse has become a vital part of manager Ralph Hasenhüttl’s midfield unit, and played every minute of the club’s 2019/20 Premier League campaign. 

It has been suggested the departure of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg (£5.0m), and re-introduction of Oriol Romeu (£4.5m) to the starting XI, will give the Southampton captain a bit more freedom to get forward, which is encouraging, but there is no getting away from the fact his ability from set-pieces and delivery from wide areas is the main attraction.

Ward-Prowse whipped in a massive 72 crosses from Gameweek 30+ onwards, more than any other player, while his 20 shots ranked joint-ninth amongst midfielders. Add to that free-kicks, corners and a share of penalties with Danny Ings (£8.5m), and we think there is a lot to like here. 

After a disappointing start to last season, Southampton performed well once Hasenhüttl had settled on his 4-4-2 / 4-2-2-2 system. Their away form was only bettered by Liverpool and Manchester City, while just the Manchester clubs collected more points during Project Restart.

The Saints are unbeaten in their last five league matches on the road, and take on a Crystal Palace side in Gameweek 1 who have won just four games all calendar year, all of which bodes well for Ward-Prowse and Southampton’s prospects this weekend.

Dele Alli

  • FPL ownership: 3.3%
  • Price: £8.0m
  • GW1-5 fixtures: EVE | sou | NEW | mun | WHU

This season feels like a defining moment for Dele Alli (£8.0m), after another disappointing campaign last time round.

However, his performances under Jose Mourinho in the early weeks of his tenure offers hope he may be able to find his best level again. 

Under Mourinho’s stewardship, there was an immediate improvement in Alli’s output, which saw him go on a run of four goals and three assists in five matches, while his underlying statistics suggest he may be being overlooked.

Since Mourinho’s first game in charge, amongst midfielders, only Raheem Sterling (£11.5m), Mohamed Salah (£12.0m) and Sadio Mané (£12.0m) accumulated big chances at a faster rate. His expected goal data was also encouraging, and trumped that of team-mate Son Heung-min (£9.0m), despite seeing fewer minutes.

While I’m unsure how much we can read into pre-season, Alli’s displays have offered promise, having registered two assists in a 3-0 home win over Ipswich Town before scoring in a 4-1 victory at Reading.

Up first for Tottenham Hotspur is Everton. While the Toffees’ will no doubt look a much better unit with their new midfield recruits, it may take time for them to gel, while their poor away record last term saw them concede 35 goals – only five teams gave up more.

Heading into the new season, it is vital for Alli to keep himself fit and find a bit more consistency in his performances. If he can do that, while retaining an attacking midfield role, he could be in for a big season.

Best players by position:

GET IN-GAME DATA AT LIVE FPL

Check your own rank and in-play FPL stats on LiveFPL.net every Gameweek

2,172 Comments Post a Comment
  1. The Legend Squad
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    What do people think the best fodder bench is?

    Nyland
    Bissouma
    Davis
    Mitchell
    /

    1. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Bissouma

    2. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I’ve gone for:

      Ryan - Mitchell - Stephens - Taylor

      Oh wow, typed out it looks awful.....

  2. Nomar
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    I’m really tempted to go big at the back, doubling up on Robbo and TAA and ditchIngs Salah.

    You can actually still have a great team without Salah.

    Got to do it tonight if I’m going for it though.....

    1. pingissimus
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Torn on this one.

      Think both Leeds and Chelsea defences are very attackable and Robbo may be the best value mid! cs from 4 on look great bar one fixture against City

    2. ilikewud
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      You can still have a ‘big back line’ with Salah. I’ve got TAA, Doherty, Egan, and Shaw.

      1. Nomar
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Currently on TAA, Doherty, Tierney, KWP and Mitchell. With Auba and Salah.

        1. ilikewud
          • 3 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          We’ve got the same money invested in the back, I also have Auba and Salah. They team balance works imo. Plus I like my front 3 so it’s ideal.

    3. Ser Davos
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Still viable

      Lots of value to be had in doing that

    4. JamTart
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Something I'd consider later in the season on a WC I think

  3. Bumbaclot
    • 13 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Can i have people’s thoughts on DCL as an option? Currently in my team. Thanks

    1. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      He starts and certainly should have better service now. Has got good players around him.

      1. pingissimus
        • 5 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        He had service last season - top of the big chances table was he not?

    2. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Great set of fixtures

    3. Le _ Professeur
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      He's a started .. With Everton's upgraded MID, he should have more chances I guess .. But his form after League comeback was pretty bad which is putting me off .. Possibly favorable fixtures though :/

  4. AnyoneButLiverpool
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Is Coleman nailed on for Everton? They have decent fixture after Spurs.

    1. Feed tha Sheep
      • 11 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I think he should be im looking at him he seems as good a 5.0 option as there is

  5. merin
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Vinagre or KWP?

    1. Amey
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Million Dollar Question.
      I'm also thinking of Same choice

    2. The Finnisher
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      KWP for me

    3. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      kwp is a lock

    4. iL PiStOlErO
      • 4 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      KWP

    5. CelticBhoy1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      KWP more nailed

    6. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Support for Vinagre seems to have gone sour....

      1. merin
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Yeah. SOU have really decent fixtures though. Going double up SOU defence with McCarthy and KWP! 🙂
        Even considering Adams instead of Mitro

    7. cassanata
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      KWP, last thing you need this season is to have to switch out a 4.5 because he is not playing or transferred. KWP is a safe bet.

  6. The Finnisher
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    A. Wilson & Rodriguez

    B. Ings & Saint-Maximin

    1. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      B

    2. Corona is not good 4 U
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I think B.

    3. 007 [RoboKlopp]
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      B

    4. ArseneAllTheWay
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      b

  7. Corona is not good 4 U
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Why is Werner so popular? It is his first season in the Premier League? Thank you!

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Werner big impact player with great service around him

    2. The Legend Squad
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Remember Salam’s first season?

    3. Piggs Boson
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Emotion.

    4. F4L
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Chelsea's strikers got so many chances last season that if they had a world class striker he would have won the golden boot.
      Now they have Havertz and Ziyech as well playing the role of provider.

  8. CelticBhoy1
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Thoughts on Doucoure at 5.5?

    1. Jafooli
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Decent.....will let him bed in first, but on my watchlist

    2. ilikewud
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      He ticks over, never the most exciting but can’t expect that much for 5.5

  9. Iceball
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Thinking ahead I had Son to Rashford on mind, he has about the same xG and then will get more points since a midfielder now.
    But starting to doubt that since Martial looked so good with France, confident, good form. Rashford might be some injury worry? What do you think?

  10. FCSB
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Pretty much coming down to this:

    1. Egan Son Brewster(bench) 442
    2. Vinagre(bench) Alli Mitrovic 343

    McCarthy Button
    TAA Justin Mitchell Davies ****
    Salah Aubameyang ASM Bissouma ****
    Werner Ings ****

    Cheers all

    1. MESSINHO
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm on B, but not with Vinagre. I have C. Taylor.

  11. Bubz
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Alright welcome back Soucek

    1. Christina.
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      presser?

      1. Bubz
        • 10 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Scout tweets

  12. Garfield1001
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Sounds like Soucek will be available...

    1. Ser Davos
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Gamechanger

    2. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Got to be worth a punt surely.

    3. billnats
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Their fixtures are disgusting early

  13. SADIO SANÉ
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    FanTeam are still 750 THOUSAND euros short of the guaranteed pot in terms of sign ups - Late Registration up until GW5... hellooo

    1. Red Red Robins
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      So up until GW5 would the previous 4 rounds be based on an average?

  14. SomeoneKnows
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    A) Werner + Rashford
    B) Ings/Jimenez + Fernandes

    1. Muller Reus Corner
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      A

  15. Muller Reus Corner
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Doherty and Mitrovic or DCL B. Davies?

  16. merin
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Mitro or Adams?

  17. Athletic Nasherbo
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Should I use my 0.5m to have a second keeper alongside Meslier? (Or even Casilla).

    1. ilikewud
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Nope, bank it

  18. Tabbara
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    McCarthy Button
    Saiss Taylor TAA Mitchell Justin
    Salah Auba Pulisic/havertz Saint-Maximin Alli
    Mitro Werner Davis

    Thx

  19. WorldCupDanB
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    We have created a list of FPL leagues that are free to enter and offer a prize.

    The list is basically just a Google sheet with links to tweets or websites where people are promoting their league. The Fantasy Football Scout league is a good example with a first prize of £500.

    The list has:-

    - 175 Leagues in total
    - 25 Leagues with £500+ total prizepool
    - Highest 1st prize of £3,000
    - Total prizepool value of £55,195

    https://www.footstockchat.com/post/list-of-free-to-enter-fpl-prize-leagues-1

    If you have any questions let me know.

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      wow thanks 🙂

    2. ilikewud
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Nice

    3. Bubz
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Check your DM's have DM'd you 🙂

  20. More Cowbell
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    I'm gonna risk sounding like a mega casual here, but why is Werner so popular? I admit I don't know much about him, but Chelsea's fixtuers are only alright. Can someone in the knowl enlighten me?

    1. ilikewud
      • 3 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Has a good record, Chelsea very attacking, have brought in some quality to surround him. He is still an unknown but worth the punt and hope he hits the ground running.

  21. Pep Roulette
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    After looking at the fixtures, Coleman/Keane look better than Dier/Davies imo.

    1. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Don't know man, Everton just doesn't feel reliable for clean sheets

      1. Pep Roulette
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Neither do Spurs!

  22. Pukki Party
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Crystal Palace will be without James Tomkins, Gary Cahill, Mamadou Sakho, Patrick van Aanholt, Nathan Ferguson, Christian Benteke and Connor Wickham for the visit of Southampton.

    What does this mean for Ferguson and Mitchell gametime?

    1. Ser Davos
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      If McCarthy is back then Riedelwald goes LB as far as I understand

      1. Pukki Party
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Thanks, predicted lineups have McCarthy cm and Mitchell lb, but heard Riedewald has played well in midfield preseason.

  23. Jafooli
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Anyone else going with Antonio to start with? If not, why not?

    1. Pukki Party
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Had him in my squad for a long time. Might get him in over Richarlison.

    2. Holmes
      • 10 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Fixtures you can say

      1. Jafooli
        • 12 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Always plan to be an early transfer out....

    3. OldBenKenobi
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I am but I am also WCing in GW2

    4. Oooof
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I’m in

  24. Lexi2014
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    McCarthy
    TAA / Vinagre / Justin
    Auba / Salah / ASM / Soucek
    Werner / Ings / Mitro

    Ryan / Saliba / Mitchell / Greenwood

    Leaves me 0 itb. Thoughts? Considering replacing Greenwood with James Rodriguez...

  25. Malinwa
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    KWP or justin?

    1. Egg noodle
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      KWP. Leicester defence unreliable, Justin not very nailed either.

      1. Egg noodle
        • 14 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        (sorry Justin is nailed.) Suddenly started thinking of James midway!

  26. AppleDunk
    • 10 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Is Rashford a better option than Bruno?

    1. Egg noodle
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Yes in my opinion

    2. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      no

    3. Robson-Canoe
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      no way

  27. Oooof
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    GK: Brighton

    DEF: Robbo Doherty Tierney KWP Mitchell

    MID: Salah Auba Pereira Pulisic Saka

    FWD: Werner Antonio Brewster

    Any thoughts please lads/lasses?

  28. Egg noodle
    • 14 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Do we have any EVIDENCE that Doherty will start ahead of Aurier?

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Jose mind games

  29. dshv
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Last push g2g?

    Mccarthy (nyland)
    Taa davies justin (taylor mitchell)
    Sala son auba soucek asm
    Werner callum (davis)

    Gw2 Son to bruno
    Gw3 Auba/salah to kdb

    Have 0.5 itb tell me what to switch

  30. Jässi
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    What is the general opinion on Saliba? If he gets to play he is a real bargain at 4.5m for Arsenal defender.

    1. DRIZ ✅
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      lets hope he has MOM performance against FUL!

    2. Nomar
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I think he’ll start and will do well this season.