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:

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2,172 Comments Post a Comment
  1. OldBenKenobi
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Justin(wba) or Vinagre(shu) for GW1 only?

    1. Jonny HOW SON?
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Justin

    2. BremerHB
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Justin

    3. Tempestic
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Vinagre

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

    Final Version 🙂

    McCarthy
    TAA-Doherty-Egan
    Salah-Aubameyang-ASM-Soucek
    Kane-Werner-Mitrovic

    Nyland-Mitchell-Bissouma-Amartey

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

      asm soucek playing against each other?

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

      I like this. What’s your plan for United tho ?

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

        Either Kane -Martial or Salah - Bruno

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

    Folks, yet another one. Apologies
    How’s this ?

    McCarthy
    Trent James Davies
    Salah Auba JWP Son
    Wilson Werner Nketiah

    Button Taylor Mitchell Bissouma

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

      Nketiah starting?

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

        Should do

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

      good to go, back nketiah to start initially, looked v sharp for England u21s

    3. antis0cial
      • 7 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      I'm not sure if James starts, rest looks good if you're willing to punt on Nketiah minutes vs Laca

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

    Bottomed.

    Justin - Vinagre or KWP ?

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

      KWP

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

    Cannot decide between:

    A. Ayew
    B. Mitrovic
    C. Adams

    Cast your votes, please and thank you....

    1. Wake me up before sanogo
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      C - fixtures, great after lockdown.

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

      niether however would say C

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

      It's B or C for me. Got B and considering changing him for C

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

        Yeah, I guess Southampton are better than Fulham right?

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

      Not A. B edges it over C for me as he's Fulham's talisman player.

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

        This

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

      2 votes for Adams. Because he is that much better.

    6. Jonny HOW SON?
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      B

    7. Weak Become Heros
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      C

  6. Wake me up before sanogo
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    A) Kane, Soucek, bench fodder df
    B) Alli, Antonio, Taylor (Bu)

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

      A

  7. southernrocker1
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Need some defensive help please.

    Currently locked in for GW1:
    McCarthy
    TAA, Justin,

    Who from these to join them (& don't want to double up anywhere)

    A) Doherty, Mitchell, Taylor (Mitchell will have to play)
    B) Doherty, Mitchell, Lascelles (Lascelles plays)
    C) Dier/Davies, Egan, Taylor

    I really want to keep Doherty where possible but don't want the rest of my defence to be too guff.

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

    Pages flying...as if the season starts soon.....

    1. Bobby Digital
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Can't wait

  9. Sanchit
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Doherty nailed on to start GW1?

  10. EL_FENOMENO
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    No love for Doherty? Don't see him in many drafts.

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

      I’m having him

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

      Aurier could start. There is no evidence.

  11. KINGS
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Guys. Are benching a Manu player on GW1 or getting one on GW2?

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

      the love for manutd..as if they were fighting for the title

      1. Qaiss
        • 8 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Yeah I agree tbh. Chelsea, Liverpool, Man City, perhaps even Spurs have better options and they all have better fixtures too.

      2. mrmojorisin8
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        The same could be said of Chelsea, not a single draft I've seen is absent a Chelsea forward...

        1. Qaiss
          • 8 Years
          3 years, 6 months ago

          Chelsea will challenge, Man United won't

          1. mrmojorisin8
            • Fantasy Football Scout Member
            • 6 Years
            3 years, 6 months ago

            A few attackers does not a challenge make. Chelsea need to sort their defence and keeper situation out before they can challenge.

            1. Qaiss
              • 8 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              We shall see, but I think they are in a better position than Man United and they also have nicer fixtures. Man United have a nice first 2, then it's hard after that.

            2. enrico.palazzo
              • 11 Years
              3 years, 6 months ago

              Carbs, is that you?

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

      Getting in GW2

    3. UnluckyXI
      • 6 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      GW2 as I really want Martial or Bruno and that's too much to have on the bench.

      My plan is Salah to Bruno then use the 1.5 to turn a 7.0 mid into Havertz a week later

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

    Soucek! YES

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

      Only thing putting me off are those fixutres.

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

        He looks an outlier in all depts so just use him I say

        Not too concerned with fix, but possibly WHM overall. Again, I think he could defy all that

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

    Hi,

    Current Team:

    McCarthy
    TAA, Davies, KWP
    Salah, Aubameyang, Son, ASM, Soucek
    Werner, Wilson

    (Nyland, Mitchell, Taylor, Davis)

    Any suggestions? 2.0 ITB (0.5 spare and 1.5 for Son -> Fernandes GW2)

    Thx.

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

    A or B?

    A) TAA - Robbo - Alli - Pulisic - DCL (3-4-3)
    B) TAA - Egan - Son - Salah - 4.5 (4-4-2)

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

    A) 4.5MID + Martial
    B) Greenwood + Mitrovic

    A let’s me get a big scorer with job security. 4.5 Mid on bench.

    B allows for two decent scorers. But Greenwood not the job security.

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

      A

  16. Nightcrawler
    • 4 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Guys how is this for a Bench Boost draft???

    Johnstone Mcarthy

    Mitchell Holding Dier TAA Robbo

    ASM Salah Auba Soucek Alli

    Ings Antonio Adams

  17. LewanGOALski
    • 12 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Tierney worth gambling at 5.5?
    Or rather go Boly or Coady+0.5 ?

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

      have a feeling tierney will get a knock

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

      Honestely think Tierney's overpriced, hasn't done anything to be at 5.5.

    3. Sterling Malory
      • 8 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Go Tierney, worth the extra 0.5 imo

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

      Tierney will also be playing at lcb, not lwb, so points potential is less from an attacking perspective

  18. 0james0
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    I currently have 3 x 4.5m defenders, I'm actually happy with all of them. But my team is set up in a way that I can rotate them, with 2 playing.
    They are Vinagre, KWP and Justin. I've realised for a rotation it makes sense for a rotation to look at their clubs, so ideally I should have Sheff Utd/ Southampton, or Leicester/ Burnley.

    KWP is prob the best of the 3, so would like to keep him, but can't afford a Sheff Utd defender!

    Any ideas?

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

      FPL is a messy, chaotic business. Pick your favoured three and don't get too dainty with precise rotations

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

    Heavyweight move alert

    Mitchell to Ferguson

    1. Colonel Shoe 肝池
      • 12 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Why

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

        Mitchell short term, Ferguson long term

  20. Cassitya
    • 3 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Thoughts:

    McCarthy
    Saliba, Robertson, KWP
    Salad, PEA, Alli, ASM
    Werner, Ings, Wilson

    Bench:
    Steer
    Justin
    Soucheck
    Mitchell

    See you in the top 1000

  21. panda07
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 11 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Is Saiss's place under threat from Marcal?

  22. shalji
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    McCarthy
    TAA Vinagre Doherty
    Mane Havertz Saint-Maximin Aubameyang
    Adams Werner Antonio

    Subs - Nyland, Bissouma, Mitchell, Taylor

    G2G? Appreciate your thoughts and time guys

  23. Now I'm Panicking
    • 9 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Ivanovic to West Brom expected to be completed today!

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

      Branislav?

      1. AzzaroMax99
        • 7 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Ana 😉

      2. Now I'm Panicking
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Yes siree

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

        The one and only

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

    3. Azathoth
      • 9 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      How old is he now...80?

      1. Now I'm Panicking
        • 9 Years
        3 years, 6 months ago

        Almost - 36

  24. bootsmanus
    • 5 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    Which is better?

    A) Son, Robbo, Ings
    B) Alli, Egan, Werner

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

      A

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

    Soucek is back and all fine...

    Yesssss

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

      great now everyone will have him

  26. CedricWJL
    • 8 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    A) Doherty & Dele
    B) Davies & Son

    Thanks.

    1. Greative
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      3 years, 6 months ago

      Since we don't know if Doherty plays, I would go for B. But currently have A myself...

  27. Lignja
    • 6 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    So who are best 4.5m defender today :)?

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

      Saliba

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

      Justin B

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

    Mitchell, Robertson and Bruno or Egan, KWP, Salah. Mitchell will stay on bench and will rotate between Egan and KWP in other.

  29. AzzaroMax99
    • 7 Years
    3 years, 6 months ago

    G2G for tomorrow?

    McCarthy
    VVD Vinagre Davies
    Auba(C) Salah Pulisic Soucek
    Mitro Kane Ings

    Steer Anguissa Dallas Johnson

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

    Which bunch would you prefer guys?
    1) McCarthy - Vinagre Justin - Salah - Adams
    2) Ramsdale - Robbo Davies - ASM - Ings

    XXX (Button)
    TAA XXX XXX (Douglas Taylor)
    Auba Havertz Alli XXX (Bissouma)
    Werner Mitro XXX