Spot the Differential

Exciting Saint-Maximin can star in Newcastle’s last two fixtures of 2020/21

With the season so close to an end, Fantasy Premier League differentials have never been more important.

This time, we’ve selected low-owned picks at Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United who we think have the potential to make an impact.

As always, to qualify, the player must have an ownership of 5% or less at the time of writing.

Allan Saint-Maximin

  • FPL ownership: 3.3%
  • Price: £5.2m
  • GW37-38 fixtures: SHU | ful

Allan Saint-Maximin (£5.2m) has been one of Newcastle United’s best players since joining the club from French outfit Nice back in 2019.

And despite enduring a stop-start campaign, mainly due to injuries, his return to fitness in the second half of the season has seen Steve Bruce’s side comfortably avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The 24-year-old, who is fast becoming his side’s talisman, was instrumental in a run of eight points from four games in April which saved the Magpies’ season. He was the match winner against Burnley, coming off the bench to score and provide an assist, and was pivotal against both West Ham United and Liverpool, too.

That upturn in form has coincided with Bruce’s decision to switch to a 3-5-2 / 5-3-2 shape in Gameweek 30. Since then, Newcastle have played some of their best football of the season, with three wins and two draws in their last seven matches, despite a testing schedule which has included games against title winners Manchester City, Leicester City and Liverpool. In fact, during that period, no team has scored more than the Magpies. Granted, it’s a small sample size to draw conclusions from, but it is encouraging ahead of back-to-back matches against relegated Sheffield United and Fulham.

In the new system, the Frenchman has been deployed as a second-striker, and has thrived in a more central role. Interestingly, he even referred to himself ‘playing as a no.10’ in a recent interview.

Saint-Maximin has always had the ability but has often frustrated due to his erratic decision-making. However, his end product is improving, and he could be a useful budget differential for the remainder of the season, especially when you consider his last two matches are against two obliging defences.

Dele Alli

  • FPL ownership: 0.6%
  • Price: £7.4m
  • GW37-38 fixtures: AVL | lei

Despite being frozen out under José Mourinho earlier this season, Dele Alli (£7.1m) has come back into favour in recent weeks under interim head coach Ryan Mason.

The 25-year-old played a key role in Son Heung-min’s (£9.7m) goal in Gameweek 35, and was unlucky not to score against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday, as he struck the post in the second-half.

Despite blanking, it was his best performance of the season so far, as he ended the match with four goal attempts, one big chance and six penalty box touches. His coach later hailed his display as an “excellent no. 10 performance”, and now, after three consecutive league starts, has the potential to finish the season strongly.

Interestingly, since Alli’s return to the starting XI in Gameweek 34, he has actually outperformed Son for shots, efforts in the box and expected goals (xG).

It’s also worth noting that Tottenham Hotspur had 24 shots against Wolves, 13 of which were on target. Both of those totals exceed any amount they had in a single Premier League match under Mourinho, which highlights the potential of their new, more attacking, setup.

Spurs are now into the top six, with their win last weekend ensuring their hopes of qualifying for the Europa League is in their own hands, with Aston Villa at home and Leicester at the King Power Stadium their remaining games. Encouragingly for Spurs’ attacking assets, Villa conceded a whopping 23 shots in their recent trip to Crystal Palace in Gameweek 36, and will again be without the services of Matt Cash (£5.0m) in defence.

Alli is enjoying a decent run of form under Mason, and for those in search of a real midfield differential, could be worth a look.

Rodrigo

  • FPL ownership: 2.2%
  • Price: £5.7m
  • GW37-38 fixtures: sou | WBA

After a frustrating season with injuries and suffering from coronavirus, Rodrigo (£5.2m) has impressed in his last two matches, and surely done enough to earn Fantasy interest for a Gameweek 37 trip to Southampton.

The Spanish striker can operate as a centre forward or attacking midfielder, but replaced Patrick Bamford (£6.5m) in the number nine role at Burnley, and took his chance with a quickfire double. He could have had more too, as he ended the game with three goal attempts, two big chances and six penalty box touches, despite being afforded just 32 minutes off the bench.

His last two matches have proven he does not need to even feature in the starting line-up to perform well. During that period he has appeared as a second-half substitute on both occasions but still produced three goals and a total of five bonus points.

The 30-year-old arrived from Valencia last summer with a big reputation having played in the Champions League, but has only managed 12 starts in the Premier League this season. 

However, when on the pitch, his numbers are encouraging. 

Among all forwards per 90 minutes with substantial game-time to their name, he ranks fifth for goal attempts and top for chances created, highlighting his all-round ability.

Following Saturday’s win at Burnley, Leeds United have a four-point cushion over 11th-placed Aston Villa, which means they are closing in on a top-half finish.

It’s been an excellent season back in the Premier League for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, who have now suffered just one defeat in their last nine games. They have the potential to finish strongly, too, with matches against Southampton and relegated West Bromwich Albion up next.

Rodrigo has been superb of late, and could be a smart differential for those on the lookout for a budget forward.

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1,935 Comments Post a Comment
  1. thepirates
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Will Bruno play 90 today? 🙂

    1. mcsteely
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Yes

  2. Slitherene
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Last FT of the season, FH next week.

    A) Lingard -> Foden, start Areola/Sanchez
    B) Keeper -> Johnstone, start Lingard

    Assistance needed!

    1. PascalCygan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Having brought in Foden last week, I'd be wary of ever doing it!

      But I'd rather bring him in than bring in Johnstone

  3. OneDennisBergkamp
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    TAA for a hit or Coufal for free??

    1. PascalCygan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      At this stage, and given fixtures, probably stick with Coufal.

    2. Philosopher's Stones
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      I brought in TAA for a hit. So, I'd say go with it.

  4. MaestroMostar
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Which GK to bring for last 2 GW :
    A) Meslier
    B) Dubravka
    C) Fabianski
    D) Mendy

    I have 5.3 MITB , so these are the best of those I can afford..

    1. HashAttack
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Who are you selling? - would go for b) .. Ramsdale also a possibility

      1. MaestroMostar
        • 3 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        I'm selling Patricio. Right now I'm on B as you've said , but I have another 80 minutes to think about it.

  5. FPL AXE
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Any chance Kane could get punished by Spurs for his comments and not even start this weekend?

    1. BeWater
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Mason was questioned about it. Said he starts tomorrow because he's their best striker.

  6. PascalCygan
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Jota to?

    A) Raphinha
    B) Harrison
    C) Saint-Max
    D) Willock

    Chasing!

    Thanks

    1. nedsmula
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      A or C

      1. PascalCygan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Thanks

    2. RAFA THE GAFFA
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Hoping it’s Allan’s turn

      1. PascalCygan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Cheers, could be a fun option!

    3. RamaJama
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 11 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      C

      1. PascalCygan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Cheers!

    4. Zladan
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      I’m going for Foden or Torres most likely

      1. PascalCygan
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 6 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        I already have Foden, but thanks

  7. nedsmula
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Being horribly tempted to triple Captaining Bale this week.
    Home game in front of fans. Something to play for too.

    Will it be glorious, or will Spurs inevitably let me down?

    Have Salah or Kane as well.

    Thoughts much appreciated.

    1. WVA
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Someone should probably say something

    2. Luton_Fan
      • 14 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Same for nornal captain but doubt about him starting means im not looking to sell

      🙁

      1. Luton_Fan
        • 14 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Now*

    3. Eh, just one more thing ...
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Okay ... I’ll say something. Mason said Bale may not start.

    4. HashAttack
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Played 90 minutes on Sunday - can see him only coming on for the last 20 minutes vs AVL

      1. Luton_Fan
        • 14 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Played 86 mins

    5. the dom 1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Bale is a doubt lad, may come off the bench, match fitness issue

    6. Bobby_Baggio
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Dont (C) and dont bench him. Still may start but not worth (C) risk

    7. nedsmula
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Thanks guys, much appreciated. Will avoid.
      Don't wan't to take a hit in selling though

  8. Mind över Mata
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 12 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Playing Pickford, bench one of:

    A) Digne
    B) Dallas
    C) Raph
    D) Lingard

    1. Mind över Mata
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Or D) Bamford

    2. DannyDrinkVodka
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Similar situation, has to be A I suppose

    3. Stoic
      • 7 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      A or D

      1. Mind över Mata
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 12 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Cheers all

    4. Lovren an elevator
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Tough, all have great fixtures.
      Dare I say, Raph!

    5. Eh, just one more thing ...
      • 12 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      A if your starting Pickford

    6. DannyDrinkVodka
      • 4 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Is Lingard actually going to do anything?!

      1. nedsmula
        • 10 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Just binned him. Playing a deeper role now and not producing much.

        Now wait for the hat-trick.

    7. PascalCygan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Tough, maybe B... just!

  9. Lovren an elevator
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    I need to play one of:

    A. Martial (who apparently is fit) (FUL)
    B. Coufal (wba)
    Or
    C. Walker (bha)

    Help please 🙂

    1. nedsmula
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Coufal should clean-sheet
      but if Martial is fit, he could run riot.

  10. the dom 1
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    asked earlier but hoping for more response;

    Which GK to play?

    a. Martinez (have kane & son)
    b. Sanchez (have no city but i am sure they will score 2 or more lol)

    Cheers

    1. nedsmula
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      I'd play Sanchez. Both will concede, but good chance Sanchez has multiple saves.

      1. the dom 1
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 9 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Just switched to Sanchez - Cheers

  11. FPL ElasticO
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Is this transfer worth doing for free? Or Hold FT.

    Bamford >>> Antonio

    1. the dom 1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Hold - Antonio trap i feel lol

    2. DARE TO BISCAN
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 5 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Depends. Do you think you'd get more benefit out of a free double transfer next week? If you've a gut feeling of an Antonio haul, go for it.

  12. DycheDycheBaby
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    GTG? I only have 1ft 0.1itb 🙁

    Martinez
    TAA--Digne--Dallas
    Salah--JWP--Lingard--Son
    Nacho--DCL--Kane
    Areola, Maguire, Saka, Targett

    1. Ch0udini
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Nacho->Antonio ?

      1. DycheDycheBaby
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Not possible without a hit

  13. Return of the FF
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Captain one and bench one please?

    A. Bruno
    B. Kane

    1. Raph
    2. Nacho
    3. Watkins

    1. Ch0udini
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      A2

    2. Lovren an elevator
      • 8 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Bruno!

      Tough call, I don't think any of those 3 will get too much tonight, maybe Nacho, Leicester likely to have even harder time scoring than they did in the cup final, unless Chelsea rotate defenders ofcourse

    3. FPL Alaska
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      B2

    4. the dom 1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      B2

  14. Ch0udini
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Last call

    Who to start?
    A) Fofana (che)
    B) Holding (cry)
    C) Coady (eve)
    D) get any defender for (-4)

    Have DCL and Zaha playing, so Holding/Coady CS unwelcome.

  15. Sods Law
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Bench one:

    A) Godfrey (vs Wolves)
    B) Lindolf (vs Fulham)

    Thanks

  16. focaccia
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    GTG?

    Martinez
    Dallas - AWB - TAA
    Salah (v) - Greenwood - Son - Raphina
    Kane (C) - DCL - Bamford

    subs: Forster - Lingard - Rudiger - Veltman

    1. FPL Alaska
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Looks good

  17. FPL Alaska
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 9 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Currently sitting about 3k (my best ranking ever), 27 points back from top 1k so not likely, but want to get as close as possible. Which replacement for Jota? 7.0 max

    A) Raphinha
    B) Harrison
    C) Torres
    D) Foden
    E) Do Zaha > Greenwood instead and just bench Jota (currently planning to bench Zaha likely this week and next).

    1. Gizzachance
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      A

    2. nedsmula
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      E potentially. Lot of rumours that Jota could return for GW38

  18. 272MK
    • 10 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Hames --> Willock / Alli for a hit?

    1. TSN
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      yes for willock

    2. 272MK
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Hames (WOL)
      Willock (NEW)
      Alli (ASTON VILLA)

  19. Sgt Frank Drebin
    • 7 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    From what I understand there is a slight chance Jota will be back for the final GW? No point in keeping him I guess?

    1. BeWater
      • 3 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Klopp said tiny chance. I'm not keeping him on that basis when I can get Greenwood without a hit.

      1. Sgt Frank Drebin
        • 7 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Yeah, right.But the tiny chance is for GW38, not GW37, right?

        1. BeWater
          • 3 Years
          2 years, 10 months ago

          That's right.

          1. Sgt Frank Drebin
            • 7 Years
            2 years, 10 months ago

            Thanks.

  20. TSN
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    start one:

    A. Gundo
    B. Holding

    Thanks!

  21. winchester
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Hey lads, what to do here? Bring in a defender or midfielder? What do i lack for the upcoming two? Leading my ML with 50points. 1ft and 2,1m itb. Cheers lads.

    mendy
    rudiger coufal taa mitchell
    salah(c) bruno lingard zaha
    kane bamford

    forster jota lowton davis

  22. smix
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Raph or the Newcastle boys ?

    1. PascalCygan
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 6 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      So hard to choose, I'm in flip a coin territory

  23. CapK
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Play 1

    A) Castagne (Che)
    B) Mitchell (Ars)

  24. The Wogmeister
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Will Alison play both games for Liverpool?

    1. the dom 1
      • Fantasy Football Scout Member
      • 9 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      Yes why wouldn't he play?

  25. real ale madrid
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    I am in PEP roulette!!

    I have Stones and Foden. Do they play this week or do i transfer??
    Also have Jota
    I am playing BB so need to maximise.

    A. Jota/Foden > Raph/Torres -4
    B: Jota > Raph or 8.7mid
    C Son/Jota > Raph/Bruno -4 Chance that Foden & stones both play

    Help Please

  26. Pep Roulette
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    DCL & Jota to Kane(C) & ESR for -4?

  27. Hazz
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 6 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Would love nothing more than seeing Amartey start tonight & get skinned 😛

  28. Burger
    • Fantasy Football Scout Member
    • 8 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Ederson
    Dallas, TAA, Shaw
    Salah, Harrison, Mané, Son, Raphinha
    Kane, Antonio

    Subs: Carson, Wood, Coufal, Mitchell

    GTG? Correct starting XI and subs order?

    1. nedsmula
      • 10 Years
      2 years, 10 months ago

      I've gone Coufal and benched Dallas. It's my top quandary as well.

      Think WH are more likely of a clean sheet, but Dallas potential for a goal.

      Bloody hell. I don't know. Sorry.

      1. Burger
        • Fantasy Football Scout Member
        • 8 Years
        2 years, 10 months ago

        Ha tough week for sure!

  29. egan
    • 3 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Smith Rowe (vs Palace) or Sigurdsson (vs Wolves) ?

  30. ebb2sparky
    • 13 Years
    2 years, 10 months ago

    Which one would you start from
    Watkins
    Iheanacho
    Rudiger
    Castagne?

    Currently on Watkins but I fancy Chelsea to keep a clean sheet although not sure Rudiger will start.