The deadline for Fantasy EFL Gameweek 1 is fast approaching, and I’m excited to be back for the new season. To help you fine-tune your squads, I’ve put together my Gameweek 1 team reveal, which is subject to change…another 5,000 times before the opening game alone.
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Our Gameweek 1 guide is a great starting point, whether you played last season or not.
Packed with the latest articles, transfers, strategy guides and differentials, it’ll get you ready for action. Plus, stay tuned for fresh content that we’re creating on the official EFL site.
GAMEWEEK 1 TEAM REVEAL: THE STARTING SEVEN
GOALKEEPER
With injuries sidelining other key defensive players, I’m backing Luton Town goalkeeper Josh Keeley (G) as my opening game asset.
I’m confident the Hatters will keep a clean sheet on opening night. AFC Wimbledon’s attack wasn’t convincing in League Two, and I don’t see them as a major threat in League One at present. I expect Luton to secure a shutout for Keeley’s debut and come away with three points.
I’ve also got the vice-captaincy on him, which means I’ll be able to apply the vice-captaincy trick if he hauls.
DEFENDERS
I love an out-of-position asset, and Albert Adomah (D) is a great pickup. Listed as a defender, the 37-year-old is a natural right winger who produced nine goal contributions in 10 starts last season, playing a total of 42 games.
That kind of attacking output combined with the potential for defensive points is too good to pass up, even against a tough opponent like Swindon Town (H). At less than 1% ownership, he’s my key differential at present.
However, he is a placeholder for now. If he doesn’t get the start, Michael Morrison (D) of Cambridge United is my alternative pick. He’s a much more stable option who’s likely to secure a clean sheet, and is a threat for points at both ends.
My other defensive pick is Mickey Demetriou (D), an undisputed standout last season. He was a genuine “set and forget” player, averaging a league-leading 8.1 points. His 350 clearances and 13 shutouts in 35 games are simply phenomenal.
Facing Salford City (A) will test Crewe Alexandra, but the upside for defensive points is huge. I expect Demetriou to deliver a big haul right away and continue his excellent form. At just 13% ownership, he’s a fantastic sleeper pick.
MIDFIELDERS
Luke Molyneux (M) was the first name on my team sheet following his exceptional season, where he single-handedly delivered 30 goal contributions in 45 matches to help Doncaster Rovers win the League Two title. Notably, with the rule changes, he’ll also benefit from the shots on target increase.
It will be interesting to see if he can replicate this form in League One, and his first game against a middle-of-the-road opponent in Exeter City (H) is the perfect test. I’ve avoided the highest-selected players intentionally before. On this occasion, I cannot overlook the number seven.
On all set-pieces, Oliver Norwood (M) guided Stockport County to a play-off finish, picking up 10 goal contributions, 79 key passes, and 40 interceptions in 44, totalling 221 points. Stockport beat Bolton (H) 5-0 last year, where Norwood picked up an assist. If they are to repeat this, Norwood will be involved.
To complete my midfield, I’ve selected Barnsley’s Davis Keillor-Dunn (M). Despite a difficult fixture against Plymouth Argyle (A), his upside is massive.
As another out-of-position asset, his 26 goals and 43 shots on target (SoT) in 45 matches, playing up front, speak volumes. Similar to Molyneux, I believe he will benefit tenfold under the new rules.
FORWARD
Aaron Collins (F) is a standout choice despite his move from League One to League Two with MK Dons. His performances have been impressive, with five pre-season goals for his new side. He seems to be the focal point of Paul Warne’s outfit, building on his 17 goal contributions at Bolton last season.
I expect him to hit the ground running, especially with a home match against newly-promoted Oldham Athletic. Even though MK Dons’ pre-season results haven’t been thrilling, the talisman is surrounded by top attacking talent, and the upside of SoT again makes him a great pick.
GAMEWEEK 1 TEAM REVEAL: CLUB PICKS
Of all my picks, the club selection is the one I’m most undecided on. Right now, I’m leaning toward Luton Town and Cardiff City. I found last season that I didn’t end up using all the picks I wanted to, so I’m hoping to hit the ground running this time.
Even with all the recent changes at Kenilworth Road, I’m confident the Hatters will be ready for Gameweek 1. There’s nothing better than backing an opening night asset, especially in the form of a club. With AFC Wimbledon not making as many new signings as expected, I’m not anticipating a first-night upset.
While many are focused on the Hatters, I’ve also been impressed by Brian Barry-Murphy’s move to Cardiff. His style of play is a good fit for the talent they’ve retained.
They’re facing a Peterborough United squad that have not only lost key players, but struggled defensively last season. A big score at Cardiff City Stadium is certainly on the cards.
However, I’m concerned that a lunchtime kick-off could backfire. If the game doesn’t produce the returns I’m hoping for, my club picks could be a bust before the 15:00 matches even start.
If I decide to go in a different direction, I’m also considering some other tempting home fixtures: Wigan Athletic vs Northampton Town, Cambridge United vs Cheltenham Town, and Bristol Rovers vs Harrogate Town.
