Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers often face the dilemma of whether to take hits – point deductions for making additional transfers – in order to improve their team’s overall performance. Taking hits can be a double-edged sword, as it involves sacrificing points in the short term for potential long-term gains. In this blog post, we delve into the factors to consider when deciding whether to take hits in FPL, helping you make informed decisions and optimise your team’s performance.
Injury Crises and Suspensions:
One situation where taking hits may be warranted is when your team is plagued by injury crises or suspensions. If key players in your squad are sidelined for an extended period, it may be necessary to take hits to ensure you have a competitive starting lineup. Prioritise replacing injured or suspended players with viable alternatives who can contribute immediately, minimising the impact on your team’s performance.
Capitalising on Fixture Swings:
Fixture swings occur when a team’s schedule transitions from challenging to favourable or vice versa. Taking hits to bring in players from teams with upcoming favourable fixtures can be a smart move. Assess the fixture calendar, identify teams with favourable runs, and strategically make transfers to maximise point potential. This proactive approach can help you exploit favourable matchups and gain an advantage over your competitors.
Form and Potential Points:
Keeping an eye on player form and their potential for high returns can justify taking hits. If a player is consistently performing well and has a run of favourable fixtures, bringing them into your team at the expense of an underperforming player may prove fruitful. Assess the player’s underlying statistics, such as expected goals (xG) and expected assists (xA), to gauge their potential for generating points. Taking calculated risks by investing in in-form players can pay off handsomely in the long run.
Taking Hits For Long-Term Planning:
Sometimes, taking a hit can be part of a well-thought-out long-term plan. Analyse upcoming fixture schedules, anticipate rotation risks, and strategise your transfers accordingly. Taking hits to make multiple transfers in a single gameweek, using the Wildcard chip, or restructuring your team during favourable fixture runs can be effective if it aligns with your long-term strategy. However, it’s crucial to weigh the potential gains against the points lost from hits and ensure that the overall impact is beneficial.
Prioritising High-Scoring Positions:
In FPL, certain positions tend to generate more points than others. Taking hits to upgrade players in positions known for high-scoring potential, such as forwards and attacking midfielders, can be justified. Focusing on acquiring premium assets in these positions, who consistently deliver goals, assists, and bonus points, can significantly enhance your team’s point output.
Consideration of Team Value:
Taking hits should not be solely based on short-term gains but should also factor in long-term team value. Transfers that can increase the overall value of your team, whether by capturing rising player prices or taking advantage of favourable price changes, can offset the impact of point deductions. Balancing immediate gains with long-term team value can help optimise your FPL squad.
Deciding when to take hits in Fantasy Premier League requires careful consideration of various factors, including injury crises, fixture swings, player form, long-term planning, prioritising high-scoring positions, and team value. While taking hits can be a risk, it can also be a strategic move to bolster your team’s performance and maximise point potential. However, it is essential to assess the potential gains against the points lost from hits and consider the overall impact on your team’s performance. By making informed decisions and weighing the pros and cons, you can navigate the hit-taking strategy effectively and enhance your chances of FPL success.
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