How Will The New Stoppage Time & Dissent Rules Affect FPL?

FPL Strategy

August 20, 2023

How Will The New Stoppage Time & Dissent Rules Affect FPL?

In the ever-evolving landscape of football, even seemingly minor rule changes can have a significant impact on the way the game is played, watched, and even fantasy sports leagues. The introduction of new stoppage time rules for the upcoming season promises to bring a fresh dynamic to the beautiful game, and in particular, the world of Fantasy Premier League (FPL). These changes are set to transform the way matches are officiated, the tempo of play, and subsequently, the strategies FPL managers employ.

A Shift in the Game Dynamics

The traditional flow of football matches is a crucial element in determining the outcome of FPL fixtures. With the implementation of new stoppage time rules, the flow of the game is expected to change. Officials, alarmed by the decreasing time the ball spends in play, are making efforts to counter this trend. The average minutes of ball-in-play last season in different leagues reflected a dwindling trend: 48 minutes in League Two, 50 minutes in League One, 52 minutes in the Championship, and just under 55 minutes in the Premier League. This reduction in ball-in-play time impacts FPL directly, as fewer opportunities for players to gather points from actions like assists, goals, or clean sheets could lead to less rewarding player performances in the game.

Moreover, extended stoppage time due to goal celebrations will further disrupt the rhythm of matches. While elaborate celebrations are an integral part of football, they now have the potential to impact FPL outcomes. The excitement of a goal might be dampened by the extended celebrations, making it important for FPL managers to gauge the emotional aspect of goal celebrations when selecting players.

Precision Timing and Tactical Implications

One of the most significant changes is the obligation for referees to accurately measure the duration of stoppages before restarts. This includes time spent on game interruptions such as goals, substitutions, injuries, and preparations for free-kicks. This rule change may lead to more accurate match timings, providing FPL managers with a better sense of the actual playing time. Tactical decisions such as bringing on substitutes or taking strategic timeouts might now be influenced by the more precise understanding of match stoppages.

Mirroring the Qatar World Cup

With EFL and Premier League matches resembling the Qatar World Cup format, where matches witnessed extensive added time due to various factors, the overall game duration might increase. While this extended game time could offer players more opportunities to contribute to FPL scores, the fatigue and additional wear-and-tear on players could also lead to potential injuries, impacting their availability in the FPL.

Leniency in “Physical” Challenges and Yellow Cards for Dissent

On-field changes in the form of a higher threshold for contact between players could impact the number of free-kicks awarded. This could lead to a more fluid game with fewer stoppages, altering the way FPL managers assess players for their tackling abilities. The shift in criteria for handing out yellow cards for dissent is also worth noting. This rule change could mean that players who approach referees aggressively or in groups will face quicker bookings. FPL managers will have to consider players’ temperaments and behaviours on the pitch when selecting their squads.

FPL Managers’ Strategies

In light of these new rules, FPL managers will need to adapt their strategies to the evolving dynamics of the game. The changes in match flow and increased game duration could have both positive and negative effects on player performances and consequently, FPL points. Selecting players with strong physical attributes and an ability to adapt to the shifting pace of matches will be key.

Careful attention to goal celebrations and tactical substitutions will be crucial to understanding potential disruptions in the match and their impact on FPL scores. Managers might need to anticipate potential injuries resulting from extended playing time and account for the increased risk when forming their squads.

 

As the new stoppage time rules come into play, the FPL landscape is set for a transformation. These rule changes will influence the pace of matches, player performances, and the strategic decisions FPL managers make. The challenge for FPL managers will be to navigate these changes effectively, adapting their strategies to the evolving dynamics of the game and ensuring that their selections remain competitive in this ever-changing fantasy football environment.

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