Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is a game that demands strategy, skill, and foresight. One of the key factors that can significantly impact your FPL team’s performance is the fixture schedule. Understanding how to exploit fixture swings is crucial for FPL managers looking to climb the ranks and claim bragging rights among friends and fellow FPL enthusiasts. In this blog, we’ll delve into the art of leveraging fixture swings to maximise your FPL points haul.
What Are Fixture Swings?
Fixture swings refer to periods during the Premier League season when a team’s schedule becomes either significantly easier or notably more challenging. These swings occur due to the rotation of fixtures, as teams play each other at home and away. Recognising these swings is fundamental to FPL success.
To take advantage of fixture swings, follow these steps:
Monitor Fixture Difficulty Ratings (FDR)
The FPL website provides a useful tool known as Fixture Difficulty Ratings (FDR). These ratings are regularly updated and categorise upcoming fixtures on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being the easiest and 5 being the most challenging. Pay close attention to the FDR, particularly over several game weeks, as it will highlight fixture swings.
Plan Your Transfers Strategically
Leveraging fixture swings involves making astute transfer decisions. Look ahead and identify when your players’ teams have a run of favourable fixtures. During these periods, consider bringing in additional players from those teams or even utilising your Bench Boost chip if the opportunity arises.
Conversely, when your players’ teams face a tough fixture run, it might be wise to transfer them out for players with more favourable fixtures. This strategy can help you avoid low point returns during challenging periods.
Invest in Differential Players
Differential players are those who are not widely owned by other FPL managers. When a fixture swing is approaching, consider adding a few differential players from teams with attractive fixtures to gain an advantage over rivals who stick with the popular choices. These differential picks can be your secret weapons in the quest for FPL glory.
Target Midfielders and Forwards
During fixture swings in favour of a particular team, focus on acquiring their attacking assets. Midfielders and forwards from teams with easy fixtures are more likely to score goals and provide assists, contributing significantly to your FPL points tally. Prioritise these positions when planning your transfers.
Don’t Forget About Defence
While the spotlight often falls on attacking players during fixture swings, solid defensive choices can also pay dividends. Teams with favourable fixtures are more likely to keep clean sheets, so investing in defenders from these teams can earn you valuable points. Look for defenders who not only maintain a solid defence but also contribute offensively through assists or set-pieces.
Consider Captaincy Choices
Fixture swings can also influence your choice of captain. When a premium player from a team with favourable fixtures is on a hot streak, consider giving them the captain’s armband. A well-timed captaincy pick during fixture swings can be a game-changer in FPL.
Stay Informed
Staying up-to-date with team news and injury updates is crucial, especially during fixture swings. Injuries or suspensions to key players can drastically alter a team’s prospects, making it essential to have a backup plan. Follow reliable sources for the latest information and be prepared to adjust your FPL squad accordingly.
Be Patient, but Not Too Patient
While it’s essential to capitalise on fixture swings, it’s equally important not to make hasty decisions. A single poor performance from a player in an otherwise favourable fixture run doesn’t necessarily warrant an immediate transfer. Give your players a chance to perform, but also be willing to make changes when it becomes evident that a player is consistently underperforming.
In Fantasy Premier League, understanding how to exploit fixture swings is a valuable skill that can set you apart from other managers. By monitoring fixture difficulty ratings, planning transfers strategically, targeting the right positions, and staying informed, you can maximise your FPL points haul during these crucial periods. Remember that success in FPL often comes down to a combination of smart strategy, careful planning, and a little bit of luck. So, get ready to exploit those fixture swings and lead your FPL team to glory!
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