FPL Midfielders 23/24: Top Picks To Dominate Your Fantasy League

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FPL Best Midfielders 23/24

Hey guys! Getting ready for the new Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season? One of the most crucial decisions you'll make is selecting your midfielders. These guys can be real point-scoring machines, racking up goals, assists, and those sweet bonus points. So, let's dive into the top midfield picks for the 2023/24 season to help you dominate your league!

Why Midfielders are Key in FPL

Midfielders are the engine room of any successful FPL team. Unlike defenders, who primarily rely on clean sheets, or forwards, who need to score goals, midfielders have multiple avenues for scoring points. They can get points for goals, assists, clean sheets (if they're defensive midfielders), and bonus points for overall performance. A well-chosen midfield can provide a steady stream of points, week in and week out. It’s where you find the playmakers, the guys who dictate the tempo and create chances. Having a strong midfield lineup is essential for a high-scoring FPL team. For example, think about players like Mohamed Salah or Kevin De Bruyne in previous seasons – they were consistently among the top point-scorers, and a significant portion of their points came from assists and bonus points, not just goals. When assembling your FPL squad, don't underestimate the importance of investing in quality midfielders who are likely to be involved in attacking plays and contribute regularly to their team's goals.

Another thing to consider is the variety of midfield options available. You have your out-and-out attacking midfielders who are essentially playing as forwards, then you have the box-to-box midfielders who contribute defensively and offensively, and finally, you have the holding midfielders who protect the defense. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of different midfielders is crucial in selecting the right players for your FPL team. Look for midfielders who are involved in set-pieces, as they have a higher chance of getting assists. Also, keep an eye on midfielders who take penalties, as they offer a reliable source of goals. By carefully analyzing the midfield options and considering their potential for goals, assists, and bonus points, you can build a midfield that will give you a significant edge over your rivals in FPL. Remember, a well-balanced midfield is the foundation of a successful FPL team, so choose wisely!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Midfielders

Okay, so how do we pick the best midfielders? Here's what to keep in mind:

  • Goal Threat: Obvious, right? Look for midfielders who get into scoring positions and have a good shot on them.

  • Assist Potential: Playmakers are gold. Identify players who are key to their team's attacking moves and have a knack for setting up teammates.

  • Minutes Played: A player can't score points from the bench. Make sure your picks are regular starters.

  • Bonus Points System (BPS): Understand how the BPS works. Players who make key passes, tackles, and interceptions tend to score well in this system.

  • Team Form & Tactics: Consider the team's overall form and how the midfielder fits into their tactical setup. Are they playing in an attacking team? Do they have a free role? These factors can significantly impact their FPL potential.

  • Price: Balance your desire for top players with the need to build a balanced squad. You might need to compromise on some positions to afford a premium midfielder.

  • Set-Piece Taker: Keep an eye out for midfielders who are designated set-piece takers for their teams. This includes free kicks and corners, as they have a higher probability of scoring or assisting from these situations. A midfielder who consistently takes set-pieces can be a valuable asset to your FPL team.

  • Underlying Stats: Dive into the underlying stats of potential midfield options. Look at metrics such as expected goals (xG), expected assists (xA), key passes per game, and shots per game. These stats can provide insights into a player's potential for goals and assists and help you identify undervalued players.

  • Fixture Difficulty: Consider the upcoming fixtures when selecting your midfielders. Target players who have favorable fixtures against weaker opponents, as they are more likely to score or assist in these matches. Rotate your midfielders based on fixture difficulty to maximize your points potential.

Top FPL Midfielders for 2023/24 (Early Predictions)

Alright, let's get to the juicy part! Remember, these are early predictions, and things can change as the season approaches. But here are some midfielders to keep a close eye on:

  • Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Still the king. Even with Liverpool's slightly underwhelming season last year, Salah remained a top scorer. His consistency and penalty duties make him a must-consider.
  • Marcus Rashford (Man United): Playing almost as a forward, Rashford's form last season was incredible. If he can maintain that, he'll be a top pick.
  • Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal): The creative hub of Arsenal's attack. His vision, passing range, and occasional goals make him a great option.
  • Son Heung-min (Tottenham): While his form dipped last season, Son is a proven FPL performer. If Tottenham can find their rhythm under their new manager, he could be a bargain.
  • Bruno Fernandes (Man United): Despite Man United's inconsistencies, Bruno remains a key player. His creativity, set-piece duties, and goal threat make him a valuable asset.
  • Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton): Mitoma was a revelation last season, showcasing his dribbling skills, pace, and eye for goal. If he can maintain his form, he could be a steal.

Here are a few more midfielders to watch:

  • James Maddison (Tottenham): Now at Tottenham, Maddison's creativity and set-piece prowess could make him a valuable FPL asset.
  • Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace): Eze finished the season strongly, displaying his dribbling skills, flair, and eye for goal. If he can continue his form, he could be a differential pick.
  • Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford): Mbeumo plays almost as a second striker. He's an essential pick.

Remember to monitor pre-season form, potential transfers, and any injury news before making your final selections. The FPL landscape can change quickly!

Budget-Friendly Midfield Options

You don't have to spend a fortune to get decent midfielders. Here are a few budget-friendly options that could free up cash for other areas of your team:

  • Solly March (Brighton): A consistent performer who offers both goal and assist potential at a reasonable price.
  • Andreas Pereira (Fulham): Now a more established Premier League player, Pereira offers a decent return for his price.
  • Jacob Ramsey (Aston Villa): An energetic midfielder who gets forward and contributes to Aston Villa's attack.

Keep an eye on promoted teams as well. They often have hidden gems who can provide excellent value for money. Research their key players and see if any of them fit your FPL strategy.

How to Strategically Use Your Midfielders in FPL

Okay, so you've picked your midfielders. Now what? Here's how to use them strategically:

  • Captaincy Choices: Consider your midfielders for captaincy, especially when they have favorable fixtures. A midfielder on penalties or in great form can be a fantastic captaincy option.
  • Formation Flexibility: Choose midfielders who allow you to be flexible with your formation. Some midfielders can play in multiple positions, giving you more options.
  • Transfer Strategy: Don't be afraid to make early transfers if your midfielders aren't performing. Staying proactive can give you a significant advantage.
  • Monitor Form: Keep a close eye on your midfielders' form throughout the season. If they start to decline, don't hesitate to replace them.

Here are a few more strategies to consider:

  • Rotational Strategy: If you have a strong bench, consider rotating your midfielders based on fixture difficulty. This can help you maximize your points potential over the course of the season.
  • Differential Picks: Don't be afraid to take a punt on a differential midfielder who is not widely owned. If they perform well, they can give you a significant edge over your rivals.
  • Long-Term View: While it's important to monitor form, also consider the long-term potential of your midfielders. Some players may take time to settle into a new team or role, but they could become valuable assets later in the season.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right midfielders is crucial for FPL success. Focus on goal threat, assist potential, and minutes played. Consider team form, tactics, and price. And don't be afraid to make changes along the way. Good luck, and may your midfield be filled with goals and assists!

So there you have it, guys! My early thoughts on the best FPL midfielders for the 2023/24 season. Remember to do your own research, watch pre-season games, and stay informed. The FPL season is a marathon, not a sprint, so make smart decisions and enjoy the ride! Who are your midfield picks? Let me know in the comments below!