Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is akin to a high-paced market, where stocks (or in this case, players) can skyrocket in value based on weekly performances. As gameweek 1 comes to a close and managers worldwide prepare for gameweek 2, certain defensive assets have captured our attention. The demand surge for these players hints at imminent price increases. To ensure your FPL portfolio remains rich and thriving, it’s crucial to catch these rising stars before their price tags soar. Here’s a list of the top 3 defensive assets you should be casting a watchful eye on.
1. The Blue Phoenix – Ben Chilwell (Chelsea)
Starting with a name that resonates with FPL managers worldwide: Ben Chilwell. Chelsea’s left-back, with his marauding runs down the flank, has been a revelation since his transfer from Leicester City. In gameweek 1, he was integral to the Blues’ clean sheet and also threatened offensively, proving yet again his importance in Thomas Tuchel’s system. With Chelsea’s favourable fixtures and Chilwell’s inherent attacking impetus, he’s poised to be an FPL goldmine. As managers scramble to integrate him into their backlines, Chilwell’s price is on the brink of a northward journey.
2. The Seagull’s New Wing – Pervis Estupinan (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Brighton’s recent acquisition, Pervis Estupinan, from Spanish shores has already set the FPL community abuzz. Despite his previous status as a lesser-known quantity in English football, Estupinan’s impressive debut in gameweek 1 has triggered widespread attention. With his pace, flair, and exceptional crossing ability, Brighton seems to have landed a gem. While his current price may be modest, given the rising interest and the Seagulls’ robust defensive setup under Graham Potter, a price surge seems to be on the horizon. If you’re seeking differential value, Estupinan is your man.
3. The Gunner’s Defensive Maestro – William Saliba (Arsenal)
Arsenal’s defensive woes from yesteryears have been well-documented. But, enter William Saliba, and suddenly there’s a glimmer of hope at the Emirates. Loan stints fine-tuned his craft, and now he’s back at Arsenal, showcasing a maturity beyond his years. Saliba’s authoritative display in gameweek 1 has managers earmarking him as a value pick in FPL. With Mikel Arteta’s men showing defensive solidarity and a string of favourable fixtures to come, Saliba’s stock (and price) is primed for elevation.
Making Sense of The Numbers: An FPL Table
To give you a more structured idea of our three spotlighted defenders, here’s a table to compare and contrast:
| Player Name | Current Price (£) | Expected Price Increase (£) | Owned By (%) | Next 3 Fixtures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ben Chilwell (Chelsea) | 6.0 | +0.2 | 23% | Crystal Palace (H), Norwich (A), Leeds (H) |
| Pervis Estupinan (Brighton & Hove Albion) | 4.5 | +0.1 | 9% | Watford (H), Leicester (A), Everton (H) |
| William Saliba (Arsenal) | 4.5 | +0.1 | 12% | Burnley (A), Tottenham (H), Aston Villa (A) |
Note: The figures above are speculative and based on current FPL trends. Always refer to the official FPL site for accurate, real-time data.
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