Fantasy Premier League: Must-Pick Forwards for Gameweek 22 and Beyond

The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is experiencing notable shifts in forward selections as Gameweek 22 approaches. Key players are dominating transfers, with significant implications for managers’ strategies in the coming weeks.

Top Forward Picks for Gameweek 22 and Beyond

Brentford’s Igor Thiago, priced at £7.1 million, has emerged as the most transferred player for Gameweek 22. In contrast, Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike (£8.9 million) is losing ownership due to injury, despite his recent return in the FA Cup against Barnsley.

Thiago vs. Ekitike

• Igor Thiago has scored five goals and provided one assist in his last four appearances.
• Hugo Ekitike has had a lackluster return, contributing only one assist while missing two gameweeks.
• Thiago leads the league with seven big chances in the last four matches.

Despite Thiago’s impressive stats, Brentford’s upcoming fixtures include three away matches against Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Newcastle, which may impact performance. Nonetheless, with 16 goals this season, Thiago’s position in forward lines is becoming increasingly vital. A recommended forward line could feature both Thiago and Ekitike alongside Erling Haaland.

Haaland’s Form and Captaincy Considerations

Erling Haaland, currently priced at £15.1 million, is experiencing a drop in form, with only one return in his last four matches. However, he leads the league with 20 goals this season. Although many managers may consider alternatives for captaincy, it is essential to remember Haaland’s excellent record against Manchester United.

• In six Premier League matches against United, he has scored eight goals and provided three assists.
• His potential for rest against Wolves in Gameweek 23 raises questions for FPL managers.

Alternative Forward Options

Aside from the prominent picks, several alternatives could enhance FPL squads. Dominic Calvert-Lewin, at £6 million, has scored two goals in his last four matches, bringing his season tally to 11.

Manchester United’s Benjamin Sesko (£7.2 million) boasts an impressive 19 shots in the last four gameweeks. With two goals from six big chances, he is adapting well to the club’s managerial changes.

• Ollie Watkins (£8.8 million) of Aston Villa has scored four goals recently, but Villa’s form decline poses concerns.

Budget-Friendly Picks

For managers on a budget, several lower-priced forwards show promise:

• Wolves’ Mateus Mane (£4.5 million) has netted two goals and provided one assist since Gameweek 18.
• Bournemouth’s Eli Junior Kroupi (£4.6 million) scored in consecutive matches and has a total of seven goals this season.

Both players have proven to be valuable assets as their teams navigate a challenging period.

These insights should aid Fantasy Premier League managers in making informed decisions ahead of Gameweek 22 and beyond. Each player’s form, upcoming fixtures, and overall potential will dictate selections as the season progresses.