S3 Ep15: Off The Bench: What to do with Trent Alexander-Arnold?
Jan 7, 2025
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Trent Alexander-Arnold's recent struggles are put under the microscope as experts discuss whether to keep or ditch him in Fantasy Premier League. Newcastle players like Jacob Murphy are shining with increased form, spotlighting their potential as smart picks. Meanwhile, Chelsea's lineup poses a conundrum for managers. The hosts also delve into Crystal Palace's appealing fixtures and evaluate the merits of watching out for Man City's defensive lineup. It's a blend of strategic insights and player performances that pique interest!
Patience is essential for FPL managers during transitional periods, as significant match developments may influence transfer decisions.
Recent performances of players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Newcastle's Isak illustrate the unpredictability and challenges in maintaining FPL competitiveness.
Managers face dilemmas balancing short-term performance versus long-term potential, especially with inconsistencies from key forwards like Jackson and Jimenez.
Deep dives
Cup Match Patience
As the Premier League prepares for a week of cup action, FPL managers are urged to exercise patience regarding transfers, as significant developments may arise from the League Cup semi-finals and FA Cup matches. Amid the anticipation, the discussion highlights the importance of making calculated decisions, especially for those experiencing consecutive poor game weeks. Managers often feel pressured to make immediate changes when they see others scoring points, but the unpredictability of cup matches recommends a wait-and-see approach before confirming transfers. The significance of timing and strategic planning in Fantasy Premier League becomes paramount during such transitional periods.
Mixed Game Week for Players
FPL managers reflected on their experiences from Game Week 20, where some players underperformed despite high expectations. A particularly disappointing week was highlighted by one manager who, playing five at the back, received only seven points from his defenders, contrasting sharply with others achieving better returns. Star players like Salah and Palmer managed to score for many, yet their overall impact on rank was minimal, given their high ownership across the league. The discussion emphasizes the unpredictability of player performances and the challenges of maintaining a competitive edge in Fantasy Football.
Analyzing the Super Sunday Match
The recent Super Sunday match between Liverpool and Manchester United ended in a surprising 2-2 draw, which was unexpected given Liverpool's strong form heading into the game. Managers noted that Manchester United's performance was a welcome boost, particularly in the context of upcoming favorable fixtures, suggesting that United's assets may be worth considering. Conversely, the discussion highlighted Liverpool's underwhelming display, raising concerns about the team's overall strength moving forward. This match exemplifies how quickly fortunes can change in the Premier League and how essential it is for fantasy managers to remain alert and adaptable to shifting circumstances.
Form of Newcastle and Key Players
Newcastle's recent form captures attention, with players like Isak and Murphy performing consistently and demonstrating their value in FPL. The connection between Isak and Gordon is also highlighted, with both players showcasing a strong understanding that could lead to more goals. Additionally, the manager's emphasis on the importance of players like Lewis Hall and their current performance trajectory indicates potential opportunities for managers looking to strengthen their squads. As Newcastle continues to build momentum, their fixtures present opportunities for investment, reinforcing the idea that identifying the right players can yield significant returns.
Challenges of Ownership in FPL
The conversation turned to the ongoing challenges faced by managers in choosing the right players, particularly in the context of forwards like Jackson and Jimenez. Both players have shown inconsistencies, yet they carry potential value with favorable fixtures on the horizon. Despite Jackson's shortcomings, the upcoming matches create hesitation around selling him, reflecting the dilemma many managers face when weighing immediate performance against future potential. This underscores the inherent risks in FPL as managers must balance short-term results with longer-term strategies, leveraging insights about fixture difficulty and player form to inform roster decisions.
A popular FPL asset, Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold has struggled to produce the points deserving of his price tag 🔴📉
So experts Harry Daniels and Lee Bonfield assess his recent performances and what to do if you own him, as well as Newcastle’s upturn in form and Crystal Palace’s inviting fixtures.
