We haven’t really discussed it FPL Challenge We’ve featured on these pages a lot in the past, but thanks to the enthusiastic FPL response from players to the writers, we’ll be doing this from Gameweek 9 onwards.
A reminder that you can select your players up to kick-off of any match, provided their club is yet to play. This gives managers the opportunity to view the team sheets for each match.
You can also tinker with your team while the FPL is being updated, like right now!
WHAT IS THE CHALLENGE THIS WEEK?
TOP CHOICES
GOALKEEPS
Only three goalkeepers are eligible for double points this week, and Liverpool’s Alisson Becker sidelined, Challengers have a big decision to make.
One of the notable options is Jordan Pickfordwho spent more than five years at Everton. The Toffees have struggled defensively, keeping just two clean sheets in their first eight games. However, a home game against an inconsistent Tottenham team could see both a clean sheet and points potential for Pickford.
Under the circumstances of this week’s Challenge, Pickford seems the best goalkeeping choice. For those not convinced, the only real alternative is Emi Martinezalthough his away match against Manchester City makes him a risky choice.
DEFENDERS
Gabriel is an immediate highlight when using the FPL Challenge filter to view eligible assets. Arsenal have the most clean sheets in the league to their name so far, adding to their appeal even with a game against Crystal Palace this week. The centre-back offers more than just defensive potential, having produced one goal and two assists in his last two games. You also don’t have to worry about his availability as you can control the starting XI and take him out if he is not fit.
Chelsea’s home match against Sunderland also stands out. Although Chelsea have been defensively inconsistent, Sunderland have scored just one goal away from home this season. Ree James seems the best route to their backline. He enjoyed a full rest in midweek and returned a goal and an assist in his most recent Premier League appearance – a reminder of his strong attacking threat.
Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk is another strong competitor. He has been among the goalscorers of late, scoring for both club and country. Van Dijk also brings an appeal that few others can match. Only Bournemouth’s Mark Senesi has managed to make more defensive contributions this season. A trip to Brentford could see the Dutchman reach the DEFCON points threshold again
MIDFIELDERS
Rúben Amorim appears to be steadying the tables at Manchester United, with three wins from their last four games. They now face a Brighton side who have yet to keep a clean sheet in the league this season. It’s a great opportunity for Bruno Fernandes to deliver his third FPL Challenge double-digit catch.
Another striking choice is that of Arsenal Bukayo Saka. The Gunners have won six games in a row in all competitions and head into their clash with Crystal Palace in excellent form. Before Gameweek 8, Saka returned in four consecutive games, once again proving how consistent he can be when fit.
The FPL Challenge also features another elite midfield option this week: Mohammed Salah. Liverpool take on Brentford, and it could be the match that helps him rediscover his brutal form of 2024/2025. After resting in the Champions League, Salah should be fresh, focused and ready to perform in Gameweek 9.
FORWARD
There appear to be only three attackers who meet the FPL Challenge criteria this week. Of them, Danny Welbeck stands out for its recent shape. His performance against Wolves wasn’t his best, but he scored braces in both Gameweek 6 and Gameweek 8. Manchester United may have improved under Rúben Amorim, but they still rank second in terms of big chances conceded (24). That makes Welbeck an attractive option.
For managers who want to avoid Welbeck, Jarrod Bowen is a solid alternative. West Ham’s form has dipped – with four defeats in their last five games – but a home game against 16th-placed Leeds could help them bounce back. If the Hammers find their rhythm again, Bowen will likely be involved in any attacking returns.
The only other forward with double-point potential is Ollie Watkins. However, Aston Villa’s poor form and Manchester City’s strong defensive numbers mean he should avoid this week.
TEAM REVEAL
- I think the template will be strong this week.
- Pickford feels like the star in goal this week; I don’t think I would support Martinez against Manchester City.
- I also think Gabriel is an easy shoo-in when fit, especially given his recent attacking qualities.
- There is also little discussion in midfield. Picking Gabriel rules me out of Saka, so Salah and Fernandes go for it.
- The lack of options up front also makes me think Bowen and Welbeck will remain in my starting six. Although I’m very tempted to dump one of them for Erling Haaland, who has been incredible this season.
- The captaincy will likely remain on Salah, even with his recent form.
GAME WEEK 8 REVIEW
- Last week’s ‘Ice Cold’ challenge was average for me. I ended up with 67 points, which meant a lap ranking of 45k. It also marked a small drop to a global position of 874th.
- While I picked up defensive returns from Dubravka and Gabriel, most players failed to capitalize on the double points awarded for big chances scored.
- Erling Haaland was of course my standout performer, so it was good that I captained him.
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