Assessing the Best Striker Options for Your FPL Team

Identifying the right in-form striker for your Fantasy Premier League (FPL) team is crucial as managers navigate the complexities of their lineups. While Erling Haaland remains a fixed asset for nearly every squad, finding a second striker who delivers consistent points has proven to be a challenge this season.

Pre-season favorite Joao Pedro has managed only two goals in nine appearances. Similarly, Jean-Philippe Mateta, once a popular choice, has failed to replicate last season’s form. Victor Gyokeres has registered as many attacking returns as his teammate, center-back Gabriel, while Nick Woltemade’s minutes are now split with Yoane Wissa.

A reliable second forward would be a valuable asset for most teams, and there are two key contenders making a case: Ollie Watkins and Igor Thiago.

Watkins is currently the standout forward in the league. After a sluggish start with just one goal in his first 13 matches, he has surged to six goals and two assists in his last seven league outings. Pundits often reference confidence and hot streaks, and Watkins exemplifies a player to trust during such a purple patch.

Aston Villa’s upcoming fixtures are also favorable. Although the initial away game against Crystal Palace may appear challenging, the latter’s seven-match winless streak and difficult fixture schedule during the festive period could provide an opportunity for Villa.

From Gameweek 22, Villa will play four home matches in six, welcoming teams such as Everton, Brentford, Brighton, and Leeds to Villa Park, where Watkins, owned by 10% of managers, has an impressive record.

On the other hand, Thiago was the second most sold player last Gameweek but is poised to be among the top acquisitions following his standout 17-point performance against Everton. With 14 goals, he trails only Haaland, and like the Norwegian, Thiago serves as the talisman for his team. Goals at Brentford are predominantly funneled through him, with surrounding players primarily focused on creating scoring opportunities for him.

Brentford boasts a commendable home record and faces Sunderland and Nottingham Forest in two of their next three matches. At a price of seven million, Thiago represents exceptional value, having accumulated 108 points thus far this season.

Players like Ekitike and Jarrod Bowen are also worth noting. Ekitike is currently a doubt for Thursday’s fixture against Arsenal, but his potential for scoring in the season’s latter half is promising, especially with Alexander Isak’s injury solidifying his position in the lineup. Meanwhile, Bowen, while more expensive than other forwards like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Danny Welbeck, ranks third in overall points among forwards this season. However, his classification as a forward this year means he scores fewer points than in previous seasons when he was a popular midfielder.

The primary concern for many managers regarding Bowen is West Ham’s inconsistency in scoring and winning games. In contrast, Ekitike, Thiago, and Watkins are perceived as more reliable, partly due to the trust in their teammates and the overall team dynamics.