Mastering Fantasy Premier League 2023/24: Top Strategies and Insider Tips for Gameweek 2

We are excited to present our weekly Fantasy Premier League column for the new season, providing you with valuable tips from top players worldwide.

While it may not be possible to secure victory in the FPL race in Gameweek 2, it is certainly possible to jeopardize your chances if your selections are not on point.

Friday's 6.15pm transfer deadline is fast approaching, causing managers across the country to scramble and make last-minute adjustments to their teams. This urgency is fueled by unexpected injuries, surprising outcomes in Gameweek 1, and the addition of new players. To assist you in this crucial time, FPL experts Holly Shand and Gianni Buttice are here to provide their top tips.

Who would you captain if you had Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah?

In my opinion, as someone who does not own Salah, I find it tempting to suggest picking him as a preferable choice over Haaland. I acknowledge the fear that arises when going against Haaland, but if I were a Salah owner, I would genuinely select him. It is worth noting that Bournemouth is an attacking team and may attempt to play aggressively at Anfield, which could work in Liverpool's favor. Additionally, Salah displayed impressive form against Chelsea, narrowly missing out on scoring twice due to hitting the crossbar and having a goal disallowed for a marginal offside.

Would you consider taking a hit to get Salah in?

Gianni Buttice: Given that you were aware of the GW2 fixtures when selecting your teams pre-season, and you deliberately decided to include or exclude Salah for the home match against Bournemouth, I would say that you have made your decision and now you must accept the consequences. While I do anticipate Salah's return, I am not inclined to overhaul my team just to accommodate him.

How concerned are you with Man Utd players after their performance against Wolves?

Gianni Buttice: I believe the short-term benefits do not justify the decision. Given our awareness of this upcoming fixture and Salah's potential, it is crucial to commit to the strategy of not including him. However, considering Kevin De Bruyne's recent injury, he could be a valuable alternative to pivot to.

How concerned are you with Man Utd players after their performance against Wolves?

Gianni Buttice: The team's performance was disappointing, especially for those who have both Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford in their lineup, like many others. Their attacking output raises concerns. Nevertheless, it would be premature to pass judgment as the upcoming fixture against Tottenham away might provide Manchester United with ample opportunities in the attacking third.

Holly Shand: Very! I could have initially chosen three assets from their team, but ultimately ended up with only one. Those managers who opted to have both Fernandes and Rashford in their lineup now appear excessively focused on their attack. However, it remains unclear which player should be sold first. While Fernandes plays deeper in the midfield, he possesses excellent skill in taking set-pieces. On the other hand, moving Rashford to the wing could potentially enhance his performance.

Does KDB's injury put any City players on your radar?

Gianni Buttice: This development is advantageous for me as the owner of Phil Foden. The question of whether Foden will start or not always looms, but Kevin De Bruyne's injury provides another opportunity for him to secure a place in the starting eleven. Moreover, Foden has been entrusted with more set-pieces in De Bruyne's absence, indicating that Pep Guardiola acknowledges the necessity of having a dead-ball specialist in the team's lineup.

Would you hold or sell Gabriel?

Gianni Buttice: Considering Julian Alvarez's recent performances, I will closely monitor his development. He has showcased his skills by playing the full 90 minutes in City's past two matches across various competitions. Notably, he played an active role in set-pieces, being responsible for corner kicks and two free-kicks against Burnley. Moreover, he displayed excellent vision by making two key passes. However, it's crucial to bear in mind that City might reinforce their squad during the transfer window, which could potentially alter the dynamics.

In relation to my own strategy, I am contemplating giving Alvarez another week. However, if he fails to secure a starting position against Crystal Palace, I will promptly consider selling him. This decision is influenced by the fact that the wing-backs from Chelsea, who have a favorable upcoming fixture schedule and no European commitments, present an enticing alternative.

What other players should be on FPL radars - either as ones to sign or avoid?

Gianni Buttice: Next week, all eyes will be on Chelsea and Spurs. It will be fascinating to see how James Maddison performs against Richarlison, and the upcoming Man Utd fixture will provide further insight into their abilities. Similarly, if the Chelsea wing-backs and Nicolas Jackson excel against West Ham, they will undoubtedly be highly sought after, considering their two fantastic home fixtures in GW3 and GW4.

Holly Shand highlights the impressive performances of Brighton players Pervis Estupinan and Joao Pedro in Gameweek 1, suggesting they will be valuable assets throughout the season. She also mentions the potential of Ben Chilwell and Jackson at Chelsea, as they continue to strengthen their squad and have favorable upcoming fixtures. Additionally, she suggests that Spurs' Maddison could have a standout season, particularly if they acquire a true No 9 for him to partner with, given his involvement in set-pieces.

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