by @FantasianPL
The first four day Gameweek was long for a number of reasons. It ended up being the lowestxG scoring Gameweek of the season, even surpassing the eight fixtures of Gameweek 1. But it is over and time to look ahead, well time to look back at last week and then forward (while still looking back). Overall, lots of looking accompanied by figures, such as this one.
It was a slow week. Four teams managed to outperform their prediction with Crystal Palace leading the way as the top performing team, or should I say that Fulham lost the week as the most underperforming defense? Either way, Leeds, Liverpool and Sheffield United also the “hot” offenses of the week. Aston Villa gets a special award for hitting their prediction bang on. In this case an overperforming offense verses an overperforming defense ended up balancing out. I think the results for Tottenham and Everton were the biggest suprises, but slowing down from their current rate.
This week resulted in a drop in average attacking form for most teams. The result is minimal with the “in form” teams being in slight less form, but still looking attractive. Several of the big six sides, who were powerhouses last season, continue to struggle. Assuming they come good, the timing of the switch from Tottenham to the Manchester clubs could have serious FPL implications. But as was said on the FFHub podcast, it is better to be a week late on the right player than a week early on the wrong player.
The two biggest shifts this week in the average is Fulham moving to the worst team and several of the top clubs starting to show some improved defense. Looking ahead, Everton and Southampton seem like teams in good form with good upcoming fixtures. West Ham and Brighton both have good fixtures swings starting in GW8. As for the under performers, Wolves and Chelsea both look like good options.
Several of the usual suspects at the top this week. The standout is Southampton away to Aston Villa. Based on form of both teams, I would expect a lower xG result for Southampton than predicted, but we will see. Both Liverpool and Tottenham play in form defenders in West Ham and Brighton, respectively. Rounding our the top 7, we have Manchester City, Chelsea, Leicester, and Wolves, all in poor form. It could be smoother interesting week.
As for defenses, top predictions include Wolves, Everton, Leicester, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Manchester United.
That’s all for me this week, good luck with your fantasy plans and see you on the other side.