Top FPL Midfielders 2023/24: Boost Your Fantasy Team!

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Getting ready for the new Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season? One of the most crucial decisions you'll make is selecting your midfielders. A good midfield can be the engine of your FPL team, racking up points through goals, assists, and clean sheets (if you're lucky enough to have a midfielder playing deeper!). This guide will walk you through some of the best FPL midfield options for the 2023/24 season, helping you make informed choices and dominate your mini-leagues. We'll be diving into player form, expected goals (xG), expected assists (xA), and potential value for money. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Why Midfielders are Key in FPL

Midfielders, in general, are your point-scoring machines in FPL. They have multiple avenues for scoring points which makes them valuable assets. Unlike strikers who heavily rely on goals, midfielders accumulate points via assists, goals, clean sheets (for defensive midfielders), and bonus points. Versatility is the name of the game. Finding those midfielders who are consistent starters, involved in attacking plays, and have a knack for picking up bonus points can set you apart from the competition.

  • Goal threat: Midfielders who frequently find themselves in scoring positions are gold dust. Keep an eye on their xG stats.
  • Assist potential: Creative midfielders who are the primary set-piece takers or key passers are likely to rack up assists.
  • Bonus Points: Players who excel in key passes, tackles, interceptions, and successful dribbles often attract bonus points, even if they don't score or assist.
  • Consistency: A midfielder who consistently starts matches is more valuable than a player with a higher ceiling but rotates frequently.

Top Tier Midfielders: The Premium Options

These are the players who will likely cost you a pretty penny, but their potential point returns justify the investment. Consider these as your anchor midfielders, the ones you build your team around.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

No surprises here! Mohamed Salah is almost always a must-have in FPL. Even with Liverpool's slightly underwhelming performance last season, Salah still managed to deliver consistently. His goal-scoring record is phenomenal, he's on penalties, and he's virtually guaranteed to start every game. His price will reflect his status, but he's worth every penny if you can afford him.

  • Why he's worth it: Consistent goal threat, penalty taker, high xG and xA, rarely injured or rotated.
  • Things to consider: High price tag limits funds for other positions.

Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

When fit, Kevin De Bruyne is arguably the best midfielder in the Premier League, and that translates directly to FPL points. His creativity is unmatched, and his range of passing is incredible. He is a key element of the Manchester City attack. If he stays fit for the majority of the season, expect a massive points haul.

  • Why he's worth it: Elite assist potential, goal threat from outside the box, bonus point magnet.
  • Things to consider: Injury prone, Pep Guardiola rotation risk (though less so than other players).

Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)

Regardless of what you think of his on-field antics, Bruno Fernandes is an FPL powerhouse. He's Manchester United's penalty taker, a key creative force, and has a knack for scoring goals. He might not always be the most consistent, but his explosive potential is undeniable.

  • Why he's worth it: Penalty taker, high assist potential, goal threat, plays almost every minute.
  • Things to consider: Can be inconsistent, prone to picking up yellow cards.

Mid-Range Marvels: The Value Picks

These midfielders offer excellent value for their price. They might not have the same explosive potential as the premium options, but they can provide consistent returns without breaking the bank. Finding these gems is key to building a balanced FPL squad.

James Maddison (Tottenham Hotspur)

Now at Tottenham Hotspur, James Maddison is set to be a key player in their attack. Known for his creativity, set-piece ability, and eye for goal, Maddison could be a fantastic FPL asset, especially if Spurs play an attacking style. His price point will likely be lower than the premium options, making him an attractive alternative.

  • Why he's worth it: Set-piece specialist, goal threat from midfield, creative player in a potentially attacking team.
  • Things to consider: New team, needs to integrate into the system.

Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)

Eberechi Eze had a fantastic end to last season and is emerging as a key player for Crystal Palace. With his dribbling skills, eye for goal, and increasing influence in the team, Eze could be a breakout star in FPL this season. He is definitely one to watch.

  • Why he's worth it: Goal threat, good dribbler (bonus point potential), key player in Palace's attack.
  • Things to consider: Plays for a less attacking team, consistency still needs to be proven.

Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)

With Ivan Toney suspended, Bryan Mbeumo is likely to take on even more responsibility in Brentford's attack. He's already shown glimpses of his potential, and with increased playing time and a possible role as a penalty taker, he could be a real bargain in FPL.

  • Why he's worth it: Could be on penalties, increased playing time due to Toney's absence, goal threat.
  • Things to consider: Toney's absence might negatively impact Brentford's overall attack.

Budget-Friendly Options: The Bargain Buys

These are the midfielders who won't cost you much, but they can still contribute valuable points to your FPL team. Ideal for filling out your squad and freeing up funds for the more expensive players.

Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton)

Kaoru Mitoma was a revelation for Brighton last season, and his price is likely to reflect that. However, he still represents a good value pick. His dribbling skills and ability to create chances make him a constant threat, and he's likely to continue to improve this season. Brighton's attacking style of play also benefits him.

  • Why he's worth it: Excellent dribbler, goal threat, plays in an attacking team.
  • Things to consider: Might be subject to rotation, consistency needs to be maintained.

Andreas Pereira (Fulham)

Andreas Pereira proved to be a valuable asset for Fulham last season, offering a creative spark and contributing with both goals and assists. If he can maintain his form, he could be a solid budget option in FPL.

  • Why he's worth it: Set-piece taker, creative player, relatively cheap.
  • Things to consider: Consistency can be an issue, Fulham's overall form will impact his output.

Jacob Ramsey (Aston Villa)

Jacob Ramsey is an energetic midfielder who's becoming increasingly important for Aston Villa. His box-to-box style and eye for goal make him a decent FPL option, especially if Villa continue their upward trajectory under Unai Emery.

  • Why he's worth it: Box-to-box midfielder, goal threat, plays regularly.
  • Things to consider: Not the most creative player, relies more on goals for points.

Key Stats to Consider

When selecting your FPL midfielders, don't just rely on gut feeling. Dive into the stats to make informed decisions:

  • Expected Goals (xG): Measures the quality of chances a player is getting and how likely they are to score.
  • Expected Assists (xA): Measures the likelihood of a player providing an assist based on the quality of chances they create.
  • Goals Scored: A simple but effective metric. Consistent goalscorers are always valuable.
  • Assists Provided: Key for identifying creative midfielders.
  • Minutes Played: A player can't score points if they're not on the pitch.
  • Bonus Points System (BPS): Understand how bonus points are awarded to identify players who excel in key areas.

Final Thoughts: Building Your FPL Midfield

Choosing the right midfielders is crucial for FPL success. Consider a mix of premium players, value picks, and budget-friendly options to create a balanced squad. Keep an eye on player form, pre-season performances, and any potential transfers. And most importantly, trust your gut! FPL is all about having fun and making those winning decisions. Good luck for the 2023/24 season, guys! I hope this guide will help you build the best midfield for your FPL team and achieve those coveted top spots in your leagues.