Fantasy Premier League managers are facing a conundrum with the unexpected absence of midfield duo Moises Caicedo and Ismaila Sarr for Gameweek 14. But who should replace these key players? The Scout is here to provide some much-needed guidance.
The dilemma: Midfield crisis!
Caicedo and Sarr have been integral to many FPL teams, but their unavailability for the upcoming gameweek, and potentially beyond, is a cause for concern. Caicedo's suspension for the next three gameweeks and Sarr's injury, coupled with his impending AFCON departure, leave managers scrambling for alternatives.
The replacements:
- Declan Rice (Arsenal) - £7.0m:
- Rice is a standout performer, sitting just a point off the top midfielder spot. His 75 points include goals, assists, and a reliable defensive contribution. With Arsenal's favorable fixtures and Rice's set-piece duties, he's a solid choice.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is Rice worth the extra £1.1m compared to Caicedo? Some managers might argue that the price difference is a significant factor, especially for those on a tight budget. What's your take?
Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle) - £6.7m:
- Guimaraes has been a consistent performer, blanking only once in seven gameweeks. His recent form at St James' Park is impressive, with double-figure hauls in his last three home games. With Newcastle hosting two matches soon, he's a tempting option.
Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) - £5.4m:
- Anderson's resurgence under new coach Sean Dyche is remarkable. He's ranked second in his position for points and defensive contributions in the last four gameweeks. With set-piece duties and potential penalty responsibilities, he's a budget-friendly gem.
Yankuba Minteh (Brighton) - £6.2m:
- Minteh leads the league in assists this season, with seven to his name. His recent home performances suggest he could be a valuable asset during Brighton's upcoming home fixtures. The underlying stats back up his influence on Brighton's attack.
The verdict:
While all four replacements offer unique strengths, the choice depends on your team's needs and budget. Rice and Guimaraes provide consistency, while Anderson and Minteh offer potential for high returns at lower costs.
And this is the part most people miss: Should you consider a short-term fix or invest in a long-term replacement? The upcoming fixtures and your team's overall strategy will play a crucial role in this decision.
What's your take on these replacements? Do you agree with The Scout's suggestions, or do you have other players in mind? Share your thoughts and strategies in the comments below!
