FPL: Players Likely To Rest After International Break
Tired of your FPL rivals outsmarting you with their transfer strategies?
The international break is upon us again, and with it comes a wave of uncertainty for Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers. While the break allows players to recharge, it also presents a unique challenge: gauging which stars will return fresh and ready to shine, and which might need a rest after international duty.
This week, we'll dive deep into the world of FPL, analyzing the key players likely to be rested by their respective clubs after the international break.
The Importance of Rest and Rotation
Imagine a world where your favorite players were always available, scoring goals and racking up assists every week. It sounds like a dream, but the reality is far from idyllic. Fatigue, injuries, and strategic rotation are all part of the game.
The international break, in particular, throws a wrench into the works. Players travel across continents, jet-lagged and potentially carrying knocks, all before returning to club football. This is where managers like you and I can capitalize on the information available to make smart decisions.
Identifying Potential Rest Candidates
1. Examining International Travel and Matches:
- Distance: Look for players traveling significant distances for international matches. Long-haul flights and demanding travel schedules can lead to fatigue.
- Number of Matches: Players involved in multiple international fixtures face an even higher risk of needing rest upon return.
2. Players Returning from Injury:
- Pre-existing Conditions: Pay close attention to players who were already battling injuries before the break. They might be on a controlled return schedule, potentially missing the first game back.
3. Players Over 30:
- Age Factor: While age is just a number, it's a fact that players over 30 are more susceptible to fatigue and injuries, especially when facing a packed fixture list.
4. Club Rotation Policies:
- Team Depth: Clubs with strong squad depth are more likely to rotate players, particularly after a busy international period. Look for teams with multiple options in key positions.
5. Upcoming Fixture Congestion:
- Heavy Schedules: Pay attention to upcoming fixtures. Clubs facing a demanding schedule may be more inclined to rest key players to avoid burnout.
FPL Players Likely To Be Rested
Premier League:
- Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City): De Bruyne is often a target for rotation, especially after international breaks. He traveled to Belgium for international duty, playing multiple games, and Manchester City's deep squad provides ample cover for his position.
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Salah is a key player for both club and country. With Egypt's intense schedule and Salah's return from a recent injury, it's possible Klopp will opt for a cautious approach, particularly if the fixture list is congested.
- Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool): Similar to Salah, van Dijk is a crucial player for both Liverpool and Netherlands. The recent international break demanded significant effort, and van Dijk's age might factor into Klopp's decision regarding rest.
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal): Saka's international commitments with England have been heavy in recent months, and Arsenal might prioritize his recovery after the break.
- Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur): While Kane is a true professional, his age and the intensity of international duty make him a likely candidate for rest, particularly if Tottenham has a challenging fixture schedule following the break.
- Son Heung-min (Tottenham Hotspur): Son's long-haul flight and demanding international schedule might make him a rotation target. Spurs' depth in the attacking line might allow for rest.
Remember: This list is not exhaustive. The actual decisions regarding player selection and rest ultimately lie with the respective managers. It's always wise to stay up-to-date with team news and press conferences to make informed FPL decisions.
FAQs
Q: What are the best FPL strategies for navigating the international break?
A:
- Identify potential rotation risks: Monitor the players listed above and research their club's rotation tendencies.
- Consider cheaper alternatives: Explore budget-friendly options who might benefit from potential key player absences.
- Invest in form players: Look for players who are in strong form and have shown resilience after previous breaks.
- Stay informed: Keep tabs on news, injury updates, and press conferences to make informed decisions.
- Don't panic transfer: Avoid making hasty transfers based on limited information.
Q: Is it always a bad idea to bring in a player who just played international football?
A: Not necessarily. Players who play well for their national teams can often carry that momentum into club football. However, it's crucial to weigh the factors discussed earlier to make a well-informed decision.
Q: What happens if a player gets injured during the international break?
A: This is a common concern. Monitor team news and injury reports closely. If a player sustains a significant injury, it's likely they'll be sidelined for several weeks, impacting their FPL value.
Q: Should I use my wildcard before or after the international break?
A: It's a personal choice, but using the wildcard after the international break allows you to react to potential injuries, form changes, and rotation decisions.
Conclusion
The international break is a time of both excitement and uncertainty for FPL managers. By understanding the potential impact of international duty and keeping a close eye on team news, you can position yourself for success in the upcoming weeks. Remember, knowledge is power in the world of FPL, and careful research can be the key to outsmarting your rivals.
