As the Fantasy Premier League season enters its final stretch, Gameweek 37 presents an intriguing dilemma for managers. With just two gameweeks left, it's time to employ strategic transfers that can deliver immediate impact. One popular tactic has been to target teams facing relegated clubs, and the data highlights some interesting trends.
The Out-of-Form Defenses
Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers have been struggling defensively, failing to keep clean sheets in their last four matches. This has led to a surge in popularity for attackers from these teams, with Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres and Bukayo Saka attracting significant attention ahead of their match against Burnley.
Identifying Vulnerable Defenses
By analyzing the big chances conceded (BCC) over the last four matches, we can identify other teams with defensive vulnerabilities. Aston Villa, for instance, faces Liverpool, and their recent defensive struggles offer encouragement to Villa's attacking duo, Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins.
Home and Away Weaknesses
Assessing teams' home and away records provides further insights. Burnley's away record is particularly poor, having conceded 45 goals in 18 away matches without a single clean sheet. This bodes well for Arsenal's attackers in their away fixture against Burnley.
Form Players and Attacking Threats
Combining the defensive stats with home/away performance, we can identify the teams with the best fixtures and their most impressive attackers. Aston Villa's Watkins leads the way with 28 points over the last four gameweeks, while Everton's Beto and Dewsbury-Hall have been consistent performers.
Underlying Data and Big Chances
Delving into the underlying data, we find that Watkins and Arsenal's Leandro Trossard have been involved in the most big chances over the last four matches. Watkins' goal threat is notable, while Trossard's consistency in creating chances stands out.
Overlooked Assets
Some players, like Villa's John McGinn and Everton's Iliman Ndiaye, offer great value as they have been involved in big chances without the same level of popularity as their more renowned teammates.
Conclusion
Gameweek 37 presents an opportunity to exploit the vulnerabilities of out-of-form defenses. By analyzing the data and identifying the form players, managers can make strategic transfers that could have a significant impact on their Fantasy Premier League teams. It's a delicate balance between long-term planning and immediate gains, and the decisions made in these final gameweeks could make or break a season.
