Premier League Fantasy Football must have picks for Gameweek 1

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Opening weekend Premier League fantasy football must have picks from Chief @FPLHINTS.

The summer is almost over and your fantasy football dreams are still in tact. That means only one thing – the Premier League is back! Squad selection headaches will be reaching fever pitch levels before the first game of the season which is this Friday. To help you out, below are two essential picks for each outfield position for the opening Premier League fixtures.

Harry Kane (FWD)

He finished last season in sensational form. Despite missing 8 games, he still scored 29 goals and won the much coveted Premier League golden boot. Since his break out season three years ago he has continued to excel, scoring 75 goals at an average of one goal for every 112 minutes played. With all that said, we must also be aware that he has never scored a Premier League goal in August. In past seasons this could be put down due to fatigue from summer tournaments. But that wasn’t the case this time around and he’s had plenty of time to recharge his batteries. In addition, some may question Tottenham’s recent record at Wembley, which hasn’t been too pleasant. After all it will be their ‘home’ during 2017/18. In spite of all these worries, I think Kane is fixture proof and an extremely safe pick, regardless of who he plays and where he plays.

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Romelu Lukaku (FWD)

The Belgian international made a high profile move to Manchester United in July following his impressive displays for Everton last season. In fact, during his time at Merseyside he averaged a goal every other game which is exceptional for a team that didn’t challenge for the title. With players such as Pogba and Matic now providing support from midfield, he should be more than capable to match, if not exceed, his average number of goals per season. Lukaku’s pedigree isn’t restricted to his goal scoring either. He’s also a proven assist provider, chipping in with 28 assists over the past 4 seasons. Lukaku will be the apex to United’s attack and has all the hallmarks of a valuable pick.

Kevin de Bruyne (MID)

Like Lukaku, he forms part of a large Chelsea alumni in the Premier League and like him was never given a real chance to stake his claim for a regular spot at Stamford Bridge. However, as demonstrated with his stints in Germany and his assured displays in Manchester he has proven to be a vital fantasy football asset. De Bruyne topped the assist charts last season. In fact, he averaged a goal or assist for every 107 minutes played in the Premier League . This is all the more remarkable, considering that he was part of an attacking City team that contained the likes of Aguero, Silva, Sterling and Jesus. He should carry on from where he left off last season. Injury, form and lack of rotation permitting, he is more than capable of scoring and assisting more in 2017/18. In short, he’s a must have as he is integral to City’s attack.

Dele Alli (MID)

It’s incredible to think he’s only 21 years’ old. His rapid rise and development has complemented that of his teammate, Harry Kane. Together, they have spearheaded Tottenham’s attack which has led to back-to-back top three finishes in the Premier League. With 18 goals and 11 assists last season, Alli has demonstrated his class as a goal scoring midfielder and valuable creator of goals. At times it can even be said that he is Tottenham’s de facto second striker which makes him all the more alluring. He only missed one Premier League game last season and that was with Champions’ League and Europa League football factored in. His fearless attitude and consistent performances make him an absolute must.

Ryan Bertrand (DEF)

He missed a lot of games last season due to injury. But don’t let that put you off. Bertand still managed to keep 12 clean sheets from 28 appearances. What’s also impressive is his attacking ability. He is a marauding left back and has recorded 9 assists in the past two seasons. It’s surprising to think that he hasn’t scored more goals. The England international has come a long way from being a utility player at Chelsea and being a journeyman in the Football League. He’s at the peak of his powers and is definitely worth considering as a defensive option. It wouldn’t come as a shock if a few more scintillating displays led to bigger clubs seeking his services within the next 12 months.

Antonio Valencia (DEF)

A former right winger, he has proven to be as equally adept playing in defence. Valencia is relied upon, especially as one of United’s longest serving players from their current crop. Of course, he didn’t appear in some matches towards the end of last season but that was due to rotation influenced by their Europa League campaign. For the start of the 2017/18 season he is one of the least likeliest players in United’s defence to be rotated. His three assists in the Premier League last season shows his ability to create goals is still intact. At 32 years’ old time isn’t on his side and he may not have a long-term future at the club. But for the time being at least, his experience and consistency make him a key asset.

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