Fantasy Premier League Team of the Week | FPL Gameweek 14
It appears that the current title race in English football is one of the most thrilling in recent years, involving more than two clubs. Manchester City currently sits in third place, trailing Arsenal by three points. However, City’s recent slip against Tottenham has cost them valuable points.
As of now, there haven’t been any managerial sackings in the 2023-24 season, but the tide may turn following Sheffield United’s 5-0 defeat to Burnley and Nottingham Forest’s home loss to Everton. Managers Paul Heckingbottom and Steve Cooper are facing significant pressure for various reasons.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are experiencing a crisis of unprecedented proportions. Their defeat against Newcastle offers no positive spin, placing Erik ten Hag’s team in seventh position. With six losses in 14 league games, Manchester United finds themselves in a precarious situation.
Let’s have a look at the best players who find themselves in the Team of The Week for Gameweek 14.
Robert Sanchez (Chelsea)
Bernd Leno, sporting bruises and bandages, deserves recognition for his commendable performance, nearly aiding Fulham in securing a historic victory at Anfield. On the other hand, former Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, despite facing jeers, stood out for Chelsea against his former team. While he couldn’t prevent either of Brighton’s goals, his crucial seven saves played a pivotal role in securing the Blues’ success.
James Tarkowski (Everton)
Another blue-clad team, Everton, also emerged victorious with a narrow one-goal win over the weekend. Their triumph at the City Ground brought joy to the traveling fans and was complemented by a noteworthy defensive performance. James Tarkowski played a key role, securing one of the only two clean sheets in gameweek 14. Tarkowski’s impressive stats included winning eight out of his 10 aerial duels and making a remarkable nine clearances, effectively thwarting Forest’s attacking efforts.
Dara O’Shea (Burnley)
In a notable contrast, the spotlight understandably fell on Burnley’s attacking players for their dismantling of Sheffield United. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the contribution of center-back Dara O’Shea. He played a significant role by delivering a splendid ball over the top for Jacob Bruun Larsen to convert.
Additionally, O’Shea demonstrated defensive prowess by losing only one of his eight aerial battles, playing a part in Burnley putting an end to their challenging home record.
Ben Mee (Brentford)
Ben Mee, a beloved figure among fans at the Gtech Community Stadium for Brentford, showcased his versatility in the team’s triumph over Luton. While not in a conventional manner, Mee contributed an assist as his mishit shot fortuitously found Neal Maupay. Adding to his impressive performance, Mee also scored a goal with a deflected header, playing a pivotal role in ensuring a successful return to winning ways for Thomas Frank’s team.
Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United)
Tino Livramento’s efforts against Manchester United were commendable, but it was Kieran Trippier who truly stood out by giving the Red Devils a tough time on the right flank at St James’ Park. Trippier not only provided the crucial cross for Anthony Gordon’s winning goal but also displayed excellence in various aspects of the game.
He recorded six key passes, made four interceptions, completed three successful dribbles, and showcased his set-piece prowess by rattling the crossbar with a trademark free-kick. Trippier’s all-around performance was instrumental in securing the victory.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Liverpool’s vice-captain, Trent Alexander-Arnold, seized a significant opportunity during the game. Although he wasn’t officially credited for a spectacular free-kick against Fulham, which deflected off Leno’s back, Alexander-Arnold ensured he wouldn’t be denied in the 87th minute. At that moment, he unleashed a powerful fourth goal for the Reds, contributing to the team’s extraordinary circumstances and maintaining their flawless record at Anfield.
Also Read: Fantasy Premier League: Top XI picks for your FPL Team | GW 14
Josh Brownhill (Burnley)
Although Kieran Trippier’s first-time attempt didn’t find the back of the net, Burnley’s Josh Brownhill made sure to seal a stellar performance for Vincent Kompany’s side against Sheffield United. Brownhill’s well-struck effort added the finishing touch to a five-star display by Burnley.
On this remarkable day, Vincent Kompany’s team delivered their performance of the season, with Brownhill not only scoring but also excelling defensively. The lynchpin won all four of his ground duels and prevailed in four out of five aerial battles, showcasing his all-around contribution to the team’s success.
Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)
Following nearly a year of endeavors without success in opening his Premier League goal account, Chelsea’s midfield maestro, Enzo Fernandez, finally achieved this milestone. In a standout performance against Brighton, he not only scored his first goal in the competition but secured his first brace. Fernandez headed in the Blues’ opening goal and calmly slotted home a decisive spot-kick in West London, making a significant impact in the match.
Martin Odegaard (Arsenal)
In North London, Arsenal’s captain Martin Odegaard displayed shades of his former self in the narrow victory over Wolves. He showcased his skills with a quintessential first-time left-footed strike, doubling the Gunners’ lead.
The former Real Madrid protege had the chance to cap off the game with at least one assist, but unfortunately, Leandro Trossard and Eddie Nketiah squandered gilt-edged opportunities. Despite the missed chances, Odegaard’s performance was instrumental in securing the slender success for Arsenal.
Dejan Kulusevski (Totenham)
Few love stories in the Premier League compare to the affinity between Dejan Kulusevski and the Etihad Stadium. Having already scored in consecutive games on Manchester City’s turf, Kulusevski continued to haunt the Citizens on Sunday. He played a pivotal role by setting up Son Heung-min for Tottenham’s opening goal.
Additionally, the Swede showcased his prowess by nodding—or shouldering—home a dramatic 90th-minute equalizer. With this feat, Kulusevski became just the second player to score away against the reigning champions in three consecutive seasons, a distinction previously held by Danny Murphy.
Zeki Amdouni (Burnley)
Erling Haaland could have been a contender for the 11th and final spot with his two assists, but the Norwegian striker seemed to have misplaced his shooting boots, expressing his frustration on referee Simon Hooper at full-time. This reaction may have been justifiable, especially considering the official’s peculiar last-minute decision to halt play with Jack Grealish through on goal.
On the other hand, Zeki Amdouni demonstrated clinical finishing for Burnley against Sheffield United. He expertly chested the ball down and delivered an emphatic finish before setting up Luca Koleosho, contributing significantly as the Clarets dispelled their Turf Moor struggles.