Fantasy Premier League Team of the Week | FPL Gameweek 20
The latest round of Premier League fixtures, Gameweek 20, witnessed a flurry of goals with a total of 35, headlined by league leaders Liverpool securing a thrilling 4-2 victory over Newcastle United on New Year’s Day.
Despite a spirited effort, Arsenal slipped to fourth place in the standings after a disappointing 2-1 defeat against London rivals Fulham. This setback allowed both Aston Villa and Manchester City to leapfrog the Gunners, securing wins of their own with scores of 3-2 against Burnley and 2-0 against Sheffield United, respectively.
Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-1 home win against an in-form Bournemouth propelled them within one point of the top four. Meanwhile, Brighton & Hove Albion, after a goalless draw with West Ham United, found themselves in seventh place. Manchester United’s inconsistent form persisted with a 2-1 loss to Nottingham Forest, while Chelsea secured their third top-flight win in four matches by overcoming a spirited Luton Town 3-2 at Kenilworth Road.
Wolverhampton Wanderers enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 victory over Everton at Molineux, and Crystal Palace came from behind to defeat a troubled Brentford side 3-1 at Selhurst Park.
As the Premier League action unfolded, Fantasy Premier League enthusiasts had notable performances to consider for their teams. Sports Dunia now presents its Fantasy Premier League Team of the Week for Gameweek 20, featuring standout players from the latest round of matches.
Alphonse Areola (West Ham)
In the recent Gameweek 20, Newcastle’s Martin Dubravka showcased an outstanding goalkeeping performance, making a remarkable 10 saves. However, despite his valiant efforts in the match against Liverpool, the Slovakian goalkeeper narrowly missed securing a spot in the latest Team of the Week (TOTW).
The coveted goalkeeper position in the TOTW for this game was claimed by West Ham‘s shot-stopper Alphonse Areola. Areola, who had previously impressed in the match against Arsenal, continued his stellar form with another defiant display in a goalless draw against Brighton. The French goalkeeper made a total of eight saves, contributing significantly to West Ham’s fourth successive clean sheet.
The consistent excellence displayed by Areola in consecutive fixtures has earned him recognition and secured his place in the Fantasy Premier League’s Team of the Week for Gameweek 20.
Craig Dawson (Wolves)
Despite Wolves captain Max Kilman delivering a noteworthy performance and finding the back of the net against Everton, it is his fellow teammate Craig Dawson who claims the spotlight in this instance. Dawson, who also contributed with a goal, outshone his defensive counterparts with an exceptional display at Molineux.
During the stellar defensive performance, Dawson stood out by leading in key defensive metrics. He made an impressive seven clearances, recorded three interceptions, won three tackles, and triumphed in six aerial duels. These statistics make Dawson a standout performer in the defensive unit, earning him deserved recognition for his pivotal role in the Wolves’ resolute display.
Dawson’s all-around defensive excellence during the match has positioned him as a standout contributor and deserving candidate for praise. His impactful performance has not only bolstered the Wolves’ defensive stability but has also garnered acknowledgment for his individual contributions on the field.
Antonee Robinson (Fulham)
Fulham’s left-back, Antonee Robinson, faced an early setback when Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka scored a fifth-minute opener. However, the American responded admirably, showcasing resilience and defensive prowess throughout the match at Craven Cottage.
Robinson’s performance stood out as he led several defensive categories during the game. The left-back made an impressive six blocks, recorded three interceptions, and won seven ground duels, illustrating his commitment and effectiveness in nullifying attacking threats. Additionally, he demonstrated his defensive acumen by winning all six tackles he engaged in, highlighting his ability to regain possession for Fulham.
Despite the initial challenge posed by Saka’s early goal, Robinson’s response showcased his defensive tenacity and determination to make a meaningful impact on the game. His notable contributions in various defensive aspects underline the left-back’s crucial role in Fulham’s efforts to stifle Arsenal’s attacking advances during the contest.
Also Read: Fantasy Premier League: Top Five Goalkeeper Picks for FPL Gameweek 20
Alfie Doughty (Luton Town)
Alfie Doughty continues to solidify his impact as one of Luton’s standout performers in the current season, showcasing his versatility and offensive contributions. In the recent defeat at Chelsea, Doughty played a pivotal role by assisting Ross Barkley’s goal from a corner, marking his fourth goal contribution in the last five games.
The versatile wing-back displayed an impressive all-around performance during the match, leading several statistical categories. Doughty registered the highest number of touches with 86, showcasing his involvement in Luton Town‘s build-up play. Additionally, he provided a substantial offensive threat by delivering four key passes, highlighting his playmaking abilities.
Defensively, Doughty showcased his awareness and reading of the game by recording two interceptions. However, his offensive contributions were particularly noteworthy, as he completed an impressive 20 crosses during the match. Remarkably, this figure surpassed the combined total of crosses completed by every other player on the pitch, which stood at 18.
Michael Olise (Crystal Palace)
Demonstrating his peak form in a Crystal Palace jersey this season, Michael Olise has been in prolific goal-scoring form, netting four goals in his last four games. In a standout performance against Brentford, the skillful winger showcased his attacking prowess with a brace in a match where he earned the coveted man-of-the-match award.
Olise’s first goal in the game was a testament to his versatility, as he scored an unorthodox volley at the far post. His second goal displayed finesse, as he expertly struck the ball with his left foot into the bottom corner. These contributions underscored his clinical finishing and ability to make an impact in crucial moments.
In addition to his goal-scoring exploits, Olise excelled in various aspects of his overall play. The winger completed an impressive five out of six dribbles, highlighting his ability to navigate through opposition defenses effectively. Furthermore, his passing accuracy stood at an impressive 87%, showcasing his contribution to Palace’s build-up play.
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Emerging as a standout midfield performer in Gameweek 20, rising star Cole Palmer played a crucial role in Chelsea’s victory over Luton, contributing to all three goals. The English midfielder showcased his attacking prowess and playmaking abilities throughout the match.
Palmer began his impactful performance by arrowing a well-struck opener into the far corner, showcasing his clinical finishing. His offensive contributions continued as he provided the assist for Noni Madueke’s goal, demonstrating his ability to create goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates.
The young midfielder concluded his excellent display by coolly rounding Thomas Kaminski and slotting home Chelsea‘s third goal midway through the second half. This goal highlighted Palmer’s composure in one-on-one situations and his ability to finish chances decisively.
Palmer’s all-around contributions, from scoring goals to creating opportunities for teammates, played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s success in Gameweek 20. His standout performance exemplified the rising star’s potential and impact in the midfield, earning him acclaim for his pivotal role in the Blues’ victory over Luton.
Giovani Lo Celso (Spurs)
In only his fourth Premier League start of the season, Giovani Lo Celso showcased his playmaking prowess and all-around contributions in Tottenham‘s victory over Bournemouth. The Argentine midfielder emerged as the chief creator for Spurs, making a significant impact throughout the match.
Lo Celso’s influence was particularly evident in his role as a creator, registering two assists in the game. Notably, the latter assist showcased his technical ability, delivering a brilliant first-time through-ball for Son Heung-min with the outside of his boot, demonstrating his vision and precision in creating goal-scoring opportunities.
The midfielder’s contributions extended beyond his creative duties, as he actively engaged in various aspects of the game. Lo Celso displayed his tenacity by participating in 10 ground duels, showcasing his willingness to battle for possession. Additionally, he made nine ball recoveries, highlighting his defensive awareness and ability to regain possession for his team.
In terms of his attacking prowess, Lo Celso showcased his ability to navigate through opposition defenses with three successful dribbles. Defensively, he contributed significantly with three successful tackles, underlining his defensive work rate and versatility in both offensive and defensive phases of the game.
Phil Foden (Man City)
While Manchester City’s key midfielder Rodri narrowly misses a spot in the latest Team of the Week (TOTW), his teammate Phil Foden secures a well-deserved inclusion following another standout performance for the reigning champions. Foden, operating as a playmaker in the number 10 role, exhibited his skill and influence during the match against Sheffield United.
Foden’s impact was evident in his playmaking abilities, as he notched his fifth and sixth assists of the campaign in the victory. The Stockport-born playmaker showcased precision and creativity in setting up goals for his teammates, highlighting his pivotal role in City’s attacking maneuvers.
Beyond his assist contributions, Foden displayed exceptional passing accuracy, boasting an impressive 98% completion rate. This efficiency in passing reflects Foden’s ability to control and dictate the flow of the game from an advanced midfield position.
Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)
Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White secures a spot in the five-man midfield after scoring a superb late match-winner against Manchester United. In an energetic display, he made 13 final-third passes, delivered the most crosses (six), and won back possession eight times. Gibbs-White played a pivotal role in Forest’s historic win, their first over United since 1994.
Also Read: Fantasy Premier League: Predicted Lineups | Team News | Injury Updates | FPL GW 20
Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
In Liverpool’s thrilling encounter with Newcastle, Mohamed Salah experienced a rollercoaster evening. The Egyptian started by missing a first-half penalty, but later redeemed himself, scoring a goal to give the Reds the lead and becoming only the fifth Premier League player to score 150 goals for a single club. Salah played a crucial role in goals scored by Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo, providing a beautiful outside-of-the-boot assist for the latter.
Additionally, he successfully converted a penalty four minutes from time. Salah’s influence extended beyond goal contributions, as he boasted more touches (20) in the opposition’s box than any other player at Anfield. He also led in passes in the final third with 28 and made five key passes, showcasing his playmaking abilities and overall impact on Liverpool’s attacking play. Despite the early penalty miss, Salah’s resilient and prolific performance played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s eventful victory over Newcastle.
Matheus Cunha (Wolves)
Teaming up with Salah in our attacking lineup is Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, who proved to be a constant threat to Everton throughout the match. The Brazilian forward showcased his dynamic movement, effective pressing, and clinical touch in the final third.
Cunha contributed significantly to Wolves‘ attacking prowess by finishing off a well-executed team move with a powerful close-range finish, doubling his side’s advantage. Demonstrating versatility, he then turned provider, delivering a low cross that was directed into the net by Dawson, contributing to Wolves’ extended winning streak of three games.
Cunha’s performance against Everton highlighted his ability to make an impact both as a goal-scorer and a provider, underlining his importance to Wolves’ attacking strategies. His dynamic style and effectiveness in the final third played a crucial role in securing another victory for Gary O’Neil’s side.