Fantasy Premier League: Top Five Goalkeepers for FPL Gameweek 15
With Christmas just around the corner, the Premier League is delivering an exciting season filled with multiple teams competing for the title, European spots, and the battle to avoid relegation. In the latest weekend fixtures, Arsenal continued their winning streak, while Manchester City secured a controversial draw against Tottenham.
Liverpool secured a narrow victory over Fulham, Newcastle surpassed with a win against Manchester United, and Burnley dominated Sheffield United with a convincing 5-0 triumph, lifting them off the bottom of the table. As we dive into December, the matches are coming thick and fast, with the next Fantasy Premier League Gameweek kicking off on Tuesday.
As managers strategize their moves, contemplating when to use transfers and whether it’s the right time to activate the wildcard (if still available), here are five Goalkeepers to watch out for in Gameweek 15.
David Raya (Arsenal)
David Raya has played a crucial role in Arsenal’s stellar defensive performance this season, contributing to their status as the team with the best defensive record in the Premier League. With just 11 goals conceded and an impressive six clean sheets, Raya has been a key figure between the posts for four of those shutouts.
In a season where rotation can affect many of Arsenal’s defensive options, Raya stands out as a reliable choice to gain access to the Gunners’ defense consistently. While other players in the backline may face rotation, Raya’s position as the goalkeeper provides a sense of stability for fantasy football managers.
Looking ahead, Arsenal’s upcoming fixture against Luton Town presents a favourable opportunity for another clean sheet. Considering Raya’s role in Arsenal’s defensive success and the team’s strong defensive record, he should be regarded as a key pick for fantasy football, particularly in matches where a clean sheet is a likely outcome.
Martin Dubravka (Newcastle United)
With Nick Pope sidelined due to injury for an extended period, many fantasy football managers are turning their attention to Martin Dubravka as a potential replacement. Priced at a reasonable £3.9 million, Dubravka has become a popular transfer choice. Newcastle, along with Arsenal, boasts an impressive six clean sheets this season.
Despite the setback of Pope’s injury, Newcastle’s defensive performance hasn’t suffered, and Dubravka’s reliability has contributed to their clean sheet rate. The goalkeeper has a proven track record in the Premier League, notably keeping 11 clean sheets in both the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons.
While Pope’s absence is undoubtedly a significant loss for Newcastle, Dubravka’s experience and past performances make him a compelling option for fantasy football managers seeking a reliable goalkeeper, especially considering his favorable price tag.
Also Read: Fantasy Premier League: Top Five Midfielders Picks for FPL Gameweek 15
Ederson (Manchester City)
Ederson presents an attractive alternative for fantasy managers who initially invested heavily in goalkeepers like Pope or Alisson. As the most-owned first-choice goalkeeper in the game, Ederson has already secured four clean sheets this season, showcasing Manchester City’s defensive strength.
Looking ahead, City’s fixture schedule improves after facing Aston Villa, with matches against Luton, Crystal Palace, Everton, and Sheffield United during the festive period. Ederson’s presence in goal for City enhances the likelihood of additional clean sheets in these upcoming favourable fixtures.
However, it’s crucial to be mindful of the Gameweek 18 scenario when City will be blanking due to the Club World Cup. In that Gameweek, having a reliable backup goalkeeper becomes essential to navigate the temporary absence of Ederson. Despite this, Ederson’s overall reliability and City’s defensive prowess make him a solid choice for fantasy managers eyeing a premium goalkeeper option.
Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool)
Caoimhin Kelleher, priced at £3.9 million, is expected to continue as the starting goalkeeper for Liverpool in the absence of the injured Alisson (£5.6 million). With Alisson sidelined, Kelleher represents a budget-friendly option for fantasy managers.
In the upcoming fixture against Sheffield United, Kelleher could offer significant value. Sheffield United’s recent 5-0 loss to Burnley suggests defensive vulnerabilities that Liverpool, and Kelleher, may look to exploit. This matchup provides an opportunity for Kelleher to contribute both in terms of potential saves and the potential for a clean sheet.
Considering his price point and the fixture circumstances, Kelleher could be a valuable addition to fantasy teams, particularly for those looking to allocate funds strategically while maintaining a starting goalkeeper from a top club.
Sam Johnstone (Crystal Palace)
Sam Johnstone, priced at £4.7 million for Crystal Palace, stands out as a promising short-term goalkeeper option. With Dean Henderson still sidelined, Johnstone offers stability in the goalkeeping position.
His performance this season is notable, ranking third for Bonus Points among goalkeepers. This suggests that he not only makes saves but also contributes positively to his team’s defensive efforts, earning additional points in fantasy football.
Moreover, Johnstone has consistently been among the top goalkeepers for saves per match over the last three seasons. Although the data might be slightly distorted due to his playing only two full seasons, it indicates his shot-stopping abilities.
Considering his price, recent performance, and upcoming fixtures, Sam Johnstone could be an excellent short-term addition for fantasy managers seeking a reliable goalkeeper.