What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) has seen a significant focus on defenders in the early stages of the 2025/26 season. According to recent assessments, six out of the nine top-scoring players in the FPL are defenders, with notable performances from players like Jurrien Timber of Arsenal and Dan Burn of Newcastle. Timber leads as the top-scoring defender, having contributed to three clean sheets and four attacking returns. Meanwhile, Dan Burn has been instrumental in Newcastle's defensive success, contributing to five clean sheets. The lineup, which includes players like Marcos Senesi and Marc Guehi, is noted for its affordability, with only two players costing more than £6.7 million. This strategic focus on budget-friendly defenders has been a key success factor for FPL managers this season.
Why It's Important?
The emphasis on defenders in the FPL highlights a strategic shift in fantasy football management, where traditionally, forwards and midfielders have been the primary focus. This change reflects the evolving dynamics of the Premier League, where defensive contributions are increasingly valued. For FPL managers, this trend offers an opportunity to maximize points through cost-effective player selections, potentially altering the competitive landscape of fantasy leagues. The success of defenders like Timber and Burn underscores the importance of defensive stability in achieving overall team success, both in fantasy and real-world football.
AI Generated Content
Do you find this article useful?
