The opening weeks have brought a bit of everything — some popular picks not quite living up to the hype, while a few lesser-owned names have quietly impressed.
This is often the point in the season where going slightly against the crowd can really pay off. Finding the right differential early on can be the difference between keeping pace and pulling ahead. Here are five low-owned players worth a closer look.
Matty Cash 5.1% ( £4.5m, Aston Villa v Crystal Palace)
Cash looks like a handy budget pick at the back. He loves to get forward, and with Villa’s
fixtures looking decent, there’s every chance he chips in with attacking returns on top of clean sheets. At £4.5m, he gives managers a cheap route into a solid defence while still carrying that extra bit of attacking threat.
Cristian Romero 4.1% (£5.0m, Spurs v Bournemouth)
Romero has made a solid start to the season, earning six points in Spurs’ opener against Burnley and seven more in their win over Manchester City. Known for his defensive reliability and threat from set pieces, he looks like a strong option for upcoming fixtures and could provide consistent returns for FPL managers.
Evanilson 2.2% (£7.0m, Bournemouth v Tottenham)
Evanilson hasn’t quite had the start he’d like, but his quality is clear. Last season, he showed he can produce consistently, and once Bournemouth settle, he’s the type of striker who could explode when given the chances.
He is a true differential with big upside and combining him with Antoine Semenyo even creates a bold but intriguing double-up on Bournemouth’s attack. For managers chasing early rank gains, this pairing could prove decisive if their good run continues.
Amad Diallo 2.6% (£6.5m, Man United v Burnley)
Diallo is slowly showing what he can bring to United’s attack. Despite the team’s tough start, he’s been lively, creating chances and looking sharp. If he keeps his place in the side, he could turn into a very handy budget midfield pick. At just £6.5m, he also enables managers to invest heavily in other areas of the squad, making him an appealing option for those looking to balance value in their squad.
Alexis Mac Allister 2.0% (£6.5m, Liverpool v Arsenal)
Mac Allister is playing a key role in Liverpool’s midfield, helping control the game and link up attacks. He’s also involved in set pieces, which gives him a good chance to get assists or even score.
At his price, he’s a steady option and also lets managers spend more in other areas of their squad. The Argentine missed the clash against Newcastle on Monday, hopefully it is nothing too serious.
Do you think these players could be winning differentials? Are there any other names on your sneaky watch-list? Please log in and share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
