Fantasy Premier League tips: 5 best defenders for Gameweek 11
Gameweek 10 of the Premier League results were mostly no surprise for many fantasy managers but six shutouts flummoxed the ones who had ignored their defences. Conversely, the managers who invested well in their backline got a push in their rankings and we'll advise you on how to be prepared and take advantage of such clean sheets along with our analysis of defenders who could easily be amongst points in the upcoming Gameweek.
Starting with team performances, Arsenal has started to look sturdy at the back and their defenders are much in demand due to them scoring points on both ends of the pitch. Their London-rivals Tottenham Hotspurs led by defence-friendly Mauricio Pochettino has ensured that they maintain consistency in their indomitable shape fetching points despite the lack of goals up front.
Chelsea has kept four clean sheets in a row and fantasy managers are wondering whether it is too late to include their defensive options. But the Blues’ prices had fallen since the start of the season and with Chelsea beginning to be in its prime, so has the price rise of their players in form. Furthermore, Antonio Conte’s affinity for an unbreachable defence seems to be turning into a reality having finally organised the desired centre-back combination.
Other than the big teams, Watford, Bournemouth and Stoke City seem to be on a rise with impressive defensive performances that demand our attention and we've assessed which players from these teams could provide a cheap alternative to your woes at the back.
Stay tuned as we bring to you a list of the five best defenders for Gameweek 11.
#1 Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)
The centre-back has hit top form for Arsenal this season and reminds us that he cannot be overlooked despite his team-mate Hector Bellerin stealing most of the spotlight. In the last five Premier League matches, Laurent Koscielny has helped Arsenal keep three clean sheets and barely does a Gunner think of Per Mertesacker’s injury status due to his solidity.
Besides his tackling and man-marking prowess, Koscielny also adds to the Bonus Points System with blocks and clearances. Add that to his presence in corner situations, and you certainly do not have a safer option for a defender who can score goals and thus, points on both ends of the pitch.
So far Koscielny has already scored two goals and with more threat, more fantasy managers are choosing to select him over an expensive Bellerin. With the rising number of teams selecting him, his price has already shot up by 0.4m over the recent course of games. The defender is in such demand that his price has risen more than any other defender.
Despite Arsenal facing an interesting round of fixtures, we’d still back Koscielny to score points due to Spurs’ lack of ability to cope with Harry Kane's absence and a woeful attacking form of the Red Devils.
Upcoming fixtures: Tottenham Hotspur (H), Manchester United (A), Bournemouth (H)