Essential Fantasy Premier League Picks for the 2016-17 Season: Your Ultimate Guide
As the 2016-17 Premier League season draws near, excitement is building not just for the return of top-flight English football, but also for the strategic challenge of Fantasy Premier League. With the opening match between Leicester City and Hull City just a week away, FPL managers worldwide are finalizing their squads in pursuit of the ultimate bragging rights. This comprehensive guide spotlights some of the standout bargains, rising stars, and unmissable additions to help you dominate your league from day one.
Top Defensive Bargains to Consider
Defenders often provide tremendous value, especially for managers looking to maximize their budgets on midfield and attacking options.
Jon Flanagan (Burnley, £4.5m)
Jon Flanagan made a name for himself at Liverpool before injury setbacks stalled his progress. Loaned out to Burnley for the upcoming season, Flanagan offers attacking potential from defense and is priced affordably. His ability to support forward play and contribute assists makes him an attractive pick for those seeking a budget-friendly player capable of chipping in with both defensive and offensive returns.
Sam Byram (West Ham, £4.5m)
Originally set to capitalize on Aaron Cresswell’s injury, Sam Byram was positioned as West Ham’s primary left-back and looked like a superb value option at £4.5m with the Hammers’ strong defensive record. However, after the late addition of Arthur Masuaku, Byram may face renewed competition for his place. Keep an eye on West Ham’s team news ahead of the opening gameweeks to determine if Byram remains a viable starting defender from a top-half club.
Midfield Gems for Your Fantasy Squad
Midfielders can be a goldmine for FPL points, particularly when you select those primed to shine in new roles or at new clubs.
Jordan Ibe (Bournemouth, £5.5m)
Once a Liverpool regular under Brendan Rodgers, Jordan Ibe is set for an expanded role at Bournemouth following his summer transfer. With youthful energy and attacking flair, Ibe is expected to step directly into the creative role vacated by Matt Ritchie. Priced at just £5.5m, he has the potential to be Bournemouth’s chief attacking outlet and perhaps even their top scorer, representing excellent value for budget-conscious managers.
Sofiane Feghouli (West Ham, £5.5m)
Feghouli arrives in the Premier League with solid European pedigree, boasting experience from both the Champions League and Europa League with Valencia. With West Ham’s injury concerns early in the season, Feghouli looks set for regular starts on the right wing. Despite an underwhelming previous campaign, his past record for goals and assists hints that he could thrive in a dynamic attacking side like West Ham and become a key fantasy asset.
Gerard Deulofeu (Everton, £6.5m)
After a promising 2015-16 campaign, Deulofeu is poised to build on his growing reputation at Everton. Blessed with technical ability developed in Barcelona’s famed academy, he is likely to provide a steady stream of assists, especially with a clinical striker like Romelu Lukaku leading the line. If he can add a few goals to his game, Deulofeu will stand out as a fantastic mid-priced midfielder with plenty of upside.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan (Manchester United, £9.5m)
United’s marquee summer signing brings an exceptional record from the Bundesliga, having tallied 11 goals and 15 assists in just 31 appearances last year. Now under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, Mkhitaryan’s creativity and knack for unlocking defenses could see him emerge as one of the league’s most dynamic midfielders. For FPL managers, he offers both goals and assists, making him a strong alternative to other premium midfield picks.
Promising Forward Options for Every Budget
Selecting budget strikers who can match or outscore their more expensive counterparts provides flexibility for the rest of your lineup. Here are some names to keep on your radar:
Andre Gray (Burnley, £6.5m)
Gray’s exceptional scoring record in the Championship—23 goals and 8 assists in 41 matches—speaks to his consistency and finishing ability. Though Burnley face a tough task to stay up, Gray’s physicality and eye for goal could see him successfully transition to the Premier League. He represents a smart, cost-effective option in the forward line.
Troy Deeney (Watford, £7.0m)
While not the cheapest striker, Deeney consistently delivers in both goals and assists. As Watford’s captain, he is integral to everything positive in their attack and rarely misses a minute, making him a safe and effective pick. For those managers seeking to balance premium midfielders while still fielding reliable forwards, Deeney fits the bill perfectly.
Sergio Agüero (Manchester City, £13.0m)
A perennial FPL favorite, Agüero is the focal point of Manchester City’s title challenge and the prime contender for the Premier League Golden Boot. Though he commands the league’s highest price tag, his potential to deliver explosive returns makes him a near-essential selection for any serious contender.
Final Thoughts: Build Wisely, Stay Flexible
With the Premier League’s return mere days away, now is the time for fantasy managers to review their squads, identify hidden gems, and ensure no key performer has slipped under the radar. Don’t hesitate to make last-minute tweaks — sometimes a calculated risk or a shrewd acquisition can make all the difference in those opening gameweeks. Good luck with your Fantasy Premier League journey, and remember to check back for more tips and recommendations as the season progresses.
