We run the rule over multiple defenders and assess their FPL potential heading into Gameweek 2, which commences once again with a Friday evening kick-off.
The highest-owned FPL defender by a long way going into Gameweek 1 was Pervis Estupinan (£5.0m), mainly due to his anticipated attacking potential under Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton. The left-back proved true to form, roaming up the pitch at will and whilst Brighton failed to keep a clean sheet against Luton, Estupinan provided an assist in a 4-1 victory for the Seagulls. Gameweek 2 sees De Zerbi’s men travel to Wolves and with an ownership exceeding half the total number of FPL managers, it would be a brave move not to have the Ecuadorian in your squad.
Liverpool defender assets may prove popular ahead of Gameweek 2 as the Reds take on Bournemouth at Anfield. Such a fixture could see the likes of full-backs Trent Alexander-Arnold (£8.0m) and Andrew Robertson (£6.5m) profit in terms of fantasy point-returns from multiple avenues. The same applies for centre-back Virgil Van Dijk (£6.0m) who as always will pose a significant attacking threat from set pieces.
In terms of big money signings, Man City spent big for left-sided defender Josko Gvardiol (£5.0m) who came off the bench in Gameweek 1 to make his first Premier League appearance. The Croatian impressed in that cameo, pushing forward significantly in open play to go alongside his offensive threat from set pieces. It would be no surprise to see him start against Newcastle in Gameweek 2 and a price-tag of just £5.0m feels like a potential bargain. The same fixture will feature Kieran Trippier (£6.5m), who of course offers plenty of opportunity for attacking fantasy gains through the taking of Newcastle’s free kicks and corners.
A big talking point in Gameweek 1 was the benching of Arsenal defender Gabriel (£5.0m), the third most owned defender among the FPL community as it stands. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta frustrated many by bringing the centre-back on for a one-point-cameo late in the game. However, following the news that fellow defender Jurrien Timber is set for an extended period on the sidelines due to a knee injury, Gabriel is expected to regain his starting place in the centre of Arsenal’s defence alongside William Saliba (£5.0m) for Gameweek 2 away at Crystal Palace.
