FPL Midfielders 23/24: Top Picks To Dominate Your Fantasy League

Hey guys, are you ready for another season of Fantasy Premier League (FPL) madness? One of the most crucial aspects of building a successful FPL team is selecting the right midfielders. These guys can be point-scoring machines, racking up goals, assists, and clean sheet points (if they're playing a bit deeper). In this article, we're diving deep into the best FPL midfielder options for the 2023/24 season. We'll be looking at a mix of established stars, promising youngsters, and potential budget gems to help you gain an edge over your mini-league rivals. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Why Midfielders Are Key to FPL Success

Before we jump into specific player recommendations, let's quickly recap why midfielders are so vital in FPL. Unlike strikers who primarily rely on goals, midfielders have multiple avenues for scoring points. They can earn points through:

• Goals: Obvious one, right? A goal is a goal, and midfielders who find the net regularly are gold dust.
• Assists: Setting up a teammate for a goal is almost as good as scoring yourself in FPL terms.
• Clean Sheets: Some deeper-lying midfielders, particularly those who play in a more defensive role, can earn points for clean sheets alongside the defenders.
• Bonus Points: Midfielders often contribute significantly to overall team performance, making them strong contenders for bonus points (awarded to the best three players in a match).
• Minutes Played: Selecting midfielders who are nailed-on starters is crucial, as they'll accumulate points simply by being on the pitch.

The key to FPL success lies in identifying midfielders who can consistently deliver across these different categories. It's about finding those players who are involved in attacking plays, contribute defensively, and are always in the thick of the action. Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and explore some of the top midfielder options for the upcoming season.

Premium Midfielders: The Big Hitters

These are the guys who command the highest price tags in FPL, but they often justify the investment with their consistent performances and high point ceilings. If you're looking for reliable point-scorers to build your team around, these premium midfielders are worth considering. Remember that you should consider their price in relation to their output. Just because a midfielder is expensive doesn't automatically make them a must-have; it's about value for money and how they fit into your overall team structure.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)

Let's be honest, is there any FPL discussion without mentioning Mohamed Salah? The Egyptian King has been a fantasy football staple for years, and for good reason. His goal-scoring record is phenomenal, and he's always a threat to deliver big hauls. Salah is Liverpool's talisman, their primary penalty taker, and is involved in almost every attacking move. Although his price tag might make you think twice, his consistency and explosive potential make him a top contender for the captaincy week after week. Even in a slightly underwhelming season for Liverpool last year, Salah still managed to rack up impressive numbers, highlighting his resilience and unwavering ability to find the back of the net. He's a player who can single-handedly win you a gameweek, and that's why he commands such a hefty price tag.

Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

Kevin De Bruyne is another premium midfielder who consistently delivers top-tier FPL returns. His vision, passing range, and ability to score spectacular goals make him a nightmare for defenders. Playing in a dominant Manchester City team, De Bruyne is always surrounded by quality players, increasing his chances of racking up assists and bonus points. While his price is definitely on the higher end, his creativity and influence on the game make him a worthwhile investment. His assist potential is almost unmatched in the league, and he's also capable of chipping in with his fair share of goals. The Belgian maestro is the engine of the City midfield, and his impact on their attacking play is undeniable. Keep an eye on his fitness, as he has been known to pick up injuries, but when he's fit and firing, De Bruyne is an FPL force to be reckoned with.

Mid-Priced Marvels: The Sweet Spot

These midfielders offer a great balance between price and performance. They might not have the same explosive potential as the premium options, but they can still deliver consistent points without breaking the bank. These are the players who can allow you to spread your budget and strengthen other areas of your team.

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

Bukayo Saka has emerged as a key player for Arsenal and a popular FPL pick. His direct running, creative passing, and eye for goal make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Playing in a dynamic Arsenal team, Saka has plenty of opportunities to score goals and provide assists. He's also a relatively consistent starter, which is crucial for FPL success. Saka's versatility and work rate make him a valuable asset to Arsenal, and his FPL potential is undeniable. His price reflects his growing importance to the team, but he still offers good value for money considering his attacking output. Expect him to be a popular pick among FPL managers this season.

James Maddison (Tottenham Hotspur)

James Maddison's move to Tottenham has reignited his FPL potential. Known for his set-piece prowess, creativity, and ability to score from long range, Maddison could be a key figure in Ange Postecoglou's attacking system. If he can recapture his Leicester form, he represents excellent value in the mid-price bracket. Maddison's vision and passing range will be crucial for unlocking opposition defenses, and his set-piece delivery could lead to plenty of assists. He's also not afraid to have a go at goal himself, making him a threat from anywhere around the box. Keep a close eye on how he integrates into the Tottenham team, but if he clicks, Maddison could be one of the best value midfielders in FPL this season.

Budget Gems: The Hidden Treasures

These are the players who come with a low price tag but have the potential to deliver surprisingly good returns. They're perfect for filling out your squad and freeing up funds to invest in premium players elsewhere.

Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)

With Ivan Toney sidelined, Bryan Mbeumo is set to take on even more responsibility in the Brentford attack. His pace, trickery, and eye for goal make him a dangerous player, and he could be a bargain at his price. Mbeumo has shown glimpses of his potential in the past, and with Toney's absence, he'll have the opportunity to shine. He's a player who can create chances out of nothing, and his finishing ability is improving all the time. Keep an eye on his pre-season form, but if he's looking sharp, Mbeumo could be a steal at his price.

Andreas Pereira (Fulham)

Andreas Pereira quietly had a decent season for Fulham last year, and he could continue to offer good value in the budget midfielder category. He's a hard-working player who contributes both defensively and offensively, and he's capable of chipping in with goals and assists. Pereira is also a relatively consistent starter, which is a bonus for FPL managers. While he might not be the most glamorous pick, he's a reliable option who can free up funds for bigger names. He also takes some set pieces which boosts his assist potential. Don't overlook him when building your squad.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Midfielders

Before you rush out and fill your team with these players, it's important to consider a few key factors:

• Form: Keep a close eye on player form during pre-season and the early weeks of the season. A player who's in good form is more likely to deliver points.
• Fixtures: Pay attention to the fixture schedule and target players who have favorable matchups. Some teams are notoriously difficult to play against, while others are more susceptible to conceding goals.
• Team News: Stay up-to-date with team news and injuries. There's no point in selecting a player who's likely to be sidelined.
• Playing Time: Ensure that the midfielders you select are likely to start regularly. Minutes on the pitch are crucial for accumulating points.
• Underlying Stats: Look beyond the headline numbers and analyze underlying stats such as shots on goal, chances created, and expected goals (xG). These stats can provide a better indication of a player's potential.

Final Thoughts: Building a Balanced Midfield

Choosing the right midfielders is essential for FPL success. By combining premium players with mid-priced options and budget gems, you can create a balanced midfield that's capable of delivering consistent points throughout the season. Remember to consider form, fixtures, team news, and playing time when making your selections. Good luck, and may your midfielders bring you glory in the 2023/24 FPL season!