Assessing the Second Forward Spot in Fantasy Premier League
Fantasy Premier League managers have been exploring the second forward position throughout the season. While Erling Haaland remains a staple in nearly every team, finding a second striker who justifies his price and consistently delivers points has proven challenging for many.
Pre-season favorite Joao Pedro has managed only two goals in nine appearances, and Jean-Philippe Mateta, once a popular choice, has struggled to regain the form he displayed last season. Meanwhile, Victor Gyokeres has recorded as many attacking returns as his center-back teammate Gabriel, totaling five, and Nick Woltemade is now sharing minutes with Yoane Wissa.
A reliable second forward that can be left in teams for the foreseeable future would greatly benefit most squads. Currently, two main contenders stand out: Ollie Watkins and Igor Thiago.
Watkins is the league's in-form forward at the moment. After a slow start, which saw him score just once in his first 13 matches, he has since netted six goals and provided two assists in his last seven league outings. Pundits often discuss the importance of confidence and streaks, and Watkins exemplifies a player you can trust when he is in a scoring run.
Aston Villa has favorable fixtures ahead. Although their upcoming match against Crystal Palace may seem challenging on paper, the latter is currently on a seven-match winless streak and has faced one of the toughest schedules over the festive period. Starting from Gameweek 22, Villa will enjoy four home games in six, hosting Everton, Brentford, Brighton, and Leeds at Villa Park, where the 10%-owned Watkins has an impressive record.
Thiago, who was the second most sold player last Gameweek, is expected to be among the most sought-after this time following his remarkable 17-point performance against Everton.
With 14 goals, only Haaland has outscored the Brazilian, who, like the Norwegian, serves as the talisman for his team. Goals at Brentford are primarily funneled to Thiago, with the wide forwards and midfielders seemingly focused on creating significant chances for their number nine.
Brentford boasts an impressive home record and will welcome Sunderland and Nottingham Forest in two of their next three matches. At a price of seven million, Thiago offers exceptional value, having accumulated 108 points so far this season.
Huge Ekitike and Jarrod Bowen also deserve mention. Ekitike is a doubt for Thursday's trip to Arsenal, but his performances suggest that if he can maintain fitness, he will likely score many goals in the second half of the season, especially with Alexander Isak's injury solidifying his position in the team.
Burnley will visit Anfield in Gameweek 22, which Ekitike owners will consider when deciding whether to sell him this week.
Bowen, while more expensive than players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Danny Welbeck, Richarlison, and Thiago, ranks third for total points among forwards this season. Unfortunately for him, being classified as a forward this year results in fewer points compared to previous seasons when he was a popular midfielder in the game.
However, the main barrier for many managers isn't Bowen himself but rather the trust issues surrounding West Ham's ability to score goals and secure victories. Ekitike, Thiago, and Watkins appear more reliable, partly due to the confidence in their respective teams and supporting players.