Liverpool Faces Challenges as Fantasy Premier League Managers Reassess Players
Defending champions Liverpool began the season with an impressive five consecutive victories; however, their performance has recently declined with two back-to-back losses.
The Reds made significant investments during the summer transfer window, acquiring several new players, including British record signing Alexander Isak.
This situation raises a critical question for Fantasy Premier League managers: Should they retain Liverpool players in their squads, hoping for a turnaround in form, or is it time to consider alternatives?
This week, FPL expert Holly Shand and the team from The FPL Podcast by BBC Sport discuss the current dilemma surrounding Liverpool players.
Challenging Fixtures and a Shift in Strategy?
Holly Shand: We find ourselves at a pivotal moment regarding Liverpool assets as their upcoming fixtures become increasingly difficult, facing Manchester United, Brentford, Aston Villa, and Manchester City in the next four gameweeks.
Ryan Gravenberch has emerged as a standout performer, contributing to three goals in the last four matches. However, the competition for spots in the forward line means that consistent playing time is uncertain for Cody Gakpo, Hugo Ekitike, and Alexander Isak, who is still searching for his first Premier League goal with Liverpool.
Mohamed Salah presents a significant challenge: he has four goal contributions in seven appearances, with three occurring in injury time. After two consecutive scoreless games and lacking double-digit point totals, it seems unlikely that managers will choose to captain him over Erling Haaland in the upcoming weeks, raising doubts about the value of his £14.4 million price tag.
Nevertheless, Salah remains the top attacking option from Liverpool, capable of punishing those who decide to sell him ahead of the match against Manchester United at Anfield this weekend. He has amassed 134 fantasy points in 15 encounters against Manchester United.
Are Any Liverpool Players Worth Keeping?
Holly Shand: Liverpool's defense has been underwhelming, conceding nine goals and achieving just two clean sheets.
The long-term injury to goalkeeper Alisson further diminishes their prospects for clean sheets, making even Virgil Van Dijk a less appealing option compared to Arsenal defenders during this period.
There has also been considerable rotation among Liverpool's full-backs in recent weeks, with Van Dijk appearing to be the most reliable choice for those looking to invest in their defense.
Statman Dave: "I am tired of seeing them. I believe they will not return to my team this season. Alexander Isak has a single assist and is out. The same goes for Mohamed Salah. Liverpool has not met their own high standards this season. The only player I would consider keeping is Virgil van Dijk; the rest should be sold off."