Fantasy Premier League: smart moves to boost your gameweek score

Want more points without overhauling your whole squad? Small, smart moves win more leagues than wild punts. Read this for clear, practical FPL actions you can use before the next deadline.

First, check the fixtures. Players facing two weak opponents or a team on a long run of away games are livelier picks than star names stuck in a tough run. Fixture swaps and double gameweeks change value fast—plan transfers around them, not just form.

Captain picks and why they matter

Captain choice is the single biggest leverage play. Pick someone who starts every game, takes set pieces, or is central to their team's attack. A premium forward who shoots a lot and plays 90 minutes is safest. Midfielders with shots and assists can win weeks too. If two players look equal, pick the one at home or playing a newly promoted side.

Don’t captain someone at risk of rotation. Check team news the day before the deadline. If a big club has cup fixtures, their stars might be rested. A late safe captain change beats sticking with hope.

Transfers, chips and bench strategy

Avoid hitting the transfer button for small perceived gains. One-point hits are usually a trap unless you’re fixing a real gap (like a confirmed starter out injured). Use free transfers to upgrade a weak starter or grab a nailed-on player with a great run of fixtures.

Chips (Wildcard, Bench Boost, Free Hit, Triple Captain) should follow a plan. Wildcard when you need to jump teams or when many favorable fixtures arrive. Free Hit is best for one-off blank or double gameweeks. Save Bench Boost for a double gameweek when your bench also plays. Triple Captain is high risk—use it on a truly nailed star in a double gameweek.

Bench players still matter. Always have at least one playing bench striker or midfielder for emergency minutes. A bench made of starters with good fixtures keeps you safe from rotation and surprise injuries.

Target differentials carefully. A low-owned player who’s nailed and on penalties or set pieces can boost rank fast. But don’t chase ownership—check the minutes and role first. A Brighton wingback exploding in form is tempting; confirm they start regularly before switching.

Finally, track injuries and press conferences. Managers speak clearly about rotations and minutes. Also watch price changes; early moves lock values but avoid knee-jerk transfers based on one match.

Follow these steps every week: check fixtures, pick a safe captain, use transfers with purpose, and save chips for structural advantage. That steady approach beats random cheering from the bench.