FPL 2024-2025: Blank Gameweek 29 preview

Posted on by FISO

Congrats to all those managers who backed Mo Salah for a haul against Southampton, as the Egyptian superstar added 2 goals and 15 FPL points to his already impressive totals. And to those managers who went with Cole Palmer instead, who had a fantastic fixture on paper with Leicester at home: better luck next time! The England international came away with just a single point after missing a penalty in what ended up being a stingy 1-0 victory for the Blues.

On to Gameweek 29 though, because it’s promising to be big one for fantasy managers. A total of four teams have a blank this gameweek and their absence will have a considerable impact on FPL standings. That is because the four teams with a blank in Gameweek 29 are Aston Villa, Crystal Palace, Liverpool and Newcastle. As a result, the (hugely) popular likes of Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Ollie Watkins will not be available for selection this week. That complicates things, naturally, but it also provides an opportunity for fantasy managers to put their knowledge and skills to the test. We expect a peak in chip usage this gameweek, particularly of the Free Hit, so keep that in the back of your mind.

Don’t forget, the deadline for gameweek 29 is set at 13h30 (UK time) on Saturday, March 15th, 2025. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Most transferred in/transferred out players (as per March 13th, 2025)

 TRANSFERS OUTTRANSFERS INPOSSIBLE REASONS
GKAlisson (LIV), Martinez (AST), Henderson (CRY)Sels (NFO), Sa (WOL), Pickford (EVE)BGW29
DEFHall (NEW), Alexander-Arnold (LIV), Virgil (LIV)Aina (NFO), Kerkez (BOU), Gvardiol (MCI)BGW29, Kerkez form + fixtures, Hall injury
MIDPalmer (CHE), Rogers (AST), Salah (LIV)Fernandes (MUN), Kluivert (BOU), Gibbs-White (NFO)BGW29, Kluivert form + fixtures
FORIsak (NEW), Cunha (WOL), Mateta (CRY)Wood (NFO), Haaland (MCI), Pedro (BRI)BGW29, Pedro goal-scoring form, Cunha suspension, Mateta injury doubt

Premium pick

With Alexander Isak and Mohamed Salah blanking, Cole Palmer playing away at Arsenal and Bukayo Saka injured, our premium fantasy pick for the week has rarely been more straight forward. Especially because Erling Haaland (£14.7m) has a home game coming up against Brighton, who are definitely having a great 2024-2025 season, but whose defence is not always as solid as it should be. The Seagulls have already conceded 40 goals in 28 league games this season, of which 24 were conceded away from home. Then again, Man City have been far from prolific in front of goal of late as well, with a 0-2 loss to Liverpool, a 0-1 victory at Spurs and a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest in the last three. We nevertheless expect Haaland to feature heavily in Blank Gameweek 29, partly because of expected Free Chip usage and partly because of the fact that he still sits in just over 30% of all squads. Let’s see if the Norwegian forward can work on his current totals of 20 goals and 3 assists when Brighton visit the Etihad on Saturday.

Non-premium pick

With an ownership of 47.8%, Chris Wood (£7.3m) is not exactly a very differential kind of non-premium fantasy pick, but one we believe may pay off handsomely in Blank Gameweek 29. On top of that, the New Zealand international also looks like a great and relatively budget-friendly option until the very end of the season. First of all, this weekend’s game, because we see possibilities for Wood and the rest of the Tricky Trees when they visit Ipswich Town on Saturday. The Tractor Boys are fighting against relegation and have already conceded 58 goals in 28 league games this season, which must sound like sweet music to the ears of Wood, who already sits on 18 goals and 3 assists. Second of all, Forest gave got a good-looking fixture on paper coming up after that, which includes home games against Manchester United, Everton, Brentford and Leicester plus visits to Crystal Palace and West Ham, among others. Our opinion: if you are using the Free Hit Chip in Blank Gameweek 29, Wood should be part of your squad and if you are not using the Free Hit chip… as well.

The budget enabler

From one of the major surprises of the season to another, as we move from non-premium fantasy pick Chris Wood from Nottingham Forest to budget fantasy pick Antoine Semenyo (£5.7m) from Bournemouth. The Cherries currently find themselves in 9th place, five points off fourth place. With 12 goals and 6 assists, Justin Kluivert has been taking up much of the spotlight at Bournemouth and the Dutchman is an excellent inclusion for any Blank Gameweek 29 squad, but we have opted for Semenyo instead, as the Ghana international comes in £0.5m cheaper. At the same time, he can also show more than decent stats with 7 goals and 5 assists from 27 Premier League starts. His direct goal involvement has dropped off a bit in past weeks, but with a home game against Brentford coming up, we hope that he will get at least a few opportunities to continue building on his current totals.

The differential

For our differential fantasy pick for Blank Gameweek 29, we are sticking with Bournemouth. Or better said, with the Bournemouth attack, as the Cherries are expected by the bookmakers to be the highest-scoring team behind Manchester City (at home to Brighton). Enter Evanilson (£5.6m), who was brought in for about £35 million from Porto last summer. The Brazilian got off to a decent start on the English South Coast, with 5 goals and 4 assists in his first 18 league starts, but he then suffered a broken foot that kept him out of action between Gameweeks 21 and 26. Evanilson returned to the pitch for 13 minutes in GW27 against Brighton and returned to the starting eleven last weekend for the visit to Spurs. Bournemouth got a 2-2 draw in London and their Brazilian striker got on the scoresheet for 8 FPL points. Up next are Brentford at home on Saturday, followed by Ipswich Town at home in GW30, West Ham away in GW31, Fulham at home in GW32 and a visit to Crystal Palace in GW33. In other words, plenty of opportunities on the short and medium term for Evanilson, who is currently part of just 2.2% of all squads in the official fantasy fame, to get some attacking returns.

The (vice-)captaincy

In Blank Gameweek 28, we are captaining Erling Haaland for Manchester City’s home clash with Brighton.

Good alternatives to the Norwegian goal machine include Chris Wood for Forest’s visit to Ipswich Town, Bruno Fernandes for Manchester United’s visit to Leicester on Sunday, and Justin Kluivert for Bournemouth’s home encounter with Brentford.

Out of sorts Cole Palmer should not be disregarded for the armband neither, though Chelsea are playing Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday.

For further thoughts and discussions (including minleagues and side games) on the FPL season visit FISO’s FPL forum.

How to Bet on a Horse Racing Winner

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Spring is in the air and horse racing season is upon us… people are scouring the different betting sites looking for the latest prices, looking to see what bets and odds are available for the favourites, scouring through Gold Cup odds to see where the best value lies.

And why not? Betting on horse racing is something that can’t be beaten – where you need just the right blend of skill, strategy, and a bit of luck to pick the winner. 

However, whether you’re a beginner or you consider yourself a bit of an expert, you need to make sure you understand the various aspects of horse racing to give yourself the best chances of picking a winner. 

So, with that being said, here’s a look at how you can up your game at horse racing betting.

Understand Horse Racing Odds

Horse racing odds are literally the cornerstone of everything – so before you even think about placing a bet, you really have to know horse racing odds work. 

The odds are basically the likelihood of a horse winning and tell you what the potential payout would be if they do win – and they can come in three different formats. 

The most common way in the UK is fractional – e.g., 5/1. In the rest of Europe it’s usually decimal – e.g., 6.00, and in the US it’s moneyline format  – e.g. +500. Basically, the lower the odds, the higher the chances of winning… but with a smaller payout. Meanwhile, going for a horse with higher odds is a riskier bet – but with bigger win potential.

Different Types of Horse Racing Bets

There are also different types of bets you can place on horse racing – not just simply betting on the winner. You need to decide what type you’re happy to go for based on your knowledge, experience and risk-tolerance. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Win Bet – The most popular type of wager where you’re just betting on a horse to win the race.
  • Place Bet – Your horse will need to finish in the top two (or three in some races) to win your bet.
  • Each-Way Bet – This is a combination of a win and place bet – and you win if your horse finishes in the top places.
  • Exacta – A bit tougher… as you’ll need to predict the first and second-place finishers in the right order.
  • Trifecta – Tougher still – as you need to try to pick the first three finishers in the right order.
  • Superfecta – Want to go really tough? Think you can pick the first four finishers in the exact order? You can get serious rewards if you can.
  • Accumulator – Another big payer… this is where you place bets on more than one race in one big bet – and they all need to win to get the payout.

What to Think About When Betting on a Winner

Here are the main things to think about when trying to land that big horsey win…

Study the Form Guide

Looking at a horse’s recent performance is one of the most important things you need to do when trying to choose the winner. Look at:

  • Its most recent race results
  • The track conditions in its previous races
  • Its historical finishing positions and the competition they faced
  • Have there been any improvements or declines in form?

Analyse the Jockey and Trainer

Look for experienced jockeys and successful trainers that have a track record of winning. Look at their statistics – including their win percentages, how they perform in major races, and their history with certain horses.

Track Conditions and Race Distance

Different horses do better under different track conditions, i.e. firm, soft, muddy, or heavy, etc. Some horses are better at certain distances, while others struggle with it. Look to see how your horse has performed under similar conditions in some of its past races.

The Horse’s Starting Position

In some races, a horse’s starting gate can have a huge impact on its chances. In a short sprint, inside positions can be better, while being drawn wider can be better for longer distances.

Weight Carried

A horse carrying a heavier weight may have trouble compared to one that’s carrying less.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

That’s what you should be doing… and here’s what you shouldn’t!

  • Betting on Every Race –Be selective and bet only when you’re reasonably confident and find a good value bet.
  • Ignoring Track Conditions – A horse might be great on firm ground but struggle in wet conditions.
  • Chasing Losses – Losing streaks happen, don’t try to win your money back all at once!
  • Relying Too Much on Favorites – Favourites only win around 30-35% of the time, and don’t always offer good value for money.

So, there you have it! Hopefully you’re ready to start making those horse racing bets! Good luck!

FANTASY PREMIER LEAGUE: WHY MIDFIELDERS ARE BETTER INVESTMENTS THAN FORWARDS

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Making the most out of your £100 million budget is the key to becoming a successful Fantasy Premier League manager. It can be easy to feel tempted to spend the bulk of it on forwards, but today we are here to tell you why midfielders are always the better choice for splashing cash on. Mohamed Salah may or may not be a part of FPL next season, but here’s why you should not lose faith in expensive midfielders.

Midfielders earn more points for goals

The FPL scoring system favours midfielders over forwards. So, it’s the primary reason for going big on a midfielder. Whereas forwards only get four points each goal, midfielders get five. Although at first look this small variation might not appear important, over a season it can give midfielders who score often a major point edge.

For example, the midfielder gains extra 15 points simply from goal-scoring alone if both a striker and a midfielder score 15 goals in a season.

Over the last 10 seasons, only once has a forward managed to beat all midfielders to the top of the FPL table. Erling Haaland’s 272-point campaign in the 2022-23 season is an outlier that doesn’t justify prioritising forwards over midfielders.

Salah is on track to become the highest-scoring FPL asset for the fourth time and has already broken the record for the most FPL points ever scored by a player.

Extra points for clean sheets

FPL is often compared to gambling, but it’s frequently overlooked that, in both cases, certain tactics can be applied to minimise risk. For example, casino sites UK often hand out free spins and other perks for certain games. So, if you’re in the mood to try a new game, taking advantage of these perks can significantly reduce the risk factor.

Similarly, a midfielder offers more avenues to points than a forward. So, when you are investing heavily on a player, it makes sense that you would want to use the money on a midfielder. Even if a midfielder fails to score or assist, he can get an extra point for his team keeping a clean sheet.

As mentioned earlier, these extra points can add up over time and make a significant impact on your end-of-season standings.

Bonus point potential

When Haaland was made the most expensive player in FPL history this season, the thinking was that he has the easiest route to points. The Manchester City No.9 had a group of elite creators behind him, so it was supposed to be goals galore, right? Unfortunately, that did not turn out to be the case this season and the Norwegian has had a vastly underwhelming time so far.

Midfielders this season have shown us that they are likelier to pick up bonus points than their forward counterparts.

Although premium forwards are mostly concerned with goal-scoring, premium midfielders often participate actively in general team play, which generates more assist possibilities. Set-piece takers, corner takers, and penalty takers increase their value even more, as they have several ways to add points.

Based on their whole impact in a game, the FPL bonus points system rewards players factoring in goals, assists, critical passes, and general influence. Because they may contribute not only goals but also assists and passes creating pivotal situations, premium midfielders usually rule the bonus points system.

On the other hand, forwards sometimes find it difficult to get bonus points until they score several goals since they lose points for lost opportunities and getting dispossessed. Because of their all-around efforts, midfielders Kevin De Bruyne, Bruno Fernandes, and Bukayo Saka routinely score bonus points.

THE PLAYERS Championship – The ‘Fifth Major’ 

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THE PLAYERS Championship—not a major, but it sure does a great impression of one. The PGA Tour’s unofficial “Fifth Major” is upon us, and with it comes big money, elite talent, and a lot of water hazards!

And FanTeam have got plenty of ways for you to get involved in the action!

This Week’s Contests on FanTeam 🎯

Whether you’re an experienced golf DFS player or just fancy trying out golf for free this week, they’ve got multiple ways to test your fantasy skills:

🏆 THE PLAYERS Championship 2025 (Full Tournament)- Starts Thursday 13th March at 11:40 UK

£2,800 Guaranteed (£12 Entry)
£1,400 Guaranteed (£2 Entry)

🎟️ Players Championship Freeroll – Win EPL Final Sprint Tickets
20 x £10 tickets & completely FREE to enter

📅 Single Round Contests

Single Round (Thursday) £350 Guaranteed (£5 Entry)
Round 2 (Friday) – £500 Guaranteed (£5 Entry)
Round 3 (Saturday) – £400 Guaranteed (£5 Entry)
Final Round (Sunday) – £400 Guaranteed (£5 Entry)

The Course – Where Dreams Go to Drown 🌊

TPC Sawgrass, located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, is a 7,275-yard, par-72 stadium course. It has narrow fairways, tiny greens, and enough water to justify lifeguards on site.

Key Holes:

The 17th Hole (“The Island Green”) – Where even world-class golfers turn into nervous wrecks. A simple wedge shot in theory, yet terrifying. Has ruined many a golfers pay check on the final day. 

The 18th Hole – A water-lined dogleg that demands a perfect tee shot. And if you’re leading on Sunday? Good luck keeping your nerve.

Recent Winners –
2024 Scottie Scheffler -20
2023 Scottie Scheffler -17
2022 Cameron Smith -13
2021 Justin Thomas -14
2020 COVID-19 N/A (No event)
2019 Rory McIlroy -16

What do we learn from this?

Elite players win here. Scheffler looking for the three-peat. If he wins again, they might rename it TPC Scheffler.

Winning Trends – What Do The Numbers Say?

📊 Recent Form Matters:

11 of the last 13 winners had already posted a top-4 finish that year.

15 of the last 16 winners had at least one previous top-23 finish at THE PLAYERS.

The last seven winners all finished T22 or better in their last event.

Translation? If you’re backing a guy who missed the cut last week and hasn’t sniffed the top-25 here before, good luck finding a winner.


Key Stats to Target 🔑

✅ Strokes Gained: Approach (SG: APP) – Sawgrass rewards elite iron play. If you can’t hit a green here, you’re toast.

✅ Scrambling & Around-the-Green Play (SG: ATG) – The small greens make up-and-downs crucial.

✅ Strokes Gained: Tee-to-Green (SG: TTG) – Historically, only two winners since 2011 have finished outside the top 10 in this metric.

✅ Driving Accuracy – Bombing it isn’t enough—you need to be in the right spots.


 Who’s Hot? 🔥

💰 Studs:

Scottie Scheffler (25.6m)  Two-time defending champ. 

Collin Morikawa (21m) – One of the best iron players in the world.

Rory McIlroy (23m) – Won here in 2019, been a strong start to 2025.

📈 Mid-Range Gems:

Russell Henley (19m) – Won only last week. Hot form.

Sepp Straka (17.2m) – Fairway machine. 

Shane Lowry (18.2m) – Excellent in the wind.

💎 Bargain Bin:

Aaron Rai (14.2m) – 4th in Driving Accuracy, trending up.

Michael Kim (11.8m) – Hottest player in the field, statistically speaking.

Nick Taylor (14.6m) – Elite irons, solid accuracy.

Fantasy NBA Player Props vs. Traditional Fantasy: Which Format Offers the Best Edge?

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Picture Credit

Fantasy basketball has evolved. The standard season-long leagues that rely on drafting a team and managing rosters for months now share the stage with daily fantasy sports (DFS) and player props. But which format offers the most advantage? For those looking to maximize their edge—whether through deep strategy, skill, or efficiency—understanding the core differences between player props and traditional fantasy basketball is crucial.

The Differences Between Player Props and Traditional Fantasy

Traditional fantasy basketball relies on long-term roster management, drafts, and consistent performance across an entire season. It rewards players who understand the importance of research into team dynamics, player rotations, and injury management. The almost addictive thrill of the fantasy basketball challenge comes from competing against others in a league, a challenge requiring weeks or months of commitment.

On the other hand, player props are a form of daily fantasy where participants wager on individual player stats—points, rebounds, assists, or other metrics. Instead of managing an entire roster, participants assess a single athlete’s expected performance against a set number. Props require a strong grasp of short-term variables such as matchups, recent form, and pace of play.

Both formats require skill, but they emphasize different types of decision-making. Success in traditional fantasy relies on in-depth research and long-term planning, while player props demand sharp, immediate analysis.

Skill vs. Predictability: Where Can You Gain an Edge?

One of the biggest debates between fans of these formats is often around which provides the better opportunity for an edge. Traditional fantasy rewards those who research deeply, draft well, and make strategic roster moves throughout the NBA season. Success depends on balancing stars and depth players while managing injuries and waivers.

Player props, however, shift the focus to game-by-game predictions. Because props isolate individual performance rather than team dynamics, they can be more predictable in certain situations. For example, if a star player is out, the second option on the team often sees an increase in usage, making his point total a strong bet. Traditional fantasy players can also benefit from these trends, but in a more gradual way through roster adjustments rather than immediate action.

Another factor is competition. In traditional fantasy, league sizes vary, and competitors range from casual players to experts. In player props, the challenge comes from beating sportsbooks or DFS platforms, which set lines based on historical data and market movement. This means identifying inefficiencies in the lines rather than outmaneuvering other participants.

Which Format Demands More Research?

Success in both formats depends on research, but the type of analysis differs. Traditional fantasy players must assess season-long factors such as team schedules, potential injuries, and coaching strategies. A manager needs to understand how a player’s role might change over time and anticipate when to buy low or sell high. Drafting well and making the right in-season adjustments require extensive knowledge of player strength and weaknesses, team rotations, and statistical trends.

Player prop betting, on the other hand, requires more focused research. Instead of focusing on season-long patterns, bettors must analyze individual matchups, game pace, and recent player performance. Since prop lines shift based on betting action and late-breaking news, success often hinges on recognizing trends before oddsmakers adjust. This is where detailed NBA player research becomes invaluable—understanding a player’s shooting efficiency against specific defensive schemes or how they perform in back-to-back games can provide a real edge.

For those who enjoy long-term strategizing, traditional fantasy offers a more in-depth challenge. But if quick adjustments and real-time analysis appeal more, player props provide a faster-paced alternative.

Risk and Reward: Which Format Is More Profitable?

Risk in traditional fantasy comes from long-term uncertainty. Injuries, coaching changes, and even unexpected player slumps, all of which can derail an entire season. While trades and waiver pickups help mitigate these issues, managers often find themselves stuck with a poor draft pick or a key player suffering a season-ending injury.

Player props, however, offer immediate results. Each bet is independent, meaning a bad night doesn’t carry over to future wagers. This format allows for better bankroll management since losses can be limited on a per-game basis rather than affecting an entire season. However, betting odds impact profitability. Since sportsbooks set lines to limit sharp action, finding value consistently requires discipline and a deep understanding of player trends.

One advantage of traditional fantasy is that it eliminates the vig (sportsbook cut). Instead of betting against the house, managers compete against other participants, where skill determines success over time. In contrast, with player props, consistent profit requires a higher win rate than 50% to overcome the built-in margins sportsbooks apply to lines.

Which Format Provides the Best Edge?

The answer depends on the player/bettors personal strengths. Traditional fantasy rewards managers who excel at long-term planning and in-depth player evaluation. The best players in this format find hidden gems in drafts and maximize trade value. However, it demands patience and commitment.

Player props provide a more immediate and flexible approach to fantasy basketball. Platforms like FanDuel have made prop betting more accessible and engaging, offering a wide variety of markets with real-time updates. Unlike traditional fantasy leagues, where competition is against other managers, prop bettors compete against set lines—creating opportunities to capitalize on favorable odds before they adjust.

For those looking to leverage long-term knowledge and strategy, traditional fantasy remains a strong choice. But for those who prefer actionable, immediate decisions with clear statistical advantages, player props offer more flexibility and control.

Find Your Fantasy Edge

Both formats provide opportunities for skill-based success, but the best choice depends on individual preferences. Traditional fantasy basketball rewards strategic thinkers who enjoy managing rosters over months, while player props cater to those who want faster results and the ability to capitalize on real-time data.

Ultimately, neither format is universally better, but each offers a different path to gaining an edge. Whether focusing on season-long dominance or beating the sportsbook daily, the key remains the same: consistent research, smart decision-making, and disciplined execution.

FPL 2024-2025: Gameweek 28 preview

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Well, Jarrod Bowen at least returned with an assist against Leicester for us last weekend, because the rest of our picks were disappointing to say the least. Cole Palmer could have and should have a double-digit haul, but came off with a 3-pointer in the 4-0 victory over Southampton. Matheus Cunha blanked against Fulham, but that wasn’t the worst of it as he scored a direct red card against Bournemouth in the FA Cup a few days later. Result? A 3-match ban, meaning Wolves’ absolute talisman this season will miss the favourable fixtures against Everton (home), Southampton (away) and West Ham (home). And finally, our differential fantasy pick Matt Doherty, with a 1-pointer in Gameweek 27 at home against Fulham.

Anyway, on to FPL Gameweek 28, which kicks off with a top-six clash between number three Nottingham Forest and number four Manchester City. For sure that is not a sentence you were expecting to read this season, but it’s true nonetheless. Other games that should attract plenty of (fantasy) attention are Crystal Palace at home to Ipswich Town (though Jean-Phillipe Mateta will likely miss out), Chelsea at home to Leicester and, of course, Liverpool at home to Southampton. You probably already know who our captain for Gameweek 28 will be…

Don’t forget, the deadline for gameweek 28 is set at 11h00 (UK time) on Saturday, March 8th, 2025. The free to play FPL or pay to play season/weekend/daily games like FanTeam are ideal ways of following the Premier League action.

Most transferred in/transferred out players (as per March 6th, 2025) with Cunha & Mateta most sold and most bought!

 TRANSFERS OUTTRANSFERS INPOSSIBLE REASONS
GKSanchez (CHE), Martinez (AST), Sels (NFO)Alisson (LIV), Henderson (CRY), Pickford (EVE) 
DEFHall (NEW), Robinson (FUL), Aina (NFO)Muñoz (CRY), Alexander-Arnold (LIV), Cucurella (CHE)Muñoz form, Hall injured
MIDPalmer (CHE), Gordon (NEW), Amad (MUN)Kluivert (BOU), Szoboszlai (LIV), Mbeumo (BRE)Szoboszlai and Mbeumo form, Kluivert form + fixtures, Gordon suspension, Amad injured
FORCunha (WOL), Isak (NEW), Mateta (CRY)Mateta (CRY), Wissa (BRE), Cunha (WOL)Mateta form + fixtures, Wissa and Cunha form, Cunha suspension, Mateta injury doubt

Premium pick

In all honesty, with Chelsea playing at home against leaky Leicester City and with Liverpool facing leaky Southampton at Anfield, we did ponder our decision for a moment. Both out-of-sorts Cole Palmer and in-form Mohamed Salah (£13.8m) are excellent shouts as stand-out premium fantasy picks for Gameweek 28, and for the armband as well, but in the end, we still went with the Liverpool man. Salah is simply unstoppable this season with an incredible 25 goals and 17 assists from 28 league starts so far. He has returned in his last seven Premier League games, a run during which he managed 7 goals and 4 assists to be exact. The Reds are now facing Southampton and despite their gruelling (and lucky) mid-week Champions League visit to PSG, we still see lots of goals in that one. Lots of goals for Liverpool, that is, because with 65 conceded goals so far, the Saints boast the league’s worst defence. We feel a seventeenth (17th!) double-digit haul of the season might be on the cards for Salah at Anfield on Sunday.

Non-premium pick

Picking Salah over Palmer as our premium fantasy pick doesn’t mean that we don’t rate the Chelsea home game at all. Far from it, actually, because like the Saints, the Foxes are far from a solid defensive set-up and Chelsea might just run riot on Sunday. Therefore, we decided to get in on the Blues attack with Pedro Neto (£6.2m) as our way in. The Portuguese forward, who is listed as a midfielder in the official fantasy game, got a goal and an assist for 11 FPL points against Southampton last weekend, and even though that seemed slightly lucky considering his Expected Goal Involvement of just 0.30, we can imagine a similar performance against a similarly faulty backline. After Southampton, they have let in the most goals so far this season (61 conceded goals in 27 league games), while Chelsea are fully immersed in the fight for Champions League football at the moment. In other words, the Blues are big favourites for this one and we feel Neto might be one of the major benefactors from this, FPL-wise at least.

The budget enabler

Our budget fantasy pick for Gameweek 28 is a teammate of Neto’s, Christopher Nkunku (£5.7m). In part due to injuries, the 2024-2025 season has not yet really become what the former RB Leipzig forward would have expected, but he’s been in decent form of late. Manager Enzo Maresca had him on the pitch for at least 75 minutes in each of his last three Premier League matches and he recorded 12 FPL points last weekend, courtesy of a goal, an assist and a bonus point against Southampton. On top of his FPL points, Nkunku’s underlying numbers were promising as well, with four shots, two created chances and an Expected Goal Involvement of 0.57. At his current price of £5.7m, we can see few other budget options with a ceiling as high as Nkunku’s in Gameweek 28. It should be noted though, in case you are tempted by what seems to be a perfect coming-together of form and fixture, that Chelsea have got a challenging run of fixtures after the Leicester game: Arsenal away, Spurs at home and Brentford away. That doesn’t mean they won’t take points and FPL hauls from those games, but on paper those are far from easy opponents.

The differential

This might come as a surprise to some, but over the last six gameweeks, Crystal Palace have actually been top of the league in terms of Expected Goals. That’s right, over the last six games, statistically speaking, no other team was expected to make as many goals as the Eagles. Much of that was obviously thanks to the on-fire Jean Phillippe Mateta, but the Frenchman will likely not feature this weekend after suffering a horror challenge from Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts in the FA Cup. The Palace attack is more than just Mateta though, which is why our differential fantasy pick for Gameweek 28 is Eberechi Eze (£6.7m). Compared to last season, when the playmaker scored 11 goals and provided 5 assists, his 2024-2025 campaign has been underwhelming so far, but we feel there might be a haul waiting for him in the upcoming home game against Ipswich Town. The Tractor Boys are currently 18th in the Premier League with 57 goals conceded, which includes a top-two ranking for attempts conceded from set-pieces. Eze is in charge of most set-pieces at Palace and with Mateta most likely missing the Ipswich game, he will be on penalties as well. Keep in mind that Crystal Palace blank in Gameweek 29, but if your squad and strategy allow for bringing in Eze, you’ve probably got one of the best differentials in the official at the moment.

The (vice-)captaincy

Our captain is Mohamed “25 goals 17 assists” Salah.

The perfect alternative to the Egyptian is Cole Palmer, for Chelsea’s home game against Leicester City.

More daring armband picks include Justin Kluivert away at Spurs, Alexander Isak away at West Ham and Kaoru Mitoma for Brighton’s home game against Fulham.

For further thoughts and discussions (including minleagues and side games) on the FPL season visit FISO’s FPL forum.

Fantasy Meets Fortune: How to Turn Your FPL Picks into Betting Wins

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If you’re a Fantasy Premier League (FPL) addict, you’ve already got a head start on the average punter. Hours spent tinkering with your squad, analysing stats, and predicting which mid-table midfielder is about to go on a scoring streak aren’t just for bragging rights in your mini-league. That same knowledge can translate into cold, hard cash at the bookies. Welcome to the intersection of fantasy and fortune where your FPL nous becomes your betting edge. Here’s how to turn your virtual picks into real-world wins.

The Overlap: Why FPL and Betting Are a Match Made in Heaven

At its core, FPL is about predicting performance. You’re not just picking players you like, you’re forecasting goals, assists, clean sheets, and bonus points based on form, fixtures, and gut instinct. Sound familiar? It’s the same skill set that drives successful betting. Whether you’re eyeing a 10/1 upset on the weekend’s accumulator or a safer punt on over 2.5 goals, the data you’re already obsessing over in FPL can double as your betting playbook.

The beauty of this crossover is in the detail. FPL managers live and breathe stats expected goals (xG), minutes played, and set-piece duties, while casual bettors might just back their favorite team. Your edge lies in the hours you’ve already sunk into the game. So, let’s break down how to leverage that expertise into a winning betting strategy.

Step 1: Use Fixture Difficulty to Spot Betting Gems

Every FPL manager knows the Fixture Difficulty Rating (FDR) is gospel. That little color-coded chart isn’t just for planning transfers, it’s a treasure map for betting opportunities. When Arsenal face a leaky Burnley defense, you’re not only starting Bukayo Saka in your XI; you’re also eyeing him for an anytime goalscorer bet. When Manchester City hosts a relegation struggler, it’s not just Haaland’s hat-trick potential, it’s a clean sheet for Ederson.

Take it further: cross-reference FDR with bookies’ odds. A favorable fixture might see a team like Brighton underestimated against a mid-table side. If you’ve got Evan Ferguson in your FPL squad because of a soft run, why not back him to score at 3/1? The same logic applies to clean sheets, FPL’s obsession with defenders like Trent Alexander-Arnold can tip you off to bets on Liverpool shutting out a low-xG opponent.

Step 2: Ride the Form Wave, Players and Teams

Form is king in FPL and is just as crucial in betting. That 5.5m midfielder you wildcarded in after a brace last week? He’s not just racking up fantasy points, he’s a prime candidate for a goal or assist bet. Look at Ollie Watkins in 2024/25: if he’s banging in goals and you’ve captained him, the bookies might still offer juicy odds on him scoring against a top-six side.

Teams matter too. FPL managers track which sides are on a roll, say, Newcastle after a string of clean sheets. That’s your cue to bet on under 2.5 goals or a “both teams to score: no” market when they face a toothless attack conversely, if you’ve avoided a team’s defenders because they’re leaking goals (looking at you, promoted sides), back the opposition to score or chase an over-goals bet.

The trick? Don’t just follow your heart. FPL teaches you to be ruthless, ditch underperformers and chase differentials. Apply that to betting: if your gut says Manchester United will win but their xG says otherwise, trust the stats over sentiment.

Step 3: Differentials Are Your Secret Weapon

FPL’s differential, and low-ownership players who can explode are gold dust for betting. The masses might overlook a 4.5m defender like Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell, but if you’ve spotted his assist potential against a weak right flank, you’ve got a 10/1 “anytime assist” bet in your pocket. Bookies thrive on public bias toward big names, your FPL differential picks exploit that blind spot.

Take it further with markets like “player shots on target.” Check his shot stats if you’ve got a hunch about a budget striker like Brentford’s Yoane Wissa based on his FPL form. A 2/1 punt on two shots on target could cash in while your mates are still betting on Haaland.

Step 4: Captaincy Calls Double as Betting Boosts

Your FPL captain is your weekly MVP, the player you trust to deliver big. Why not back that confidence with a bet? If you’ve triple-captained Harry Kane for a home game against a bottom-three side, a 6/4 bet on him scoring twice isn’t just optimism, it’s informed faith. The same goes for assists: captaining Kevin De Bruyne? His odds to rack up a few key passes might be tastier than expected.

This works defensively too. If you’ve banked on a premium defender like Rúben Dias for a clean sheet bonus, pair it with a bet on City keeping the opposition scoreless. Your FPL research, fixture analysis, injury news, rotation risks, gives you the edge over casual punters.

Step 5: Live Betting, FPL Instincts in Real Time

FPL trains you to think on your feet, about late injuries, Pep Guardiola’s roulette, and last-minute transfers. That adaptability shines in live betting. Watching a match and seeing your FPL pick dominating? Jump on in-play odds for a goal or assist before the bookies catch up. If a team’s xG is climbing but the score’s still 0-0, an over-goals bet mid-game could be a steal.

FISO’s community forums are a bonus here, recommending bookies like JeffBet for the best live betting odds. Mid-match banter often flags lineup surprises or tactical shifts, and they use that intel to pounce on live markets while others are still refreshing their apps.

Step 6: Bankroll Like You Manage Your Budget

FPL’s £100m budget teaches discipline, you can’t have Haaland, Salah, and Son without sacrifices. Apply that to betting. Set a weekly stake (say, £20) and treat it like your FPL squad: spread it across safe bets (clean sheets, goalscorers) and differentials (long-shot accas). Don’t blow it all on a single punt, just like you wouldn’t stack your XI with 4.0m fodder.

Avoiding the Traps

A word of caution: FPL bias can bite. You might love your 6.0m midfielder, but don’t bet out of loyalty if his team’s form is tanking. Stick to the stats, FPL’s given you the tools to separate emotion from evidence. And please, gamble responsibly, chasing losses is as daft as benching your triple-captain pick.

The FISO Edge

FISO’s been uniting fantasy fanatics since 2000, and its forums are a betting goldmine. Share your FPL-to-betting wins, crowdsource tips, or debate whether Isak’s worth a punt at 5/2. The community’s collective wisdom, honed by years of fantasy battles, can sharpen your betting game.

From Points to Payouts

Fantasy and betting aren’t so different. Both reward research, instinct, and a knack for spotting value. So, next time you agonise over FPL transfers, ask yourself: can this pick pay off twice? With the right approach, your journey from the virtual dugout to the bookies could be a winning one. Let’s hear your best FPL-betting combos in the forums, see you on the leaderboard and the payout line!

Assessing Willie Mullins’ Festival favourites at Cheltenham

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As Prestbury Park gets ready to host the best National Hunt horses from Britain and Ireland, all eyes turn to Willie Mullins. The Closutton trainer has reshaped the Cheltenham Festival with his relentless drive for success, maintaining a dominance that looks set to continue in 2025.

The remarkable journey of Irish racing’s most successful trainer began modestly at Cheltenham in 1995 when Tourist Attraction claimed the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at odds of 25/1, yet has upsurged into an unparalleled Festival legacy.

With over 100 victories to his name, Mullins’ extraordinary achievements have rewritten the parameters of success at jump racing’s most prestigious gathering.

Having secured the leading trainer award at the Festival in 11 of the last 15 Mullins once again approaches Cheltenham with a formidable battalion of equine talent across all divisions.

His understanding of what constitutes Festival-calibre performance has been honed through decades of experience, from his days as an accomplished amateur rider to his current position as the dominant force in National Hunt racing.

The depth and breadth of talent the Irishman has at his disposal remains unmatched in the modern era, with Mullins’ extraordinary ability to prepare horses specifically for their Cheltenham targets giving him a decisive competitive edge.

As we examine his leading contenders for the 2025 Festival, we glimpse not merely individual equine talents, but a comprehensive training philosophy that has redefined excellence in National Hunt racing. Here are the favourites worth backing in the ante-post markets as we head into the final days before Cheltenham.

Kopek Des Bordes – Supreme Novices’ Hurdle

The traditional Festival curtain-raiser has become virtually synonymous with Mullins’ dominance, his seven victories since 2007 establishing an outstanding pedigree in the race.

Kopek Des Bordes confirmed his place at the pinnacle of this year’s novice division with a commanding 13-length victory at the Dublin Racing Festival, displaying a remarkable progression in his jumping technique from his hurdling debut.

The five-year-old stands clear on form of his nearest rival Romeo Coolio and compares favourably with historic Supreme luminaries including Altior.

His current odds of 8/11 make him a favourite in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle odds and showcase Mullins’ remarkable aptitude for producing festival-ready novices at the very highest level.

Final Demand – Turner Novices’ Hurdle

Few horses in training have generated the same level of excitement as Final Demand, whose rapid ascent from expensive store purchase to potential superstar has followed an extraordinarily steep trajectory.

His emphatic 15-length hurdling debut victory in December was followed by a seamless transition to Grade 1 company, producing a 12-length demolition of his Dublin Racing Festival opposition. Competition comes in the form of The New Lion and The Yellow Clay on day two.

Ballyburn – Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase

The transition from outstanding hurdler to accomplished chaser represents one of the most significant challenges in National Hunt racing, yet Ballyburn has navigated this path with admirable proficiency.

He dominated the Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle last year but was beaten by Sir Gino over an unsuitable two miles at Kempton. His best form has come over three miles, highlighted by a key Dublin Racing Festival win. With a Timeform rating of 157p, he has the credentials for Brown Advisory success.

The absence of The Jukebox Man further strengthens his chances of another Festival victory for Mullins.

Fact To File – Ryanair Chase

Fact To File is a top-class, versatile horse with strong Cheltenham form. He won the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase last year and stunned Galopin Des Champs in the John Durkan Memorial Chase.

Though he later lost to his stablemate, his Timeform rating of 170+ confirms his elite status. Initially priced at 8/1 for the Gold Cup, he is now likely to run in the Ryanair Chase. The potential clash with French star Il Est Francais adds extra excitement to the horse racing odds.

Galopin Des Champs – Cheltenham Gold Cup

The crowning jewel in Mullins’ remarkable Festival arsenal, Galopin Des Champs approaches his bid for a historic third consecutive Gold Cup victory with commanding authority.

Though lacking perhaps, the aesthetic brilliance of champions like Kauto Star, his relentless efficiency and physical resilience have established him as the definitive staying chaser of his generation.

His sole defeat this season—when third in the John Durkan Memorial Chase over an inadequate trip—has been comprehensively redeemed through emphatic victories in both the Savills Chase and Irish Gold Cup.

These performances have confirmed his current Timeform rating of 179, establishing a 7lb superiority over his nearest rival.

Priced at 8/15 for his Gold Cup hat-trick attempt, Galopin Des Champs personifies the remorseless competitive efficiency that has become Mullins’ hallmark, inflicting crushing defeats on all challengers through a combination of metronomic jumping, relentless galloping, and innate championship quality.

EPL Final Sprint – Mini-Season Game – Starts 1st April 2025

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Whether your fantasy season long hasn’t gone as planned or you’re just craving more season game action, FanTeam have got the perfect challenge for you!

🔥 Beginning on April 1st it’s the EPL Final Sprint – Mini-Season Game! 

Covering the last 9 Gameweeks of the Premier League season (GWs 30-38)

⚡ Flexible Transfer Dynamic – With 3 transfers per gameweek and a wildcard, the game is designed for a fun, fast-paced experience.

🏆 Game Format:

💰 £85M Budget – Build your best XI.

🔄 3 Transfers per Gameweek – No carryovers, extra transfers cost 4 points.

🃏 1 Wildcard – Use it anytime!

🔵 Max 3 Players per EPL Team – Find the perfect balance.

🎯 Captains Score 2x – Vice-Captain steps up if your Captain doesn’t start.

While the game officially opens for team build-ups in two weeks time, their satellites begin today! Now’s your chance to secure your spot in the tournament for as little as 50p!

Ajax vs AZ Alkmaar preview, team news, tickets, and prediction

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The Eredivisie clash between Ajax and AZ Alkmaar at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Sunday, March 16, 2025, promises to be a fierce battle in the Dutch Eredivisie as both sides look to solidify their positions in the league table. Ajax are chasing a return to their dominant best and are chasing PSV for the title, while AZ Alkmaar continue to push for a Champions League spot in what has been a tightly contested season.

After a turbulent start to the season, Ajax have started to find their rhythm again. Under the guidance of Francesco Fraioli, the Amsterdam giants have begun blending experience with emerging talents to climb up the table and restore some of their pride.

The form of forward Wout Weghorst will be crucial as he leads the line with power and precision. His physicality and clinical finishing have made him Ajax’s top scorer this season. Supporting him, Chuba Akpom and Bertrand Traore have provided creativity and pace on the wings, constantly troubling opposing defenses.

Midfield maestro Kenneth Taylor has been a standout performer, controlling games with his passing and energy. Alongside him, Davy Klassen offers leadership and quality deliveries from set pieces. Defensively, Daniel Rugani and Yaes Baas have emerged as key players, while Remko Passveer brings vast experience between the posts.

The challenge for Ajax will be maintaining their defensive shape against a high pressing AZ side while converting their chances in attack. Their fans know they have so much work to do in order to help restore their beloved side as the pride of Dutch football. For some seasons, they have been under par and have punched far below the lofty standards set by previous generations of Ajax players. 

For the fans, the task is simple, purchase Ajax tickets from an online resale store to support their team. Ajax continued their march for a title push and they defeated Almere 3-0 last time out. Goals from Wout Weghorst, Kenneth Taylor and Kian Franklin Fitz- Jim sealed the three points for the Amsterdam side. They however lost 3-1 to Lazio in the Europa League and this was his assessment of the defeat to the Italian side;

“We saw a lot of Lazio games and this was probably the one where they suffered the most,” Farioli told Sky Sport Italia.

“They are a team in a moment of great confidence and form, their organisation is remarkable, their quality and physicality, but my lads dominated both with and without the ball. There are regrets over the result and we certainly deserved more.”

“We lacked precision in our finishing. Lazio are in a magical period of form and everything is going their way at the moment. They all feel positive, are fighting for the maximum result in every game and are competitive on three fronts,” added the Italian manager Farioli.

“I congratulate them and am happy that Lazio are representing Italian football around Europe.” He noted that Lazio are representing Italian football excellently as they have been on the ascendancy in the past few seasons.

“I think we are in fact doing much better than anyone expected at this stage. The last two years have been very complicated, we were unable to bring any new players in and had to only sell, so the priority is to balance the books,” explained Farioli.

“Unfortunately, and it’s the first time since the start of the season, we are without a win in three, but overall we are heading in the direction where we want to be.”

Ajax are currently second in the Dutch Eredivisie and are six points from leaders, PSV Eindhoven, and they are also six points away from Lazio in the Europa League top position.

AZ Alkmaar have established themselves as one of the Eredivisie’s most consistent sides, competing toe to toe with the traditional big clubs. Managed by Pascal Jansen, AZ Alkmaar play with intensity, tactical discipline, and attacking flair.

Leading the charge for AZ is forward Troy Parrott, whose scoring exploits have made him one of the league’s deadliest strikers. His movement and clinical finishing will test Ajax’s defense. Supporting him, Ruben van Bommel and Sven Mijnans add creativity and speed in the attacking third.

In midfield, Peer Koopmeniers brother to Teun Koopmeniers continues to maintain balance in the centre of the park with his composure and vision, while captain Dani de Wit adds energy and leadership. AZ’s backline, anchored by the experienced Bruno Martins Indi and goalkeeper Rome Jayden Owusu-Oduro, will need to stay organized to withstand Ajax’s attacking onslaught.

AZ Alkmaar’s strength lies in their ability to change defence to offence very quickly, exploiting spaces left by their opposition teams that press high, something Ajax are frequently prone to do. AZ Alkmaar will surely go into the game confident and will fancy their chances as they know they can stifle the Ajax press and flair and hit them on the counter. 

Match tickets

The iconic Johan Cruyff Arena is expected to be near full capacity for this highly anticipated match. Fans can purchase Ajax Amsterdam vs Az Alkmaar tickets via Ajax’s official website or trusted ticketing platforms. 

The match will also be broadcast live on major Eredivisie networks and streaming services. If you will not be able to watch the match live, you can check websites connected to Dutch football for updates and streaming services to be able to watch the game live.

Team news

Both managers will look to field their strongest lineups, though factors beyond their control could affect the line ups.

Ajax  XI: Pasveer; Wijndal, Baas, Rensch, Rugani; Henderson, Klassen, Fitz-Jim; Akpom, Weghorst, Taylor

AZ Alkmaar XI: Owusu-Oduro; Maikuma, Penetra, Indi, de Wit; Koopmeniers, Buurmeester, Smit; Mijnans, van Bommel, Parrott

Prediction

Ajax’s home advantage could give them the edge, but AZ’s resilience and clinical counter-attacks will make this a tightly contested game. Both sides boast attacking quality, so goals are likely.

With their  form and quality, Ajax could just edge this encounter, but it won’t be easy.

Ajax 2-1 AZ Alkmaar