In the world of Fantasy Premier League (FPL), the question of who to captain is a crucial one, especially as the season enters its final stages. With the title race heating up, managers are faced with a dilemma: should they go with the obvious choice, Erling Haaland, or take a risk with a different player? This article delves into the analysis of the best FPL captain for Gameweek 37, considering the contrasting fixtures of Arsenal and Manchester City.
The Case for Haaland
Haaland, a force to be reckoned with, has been in exceptional form, scoring in each of his last four matches and amassing 31 points. His team-mate, Jeremy Doku, and Bournemouth's Rayan have also been top-scoring attackers in the same period. With 10 big chances and 17 shots in the box, Haaland's attacking threat is undeniable. His underlying statistics showcase his return to top form, making him a strong contender for the captaincy.
Arsenal's Advantage
The key to this debate lies in the contrasting fixtures of Arsenal and Manchester City. Arsenal, playing at home against Burnley, a team with the worst defensive away record, presents an appealing opportunity. Burnley has conceded 45 goals in 18 away matches and is without a single clean sheet. This suggests that Arsenal will go on the attack, seeking goals and a win that could put them five points ahead of City.
The Attacking Threat
The attacking statistics further support the case for Arsenal's players. Burnley has conceded 53 big chances in away matches, the second-most in the league. In contrast, Bournemouth, City's opponents, has a strong home record, allowing only 19 big chances in 18 home matches, the best in the league. This indicates that Arsenal's attackers have the advantage, making them a more attractive choice for the captaincy.
Form and Consistency
While Haaland's form is undeniable, it's essential to consider the form and consistency of other players. Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White and Manchester United's Casemiro are in-form assets, but Gibbs-White is a doubt for his team's upcoming match. Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins has also been impressive, scoring three goals and supplying an assist in his last three starts. However, the article emphasizes the importance of considering the attacking threat and the defensive weaknesses of opponents.
The Next Best Alternative
The article concludes by suggesting that, while Haaland is a strong choice, the next best alternative is Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes. Fernandes has a consistent record at Old Trafford, averaging 8.3 points per match in eight home games and has no blanks. His kind home matches and attacking threat make him a viable option for the captaincy.
In the end, the decision of who to captain in FPL is a complex one, requiring a careful analysis of fixtures, form, and attacking threat. While Haaland is a tempting choice, the article highlights the potential of other players, such as Fernandes, to provide value and consistency.
