As we approach the Premier League’s 19th Fantasy Football Matchweek, scheduled for December 29, 2024 to January 1, 2025, it will be important for FPL managers to strategize effectively to maximize their points.

Fantasy football managers must remember that they have two Wildcards per season. If you still have your first Wildcard, then you should use it before Sunday’s deadline. Otherwise, you will lose it. The second wildcard will be available to all managers from Gameweek 20 onwards.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the right decisions for your squad.

Fantasy Football 19 Game Schedule

Fantasy Football deadline for this weekend is SundayDecember 29 at 13:00 GMT

Sunday, December 29

• Leicester City vs Manchester City (14:30 GMT)
• Crystal Palace vs Southampton (15:00 GMT)
• Everton vs Nottingham Forest (15:00 GMT)
• Fulham vs Bournemouth (15:00 GMT)
• Tottenham Hotspur vs Wolf (15:00 GMT)
• West Ham United vs Liverpool (17:15 GMT)

Monday 30 December

• Aston Villa vs Brighton & Hove Albion (19:45 GMT)
• Ipswich City vs Newcastle (19:45 GMT)
• Manchester United vs Newcastle United (20:00 GMT)

Wednesday, January 1

• Brentford vs Armory (17:30 GMT)

Injury Updates to Note

• Mark Flekken (Brentford): The Brentford goalkeeper recently suffered a muscle injury. But Flekken has not been ruled out for the Arsenal game.

Top Transfer Targets

• Matheus Cunha (Wolf): Matheus Cunha (£7.1m) has scored at least 9 points in his last three games for Wolves. Despite facing a tough game against Tottenham, the striker’s recent form – including 9 points in a game beaten by Wolves – makes him a viable attacking option.
• William Saliba (Arsenal): Arsenal are back to winning ways, and William Saliba (£6.3m) has returned to form. The Frenchman is a cheaper option compared to Trent Alexander-Arnold (£7.1m). Arsenal will face Brentford, who have suffered three defeats in their last five matches.
• Anthony Gordon (Newcastle): Anthony Gordon (£7.3m) and Newcastle are enjoying a fine winning streak, with the striker registering a G/A in Newcastle’s last three games.

Players for Sale

• Justin Kluviert (Bournemouth): Justin Kluviert is a budget-friendly defender, but he will serve a one-match ban for five yellow cards.

Captain’s Choice

• Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah remains the most obvious choice for the captain’s role.
• Alexander Isak (Newcastle): Alexander Isak is a great captain option, especially for those who don’t have Salah in their fantasy football team.
• Cole Palmer (Ipswich): Despite Chelsea’s recent disappointing results, Cole Palmer and the rest of the Chelsea squad may find renewed enthusiasm for their visit to Ipswich Town this match week. Palmer, who scored in the Blues’ last game, may have had a bigger impact at Ipswich and established him as another great player.

Strategic Considerations

Equipment Bottlenecks: The festive period brings a busy schedule, increasing the risk of rotation and injury. Make sure your backup players are active and able to step in if necessary.

Monitor Press Conference: Last-minute injury updates and team news can significantly influence your decision. Stay informed to make transfers on time.

By staying up to date with the latest news and being strategic in your fantasy football transfers and captain selections, you can face the challenges of Matchweek 19 and improve your FPL performance.