Marcus Tavernier is another name on many lips, with Bournemouth hosting Leeds. Tavernier has 5 goals and 52 points, making him a solid vice-captain option. Meanwhile, Bryan Mbeumo continues to deliver for Manchester United, and his away trip to Chelsea could be profitable given his 4 goals and 1 assist this campaign.
Elsewhere, Evanilson is emerging as a genuine differential for Bournemouth, while Arsenal’s Christos Tzolis looks a risky pick due to injury and a tough fixture at Liverpool. Aston Villa’s Zion Suzuki and Nicolas Jackson both have favourable home matches against Fulham, and Ipswich’s Julio Enciso is a budget enabler with attacking threat. We break down the best and worst options for this gameweek, using the latest stats and fixtures.
Also check our injury risk digest, price change predictions, and gameweek recap before you lock your team.
Quick picks
Haaland
CaptainHaaland at home to Brighton
Evanilson
DifferentialEvanilson hosts Leeds
Tzolis
AvoidTzolis injured, tough trip to Liverpool
Enciso
BudgetEnciso away to Hull City
Erling Haaland: Captain pick
- Pts
- 66
- G
- 9
- A
- 0
- xG
- 6.09
- xA
- 0.77
- Form
- 9.0
- Owned by
- 78.0%
- Price
- £15.7
Next fixture
Vs Brighton at home on 31st October, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
3
Form
9.0
Erling Haaland faces Brighton at home on 31st October, 2026, with 9 goals and 66 points already this season.
Why we like him
Erling Haaland lines up for Manchester City against Brighton at the Etihad on 31st October, a fixture that has seen him thrive in the past. Brighton’s defence has been leaky this season, and Haaland’s 9 goals from an xG of 6.09 underline his clinical finishing. With 66 total points, he is the highest-scoring forward in the game so far.
Haaland’s form rating of 9.0 is the best in the league, and he has started every match for City this season. Brighton’s FDR of 3 suggests a middling challenge, but City’s home record and Haaland’s consistency make him a reliable choice. No other forward comes close to his output, and his minutes are rarely in doubt under Pep Guardiola.
The Norwegian has notched up 0 assists, but his goal threat is unmatched. City’s attack is built around him, and he is always in the right place to finish chances. The Premier League Scout has again included Haaland as their captain pick for this gameweek.
With City’s creative midfielders feeding him, Haaland’s xG and shot volume remain elite. Even if Brighton try to sit deep, Haaland’s movement and power make him a nightmare to mark. His record at home is particularly strong, and he has delivered double-digit hauls more than any other player this season.
FPL impact
At £15.7, Haaland is the most expensive player in FPL, but his 78% ownership means going without him is a huge risk. He is the default captain for most managers, and not owning or captaining him can be punishing if he hauls.
His high ownership makes him a template pick, but the upside is that his points protect your rank. If you want to make ground, you could look elsewhere for captaincy, but the risk is obvious given his consistency.
Haaland is not a differential, but he is the safest captaincy option this week. If you are chasing, you might consider a vice-captain punt, but for most, the armband stays on him.
Transfers in and out are minimal for Haaland, as most managers already own him. If you don’t, it’s hard to justify going without, especially with a home fixture and his current form.
What do we suggest?
We advise keeping Haaland and giving him the captain’s armband again this week. His stats, fixture, and ownership all point to another strong return. Don’t overthink it, stick with the obvious choice.
If you’re looking to be different, consider a vice-captain punt elsewhere, but Haaland remains the best captain for Gameweek 9.
Marcus Tavernier: Vice captain
- Pts
- 52
- G
- 5
- A
- 0
- xG
- 3.61
- xA
- 1.33
- Form
- 7.0
- Owned by
- 17.8%
- Price
- £6.4
Next fixture
Vs Leeds at home on 31st October, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
3
Form
7.0
Marcus Tavernier hosts Leeds at the Vitality on 31st October, with 5 goals and 52 points this season.
Why we like him
Marcus Tavernier faces Leeds at home on 31st October, and his 5 goals this season make him Bournemouth’s top scorer. He has racked up 52 points, with an xG of 3.61 and an xa of 1.33, showing he’s a threat both as a scorer and creator. Leeds have struggled defensively, and Bournemouth’s home form has been solid, losing just one of their last 15 at the Vitality.
Tavernier’s form rating of 7.0 is backed up by his regular involvement in Bournemouth’s attacks. He is on set-pieces and often pops up with important goals, including three openers this season. The BBC Sport analysis calls him the “tone setter” for Bournemouth, and he rarely goes missing in big matches.
Leeds’ FDR of 3 suggests they are not the toughest visitors, and Tavernier’s direct style could exploit their weaknesses. Bournemouth have started to find their feet after a slow start, and Tavernier’s attacking numbers are among the best in the mid-price bracket. He’s also nailed for minutes, which is a big plus in FPL.
With Bournemouth’s fixtures turning, Tavernier is well placed to continue his run. He’s not just a one-week punt, his underlying stats suggest he can keep delivering over the next few gameweeks.
FPL impact
At £6.4, Tavernier is affordable for most squads and sits at 17.8% ownership. He’s not a template pick, but his returns make him a strong differential for those looking to climb the ranks.
His price means he fits easily into most midfields, and his attacking role gives him a high ceiling. He’s a viable vice-captain if you want to avoid the Haaland template, especially with Bournemouth’s home record.
Tavernier’s ownership is rising, but he’s still not in most top 10k squads, so a haul could boost your rank. He’s not a captaincy candidate for most, but as a vice-captain or transfer in, he’s a smart play.
If you’re looking for a mid-priced midfielder with strong fixtures and form, Tavernier is one of the best options. His set-piece duties add another route to points.
What do we suggest?
We recommend buying Tavernier if you don’t already own him and considering him for the vice-captaincy. His fixture and form make him a strong play this week. If you’re chasing, he’s a good way to differentiate from the template.
Hold if you already own him, and don’t be afraid to start him in your XI.
Bryan Mbeumo: Premium pick
- Pts
- 43
- G
- 4
- A
- 1
- xG
- 4.22
- xA
- 0.94
- Form
- 6.0
- Owned by
- 21.6%
- Price
- £7.9
Next fixture
Vs Chelsea away on 31st October, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
4
Form
6.0
Bryan Mbeumo travels to Chelsea on 31st October, with 4 goals, 1 assist, and 43 points this season.
Why we like him
Bryan Mbeumo faces Chelsea away on 31st October, and his 4 goals and 1 assist for Manchester United this season show he’s a reliable attacking asset. With 43 points and an xG of 4.22, he’s getting into good positions and taking plenty of shots. Chelsea’s defence has been inconsistent, and United’s attack is in good form.
Mbeumo’s form rating of 6.0 is solid, and he’s coming off a run of strong performances. He’s played both wide and centrally, giving him multiple routes to points. The Premier League’s Scout highlights his recent double-digit hauls and his role as a key part of United’s attack.
Chelsea’s FDR of 4 makes this a tougher fixture on paper, but United have scored freely in recent weeks. Mbeumo’s underlying numbers suggest he’s due more returns, and his involvement in set-pieces adds to his appeal. He’s also on penalties when Bruno Fernandes is not on the pitch.
Mbeumo has been voted Player of the Matchweek recently, showing his impact in big games. He’s a premium pick who can deliver even against strong opposition.
FPL impact
At £7.9, Mbeumo is priced just below the top bracket, making him accessible for most managers. His 21.6% ownership is healthy but not overwhelming, so he’s not a full template pick.
He’s a safe transfer in for those looking to strengthen their midfield, and his points per million are among the best in the premium bracket. He’s not a captaincy option this week, but he’s a reliable starter.
Mbeumo’s ownership is likely to rise if he continues his form, so getting in early could pay off. He’s a solid hold for those who already own him, and a smart buy for those looking to upgrade a mid-priced midfielder.
His price and role mean he’s unlikely to be rotated, and his set-piece duties give him a high floor for points.
What do we suggest?
We suggest holding or buying Mbeumo for this gameweek, even with the away fixture. His stats and role in United’s attack make him a premium pick worth backing.
Start him in your XI and expect steady returns, even against Chelsea.
Evanilson: Differential
- Pts
- 43
- G
- 3
- A
- 4
- xG
- 3.11
- xA
- 0.98
- Form
- 8.3
- Owned by
- 7.3%
- Price
- £6.2
Next fixture
Vs Leeds at home on 31st October, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
3
Form
8.3
Evanilson faces Leeds at home on 31st October, with 3 goals, 4 assists, and 43 points this season.
Why we like him
Evanilson lines up for Bournemouth against Leeds at the Vitality on 31st October, and his 3 goals and 4 assists have helped him to 43 points already. His xG of 3.11 and xa of 0.98 show he’s involved in most of Bournemouth’s best attacks. Leeds have struggled to keep clean sheets, and Evanilson’s form rating of 8.3 is one of the highest among forwards this week.
He’s Bournemouth’s record signing and has quickly become their focal point up front. Evanilson’s minutes are secure, and he’s shown he can deliver both goals and assists. The official Bournemouth profile highlights his pedigree and the club’s faith in him as a key signing.
Leeds’ FDR of 3 suggests this is a good fixture for attacking returns, and Bournemouth’s home form is strong. Evanilson’s link-up with Tavernier and the rest of the midfield has been productive, and he’s already delivered in big moments, including a last-minute equaliser against Aston Villa.
His ownership is just 7.3%, making him a genuine differential. If you’re looking for a forward who can outscore the template, Evanilson is a strong shout this week.
FPL impact
At £6.2, Evanilson is a budget-friendly forward who offers both goal and assist potential. His low ownership means a haul could give you a big boost in rank, especially if you’re chasing in mini-leagues.
He’s not a captaincy option, but he’s a great transfer in for those looking to move away from more popular picks. His price means he fits easily into most squads, and his form suggests he’s worth a punt.
Evanilson’s minutes are secure, and his involvement in Bournemouth’s attack means he’s always a threat. He’s a good option for those looking to break the template and find an edge this week.
If you’re on a wildcard or looking for a one-week punt, Evanilson is one of the best differentials available.
What do we suggest?
We advise buying Evanilson if you want a differential forward with strong form and a good fixture. Start him in your XI and look for attacking returns against Leeds.
If you already own him, hold and play him this week.
Christos Tzolis: Player to avoid
- Pts
- 16
- G
- 0
- A
- 2
- xG
- 0.19
- xA
- 0.55
- Form
- 0.0
- Owned by
- 4.1%
- Price
- £6.2
Next fixture
Vs Liverpool away on 1st November, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
4
Form
0.0
Christos Tzolis travels to Liverpool on 1st November, with 0 goals, 2 assists, and only 16 points this season. He is currently injured.
Why we are wary
Christos Tzolis faces Liverpool at Anfield on 1st November, but his season has stalled with 0 goals and just 2 assists from 16 points. He is currently flagged with a hamstring injury and is only expected back on the day of the match, making his minutes highly uncertain. Liverpool away is one of the toughest fixtures in the league, with an FDR of 4.
Tzolis’s form rating is 0.0, and he has not been able to build any momentum in the Arsenal side. His xG of 0.19 and xa of 0.55 show he’s not getting into dangerous positions often enough. Even when fit, he’s not been a regular source of points for FPL managers.
Arsenal have other attacking options, and Tzolis’s place in the starting XI is far from secure. The official Arsenal site highlights his versatility, but that hasn’t translated into FPL returns this season.
With a tough fixture and injury doubts, Tzolis is a risky pick who could easily miss out or come off the bench for limited minutes. There are better options in his price bracket with better fixtures and form.
FPL impact
At £6.2, Tzolis is not expensive, but his 4.1% ownership is likely to drop further if he misses out again. He’s not a template pick, and his lack of returns makes him a liability in your squad.
He’s flagged as injured, so even if he recovers, he may not start or play the full match. There’s no captaincy or vice-captaincy appeal, and he’s not a differential worth punting on this week.
Transfers out are likely to increase as managers look for fit and in-form midfielders. With Arsenal’s tough run, there’s little reason to hold or buy Tzolis at the moment.
If you’re looking for a budget midfielder, there are better options with more secure minutes and attacking threat.
What do we suggest?
We advise selling or benching Tzolis this week. His injury and fixture make him a poor pick for Gameweek 9.
Look elsewhere for a budget midfielder with better fitness and form.
Zion Suzuki: Defender pick
- Pts
- 30
- G
- 0
- A
- 0
- xG
- 0
- xA
- 0.01
- Form
- 4.7
- Owned by
- 2.6%
- Price
- £5.0
Next fixture
Vs Fulham at home on 31st October, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
2
Form
4.7
Zion Suzuki faces Fulham at home on 31st October, with 30 points and a form rating of 4.7 this season.
Why we like him
Zion Suzuki starts for Aston Villa against Fulham at Villa Park on 31st October, and his 30 points this season make him a solid goalkeeper option. Fulham’s attack has been inconsistent, and Villa’s home record is strong, making a clean sheet likely. Suzuki’s form rating of 4.7 is steady, and he’s made several key saves in recent matches.
Suzuki has played every minute for Villa this season, and his shot-stopping ability has been praised by coaches and pundits alike. The BBC Sport feature highlights his agility and consistency, which have helped Villa ride out tough spells in games.
Fulham’s FDR of 2 makes this one of the easier fixtures for Villa, and Suzuki’s command of his area gives him a good chance of bonus points. He’s not just a shot-stopper, his distribution and confidence help Villa build from the back.
With Villa’s defence settling, Suzuki is well placed for more clean sheets over the next few weeks. He’s a reliable pick for those looking to move away from more popular goalkeepers.
FPL impact
At £5.0, Suzuki is affordable and sits at just 2.6% ownership, making him a genuine differential. He’s not a template pick, so a clean sheet could give you a nice boost in rank.
He’s a good transfer in for those looking to change their goalkeeper, especially with Villa’s fixtures turning favourable. Suzuki is nailed for starts and rarely misses a game.
There’s no captaincy appeal, but as a set-and-forget keeper, Suzuki is a strong option for the next run of fixtures. His price allows you to invest more in outfield players.
If you’re on a wildcard or looking to save money in goal, Suzuki is one of the best picks this week.
What do we suggest?
We recommend buying Suzuki if you need a new goalkeeper, or holding if you already own him. Start him in your XI for a good chance at a clean sheet against Fulham.
He’s a solid pick for this week and beyond.
Julio Enciso: Budget pick
- Pts
- 29
- G
- 1
- A
- 2
- xG
- 1.64
- xA
- 1.66
- Form
- 4.7
- Owned by
- 0.8%
- Price
- £5.5
Next fixture
Vs Hull City away on 31st October, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
2
Form
4.7
Julio Enciso faces Hull City away on 31st October, with 1 goal, 2 assists, and 29 points this season.
Why we like him
Julio Enciso travels with Ipswich Town to Hull City on 31st October, and his 1 goal and 2 assists have helped him to 29 points this season. Hull’s FDR of 2 makes this one of the softer fixtures, and Enciso’s xG of 1.64 and xa of 1.66 show he’s involved in most of Ipswich’s attacks. His form rating of 4.7 is steady for a budget midfielder.
Enciso is a regular starter for Ipswich and has shown he can deliver against weaker opposition. The BBC Sport transfer report highlights his pedigree and attacking threat, and he’s already chipped in with important contributions.
Hull have struggled defensively, and Enciso’s direct style could exploit their weaknesses. He’s not just a one-week punt, his underlying stats suggest he can keep delivering over the next few gameweeks.
With Ipswich fighting for points, Enciso is likely to keep his place and get plenty of minutes. He’s a good option for those looking to free up funds for premium picks elsewhere.
FPL impact
At £5.5, Enciso is a true budget enabler, and his 0.8% ownership means he’s a big differential. He’s not a template pick, so any haul could give you a big boost in rank.
He’s a good transfer in for those looking to downgrade a midfielder and invest elsewhere. Enciso is nailed for minutes and has multiple routes to points with both goals and assists.
There’s no captaincy appeal, but as a fifth midfielder or bench option, Enciso is one of the best value picks this week. His price allows you to spend more on premium assets.
If you’re on a wildcard or need a cheap starter, Enciso is a smart choice for this week and beyond.
What do we suggest?
We advise buying Enciso if you need a budget midfielder with attacking threat and a good fixture. Start him if you need a cheap enabler, or keep him as a strong bench option.
He’s a low-risk, high-reward pick for Gameweek 9.
Nicolas Jackson: Form pick
- Pts
- 34
- G
- 4
- A
- 0
- xG
- 1.83
- xA
- 0.87
- Form
- 8.0
- Owned by
- 8.6%
- Price
- £6.7
Next fixture
Vs Fulham at home on 31st October, 2026
Fixture difficulty level
2
Form
8.0
Nicolas Jackson faces Fulham at home on 31st October, with 4 goals and 34 points this season.
Why we like him
Nicolas Jackson leads the line for Aston Villa against Fulham at Villa Park on 31st October, and his 4 goals have helped him to 34 points this season. His form rating of 8.0 is among the best for forwards this week, and Villa’s home record is strong. Fulham’s FDR of 2 makes this a good fixture for attacking returns.
Jackson has quickly settled at Villa after his move from Chelsea, and he’s now the main striker following Ollie Watkins’ departure. His xG of 1.83 and xa of 0.87 show he’s getting into good positions and linking up well with Villa’s midfield. The Premier League experts have tipped him as a player to watch now that Villa’s fixtures have turned.
Fulham’s defence has been shaky, and Jackson’s pace and movement make him a constant threat. He’s nailed for minutes and is likely to be on the end of most of Villa’s best chances.
With Villa’s attack in good form, Jackson is well placed for another return this week. He’s a strong pick for those looking to move away from more popular forwards.
FPL impact
At £6.7, Jackson is affordable and sits at 8.6% ownership, making him a semi-differential. He’s not a template pick, so a haul could give you a nice boost in rank.
He’s a good transfer in for those looking to replace an underperforming forward or take advantage of Villa’s fixtures. Jackson is nailed for starts and rarely misses a game.
There’s no captaincy appeal, but as a starting forward, Jackson is a strong option for this week and beyond. His price allows you to invest more in midfield or defence.
If you’re on a wildcard or looking for a form forward, Jackson is one of the best picks this week.
What do we suggest?
We recommend buying Jackson if you need a forward in form with a good fixture. Start him in your XI for a strong chance at attacking returns against Fulham.
He’s a solid pick for this week and the next run of fixtures.
This gameweek offers a mix of reliable picks and exciting differentials, with Haaland, Tavernier, and Mbeumo leading the way for most managers. Bournemouth and Aston Villa assets look particularly strong given their home fixtures and recent form. If you’re looking to make up ground, Evanilson and Enciso offer low-ownership routes to points, while Suzuki and Jackson are solid picks for those wanting to shore up their squads.
Avoid risky options like Tzolis, especially with injury doubts and a tough fixture at Liverpool. Focus on players with good form, secure minutes, and favourable fixtures. With the right blend of template and differential picks, you can set your team up for a strong Gameweek 9.
As always, keep an eye on late team news and be ready to adjust if needed. Good luck, and may your arrows be green.