Having had a detailed look at playmakers a fortnight ago, Fantasy Football Weekend Picks returns with another special, again with a focus on creativity. This time round it’s the players who have the pace, guile and delivery to unlock the division’s defences – Wingers.
The Captaincy Debate
Why not start with the fastest of them all? Theo Walcott’s performances has been questioned by fans and pundits at times this season. His final ball in particular has been scrutinized but Walcott has played a key role in helping to revitalise an Arsenal side flailing prior to the North London Derby. The Gunners have won their last six games and in this period, Walcott has two goals and four assists. Aston Villa are charged with stopping Walcott from supplying Robin van Persie this weekend. The Villains must be aware of the goal threat the England winger has too.
Another home grown international player to consider is Stewart Downing. He hasn’t been having his greatest season by any means. In fact, the two assists he was credited with on Wednesday evening were his first of the campaign in the Premier League, despite playing in all but one league match this season. This might though just give the ex-Middlesbrough man confidence going into Liverpool’s game against Wigan at the weekend. The Reds hopes of finishing in the top 5 are dwindling rapidly and a good performance from Downing would help to keep them in touch with Chelsea, Arsenal, Spurs and Newcastle.
However, after a few weeks out through injury, Luis Antonio Valencia returned to the Premier League last weekend. Although the Wolves side he came up against was hardly brimming with confidence, the Ecuadorian turned in an assured performance for the Red Devils in their 5-0 victory. He has been deployed at right back a few times this season but his natural position is on the wing. Fulham visit Old Trafford on Monday night along with their often ridiculed away record. The Londoners will need to shackle Valencia, which sounds easier than it actually will be.
The Captain: Antonio Valencia – Such has been United’s rich vein of form coupled with Fulham’s loss of it, the Ecuadorian looks an assured option in this week’s winger special.
The Vice Captain: Theo Walcott – With Arsenal playing superbly, Walcott is a very good option to have at your disposal at the moment.
Long Term Look
Blackburn’s Junior Hoilett must be taken into consideration given his recent performances. The winger who is listed as a striker on the Fantasy Premier League site, has scored six goals and six assists this season. As he is listed as a forward, it means he has obviously not been rewarded with enough points to justify his selection until now.
As Rovers fight for survival has increased, Hoilett has improved. The Canadian, whose contract expires in the summer, has three goals in his last two games. Priced at £5.5 million his selection can be justified for the rest of the season as he looks to impress potential suitors of his signature.
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