We're approaching a great part of the season for Fantasy Premier League players. No pesky international breaks until March, midweek fixtures coming up and the game-packed Christmas period. It's also a time for some big decisions so this team of the week sets that tone - no Erling Haaland, no Manchester City at all and triple Arsenal defence.
How about that! The team of the week is selected based on current FPL prices to fit within a £100m budget, as if you were playing a Free Hit. What a week! Only two players blanked, Bruno Fernandes hauled in 17 points and 28-point captain Mohamed Salah delivered again. That led to 92 points and a gameweek rank of about 18,000 out of 10.
7 million. David Raya, Arsenal, keeper, £5.5m Gabriel, Arsenal, £6.
1m William Saliba, Arsenal, £6m All home to Nottingham Forest Yes, you're reading that right. I've gone for a triple-up on Arsenal's defence this week. This is a part gut feel and part data-based decision.
Arsenal had the best defence last season, they started out in the same way this time and they haven't suddenly lost the ability to defend. Mikel Arteta has most of his first-choice defenders back and it's time for the Gunners to make a statement after no wins in four. Forest are flying in the league but they are bottom six for expected goals (xG) with 14.
54 and have scored just 15 in 11 games. They've had success from corners this season but Arsenal have conceded just four shots from set-pieces. I'm benching Chris Wood in my own FPL tea.
