FPL 2021/22: Gameweek 16 – Forwards Watchlist

Alric Fernandes
By Alric Fernandes
5 Min Read

After a rollercoaster ride last weekend, we turn our attention to gameweek 16 as FPL managers prepare their teams ahead of a demanding Christmas period. Amongst the premiums, Mohamed Salah (£13.1mn), once again, remained consistent, while the likes of Harry Kane (£12.2mn) and Cristiano Ronaldo (£12.3mn), amongst others, failed to make the most of their opportunities last weekend. In addition, differentials across the midfield and backline added to their appeal, with the likes of Mason Mount (£7.5mn), Ben Davies (£4.4mn), and Ezri Konsa (£4.9mn), amongst others, producing appealing returns ahead of a favourable set of fixtures.

With several premiums struggling to deliver goal contribution, selections in the forward are likely to grow tougher over the coming weeks. Given the range of options across the midfield and forward line, it is vital Fantasy Premier League managers remain accurate in their picks. Hence, in this article, we take a look at three forwards most likely to improve their goal contribution whilst remaining a consistent pick in the starting line-up throughout the busy period of fixtures.

ODSONNE EDOUARD (£6.4M) [EVE, (H)]

Embed from Getty Images

Amongst Crystal Palace’s most impactful players this season, Edouard will be hoping to contribute to improving the team’s recent results over the coming months. Although the Frenchman began the campaign remarkably, he has, hitherto, failed to build upon his noteworthy performances.

Having already netted three goals, the Frenchman remains amongst the team’s foremost attackers. Although Edouard is yet to find the back of the net in seven games heading into this weekend, he still registers the second-highest number of expected goals (0.28xG) per game amongst his teammates. Additionally, he ranks third for expected assists (0.15xA) per game this season.

With a favourable run of fixtures over the coming month, the Eagles will be hoping to get back on track before the turn of the year. Facing a seemingly rejuvenated Everton side this weekend, Edouard will be hoping to have an impact and cement his spot in the starting lineup over the coming weeks.

MICHAIL ANTONIO (£7.9M) [BUR, (A)]

Embed from Getty Images

Having endured a dry spell of goal-scoring form following his remarkable start to the campaign, Antonio will be hoping to increase his output over a favourable set of fixtures. The Jamaican is likely to prosper given West Ham’s quest for top-four and is amongst the foremost names expected to significantly improve their returns in the coming weeks.

Antonio delivered his first attacking return in five games against Chelsea last weekend. The striker has already registered six goals and five assists, having created 29 chances whilst recording 34 shots from the box this season. In addition to being amongst the team’s creative outlets, Antonio has proven to be lethal in front of goals registering the most number of shot-creating actions (56) at the club.

Given their relatively decent set of fixtures until March, Antonio will be hoping to remain a contributor to West Ham’s ambitions this season. Facing a Burnley side struggling to keep clean sheets, Antonio will be hoping to capitalize on their defensive weakness this weekend.

CRISTIANO RONALDO (£12.3M) [NOR, (A)]

Embed from Getty Images

Although failing to register his name on the scoresheet against Crystal Palace, Ronaldo found himself on the end of goal-scoring opportunities on numerous occasions. Expected to significantly improve his contribution over the coming month, a game against Norwich City serves as the perfect step for the Portuguese to regain his form ahead of a demanding period.

Given a proactive approach employed by the new manager, Ronaldo remains the likeliest to benefit from the refreshing system. The forward is the team’s highest goal-scorer (6) and remains their most reliable threat in the attacking third. Moreover, he ranks first for expected goals (5.7xG) and second for expected assists (1.5xA) amongst his teammates this season.

Facing a resurgent Norwich side, United will be hoping to dampen the home team’s spirits and stamp their authority this weekend. Provided Ronaldo is included in the starting line-up, the Portuguese could potentially kick-start his rampant goal-scoring form this weekend.

Share This Article
Leave a comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *