Welcome to our Gameweek 31 edition of the Best FPL Defenders for this week. After closely studying all the upcoming fixtures in this Premier League gameweek, we have carried out detailed analysis to highlight defenders with the strongest potential to deliver solid Fantasy Premier League returns. Taking into account recent form, fixture difficulty, and attacking involvement, we have created a shortlist of defenders who could secure important FPL points in Gameweek 31.
Our picks offer a balanced mix of options across different price brackets, allowing FPL managers to choose according to their squad budget and tactical approach. Without any further delay, scroll down to explore our recommendations for the best defenders to add to your FPL squad for Gameweek 31.
Best Fantasy Premier League Defenders This Week- Gameweek 31
Malick Thiaw (Newcastle, £5.0m)
Malick Thiaw is one of the best defenders this week when it comes to giving you solid Fantasy Premier League points in Gameweek 31. Newcastle will be facing Sunderland at home, who are also their rivals, and thus Newcastle players will be more motivated than usual most probably. Thiaw has also scored 4 goals so far this season, and this is a great game for him to add to that.
Jake O'Brien (Everton, £4.9m)
Our original choice for this spot was James Tarkowski, who is one of the best Fantasy Premier League defenders when it comes to providing defensive contribution points. However, he is an injury doubt for this weekend, and hence we have gone with Jake O'Brien. He has been one of Everton's best defenders this season, and has great potential to do well in FPL, especially with Everton facing a struggling Chelsea at home.
Joachim Andersen (Fulham, £4.5m)
Joachim Andersen is arguably the best £4.5m FPL defender for this week, as Fulham will have one of the most favorable fixtures of the week in Burnley at home. Additionally, Andersen has been really impressive as well this season, and he is also their highest scoring defender in Fantasy Premier League so far this campaign. He is undoubtedly a bargain for £4.5m.
Harry Maguire (Manchester United, £4.4m)
Speaking of bargains, none might top Harry Maguire, who stands out as the best cheap FPL defender this week in our opinion. £4.4m is simply steal for a player who's now consistently starting under Michael Carrick, and the cheap price also means you can bench him whenever you want. A great FPL pick if you're tight on budget and also need decent points.
Virgil Van Dijk (Liverpool, £6.2m)
Liverpool are in disastrous form at the moment, but they'll be facing a Brighton side this weekend who themselves have been really poor this season. This is why we have gone with Virgil Van Dijk as one of our best defender picks in Fantasy Premier League for Gameweek 31. Moreover, Brighton's weak defense means a huge opportunity for Van Dijk to score from set-pieces. He could be a risk worth taking.
In conclusion, choosing the right defenders can significantly impact your Fantasy Premier League score in Gameweek 31. By focusing on players with favorable fixtures, reliable defensive performances, and the ability to contribute in attack, FPL managers can improve their chances of securing valuable points. Evaluate these options carefully while finalizing your squad, and aim to create a balanced defense capable of delivering both clean sheets and bonus points in Gameweek 31.
