FPL Gameweek 2 tips: Stick with Bruno Fernandes and Mohamed Salah, but what about Romelu Lukaku?

As we get set for the second week of Premier League action, here are some useful tips to keep in mind for FPL Gameweek 2.

Paul Pogba (L) and Bruno Fernandes celebrate a goal; Credit: Twitter@ManUtd
By Shayne Dias | Aug 21, 2021 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

The first week of Fantasy Premier League (FPL) action in the Premier League was a high-scoring one for most players. The average score for the week was 69, with the highest score clocked being 150. Given the number of goals scored in the opening weekend, that isn’t exactly shocking. But it set the ball rolling perfectly for FPL players, as most ended up scoring decently enough. Whether the momentum continues in FPL Gameweek 2 or not will depend on making a few smart transfers here or there.

Full disclosre: I won’t be using my wildcard immediately and it is best to keep that in handy till at least the first international break. Unless wholesale changes are absolutely needed, that is.

For now though, let us look at what can best be done to ensure Gameweek 2 goes as well as possible.

Fernandes, Salah easy FPL Gameweek 2 captaincy picks

Bruno Fernandes and Mohamed Salah were among the top point-scorers in the first week. Fernandes scored a hat-trick whereas Salah was among the goals and assists.

Both will be expected to deliver the goods this week too. Liverpool will host Burnley in the early kick-off, who are fresh off a 2-1 loss to Brighton. Manchester United, meanwhile, travel to Southampton.

Neither of these are testing assignments, meaning picking one or the other as your captain is a no-brainer. Indeed, unless their form doesn’t decline significantly as the season goes on, this might be one’s standard pick.

When to bring in Romelu Lukaku or Harry Kane?

For the expensive striker options, FPL players would normally have to pick between Harry Kane or Sergio Aguero. Aguero is now at Barcelona, but new Chelsea signing Romelu Lukaku is a tantalising option too.

The Belgian is coming off two top seasons at Inter and will add goals to the Blues side. But, given he’s only trained a few days and might take a little time to find form, it might not be the best time to bring him in.

The same can be said of Kane, who was notably absent during Spurs’ win over Manchester City. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo believes the Englishman would need to work on his fitness.

There’s also the fact that Kane is a notoriously slow starter. So, as things stand, it makes sense to wait at least another week before opting for one of Kane or Lukaku.

Who are best budget options for FPL Gameweek 2?

Sergi Canas of Brentford could be a good option at 5.5 million pounds. The winger scored for the newly-promoted side as they beat Arsenal 2-0 at home in Gameweek 1.

There’s also defender Ethan Pinnock, who costs 4.5 million pounds and pocketed an impressive 11 points last time around.

Said Benrahma of West Ham United is also a good option at 6.1 million pounds, as is fellow club-mate and striker Michail Antonio (7.6 million pounds).

Watford’s Emmanuel Dennis (6.5 million pounds) and Newcastle United’s Allan Saint-Maximan (5.5 million pounds) could also represent value for money.

Southampton’s Adam Armstrong (6 million pounds) was also on the scoreseeht, although he will face a tougher test this week with Manchester United.

Players to watch for FPL Gameweek 2?

Trent Alexandor-Arnold. Yes he’s pricey at 7.5 million pounds but worth having around if you can afford him. It’s worth noting that Burnley conceded two goals from the right flank last week. And we all know TAA can whip in crosses for fun from that side.

Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister is another interesting long-term buy. He scored against Burnley and, 5.5 million pounds, is a good potential cheap option.

Also ones to keep an eye on – Aston Villa duo Leon Bailley and Emi Buendia. Both are creative options who can score or assist and, should they hit form soon, could be a key part of a Villa side sans Jack Grealish.

Who to absolutely avoid?

Arsenal players – at least for now. Brentford away seemed an easy bet on paper but the Gunners lost that match. It doesn’t get much easier now – they will now face Chelsea at home and Manchester City away.

What’s worse, there’s uncertainty over the availability of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. Both can add goals but until available, are expensive bench options.

So until the fixtures ease up, it’s best to avoud any major Arsenal players.