As the Fantasy Premier League season heads into its crucial final stages, every round becomes increasingly significant. Experienced managers have been saving their chips for this period, where double gameweeks offer a chance to rack up points. In this high-stakes time, differentials – lesser-known players who can offer unexpected returns – become critical. Selecting the right ones could give you an edge in your mini-leagues as the season draws to a close. Let’s take a look at strikers who could play a key role in the race for the top spots.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (CRY) – £7.5, TSB 5.5%
Next fixtures: sou, BHA, mci, new, BOU
Crystal Palace may not be in contention for European spots, but they are known for stepping up in the latter part of the season. With the team still in the FA Cup, where they face Fulham in the quarter-finals, a victory could give them a double gameweek in GW33, making their players especially appealing to fantasy managers.
One standout option is Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was in excellent form before his recent injury. Over the last six gameweeks, he scored 6 goals and provided 1 assist, making him one of the most prolific forwards in that stretch. Mateta is also Palace’s designated penalty taker, adding extra value. If he returns to the starting lineup, especially in a double gameweek, he could be a game-changing differential at an affordable price.
Omar Marmoush – £7.3 (MCI), TSB 13.3%
Next fixtures: LEI, mun, CRY, AVL, eve
With the pressure mounting on Manchester City to secure a Champions League spot, the performance of winter signing Omar Marmoush has been a bright spot. Despite Erling Haaland’s dip in form, Marmoush has added new energy to City’s attack. His frequent shots on goal and involvement in creating chances make him a promising differential.
Additionally, a double gameweek for City in GW33 further boosts Marmoush’s appeal. With Haaland no longer a guaranteed captaincy option, Marmoush could provide a valuable source of points in the final stretch.
Evanilson – £5.7 (BOU), TSB 3.3%
Next fixtures: IPS, whu, FUL, cry, MUN
Bournemouth has surprised many by joining the race for European spots, and their attacking play has been a key factor. Evanilson, who has been in solid form before his injury, could be a great differential if he regains his starting spot. His chemistry with teammates and active involvement in attacks make him an attractive option.
With Bournemouth’s stable attacking stats and Evanilson’s potential for points, he could be a great budget option in the crucial weeks ahead.
João Pedro – £5.6 (BHA), TSB 15.0%
Next fixtures: AVL, cry, LEI, bre, WHU
Brighton is in great form, winning four consecutive games and drawing against Manchester City. João Pedro, a key figure in their attack and their designated penalty taker, has been in strong form, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist in the last 5 gameweeks. His role in Brighton’s offensive plays, combined with his solid stats, makes him an appealing choice for fantasy managers.
If Brighton progresses past Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup, João Pedro could play a double gameweek in GW33, making him almost essential for the run-in.
Raul Jimenez – £5.5 (FUL), TSB 7.4%
Next fixtures: ars, LIV, bou, CHE, sou
Fulham continues to fight for a European spot, and Raul Jimenez remains one of their key players. With 11 goals and 3 assists in all competitions, plus a brace in the recent CONCACAF Nations League final, Jimenez is in great form. He also scores regularly from the penalty spot, adding to his appeal.
Fulham has the potential for a double gameweek in GW33 if they progress in the FA Cup, making Jimenez a strong differential choice for the final stretch of the season.
These players offer a combination of form, fixtures, and potential for double gameweeks, making them great differentials for Fantasy Premier League managers looking to make a late-season push.
