Best FPL Striker Picks for FPL Gameweek 1 – The deadline of 18:30 BST on Friday 15 August is approaching fast, and fantasy managers are busy locking in their front lines. Whether you’re hunting for a low-cost enabler or a big-hitting forward, here’s a breakdown of the most appealing options to start the new season.
Budget Forwards (£6.5m and under)
Sunderland’s Marc Guiu (£4.5m) could be the cheapest regular starter in the game if he wins the main striker role. That price tag makes him perfect for managers who prefer a 3-5-2 setup and want to invest heavily in midfield.
Niclas Fullkrug (£6.0m, West Ham) comes into the season on the back of three consecutive pre-season goals, while Brentford’s Igor Thiago (£6.0m) could be a hidden gem if he’s given penalty duties.
Also worth tracking are Jorgen Strand Larsen (Wolves) and Danny Welbeck (Brighton), both priced at £6.5m and potentially on spot kicks.
Mid-Priced Forwards (£7.0m–£8.0m)
Chelsea’s Joao Pedro (£7.5m) looks like the go-to pick in this range after hitting five goals in five pre-season matches. With excellent opening fixtures and ownership above 50%, he’s hard to ignore. Pairing him with Cole Palmer could pay dividends.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (£7.5m, Crystal Palace) has also found the net five times over the summer and may be back on penalties, but his early schedule is less inviting.
Jarrod Bowen (£8.0m, West Ham) is another strong contender, having been heavily involved in goals under Graham Potter last season.
If you’re after a differential, Bournemouth’s Evanilson (£7.0m) has a great run of home fixtures from Gameweek 2 and is in very few squads.
Premium Forwards (£8.5m and over)
Ollie Watkins (£9.0m, Aston Villa) is in superb form with five pre-season goals and a dream run of fixtures.
New signings Victor Gyokeres (£9.0m, Arsenal) and Hugo Ekitike (£8.5m, Liverpool) scored in their final friendlies, with Gyokeres possibly on penalties.
Erling Haaland (£14.0m) remains a safe bet, but his high cost means many managers are choosing between him and Mohamed Salah.
Ones to Avoid for Now
Alexander Isak (£10.5m) isn’t expected to feature in GW1 and could be on the move, making him a risky pick until his future is clear.
Best Gameweek 1 striker combo: Watkins and Joao Pedro for form and fixtures, with Guiu as the budget bench option. Bowen and Mateta round out strong alternatives in a 3-4-3.
Best of luck in Gameweek 1 – may your captain deliver and your punts pay off!
