The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is a thrilling and strategic game that challenges football fans to build the best possible team, manage transfers, and make tactical decisions throughout the season. One of the most powerful chips available in FPL is the Bench Boost. This chip allows you to maximize points from players who are sitting on your bench, turning what would be a wasted opportunity into a potential point-gathering machine. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Bench Boost chip, including when to use it, its advantages, and strategies to make the most of it.

What is the Bench Boost Chip

The Bench Boost chip is one of several chips available in FPL that can be used to gain an advantage during the season. When activated, the Bench Boost chip allows points to be earned from all 15 players in your squad, not just the starting 11. Typically, only the points scored by your starting 11 count towards your weekly total, while the bench is left out. However, when the Bench Boost chip is in play, the points scored by your entire team—starting 11 plus bench players—are counted.

This can be particularly valuable during double gameweeks, when teams play more than one match, as it gives you the chance to score points from both your starting players and your bench players.

When Should You Use the Bench Boost Chip

The timing of using the Bench Boost chip is crucial for maximizing its potential. Here are some key considerations:

Double Gameweeks: The ideal time to use Bench Boost is during a double gameweek when several teams have multiple fixtures. With more matches to play, the likelihood of players scoring points increases, meaning that activating the Bench Boost in a double gameweek gives you the best chance to rack up points from all 15 players. The more players who have two matches in a gameweek, the more chances they have to earn points, whether through goals, assists, clean sheets, or bonus points.

Well-Rotated Squad: You need to ensure that your bench players are likely to start and get significant game time. If your bench is filled with players who are unlikely to feature, using Bench Boost won’t have the desired effect. Be sure that your entire squad is well-prepared to play, and if possible, use transfers leading up to a double gameweek to bring in players who are guaranteed starts.

Avoiding Injuries and Suspensions: Before activating Bench Boost, be aware of injuries, suspensions, or fixture changes. It’s important to make sure all your bench players are fit and have a good chance of playing. If you activate the chip and one or more of your bench players don’t play, you miss out on potential points.

End of the Season: Some FPL managers opt to use the Bench Boost chip towards the end of the season when they have a full, fit squad and a clear idea of player form. This is another good opportunity to gain points, especially if you’ve successfully rotated your squad in preparation for the final push.

Strategies for Maximizing Points with the Bench Boost Chip

To get the most out of your Bench Boost, it’s important to plan carefully and take a strategic approach. Here are some tips for maximizing the chip’s value:

Plan Ahead: As the FPL season progresses, it’s essential to keep an eye on upcoming double gameweeks and blank gameweeks. Try to plan your transfers so that your bench consists of players with good fixtures and a high chance of starting. You can also use your wildcard before a double gameweek to ensure that your entire squad is in good form and rotation-free.

Ensure a Strong Bench: A common mistake when using Bench Boost is not having a strong enough bench. It’s easy to focus on the starting 11, but your bench should consist of players who are likely to start. These players don’t need to be superstars, but they should be regular starters for their teams. A bench consisting of players from teams with favorable fixtures can also make a big difference.

Check for Injuries and Team News: Leading up to a double gameweek, keep an eye on team news, injury reports, and press conferences. If one of your bench players picks up an injury or is at risk of not playing, consider transferring them out for a reliable alternative. The key is to have a full, fit squad so that all 15 players are in contention for points.

Use Your Other Chips Wisely: The Bench Boost chip is often most effective when combined with other chips, such as the Free Hit or Wildcard. For example, using the Wildcard before a double gameweek to set up a team with optimal fixtures can set you up for a successful Bench Boost. Combining chips in this way can result in a massive points haul.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While the Bench Boost chip can be a game-changer, there are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not Having a Strong Bench: The biggest mistake when using Bench Boost is not having reliable players on the bench. If your bench players don’t play or perform poorly, your chip won’t have the desired effect.

Using it at the Wrong Time: Activating the chip during a regular gameweek, when only a few players on your bench are likely to play, is not advisable. Always save it for double gameweeks, when your players are more likely to earn points from multiple fixtures.

FAQs

What is the Bench Boost chip?

The Bench Boost chip allows you to earn points from all 15 players in your squad for a particular gameweek. Typically, only the starting 11 players earn points, while your bench is inactive. When you activate Bench Boost, the points from all players in your squad, including those on the bench, count toward your total score for the week.

Can I use the Bench Boost chip anytime?

No, the Bench Boost chip can only be used once per season and should be activated before the gameweek deadline. However, it’s essential to use it at a time when all 15 players in your squad are likely to get game time. If any player doesn’t feature, you miss out on the opportunity to earn points from them, so timing is key.

What are the risks of using the Bench Boost chip?

The main risk of using Bench Boost is that it only works if your bench players play. If any of them don’t feature in their matches, you lose out on points from those players. Therefore, it’s important to monitor player injuries, suspensions, and rotations closely to ensure your bench is fully prepared.

How can I maximize the Bench Boost chip’s potential?

To maximize Bench Boost, focus on ensuring all your bench players are likely to start during the gameweek. Use your wildcard to prepare a full, fit squad ahead of a double gameweek, and keep an eye on fixture changes and team news. Proper preparation is key to reaping the full benefits of the chip.

To Conclude

The Bench Boost chip in Fantasy Premier League is a powerful tool when used at the right time and with the right strategy. By planning ahead, ensuring a strong bench, and leveraging double gameweeks, you can maximize your points potential and boost your overall ranking. With careful management and timely execution, the Bench Boost can be a game-changer in your FPL season.

To read more, click here