Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is one of the most exciting and competitive fantasy sports platforms. Players from across the globe take part in creating and managing their fantasy teams while trying to outsmart each other using strategic decisions. One of the most anticipated events in FPL is the “Double Gameweek.” It offers a significant opportunity to earn more points and climb the ranks in your league. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the Fantasy Premier League Double Gameweek, including how it works, when it happens, and strategies to maximize your points.
What is a Double Gameweek
In the world of Fantasy Premier League, a Double Gameweek occurs when a Premier League team plays two matches in a single gameweek. Normally, each team plays only once during a given gameweek, but when fixtures are rescheduled or postponed due to various reasons (such as cup runs, weather conditions, or European competitions), some teams are given the opportunity to play twice in one gameweek. This creates a “Double Gameweek,” which offers FPL managers an excellent opportunity to accumulate more points.
The main advantage of a Double Gameweek for FPL managers is the potential to earn more points by having players in your team who play two matches instead of just one. As the Premier League fixtures are tightly packed due to midweek games, cup matches, and other factors, Double Gameweeks become more frequent as the season progresses, especially in the latter part of the campaign.
How Does the Double Gameweek Impact Your FPL Strategy
A Double Gameweek can significantly change your approach to Fantasy Premier League. It’s important to consider how the added fixtures of some teams can influence your team selection, captaincy choice, and overall strategy.
Player Selection
The first key to success during a Double Gameweek is selecting players from teams that are scheduled to play twice. Focusing on players from these teams maximizes your chances of accumulating points. However, it’s essential to choose players who are in good form and likely to start both games. Injured or suspended players, or those on the fringes of the starting lineup, should be avoided.
Moreover, keep an eye on the fixture difficulty. If a team has two relatively tough fixtures, it may not be worth investing in their players as much as if they have two easier opponents. Consider the quality of the opposition, as a top-tier team facing weaker opponents is more likely to provide higher point-scoring opportunities.
Captaincy Choices
Captaincy is one of the most important decisions in FPL, and during a Double Gameweek, it becomes even more crucial. The captain earns double points for the week, so selecting the right captain can provide a massive boost to your score. If you have a player who is involved in both games of the Double Gameweek, and they are in good form, they are an obvious choice for the armband.
Look for players who are not only involved in multiple games but also have good potential for returns, such as attackers who are likely to score goals or assist. Defenders with a solid chance of keeping a clean sheet or offering attacking returns through assists are also viable candidates. Additionally, consider captaining a player who has a favorable schedule, such as playing two home games or facing weaker opposition.
Bench Boost and Triple Captain Chips
FPL provides managers with special chips that can be used throughout the season to maximize their points. The two most relevant chips during a Double Gameweek are the Bench Boost and Triple Captain chips.
Bench Boost: This chip allows you to earn points from players on your bench if they are in action during the gameweek. During a Double Gameweek, this is an excellent opportunity to get points from all 15 of your players if you’ve planned your squad carefully. Ensure your bench consists of players who are likely to start both matches and have the potential to contribute positively to your score.
Triple Captain: The Triple Captain chip multiplies your captain’s points by three instead of two. Using this chip in a Double Gameweek is a popular strategy to maximize your points. The idea is to place the armband on a high-performing player with the potential to deliver big returns across both matches, further boosting your score.
Transfers and Team Preparation
In preparation for a Double Gameweek, you should start making transfers well in advance. You may need to bring in additional players from teams with two fixtures or replace players who have a single fixture or are injured. It’s important to monitor injuries, suspensions, and other player availability as the gameweek approaches.
Many managers opt to make transfers using free transfers (and even take a hit, which costs -4 points per extra transfer) to maximize their squad for the Double Gameweek. However, it’s also essential to keep an eye on the long-term, as some of the transfers you make during a Double Gameweek might leave you in a difficult position for future gameweeks.
Avoiding Over-Commitment
While it may be tempting to load your team with as many Double Gameweek players as possible, it’s important not to overcommit to players who are playing twice and neglect the rest of your squad. Balance is key, as your team still needs to perform in other gameweeks. After the Double Gameweek, you may have to deal with issues such as injuries, suspensions, or unbalanced team structure, so it’s vital to have a long-term strategy that accounts for the subsequent gameweeks.
When Does the Double Gameweek Happen
Double Gameweeks generally occur during the latter part of the Premier League season, particularly from February to April.
These occur because of rescheduled matches from earlier in the season. For example, teams may have to reschedule fixtures due to participation in domestic cup competitions (FA Cup, EFL Cup), international tournaments, or even weather-related cancellations.
Typically, Double Gameweeks are announced a few weeks in advance, giving FPL managers time to prepare. However, the exact dates and matchups depend on how the Premier League season progresses, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest announcements and fixtures.
The Risks of Double Gameweeks
While Double Gameweeks offer great potential for point accumulation, there are also risks associated with them. The biggest risk is the possibility of player rotation. As teams play two matches in a short period of time, managers may rotate their squads to prevent player fatigue or injury. This means some players may not start both games, or their minutes may be limited.
Additionally, unexpected injuries or suspensions can affect the players you’ve brought in for the Double Gameweek, so always keep an eye on team news leading up to the matches.
FAQs
What is a Double Gameweek in FPL?
A Double Gameweek occurs when one or more Premier League teams play two matches in a single FPL gameweek instead of the usual one. This usually happens when matches are rescheduled due to cup competitions, postponed fixtures, or other unforeseen circumstances.
How do Double Gameweeks impact my team?
Double Gameweeks provide an excellent opportunity to increase your points by having players from teams that play twice. However, you must also account for player rotation, injuries, and fixture difficulty. Carefully select players who are in form, likely to start both matches, and from teams with favorable fixtures.
When do Double Gameweeks happen?
Double Gameweeks typically occur later in the season, often from February to April. These are announced when the Premier League fixtures are adjusted due to rescheduled matches. Stay updated by following official FPL channels for the most recent announcements.
Are there any risks during Double Gameweeks?
Yes, the main risks include player rotation and injuries. As teams play multiple matches in a short time, managers may rotate their players, potentially limiting your FPL player’s minutes. Always keep an eye on team news before making decisions on your transfers and captaincy.
To Conclude
Double Gameweeks are one of the most thrilling aspects of Fantasy Premier League, offering a fantastic opportunity to increase your points tally and gain ground in your mini-leagues. To maximize your success during these periods, focus on bringing in players with favorable fixtures, make strategic use of chips like the Bench Boost and Triple Captain, and ensure your overall squad is well-balanced.
To read more, click here
