FPL Gameweek 7: Should De Cuyper and Gross Stay in Your Line‑up?
Gameweek 7 presents a fresh set of puzzles for Fantasy Premier League managers
As the seventh round of fixtures approaches, FPL enthusiasts are once again faced with a series of selection questions that could make or break their season. BBC Sport’s fantasy specialist Gianni Buttice breaks down the most pressing dilemmas and offers guidance on whether two emerging names – De Cuyper and Gross – deserve a permanent spot in your squad.
The De Cuyper dilemma
De Cuyper has attracted attention after a string of solid performances, prompting many managers to wonder if he is worth a regular place in the starting eleven. Buttice points out that his involvement in attacking phases and occasional goal contributions make him an attractive option, especially for teams looking to maximise points from midfield or defence without breaking the bank.
However, the decision is not straightforward. Managers must weigh his consistency against the risk of rotation, as well as the strength of his club’s upcoming fixtures. If his team faces a tough defensive opponent, the upside may be limited, while a run of favorable matches could see him thrive.
Should Gross become a staple?
Gross is another player under the microscope as Gameweek 7 draws near. Known for his work rate and occasional flashes of brilliance, he has become a candidate for both captaincy and bench‑boost considerations. Buttice highlights that Gross’s ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories – such as clean sheets, assists, and occasional goals – can provide a steady flow of points.
Nevertheless, the question remains whether his upside outweighs the potential for lower returns when faced with stronger opposition. Managers need to assess his club’s defensive solidity and attacking intent before committing him to a starting role.
Other common Gameweek 7 dilemmas
Beyond the De Cuyper‑Gross debate, several recurring themes dominate the conversation among FPL fans:
- Captaincy choices: Deciding who to hand the armband to is always a hot topic. Players with favorable fixtures and recent form are naturally in the mix, but the risk of over‑reliance on a single individual can backfire.
- Bench boost timing: Determining the optimal week to activate the bench boost chip is a strategic decision that can swing total points dramatically. Many managers are weighing the upcoming schedule against potential injuries.
- Transfer budget management: With limited free transfers each week, prioritising which under‑performing assets to replace is crucial. The balance between short‑term gains and long‑term squad stability often drives transfer decisions.
- Formation tweaks: Adjusting the formation to accommodate in‑form players or to exploit specific match‑ups is a subtle but impactful move. The classic 3‑4‑3 or 4‑5‑1 setups continue to be debated.
Key take‑aways from Gianni Buttice
Gianni Buttice advises managers to adopt a pragmatic approach as Gameweek 7 looms. He suggests that the inclusion of De Cuyper or Gross should be based on a combination of recent performance, fixture difficulty, and overall squad balance rather than hype alone. Flexibility remains essential; staying ready to adapt to late injury news or unexpected line‑up changes can preserve a manager’s competitive edge.
Ultimately, the success of any decision will be reflected in the points tally at the end of the week. By weighing the pros and cons of each dilemma and staying informed about the latest developments, fantasy managers can navigate the complexities of Gameweek 7 with confidence.
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