Every year there will no doubt be some contention around the fantasy positions of certain players, particularly when they could be considered a blend of two in some cases. There are a few though that could definitely be considered ‘out of position’ and this can work either in your favour or against it. Here are a few of those exceptions which could add some value in Draft Fantasy Soccer.
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Draft Fantasy Soccer: Exploiting Positional Assignments
Defenders playing in Midfield/Attack
The main benefit of having a defender playing further forward is that you still benefit from the team’s clean sheets and extra additional points for goals despite their lack of contribution to their defensive duties. This is often the case for fullbacks playing in advanced wingback roles such as Mendy, Doherty, Jonny and Alonso and why they feature so heavily in the top scoring defenders rankings. While wingbacks should still be considered ‘defenders’, there are a few example of defenders who do play regularly further up the pitch.
Ricardo Pereira
He may be listed as a defender but Pereira has played half his games in a much more advanced position and not just as a wingback. In four of his eight starts he has occupied a right wing position with Amartey filling in at right back in his place. This has allowed him to participate in an attacking capacity which has so far served up 3 assists, 6 key passes and 3 shots on target.
Callum Paterson
Paterson is perhaps the player furthest out of position with respect to his default one. He has made three starts this season (and three from the bench) and none of them have been in defence. He was even played as the lone striker against Spurs in his most recent outing. With 8 key passes and 3 shots on target so far, Paterson could soon emerge as an excellent option in ‘defence’ given that tough fixtures against Man City, Arsenal and Spurs have already passed him by and the opportunity for clean sheet points should increase.
Midfielders playing in Attack
Midfielders have become much sought after this season due to the re-positioning of most wingers to forwards. The change of positions for Hazard, Willian, Sane and Zaha has left a rather shallow pool of top midfield fantasy options. That being said, a few have slipped through the due diligence process and are still considered midfielders.
Lucas Moura
It may have taken him some time to settle into the English game but Lucas Moura has certainly been the biggest benefactor of Son’s absence during the Asian Games. Moura has played in a supporting role alongside Harry Kane which has led to him contributing 3 goals and 1 assist so far.
Andre Schurrle
One of the better new signings to the Premier League this year, Schurrle has provided a few strong fantasy weeks having found the net on three occasions. This is largely due to him playing as part of a front three alongside Mitrovic and Vietto and has resulted in him having more shots on goal (29) than any other midfielder. With his next three fixtures against Cardiff, Bournemouth and Huddersfield, he should have some opportunity to add to his tally of 13 key passes which is the 10th highest for a midfielder
Riyad Mahrez
When both Sane and Sterling are considered as forwards yet play in the same position as Mahrez, it’s a surprise that his position was not converted in the summer. His lack of game time masks how effective he can be when he does play and his two goals in three starts is testament to that. With more game time he may also become more proficient. His 18 shots on goal is the third highest for a midfielder but with only 7 on target he hasn’t turned them into fantasy value.
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