The World Cup qualifiers are back. Therefore, I’ll take this opportunity to look at some players whose fantasy values have risen since the season began.
Fabian Delph (Manchester City)
– Delph has been an outcast in City’s team for so long that many have wondered why is he still playing for them. A promising career going to waste. Now, Pep has found a way to use the utility player. Although Danilo was expected to take over Mendy’s left back spot in the lineup, Delph is the one who has shined in the role both times. Since Mendy is going to be sidelined for a while, Delph represents great value starting for currently the best squad in the Premier League.
Mame Biram Diouf (Stoke City)
– Who would’ve thought that a striker could be converted to a defender so easily? Not since Kolo Toure’s conversion from attack to defense have we seen something like this. Manager Mark Hughes took a chance, and judging by the results so far, it’s paying off. Diouf looks at home in his new role as Stoke’s right wing back. His physical build and the fact Stoke plays with three central backs helps plenty in his defensive duties, while his past as a #9 makes him a constant offensive threat as well.
Ben Davies (Tottenham Hotspur)
– The Welshman has oozed potential for years. It was the reason why The Spurs bought him from Swansea. However, Rose’s presence has been putting a break on Davies’ progress. Now that Rose is hurt, Davies is making the most of the opportunity he was waiting for. He has established himself as Tottenham’s starting left back and one of the best fantasy defenders in the league.
Richarlison (Watford)
– Richarlison has simply been fantastic for Watford ever since coming on as a replacement for the then-injured Roberto Pereyra in Week 1. Since Pereyra went down, Richarlison has started every game for Watford, recording an assist in each contest. He also scored the game winner in 90’+ two weeks ago against Swansea and saved a draw in the 95th minute last week versus West Bromwich. Like most Brazilians, he’s an excellent technician and is proving to have the capability to become a real game-changer.
Joselu (Newcastle United)
– Newcastle came back to the Premier League with Dwight Gayle and Aleksandar Mitrovic leading the attack and Ayoze Perez assisting them from behind as a shadow striker. Before the season, the question was which one of them would have the most fantasy value. As it turns out, neither of them. Rafa Benitez brought fellow Spaniard Joselu, a player who has been changing teams like diapers but has compiled plenty of experience doing so. Newcastle’s attack gained an edge it didn’t have as soon as he was inserted into the starting lineup. Barring injury, I believe he could be one of the most underrated fantasy forwards the rest of the season.