Liverpool's Defensive Assets: FPL Analysis for Double Gameweek 24

Liverpool's defensive assets are under our FPL spotlight as the Reds approach a favourable fixture against Ipswich, followed by an enticing double gameweek 24 against Bournemouth and Everton.

Let's delve into the statistics and potential of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Andrew Robertson to determine which Liverpool defender might be the best addition to your FPL squad.

Need to save your FPL season? 

Get 30 days of Premium Plus – completely free! Pay absolutely nothing to unlock the tools that can turn your season around. 🤯

👉Click here now to claim your exclusive 30-day free Premium offer!

Why a Liverpool Defensive Double-Up Could Be the Way to Go

Liverpool have played one fewer game than most other teams due to their postponed fixture against Everton, resulting in their upcoming double gameweek.

As shown in the Opta Stats Sandbox, Liverpool have been exceptional defensively this season. They have conceded the fewest goals (20), kept the joint-most clean sheets alongside Nottingham Forest (9), and allowed the fewest shots (204) and shots in the box (130). Furthermore, they have the lowest expected goals conceded (xGC) at 23.3.

On top of this, the Predicted Points & Stats tool projects Liverpool to keep 1.7 clean sheets over the next three gameweeks, which is significantly higher than any other team.

Which Are the Best Liverpool Defenders in FPL?

Using the Fix Comparison Matrix feature, we can compare the Liverpool quartet most likely to get significant minutes during their favourable run of fixtures. This allows us to assess the key stats for the season so far and identify the best options.

Trent Alexander-Arnold

At just 25 years old, Trent Alexander-Arnold remains a cornerstone of Liverpool's defence (despite persistent rumours of a transfer to Real Madrid) and a favourite among FPL managers. The England international boasts an impressive 28.1% ownership, the highest among Liverpool defenders.

Alexander-Arnold's attacking prowess is evident in his stats. He has registered 1 goal, 5 FPL assists, and an outstanding 12 big chances created—the most of any defender in the league, according to the Opta Stats Sandbox. His expected assists (xA) of 5.9 are also the highest among Liverpool’s defenders, highlighting his exceptional creative influence.

Defensively, the young right-back has contributed to 8 clean sheets across 1,582 minutes played. With 96 FPL points and 13 bonus points, he continues to showcase his all-around value for fantasy managers.

Virgil van Dijk

At 32 years old, Virgil van Dijk remains a commanding presence in Liverpool's backline. The Netherlands captain is the second most popular choice among FPL managers, with 22.2% ownership.

However, this figure drops to just 11.5% among managers ranked in the top 1 million, as shown in the Insight Live tool, with Alexander-Arnold (35.6%) and Salah (99.8%) being the only Liverpool assets more owned in this rank tier.

Van Dijk's aerial dominance is reflected in his 1 goal and 1.57 expected goals (xG), the highest among Liverpool's defenders. He has managed 5 shots on target from 16 attempts, showcasing his threat from set-pieces.

The Dutchman has played the most minutes (1,890) among the quartet and contributed to 9 clean sheets, the highest in the group. His consistency is further demonstrated by his 83 FPL points, making him a dependable asset for fantasy managers.

Ibrahima Konaté

At 24 years old, Ibrahima Konaté is the youngest of the quartet and is steadily becoming a key figure in Liverpool's defence. The French international has a 4.3% ownership, suggesting he could be a potential differential pick.

Konaté has demonstrated his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch, with 1 goal, 1 FPL assist, and 6 clean sheets in 1,221 minutes played. His expected goals (1.08) and expected assists (1.11) suggest he is performing as expected.

It’s worth noting that, despite offering great value for money at just £5.1m, Konaté appears to have needed painkillers to play since returning from injury, as reported by James Pearce of The Athletic.

Andrew Robertson

At 29 years old, Andrew Robertson has been a consistent performer for both Liverpool and Scotland in recent seasons. However, his 4.4% ownership reflects recent uncertainty about his starting position.

Despite not registering any goals or assists this season, Robertson's expected assists (2.67) and 4 big chances created highlight his attacking potential, suggesting he has been unlucky not to secure an attacking return.

Robertson’s recent bench appearance against Brentford, where he played only 25 minutes, as shown in the Match Centre feature, raises concerns about his starting status. With Kostas Tsimikas featuring in the last game, Robertson’s selection could be a gamble for FPL managers.

Liverpool Defender Conclusion

As Liverpool approaches their favourable fixtures, each defender offers unique strengths for FPL managers to consider.

Alexander-Arnold’s attacking returns and bonus point potential make him the standout choice, albeit at a premium price. Van Dijk offers consistency and some goal threat, while Konaté presents an intriguing budget option, though there are concerns regarding his painkiller situation. Robertson's creative potential is tempting despite no actual returns, but his rotation risk might deter some managers.

There is also the possibility of opting for a double-up in attack, assuming most managers will own Salah. Our recent X account poll suggests that more FPL managers are leaning towards the offensive route.

Of course, another option could be to go for Alisson Becker. As shown in the Opta Heatmaps tool, the Liverpool goalkeeper has averaged 4.4 FPL points per game. However, he does come with a premium price tag of £5.5m.

Consider your budget, team structure, and risk appetite when choosing between Liverpool FPL assets. With a favourable run of fixtures ahead, investing in the Reds could prove to be a shrewd FPL move.

Get 30 days of Premium Plus – completely free! Pay absolutely nothing to unlock the tools that can turn your season around. 🤯

👉Click here now to claim your exclusive 30-day free Premium offer!