Defence

Man. City (2.76) and Everton (3.75) are in the top three for Expected Goals Conceded (xGC) over the last four gameweeks which warrants the inclusion of Ederson, Dias and Keane in the GW9 Algorithm XI. 

As the below image shows, Chelsea have the highest probability of a clean sheet this week (70%) and the duo of Rudiger and Azpilicueta can be backed to deliver against bottom of the table Norwich. Southampton also have a 40% chance of a clean sheet and Bednarek is a great budget option against a Burnley side that has scored just two goals in the last four gameweeks.

Midfield

Salah is the captain pick for the majority of our Elite XI and the Egyptian is also the highest projected scorer as per our Fix Algorithm. No midfielder has registered more shots (17) or shots on target (10) over the last four gameweeks. 

As the above image from our Match Stats feature shows, over the last five matches Townsend is top amongst Everton players for goals (three), Expected Goals (1.5), shots on target (six) and attempted assists (14). 

Forwards

Vardy(14), Antonio, Ronaldo(each 11) are the top three forwards for shots in the box over the last four gameweeks and are the types of consistent players that can be relied upon to deliver. 

As the above image from our Transfer Stats shows, Vardy is by far the most popular acquisition this week after the injury to Lukaku, and the 34-year is joint-top with Salah in the Golden Boot race with seven goals.