:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68580623/1292317036.0.jpg)
Boxing Day fixtures are a big part of the EPL calendar. Three of them constitute DraftKings slate from Saturday’s games. Here is a look at some suggestions for your roster.
Set your DraftKings lineup here: EPL $50K Boxing Day Special [$10K to 1st]
Forwards
Studs
Anwar El Ghazi ($8,700)
El Ghazi has had a good few weeks in the final third for Aston Villa. First, he came on as a substitute to score from the penalty spot in the dying stages against Wolves. Since then, he has been given two successive starts. In the previous game, he scored two goals, taking his season tally to three. That drastic improvement in his form has carried his fantasy output to 13.2 DKFP per game.
Values
Che Adams ($6,700)
In the absence of some of Southampton’s key starters due to injury, Che Adams has stepped up in a big way. He has registered four goals along with four assists this season so far. He has also taken 26 shots — the highest for Southampton. Even though there is a high probability of him not playing the entire 90 minutes, he could still provide adequate value if he can get a few shots on target.
Others to consider: Timo Werner ($7,800)
Midfielders
Studs
Jack Grealish ($10,000)
Even though Grealish isn’t in charge of all set pieces, he is still a valuable fantasy addition. He is leading Aston Villa in assists (6) and shots taken (37). He is also second in goals this season for his club with five, while he sits third in passes with 506 and tackles with 16. He uses exceptional dribbling technique to win his team more free kicks because he is one of the most fouled players in the league.
Values
Wilfried Zaha ($7,400)
Zaha’s return to Crystal Palace has surely provided some offensive impetus and spark. Zaha has moved into a flanking position as needed by his team, but he can also tighten up that spot and play a more central role. He has used this positioning to score seven goals this season — the highest for Crystal Palace. He has also taken 30 shots, which is also the highest for his club.
Others to consider: Mason Mount ($7,700)
Defenders
Studs
Matthew Cash ($5,900)
Cash is an integral part of this Villa defense. He is leading the team in successful tackles made (27) and interceptions (30). That makes him a useful fantasy inclusion for your roster. Crystal Palace, Villa’s next opponent, has scored just 19 goals while Aston Villa has conceded just 13 goals themselves. Cash, with 8.5 DKFP per game, is therefore a handy pick.
Values
Ryan Bertrand ($4,000)
Southampton has been a steady team at the backend, as was evident from a 1-0 loss to Manchester City in trying circumstances. The team has conceded 19 goals so far. Bertrand’s addition to the back four has provided Southampton with a bit of offensive flexibility, particularly on the left flank where he operates. He could even chip in with an assist or a goal here.
Goalkeepers
Emiliano Martinez ($5,300)
Martinez has been so good at the back for Aston Villa this season that he has the most clean sheets in the EPL with seven. A goalkeeper’s value is often seen by how inconspicuous he can be. Martinez has made few errors, and therefore a key part of Aston Villa’s rise this season.
Others to consider: Edouard Mendy ($5,400)
Set your DraftKings lineup here: EPL $50K Boxing Day Special [$10K to 1st]
Put your knowledge to the test. Sign up for DraftKings and experience the game inside the game.
Nikhil Kalro is the Founder and CEO of Altletics Esports.