Fantasy Premier League 2013: Top Bargains to Include in Week 1

As the Premier League gets set to return, fans will no doubt be mulling over which fantasy football picks to include in their Week 1 lineups.

The start of the season is the optimum time to catch your rivals unaware, as identifying the next Michu or Christian Benteke can make all the difference in the earlier rounds of the year.

That considered, which under-the-radar players will perhaps be playing a greater role than expected this coming season?

Here's a look at a few outside options to consider using during the first week of fantasy football.

Ross Barkley (Everton) £4.3 million

Barkley could prove a wise choice early on this season, especially after Darron Gibson's recent injury, which should hand the youngster a more prominent role.

At just £4.3 million he's excellent value and allows you to save money for a few bigger names, while this could very well be the season he fully announces himself to Premier League audiences.

The Toffees start off with a reasonably friendly fixture list that includes games against West Brom, Hull and their first game at Norwich. Barkley is likely to be charged with pulling the creative strings in these games, playing just off the striker in a more attacking Everton lineup under Roberto Martinez.

Andreas Cornelius (Cardiff) £6.6 million

In terms of strikers, Cornelius seems a steal at £6.6 million and will surely only rise in value—although a minor injury makes this a selection for those more prone to a gamble.

The young Dane was prolific in the Superliga, with 18 goals in 32 games, and Copenhagen's poor form since his departure is testament to his significant influence.

After moving to Cardiff he seems poised to lead the line as the focal point of Malky Mackay's attack.

His new side travel to West Ham at the weekend, where he's rated as doubtful after picking up an injury during preseason. Check his updated status before kick-off, as if he's fit his inclusion could prove especially rewarding. He seems a definite bargain that could prove to be this season's Christian Benteke in fantasy football terms.

Modibo Diakite (Sunderland) £4.8 million

Given Sunderland's poor season last year, few would give much consideration to any of their defenders.

However, defensively the Black Cats were surprisingly solid, conceding 54 goals, which was eleventh-best in the Premier League.

Modibo Diakite has arrived during the summer to bolster the position and should start the season alongside John O'Shea. At just £4.8 million, the former Lazio man is great value and should be seriously considered.

Added to that, the Black Cats open the season at home to perennially dismal travellers Fulham, which could well seal Diakite an early clean sheet bonus. 

All values courtesy of fantasyfootball.skysports.com