Fantasy Premier League 2013 Week 4: Players Who Will Prove Value

If this year’s Barclays Premier League Fantasy Football game is teaching participants anything, it’s that the valuation of each player is going to dramatically change throughout the season.

The price alterations are more volatile than previous years, creating a need to act quickly in order to secure value for money. With Gameweek 4 approaching after transfer deadline day and the international break, it’s extremely difficult to uncover which signings should join your ranks for an immediate impact.

Giving many newly acquired players one week to settle before committing to their signature, here’s a squad of established individuals to consider for the upcoming week. Can any of these stars aid your quest for points? Take a look below.

Analysis

Goalkeepers

Those looking to gain defensive points will undoubtedly look towards Old Trafford this week. Manchester United are expected to convincingly beat Crystal Palace at home and will be itching to claim a clean sheet after the recent 1-0 loss to Liverpool.

David De Gea is unlikely to be overworked between the sticks and is your most likely bet of claiming a clean-sheet bonus. The only caveat to be considered is that the Spaniard is unlikely to face many shots, meaning if he concedes, his total number of saves will struggle to make up any points.

Artur Boruc has conceded two goals in three games this season for Southampton, but his low cost and impressive showings should come into your consideration. The Polish stopper will be confident of keeping a clean sheet against West Ham, who have failed to score in two of their three Premier League games this campaign.

As reported by BBC Sport, the Hammers will be without Andy Carroll for this match. Despite Sam Allardyce’s decision to bring in Mladen Petric on a free transfer, as confirmed by BBC Sport, the away side will struggle to score goals.

Defenders

Pablo Zabaleta’s clean sheet and assist against Hull highlighted a much improved showing from the Manchester City right-back. He was sloppy in the 3-2 defeat against Cardiff, but his increased emphasis on getting forward to help Jesus Navas will pose Stoke with a difficult problem to quash.

Luke Shaw and James Collins go head-to-head at St. Mary’s. The latter’s energy and willingness to bomb down the wing has emerged as a key part of Southampton’s play. The talented 18-year-old already has an assist to his name this season and will be involved in much of the home side’s forward play. Collins, however, will be looking to dominate a Saints attack that is powerful and speedy.

Both Sascha Riether and Maynor Figueroa are taking part in favourable matches with home advantage. If you’re looking for cut-price quality this week, either represents a good call.

Midfielders

Ross Barkley continues to rise in valuation and quality. The powerful youngster would receive yet another boost to his price if he plays effectively in a difficult match against Chelsea. While Everton defenders may be in line for a tough evening, Barkley is well-rested and will be keen to grab headlines with a star performance.

Stephane Sessegnon also has plenty to prove after securing a move to West Brom from Sunderland, as reported by BBC Sport. The experienced Premier League playmaker scored a wondrous goal during his last visit to Craven Cottage and should be backed to liven a Baggies attack that is yet to score a goal this season.

Hatem Ben Arfa’s recent winner in Newcastle’s 1-0 victory over Fulham should remind everyone what the Frenchman is capable of. With a run of games under his belt, the former Lyon and Marseille winger has the ability to thrust Alan Pardew’s faltering team to three points in difficult matches. Playing Aston Villa away from home will not be easy, but Ben Arfa has the talent to make all the difference.

Yaya Toure and Aaron Ramsey should be considered if you’re looking for performers who have consistently played well this season. Although they currently cost £8.6 million and £5.6 million, respectively, you will get what you pay for with these two. Current market trends also suggest their valuations will improve with further displays of quality.

Forwards

Although the most costly player on the game, Robin van Persie has the chance to justify his £14 million tag this weekend. The Dutchman hasn’t scored in two games for Manchester United, but a midweek brace for his country against Andorra ensures confidence isn’t lacking. At home to Palace, he will be involved in many attacking opportunities.

Both Christian Benteke and Roberto Soldado have emerged as match-winners for their clubs. Many will have transferred Benteke out of their squads after Aston Villa’s lack of appearance in Gameweek 3, but the Belgian shouldn’t be forgotten for this round of fixtures. He will lead the line at home to Newcastle and receive plenty of service from his speedy support act, Gabriel Agbonlahor.

Soldado, just like in previous weeks, is capable of having an under-the-radar match before netting a vital goal. He scored for Spain during the international break and continues to find the net for Spurs. Only a foolish player would bet against the former Valencia man scoring in the White Hart Lane fixture against Norwich City.

Which players will prove their worth this week? Let me know in the comments section and be sure to discuss Fantasy Football with me on Twitter:

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