Fantasy Premier League 2013: Projecting Optimal Lineup for Week 12

Much like real life, perfection for your Premier League fantasy team is a dream.

It's simply impossible to afford all of the top talent. There won't be a Sheikh Mansour or Roman Abramovich coming to your rescue, either.

That doesn't mean you can't do some window-shopping.

Most EPL fantasy leagues are different from your typical fantasy league in most other sports because you can pick whomever you want. You're not drafting against other players.

That means you have to determine which players are worth splurging on and which ones provide the best bargains. This is where the strategy comes into play and how you can get the edge on your opponents.

In an effort to provide some support as you make those tough decisions, here's a look at what an ideal lineup could be heading into Week 12, using a 3-4-3 formation.

Goalkeeper

Asmir Begovic

Stoke City have conceded 14 goals this season, but only three of those have come at home. In addition, Sunderland have only scored two goals away from home in five matches.

Gus Poyet looks to have made a positive impact on the Black Cats, but don't expect a radically different attack already.

The Potters will remain organized defensively and tough to break down. Although Asmir Begovic may not notch a ton of saves, he looks primed to deliver at least a clean sheet.

Defenders

Seamus Coleman, Chris Smalling, Gareth McAuley

This was a toss-up between Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman. With the Merseyside derby ahead, Everton's defenders look like great fantasy pickups. I settled on Coleman because he's going to give much the same things that Baines would, but for less money. Go for the better return on your investment.

Chris Smalling may have put in a subpar performance, but Cardiff City are much easier opponents. The Bluebirds' form has taken a nosedive. Manchester United looked great against Arsenal, and if they can retain that defensive strength, Smalling will be giving you points for the clean sheet.

Gareth McAuley is a bit of a risk. The threat of Christian Benteke is lingering, even with the Daily Mail's John Edwards reporting the striker left Belgium training early on Sunday. If Benteke is off his game, it should be a good day for McAuley and the rest of the West Brom defense.

Midfielders

Aaron Ramsey, Yaya Toure, Eden Hazard, Kevin Mirallas

You should start Aaron Ramsey until he starts dropping in form. You keep expecting him to suffer some kind of drop, but it hasn't happened yet. Although playing Southampton is a tough test, if Arsenal get the result, it will likely be Ramsey's doing.

Yaya Toure encapsulates everything that's wrong with Manchester City. Against the best opposition, he can look like one of the best midfielders in the world. But against lesser clubs, Toure falls into a shell, and you forget he's even on the pitch. With Spurs coming to town, he should be up for it and ready to boss the game.

Chelsea's attack has been underwhelming this season. One of the more consistent players has been Eden Hazard. He's tied for the team lead in goals (four) and has added an assist. Against an overmatched West Ham, Hazard should put on a solid display.

The Merseyside derby projects to be a physical match short on goals. However, don't think too hard about whether or not to start Kevin Mirallas. He's played well against the Reds in the past and will be at the fore for Everton's attacks.

Strikers

Robin van Persie, Loic Remy, Wilfried Bony

Robin van Persie was kept out of the Netherlands' friendlies with a groin injury, per ESPN FC. That's good news for Manchester United, as that time off has allowed RVP to get back to full health. The Red Devils have a matchup with the rapidly fading Cardiff City. Van Persie should have plenty of chances to score.

Loic Remy has scored seven goals in nine appearances. Norwich have conceded 21 goals so far this season. Do you really need any more reasons for this one?

Wilfried Bony has the added bonus of playing against Fulham. Their defense is a mess. Just go ahead and look to start whichever striker is facing off against the Cottagers. It helps that Bony is coming off that brace against Stoke.