
Cody Gakpo’s injury has put more than 12% of Fantasy Premier League managers under pressure.
The £7.5m Liverpool attacker has been ruled out with a knock of uncertain severity, leaving his return date unclear. With Liverpool entering a busy period — facing Brighton (GW16), Tottenham (GW17), Wolves (GW18), Leeds (GW19), and Fulham (GW20) — FPL managers relying on Gakpo now face an urgent transfer decision.
Given the unknown timeline and the intensity of Liverpool’s upcoming schedule, holding Gakpo presents significant risk. He could miss multiple Gameweeks during a crucial run, and uncertainty around his status could lead to price drops. For most Fantasy Premier League managers, selling now and moving to a reliable, fit midfielder is the most sensible play.
| Player | Cost | Team | GW16 | GW17 | GW18 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rice | £7.1 | ARS | WOL (5.4) | EVE (4.2) | BHA (4.6) |
| Semenyo | £7.6 | BOU | MUN (4.0) | BUR (5.9) | BRE (4.0) |
| Trossard | £6.9 | ARS | WOL (4.9) | EVE (3.6) | BHA (4.2) |
| Casemiro | £5.5 | MUN | BOU (4.2) | AVL (3.6) | NEW (4.0) |
| Wilson | £5.3 | FUL | BUR (4.2) | NFO (4.0) | WHU (4.1) |
| Rogers | £6.9 | AVL | WHU (3.7) | MUN (3.7) | CHE (3.1) |
Across Fantasy Premier League, the most popular Gakpo replacements are established performers such as Phil Foden, Bruno Fernandes, and Bukayo Saka. But there is also strong movement toward value picks like Harry Wilson and Morgan Rogers, indicating managers are seeking both reliability and upside.
Wilson offers outstanding value for managers wanting to free up funds. The Fulham winger has delivered two goals, two assists, and steady creative output in recent weeks. With favourable fixtures against Burnley, Nottingham Forest, and West Ham, he provides a safe floor and decent upside — ideal for Fantasy Premier League managers reshaping their midfield after Gakpo’s injury.
Rice continues to offer a reliable blend of defensive contributions and chance creation under Mikel Arteta. His fixtures (Wolves, Everton, Brighton) look extremely favourable, and his role on set pieces enhances his appeal. Rice may not be explosive, but he provides steady FPL points — something managers often undervalue during the festive schedule.
Trossard is one of the most exciting replacements for managers willing to take on a little risk. Despite limited minutes, he has produced goals and consistently posed a threat. However, he is currently flagged with a 75% chance of playing.
FPL managers should monitor Arteta’s press conferences closely. Arsenal play Club Brugge on Wednesday night in the Champions League, so we should learn more about his fitness before the Gameweek 16 deadline. If declared fit, Trossard becomes a standout differential with excellent fixtures and low ownership.
With Gakpo set for an uncertain spell on the sidelines, most Fantasy Premier League managers are better off making the transfer now rather than waiting. Arsenal and Fulham assets stand out for their combination of form and fixtures, while Trossard offers explosive potential if passed fit. Whether you opt for a safe pick like Rice or take a swing with a differential, this is an important moment to stabilise your FPL midfield as the busy December schedule intensifies.

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