With the dust settled on the first few Fantasy EFL Gameweeks, it’s time to dive deep into our Fantasy EFL line-ups for Gameweek 4. We assess the top players at risk of missing Gameweek 4 due to injury, non-selection, or potential transfer. In these line-up lessons, we categorise players based on these factors, aiming to help you identify potential exclusions for your Fantasy EFL squad.
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INJURY CONCERNS
Rob Dickie (Bristol City, D)
Bristol City are likely to be without their regular centre-back Rob Dickie (D) when they travel to Derby County on Saturday. He will be required to undergo late medical checks on a hamstring injury that he sustained in their match against Coventry City last time out. Other injury concerns for the Robins include West Ham loanee George Earthy (M) and Yu Hirakawa (F), who is still yet to make his league debut for the Robins.
Oliver Rathbone (Wrexham, M)
Wrexham midfielder Oliver Rathbone (M) is unlikely to feature in the Red Dragons’ trip to Peterborough United in Gameweek 4, due to a foot injury. Despite a brief appearance in Wrexham’s 3-0 win over Reading last week, Rathbone, who was signed for a club record fee, is still awaiting his full debut. The 27-year-old scored eight goals in 138 appearances for Rotherham United, contributing to their second-place finish and promotion in 21/22.
Luke Leahy (Wycombe Wanderers, D)
Luke Leahy (D) remains sidelined with an injury suffered during Wycombe Wanderers’ Bristol Street Motors cup match. The injury forced him to miss their recent league victory over Rotherham United. As the Chairboys prepare for their weekend clash with Blackpool, Leahy’s return seems unlikely. Fantasy managers who still have him in their squads should consider making a change, with 0.4% still selecting the defender.
UNLIKELY TO FEATURE
Vitinho (11.2%)
There has been much speculation about Burnley’s forward-thinking defender, with interest growing from clubs in Brazil. Reports suggest that a bid of around £5.9 million has been made by Botafogo, making them the frontrunner to secure the Brazilian defender’s signature. According to sources, Burnley and Botafogo have reached an agreement, leaving the decision of where his future lies solely with the player. This potential transfer would be a significant move and could cause disruption in Fantasy EFL, as Vitinho (D) is one of the most popular defenders in the game. Thankfully, we’ll know before Burnley’s highly anticipated East Lancashire derby against Blackburn Rovers whether Vitinho will remain with the club, as the transfer window closes on Friday at 23:00 BST. Regardless, there’s a possibility that Parker might leave him out of the starting lineup due to the ongoing speculation.
Paul Mullin (13%)
Paul Mullin (F) made his first return to first-team football when Wrexham defeated Reading 3-0 at the Racecourse Ground in Gameweek 3. It was a highly encouraging day for the Welsh side as their talisman showed signs of a potential return to full fitness in the coming weeks. However, Mullin is still not fully fit, which makes his inclusion in the starting lineup unlikely. Even if the striker does make his first League One start, it’s improbable that he’ll play the full 90 minutes. Therefore, if you decide to take the risk and include the prolific striker in your Fantasy team, be prepared for him to play a maximum of around 60 minutes!
Rhys Healey (0.3%)
Rhys Healey (F) missed Huddersfield Town’s 1-0 victory over Stevenage last weekend due to an injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for this weekend’s match as well. With 0.3% of fantasy managers currently selecting him, it’s advisable to make changes to your squad to maximise your point returns.
TRANSFER WATCH
Tom Fellows (West Bromwich Albion, M)
Southampton have reportedly made a move for West Brom’s in-form winger, Tom Fellows (M). However, the Baggies have rejected a £10 million bid, indicating their intention to retain their forward at the Hawthorns as they strive for promotion in the 2024/25 campaign. Keep an eye on the situation before the transfer deadline on Friday at 23:00 BST!
Morgan Whittaker (Plymouth Argyle, F)
Burnley have signalled their intent with a reported bid for Plymouth Argyle’s star striker, Morgan Whittaker (F). A prolific goalscorer with 19 goals last season, Whittaker is a promising talent who could significantly impact Burnley’s campaign. If they can secure his signature, it would be a fantastic acquisition. While Plymouth have initially rejected Burnley’s offer, the likelihood of Whittaker leaving the Pilgrims during this Summer transfer window is increasing.
Ken Aboh (Norwich City, F)
Norwich City attacker, Ken Aboh (F), has attracted interest from both Notts County and MK Dons in League Two. The forward is poised to join one of these clubs on loan this summer. At just 19, Aboh is already generating interest, and Norwich City recognise his potential for the future. A loan spell to a lower-league side could provide the valuable experience Aboh needs to further develop his game. The forward scored an impressive 11 goals in 15 games for Norwich City’s Premier League 2 side last season.
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Think we’ve missed a key transfer or injury doubt? Send us your thoughts via #FantasyEFL or email us at fantasyefl@fantasyfootballscout.co.uk
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