The return of last season’s heroes gradually, gameweek by
gameweek continued last week with Harry Kane coming up trumps with a hat trick.
However, one game isn’t enough for me to back him for this week’s Stag’s
Knight, combined with the fact that Spurs’ fixtures aren’t all that great.
Instead, it’s Gameweek 9’s man of the moment Georginio “Wij” Wijnaldum who comes in as my top pick for the
upcoming three gameweeks. For the Dutchman, it’s a combination of partial form,
undoubted ability and fixtures that make him the standout pick.
I’ll hit all the nails I just outlined on the head now,
starting with form. Wij’s returns have been more consistent than Newcastle’s
results for a start. In the two games before the infamous 4 goal bonanza
against Norwich, when the Toon faced Chelsea and Arsenal, he managed to get a
goal and then an assist. In addition to that, Wij also scored on his Premier
League debut against Southampton in Gameweek 1. You have a certain comfort in
picking Wij too that you wouldn’t have often wouldn’t have when you’re dealing
with players from other teams – almost everything Newcastle do successfully in
attack goes through him. Of the 12 goals they’ve managed to score this term,
Wij was involved in 7 of them. That’s staggering!
Undoubted ability you say Mr Stag? Prove it! Okay, okay
precious readers. Sit down around the fire to hear some career stats. From
midfield, he managed to score 56 goals and create a further 24 goals in 154
competitive appearances for PSV over in Holland. Just over one attacking return
every second match. Bear in mind also that he managed all that while a young
developing player (Wij turns 25 on November 11th). While I’ve
outlined his Premier League returns, I didn’t mention the stats that underpin
them and highlight his ability further. When you consider how terrible
Newcastle have been, averaging 1.5 shots per game and 1.1 key passes per game
is quite impressive (whoscored.com). These personal stats are sure to improve as they
consistently play weaker opposition over the next three gameweeks, and the team
around Wij will find it much easier to supply him.
Speaking of weaker opposition, I’ll outline the enticing
fixtures I’ve spoken about. Newcastle host Stoke, go to wayward Bournemouth and
then play Leicester in St James’ Park after the International break. Stoke won’t
exactly be shrinking violets when they head up to Tyneside. It’s the most
difficult of the three. However, the injury to Geoff Cameron is a sure blow to
their defence system, as is highlighted by the two goals Watford put past them
last weekend after he was forced off. Need I explain Bournemouth? Boruc has
suddenly become the poorest ‘keeper in the division and the team have shipped
10 goals in their last two games. Leicester are still poor defensively, their
first clean sheet of the season last weekend doesn’t change that. Oh yeah, why didn’t
I choose him last week so? Two reasons, derby and new manager playing at home.
Two things I always fear.
6.9m, 7% ownership and a key attacking outlet. Georginio
Wijnaludum is Gameweek 11’s Stag’s Knight. @FPLStag
(Click to enlarge)