FPL GW3 Differential Picks: Less Popular Gems to Boost Your Rank
Gameweek 3 in Fantasy Premier League is shaping up to be a tricky test ahead of the international break. Injuries to big names like Bukayo Saka, Jeremie Frimpong and Cole Palmer have forced FPL managers to look beyond the usual template picks. That's where differentials come in.
Gameweek 2 saw some unexpected stars, including Josh Cullen, Dango Ouattara, and the highest score in the game this season from Jurrien Timber, who's in less than seven percent of teams.
In this article, I highlight the best FPL differentials for Gameweek 3 who could provide that extra edge.
DEFENDERS
Ki-Jana Hoever - 2.0%
After the departure of Nelson Semedo in the summer, Wolves needed a new first-choice right wing-back. They had a couple of different options, but Vitor Pereira has gone with Hoever since early preseason matches.
Even in the first game against Man City, he was being used as an attacking outlet who got forward to try to find Jorgen Strand Larsen in the middle.
You can't expect too much from a Wolves defender in terms of clean sheets, but in the nicer fixtures, it could be worth taking a punt on an attacking one.
Of note, Hoever suffered a minor knee issue last weekend and his status will be updated Friday (stay tuned to RotoWire's News page). If he's ruled out, Jackson Tchatchoua (0.0%) is expected to slot into the starting XI.
Reece James - 5.7%
If you're new to FPL, you won't know the pain and suffering of picking Reece James in your team can cause. In previous seasons, the Englishman has been tough to roster because of the constant hamstring injuries that he seemingly couldn't escape.
However, he now seems to be injury free, and in Gameweek 1, he looked back to his best as he created three chances for his teammates with his usual role on set pieces.
It's clear Chelsea are still being cautious with his minutes as he didn't start in Gameweek 2, but that does suggest that he will start in the Gameweek 3 derby against Fulham.
See where these players rank in RotoWire's Gameweek 3 FPL Rankings
MIDFIELDERS
Harvey Barnes - 0.8%
Despite only picking up one point from their first two games, Newcastle have started the season in impressive fashion. They had a goalless draw at Aston Villa in which they dominated for large parts of the game, and then the thrilling match Monday against Liverpool where Newcastle came very close to picking up a point.
It's Leeds United up next, and without the suspended Anthony Gordon, Barnes is almost guaranteed to start and go close to 90 minutes.
Considering his minutes were limited, the winger's goal tally of nine last season proves just how dangerous he can be.
Estevao - 2.2%
Estevao's short time in the Premier League has been impressive, as he looked dangerous when he came on as a substitute in Gameweek 1 against Crystal Palace, and he picked up an assist in his start against West Ham.
The teenager's direct approach and final-third composure have been a breath of fresh air, and with Palmer likely out this week, he now looks likely to start on the right wing.
Against Fulham, Chelsea have come out on top in three of the last four meetings with their London rivals, so the Brazilian is an exciting pick for Gameweek 3.
FORWARDS
Igor Thiago - 1.3%
Brentford signed Igor Thiago last summer as an Ivan Toney replacement, but he picked up a serious injury before the season even started. He came back toward the end of last season where he picked up some minutes off the bench.
With Yoane Wissa's future still uncertain at Brentford, Thiago looks to be their first-choice striker, as he's played 90 minutes in both of the opening fixtures.
Brentford may not have the same explosiveness as last season, but a penalty taker for just £6.0m will always be great value.
Eliezer Mayenda - 2.0%
In that same fixture, Mayenda has made a strong start to Premier League life as he scored in Sunderland's Gameweek 1 win against West Ham.
Sunderland have other options for the forward position in Marc Guiu and Wilson Isidor, who have both already scored themselves this season. However, Mayenda is expected to start in Gameweek 3 as he was rested for the Carabao Cup game (Guiu went 90 and Isidor went 78 on Tuesday).
Brentford's defense has been a bit nervy, especially in their trip to Nottingham, so it could be a nice fixture for the young Mayenda.
