FPL Gameweek 9: Best midfielder replacements for doubtful Bukayo Saka
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By Holly Shand
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It's the question on the tip of every FPL player's tongue; what should be done with Bukayo Saka in Gameweek 9?
The Arsenal star, who is the most owned midfielder in the game, is currently flagged with injury having missed the Gunners' 1-0 win against Manchester City before the October international break. Saka didn't link up with the England squad for victories over Australia and Italy, either.
Given he has been playing through the pain all season, who are the best replacements if he doesn't pull through for Arsenal's clash with Chelsea? Here are the best alternatives in midfield picked by Fantasy Football Hub's powerful AI Points Predictions tool.
Bruno Fernandes
- Fixture: Sheffield United (A); Predicted Points: 5.8
AI continues to back Man Utd midfielder Bruno Fernandes, despite contributing only two goals - one coming from the penalty spot - and one assist all season.
However, his underlying numbers continue to make the Portugal star an appealing option, ranking third for key passes (22) this season. Fernandes' output would be better if not for some errant United finishing, with five big chances created and an xA of 2.89 yielding just one assist.
It's not just assist threat Fernandes provides, however. He ranks fifth for shots on goal with 25 and is also sixth overall for expected goal involvements this season on a 5.3 metric. Opponents Sheffield United have conceded a league high 22 goals this campaign and are yet to keep a clean sheet, which bodes well for Fernandes.
James Maddison
- Fixture: Fulham (H); Predicted Points: 5.7
While Son Heung-min's ownership has almost caught up with that of teammate James Maddison in recent weeks, Maddison remains an excellent fantasy pick in his own right with two goals and five assists this season. Spurs' current form and upcoming fixtures also mean the double up remains highly viable for this duo.
Maddison is still searching for his first attacking return on home turf but that could come against Fulham who look particularly weak defensively, ranked fourth on 15.9 for expected goals conceded this season.
Maddison has had a respectable 23 shots on goal this season, also ranking second for key passes with 25.
Moussa Diaby
- Fixture: West Ham (H); Predicted Points: 5.2
Midfielders priced over £8m dominate the transfer targets conversation, but don't discount the cheaper options.
AI prefers Aston Villa winger Moussa Diaby, who has two goals and four assists this season, ahead of a home game against West Ham. He is one of the best value midfielders in the game right now with routes to points through goals and assists.
He ranks fourth with five big chances created this season, yielding four assists. West Ham have kept just one clean sheet so far this season, conceding eight goals in their last three games, while Villa have scored 11 goals in that same period.
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