The registration is now open and the player list is already published on the official FPL website, so you can start seeking to compile the optimum 15-man squad ahead of next weekend's kick-off.
Join FM Scout's FPL 2016-17
Joining the league couldn't be easier. Simply use this link and you'll be added automatically after you've entered the game:https://fantasy.premierleague.com/?autojoin-code=805632-282912
You shouldn't need the league code, but just in case here it is: 805632-282912
Transfers
The summer’s transfer activity has already witnessed the arrival of key new targets; most notably Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The new Manchester United signing will be a hugely popular candidate for our three-man forward lines.
Armenian international Henrikh Mkhitaryan has joined Zlatan at Old Trafford and threatens to shake up managers' thinking in midfield.
Manchester City have landed the goal scoring talents of Nolito on the flank, while Chelsea have already bolstered their attack with the pace and power of Michy Batshuayi.
Manager Changes
FPL managers should also consider how recent managerial appointments have shifted the Premier League landscape.
Jose Mourinho’s arrival at Old Trafford, coupled with those impressive additions to the squad.
Antonio Conte is also expected to transform Chelsea’s fortunes having seized the reigns at Stamford Bridge, while it is anticipated that Pep Guardiola will reinvigorate Manchester City as a title-challenging force.
These changes bring renewed optimism, plus fresh approaches and tactics that have the potential to revive FPL assets who were somewhat overlooked for much of last season.
Familiar Names
The same familiar names can be found on the player list, but many of those who served us so well in 2015/16 have now increased in price, forcing us to re-assess our options.
The prolific FPL form of Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez has inflated their valuations.
Similarly, the mercurial Dimitri Payet of West Ham United and Dele Alli from the Tottenham Hotspur midfield.
Promoted clubs
There will doubtless be new emerging talent waiting to fill the void.
The promoted clubs – Burnley, Hull City and Middlesbrough – make returns to the top flight and introduce a cast of potential targets.
Burnley’s Andre Gray, last season’s top scorer in the Championship with 23 goals, will look to maintain his rise to prominence and should attract interest.
Middlesbrough’s defence – so resilient throughout their promotion campaign with 22 clean sheets - could also win early suitors, particularly with the opening schedule appearing to fall kindly for Aitor Karanka’s men.
Assessing the opening Gameweeks
FPL managers should waste no time in assessing the fixture list and the opening Gameweeks. While it is tempting to plan a squad for the long haul, building one capable of strong returns over the first month is often the wisest tactic.
That is just one initial pitfall to consider. Over reliance on unproven newcomers to the Premier League, at the cost of established FPL talent is another common temptation to be avoided.
Pre-season form and fitness should also be monitored. Awareness of those clubs prepared to rest star players, fatigued by a summer of international exertions, is key over the early Gameweeks.
The likes of Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez, Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero and the aforementioned Payet have already played a batch of competitive matches; they may just be granted extended leave that will see them miss their opening Premier League fixtures.
The first whistle is still a weekend away and yet there are all these factors in play when considering your initial squad selection.
Looking forward to yet another thrilling season of Fantasy Premier League!
Source: FPL Scout
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