The Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is gearing up for another exciting season, and the Bonus Points System (BPS) is getting a major overhaul. This year, the changes are designed to reward attacking players and goalkeepers more, while also addressing some imbalances in the system. Here's a deep dive into the key changes and what they mean for your FPL strategy.
A New Era for Attacking Players
One of the most significant changes is the removal of the penalty for being tackled. In previous seasons, players who dribbled more often, like wingers and full-backs, were penalized for taking on opponents. This change is a game-changer, as it encourages players to take risks and showcase their dribbling skills without fear of being punished. For instance, Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, who was tackled 156 times last season, could now benefit greatly from this change.
The Rise of Attacking Full-Backs
Another interesting development is the increased focus on attacking full-backs and wing-backs. With the removal of the tackle penalty, these players are now more likely to earn bonus points. Brentford's Michael Kayode, who was tackled 83 times last season, is a prime example of a player who could benefit from this change. His ability to attack from the full-back position could now be more rewarded.
Less Reward for Defensive Actions
On the flip side, defensive actions like clearances, blocks, and interceptions (CBI) are now worth less bonus points. Last season, 112 defenders earned both DC points and bonus points due to their CBI. This year, players will earn 1 BPS for every three CBI, instead of every two. This change should slightly lessen the likelihood of centre-backs picking up bonus points, as they are the types of players who make the most CBI.
Goalkeepers Get a Boost
Goalkeepers are also getting a much-needed boost. Previously, they earned 3 BPS for saving a shot taken from inside the box and 2 BPS for saving a shot taken from outside the box. However, this didn't reward them for saves made without an opponent taking a shot. Now, goalkeepers will earn 2 BPS for any save, and an additional 1 BPS for saving a 'big chance'. This change should significantly increase the potential for goalkeepers to collect bonus points.
The Impact of These Changes
These changes are designed to create a more balanced and exciting FPL experience. By rewarding attacking players and goalkeepers more, the league is encouraging players to take risks and showcase their skills. However, it's also important to note that these changes could potentially reduce the value of defensive players, who are now worth less bonus points. This could lead to a shift in strategy, with more focus on attacking players and goalkeepers.
Looking Ahead
As we approach the new season, it's clear that the FPL is evolving. The changes to the Bonus Points System are designed to create a more dynamic and exciting league, with a greater emphasis on attacking play and goalkeeping. For players, this means that strategy will need to adapt, with a greater focus on the skills and attributes that are now being rewarded. As an FPL fan, I'm excited to see how these changes play out and how they shape the league in the coming seasons.
In my opinion, these changes are a welcome addition to the FPL experience. They encourage players to take risks and showcase their skills, while also creating a more balanced and exciting league. As we approach the new season, I can't wait to see how these changes play out and how they shape the FPL landscape.
