Underrated FPL gems shine ahead of Gameweek 1

A look at five low owned picks that could lift fantasy teams as Opta data signals value beyond the obvious names.

Underrated FPL gems shine ahead of Gameweek 1

Opta data identifies five low owned FPL gems for the new season. Dean Henderson at 5.0m sits on 5.5 percent ownership and is backed by a strong track record of clean sheets and penalty saves. He helped Crystal Palace win cups and finished last season among the top keepers for points, yet he is discounted partly due to an opening match at Chelsea. Still, Palace are forecast to have a favorable start with a relatively easy five fixture run according to fixture data. Henderson’s ceiling remains high if the form returns and Palace can limit goals against.

Neco Williams at 5.0m has 7.4 percent ownership and stands out in a defensively minded side. The new two points for defensive contributions makes wing backs like Williams easier to justify in a crowded budget, while Forest’s compact defending supports steady tackles and blocks. Cody Gakpo at 7.5m is next up with 6.4 percent ownership; with Luis Diaz gone, he should start more often and benefit from a creative setup that includes new signings. Yankuba Minteh at 6.0m is owned by only 1.4 percent but is set to gain minutes as Brighton adjust their forward line. Jorgen Strand Larsen at 6.5m owns 5.2 percent and proved his goal threat last season with 14 non penalty goals. With Cunha moving to Manchester United, Strand Larsen could see more finishing chances for Wolves.

The core idea is simple: value can hide in small ownership. These picks only look risky on paper but offer upside if early fixtures line up and players stay fit. The new defensive scoring rule adds weight to Williams and other wing backs, changing the calculus for a low budget route into strong defenses. The real test is consistency, not the opening game, and managers should balance upside with squad coverage and fixture risk.

A balanced approach helps. Pair one or two high upside low owned players with steady performers and you hedge against early rotation or bad luck. The five players highlighted here have clear paths to minutes or clean sheets, but they require monitoring of lineups, injuries, and form. Data can guide, but sound decision making comes from watching how fixtures unfold.

Highlights

Keep a level head as the schedule unfolds and use data to inform but not drive every move.