90min

FPL Gameweek 2: The best AI defenders

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By Holly Shand

Reece James could have a huge season if he can stay fit
Reece James could have a huge season if he can stay fit / Robin Jones/Getty Images
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The opening weekend of the Premier League season was pretty chaotic, particularly in the world of FPL. Injuries to John Stones and Tyrone Mings, and the surprise omission of Arsenal defender Gabriel left defensive lines in tatters, leaving many to ponder to do next.

Using Fantasy Football Hub’s powerful AI Points Predictions tool, here are the three top defensive picks for gameweek two.

Pervis Estupinan vs Wolves (A) - 4.0 Predicted Points

Pervis Estupinan
Pervis Estupinan is a favourite of many FPL managers / Mike Hewitt/GettyImages

Pervis Estupinan excelled for Brighton on matchday one and now looks to be one of the best value defenders in the game. He made six key passes, creating two big chances for his teammates and was rewarded with an assist. 

He also ranked top among defenders for shots on the opening weekend, with three, and had five touches in the box against Luton Town, the most of any defender. The Ecuadorian will continue to deliver frequent attacking returns this season and an away trip to Wolves looks favourable.

Ben Chilwell vs West Ham (A) - 3.6 Predicted Points

Ben Chilwell
Ben Chilwell had a goal ruled out against Liverpool / Robin Jones/GettyImages

Chelsea's adoption of a 3-5-2 formation hugely benefitted wing-back Ben Chilwell, as he too was one of the most influential FPL defenders of matchday one.

Chilwell bagged an assist for the Blues, setting up Axel Disasi's equaliser, and had a goal of his own ruled out for a tight offside. There was plenty of evidence to support the idea of regular points returns for the former Leicester man, particularly as he plays a prominent role in taking set pieces.

West Ham away isn't an easy game but is one Chelsea will be confident of getting a result in.

Reece James vs West Ham (A) - 4.0 Predicted Points

Reece James
Reece James is Chelsea's new club captain / Robin Jones/GettyImages

Doubling up with Chelsea defenders could be the smart play when you take into account the fixtures they've got going. The club have also completed the British transfer record signing of Moises Caicedo (£115m) and his presence in central midfield will further solidify the Blues.

The concern many will have with James is his ability to stay fit - he has played the eqiuvalent of 34.5 games from a possible 76 over the past two years because of injury - and his afternoon was again ended early against Liverpool.

Nevertheless, James is an incredible attacking threat and Chelsea's formation will play into his attacking skillset nicely.

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