English Premier League (EPL) Fantasy Soccer Picks: Sheffield United vs. Newcastle United DraftKings DFS Showdown Strategy

Sheffield United hasn’t won a game in 17 attempts in the Premier League. With just two points, relegation is all but confirmed. Newcastle United might sense an opportunity when both teams face each other on Tuesday at Bramall Lane. We take a look at some suggestions for your DraftKings soccer roster from the showdown game.

Set your DraftKings lineup here: EPL Showdown $35K Counter Attack [$10K to 1st] (SHU vs NEW)

Captain

Callum Wilson ($16,800)

Wilson has been eased back into the starting 11 for Newcastle after his injury. He hasn’t scored in his last two appearances in the Premier League, but that happens frequently as a player regains match fitness. Manager Steve Bruce implied Wilson would be fit in time for this game despite being currently listed as questionable. He was in stellar form prior to his injury. He has scored eight goals so far this season, eighth-most in the EPL.

Others to consider: David McGoldrick ($16,200)

High-priced flex options

David McGoldrick ($10,800)

McGoldrick has provided some impetus for Sheffield in the final third. For a team that has scored just eight goals this season, that has been desperately required. In fact, he has contributed to 62.5% of the team’s goals this season (four goals and one assist). He has even taken 22 shots for Sheffield, second-most in his team this season. He is currently averaging 6.7 DKFP per game.

Matt Ritchie ($9,400)

There isn’t much statistical evidence to back this decision, it’s a bit of an instinct pick based on Ritchie’s visible impact in games. He is entrusted with taking most set-pieces for Newcastle with his left foot, depending on whether the team needs in-swinging or out-swinging deliveries into the box. He has averaged 8.6 DKFP per game despite not having had a direct hand in too many goals this season.

John Lundstram ($10,000)

Lundstram is back for Sheffield United. He was suspended for three games after a scissor challenge that led to a red card. His perseverance and grit will be much needed for Sheffield, a team that has been massively underwhelming this season. He has taken 11 shots for Sheffield this season, third-most for his club even though he has been absent for several games.

Others to consider: Oliver Norwood ($7,000)

Value flex options

Chris Basham ($3,800)

Basham has some terrific defensive numbers. If you see Sheffield play, you can understand why. He can seamlessly transition from a full-back into a center midfield role when his manager requires it. He currently leads Sheffield in successful tackles won (39) and interceptions (29). He is also second in clearances (57) and third in aerial battles won (40). All this defensive effectiveness for just $3,800 is quite valuable.

Karl Darlow ($6,000)

More than Darlow’s own efficiency, it’s his opponent that is the major reason for his inclusion on this slate. Sheffield has been appalling in front of goal this season, having scored just 8 goals in 17 games . There is no apparent, reliable avenue for Sheffield to beat Darlow easily, which means there could be a rare clean sheet in the offing for Newcastle.

Others to consider: Joelinton ($6,400)

Set your DraftKings lineup here: EPL Showdown $35K Counter Attack [$10K to 1st] (SHU vs NEW)

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Nikhil Kalro is the Founder and CEO of Altletics Esports.