As we enter the first weekend of 2026, Gameweek 20 presents a landscape where squad rotations and high-stakes matches define the FPL strategy. With several teams adjusting to player absences and recent form shifts, the scout’s top 8 highlights individuals who are primed to capitalize on specific defensive vulnerabilities and tactical setups.
Danny Welbeck (Brighton) Vs Burnley (H)
Danny Welbeck enters the new year as a primary attacking threat for Brighton in their home fixture against Burnley. Brighton’s ability to dominate possession at the Amex Stadium will be a significant factor against a Burnley defense that has struggled for consistency throughout the season, conceding over 15 goals and frequently failing to keep clean sheets. With Burnley currently possessing one of the league’s most porous defensive records, Welbeck’s positioning and movement in the final third make him a high-potential candidate for attacking returns in this favorable home matchup.
Jarrod Bowen (West Ham) Vs Wolves (A)
Jarrod Bowen travels to face a Wolves side that is currently enduring a severe defensive crisis, having conceded a league-high 37 goals so far this campaign. As West Ham’s most reliable offensive outlet, Bowen is perfectly positioned to exploit a backline that averages more than two goals conceded per match. His dual-threat capability as both a clinical finisher and a creative force makes him a standout pick against a Wolves defense that has shown little signs of stabilizing during the festive period.
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) Vs Bournemouth (A)
Arsenal remains at the top of the table as they head to the Vitality Stadium, and Bukayo Saka continues to be the undisputed talisman driving their title charge. His creative metrics remain in the elite bracket, and he will be tasked with navigating a Bournemouth defense that often leaves significant gaps when transitioning from attack to defense. Saka’s involvement in all primary set-pieces and his high volume of touches in the penalty area ensure he remains a premier asset for managers looking for consistent elite returns.
Kevin Schade (Brentford) Vs Everton (A)
Kevin Schade serves as a high-upside differential for Brentford’s visit to Everton, particularly as the home side adjusts to the absence of key creative players. Everton has shown a historical vulnerability at the back this season, having failed to keep a clean sheet in ten consecutive matches during an earlier stretch. Schade’s explosive pace and directness are designed to unsettle an Everton defense that may lack its usual coordination following the departure of international starters for continental duty.
Hugo Ekitiké (Liverpool) Vs Fulham (A)
While Hugo Ekitiké did not find the net in the recent fixture against Leeds, his overall form remains sensational as he heads into the clash with Fulham. He has officially moved into a “man in form” status with an impressive tally of five goals and one assist across his last five appearances. As the focal point of Arne Slot’s high-pressing system, Ekitiké continues to boast a top-tier anytime goalscorer probability, particularly against a Fulham side that has struggled for offensive consistency and defensive structure in high-stakes matches.
Nick Woltemade (Newcastle) Vs Crystal Palace (H)
Nick Woltemade has emerged as a clinical revelation for Newcastle United, leading the club with seven league goals this season. His recent form is highlighted by a standout double against Chelsea, proving his ability to deliver against high-caliber opposition. Facing a Crystal Palace side that remains defensively volatile, Woltemade’s knack for outperforming his expected goals (xG) makes him the most reliable attacking asset for Eddie Howe’s men at St. James’ Park.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace) Vs Newcastle (A)
Jean-Philippe Mateta remains the ultimate “big game” disruptor and the primary target for every set-piece and cross for a Palace side looking to upset the order at Newcastle. He enters this round with seven goals already this campaign and continues to rank among the league leaders for shots in the box and big chances. Because Palace’s expected goals (xG) significantly increases when he is on the pitch, his physical presence will be the tactical edge required to test a Newcastle defense that has occasionally shown cracks during the festive rotation.
Simon Adingra (Sunderland) vs. Tottenham (H)
Following his move to Sunderland, Simon Adingra has quickly emerged as one of the primary creative catalysts for the team. Heading into the clash against Tottenham, he is a high-value asset due to his elite one-on-one efficiency and ball-carrying metrics. Statistically, Adingra ranks in the top tier for successful take-ons (3.8 per 90) and progressive carries (7.2 per 90), highlighting his role as the engine that drives Sunderland’s transitions. Rather than relying on out-pacing a high line, Adingra’s value lies in his ability to isolate defenders and create quality openings in tight spaces, evidenced by his 2.4 key passes per game. His presence provides Sunderland with a clinical creative edge against a Spurs side that has prioritized a more disciplined defensive structure in recent weeks.
Gameweek 20 marks a pivotal moment in the 2025/26 season, where tactical shifts and individual form streaks take center stage. From the clinical resurgence of Nick Woltemade to the creative necessity of Simon Adingra at his new club, these eight players offer a mix of established reliability and high-ceiling differential potential. Managers who prioritize these form-driven assets will be well-positioned to start 2026 with a significant climb in the rankings.
