As the 2023/24 FPL season is right around the corner, it’s about time we got our teams in order to maximise returns. If you’re in a league with your friends, family or coworkers, you need to make sure you have bragging rights this season.
The 3 best FPL defenders for the 2023/24 season
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the 3 best defenders to consider for your FPL teams.
1. Ben Chilwell (6.8% ownership – £5.5m)
If you’re looking for the most reliable differential for your team, then consider signing Ben Chilwell. As we have seen in his previous teams, new Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is a big fan of attacking full-backs, so he centres his tactics around these positions.
For a full list of FPL differentials to consider, click here.
This leads many managers to choose Reece James for their teams. However, for the same price I would opt for Chilwell instead. When they’re both fit, Chilwell and James are capable of picking up goal contribution points. However, Chilwell has a much greater chance than James of remaining fit. Definitely pick a Chelsea defender, ideally pick Chilwell.
As a reminder, The Top Flight has set up its own league for writers and readers to battle it out. Feel free to join, using our league code “3xjqmu”
2. Gabriel (19.2% ownership – £5.0m)
Centrebacks get a difficult rep in FPL for some reason. However, Gabriel is a proven safe choice.
Arsenal have added some more reinforcements to their defence, but Gabriel’s position is nailed on week in, week out. Further, the opening fixtures are kind to Arsenal, so the chance of Gabriel picking up clean sheet bonuses makes him worth having in your team.
Let’s not forget, Gabriel is a very tall player and is capable of being a threat in set pieces. Last season, the Brazil centre back scored three goals, which is great for a centre back.
Another reason why Gabriel is a solid addition is that he is very sensible. It’s very rare that he gives fouls away and last season, he only picked up five yellow cards and zero red cards. Further, he has an expected goal involvement per 90 minutes of 0.15, which is impressive again for a centre back.
3. Pau Torres (3.5% ownership – £4.5m)
Last but certainly not least is one of the better cheaper options for defenders in FPL this season. It’s Unai Emery’s new signing at Aston Villa, Pau Torres.
Coming in at only £4.5m and 3.5% ownership, he is a great differential to include in your teams, and was one of the first in mine.
Looking at Aston Villa’s opening fixture against Newcastle United, I would probably bench Pau for this one but then start him in the next two fixtures, which are easy fixtures against Everton and Aston Villa. This is the reason why I have included Pau within this list, because I know managers often have a difficult time finding the best bench players.
Pau’s position is certainly nailed on and I would bet on him picking up some bonus points for his involvement in Villa’s defending. Villa are pushing to improve on an impressive last season, so I expect their defence to be in tip-top condition.
What does your FPL midfield look like for next season?