Following a quiet showing in the Community Shield, some FPL managers are seriously considering starting the season without Mohamed Salah. I think that’s a high-risk move.

With enormous ownership and a track record as a captain who can deliver in any fixture, Salah remains one of the most dangerous players to go without. The threat is especially pronounced in Gameweeks 4 and 5, when Liverpool face Burnley and Everton — both matches where he could produce big hauls.

If you omit him, you’re left with three less-than-ideal scenarios: accept the constant risk, plan multiple transfers well in advance to bring him in, or burn an early Wildcard. None of those are particularly appealing.

Cole Palmer stands out as one of the most exciting midfield picks at £10.5m. He’s Chelsea’s first-choice penalty taker, has a promising run of fixtures to open the campaign, and arrives in excellent form off the back of an impressive Club World Cup.

With set-piece responsibilities and a pivotal role in Chelsea’s attack, his points ceiling is very high. I genuinely believe he could rival Haaland’s output over the first few Gameweeks — but at a fraction of the price.

At this stage, I’d even take him over Bukayo Saka. Arsenal’s initial schedule is more challenging, and there’s still a question mark over whether Saka keeps hold of penalty duties.

Bruno Fernandes should not be overlooked. The new FPL scoring tweaks could suit his style perfectly, as he often earns points through defensive contributions such as recoveries, blocks, and interceptions.

Even if he doesn’t play as an advanced No.10, his involvement in United’s build-up remains constant. He’s still on penalties, rarely gets substituted, and has looked sharp throughout pre-season.

In Gameweek 3, United host Burnley — an inviting fixture where Bruno could be a strong captaincy shout, particularly with Salah up against Arsenal that same week.

Tottenham’s early run of fixtures makes their defence well worth monitoring, and I’m leaning towards starting with at least one Spurs defender.

Despite last season’s poor defensive stats, there’s reason for optimism under the new manager, especially with Joao Palhinha adding much-needed steel in midfield.

Porro offers more than just defensive returns — his forward runs, set-piece threat, and the absence of James Maddison make him arguably the most attractive Spurs defensive asset.

Martin Dubravka’s move to Burnley has transformed the £4.0m goalkeeper landscape. Having a reliable starting keeper at the lowest possible price is a rare gift in FPL.

It frees up cash to strengthen other areas of your squad, while still offering dependable backup when needed — an advantage that could prove crucial over the long season.