FPL Set-Piece Strategy: Unlocking Success in 2026-27
The upcoming Premier League season promises to be a thrilling affair, with set pieces once again taking centre stage. As FPL managers gear up for the challenge, it's crucial to understand the evolving dynamics of set-piece takers and their potential impact on team performance.
The Set-Piece Revolution Continues
The 2025-26 Premier League campaign showcased the growing importance of set pieces, with 27.4% of goals coming from non-penalty set-pieces, the second-highest proportion in the competition's history. Corners, in particular, were a dominant force, accounting for 18% of all goals, a significant increase from the previous season.
This trend is not limited to individual teams; it's a league-wide phenomenon. More than half of the Premier League clubs now employ dedicated set-piece coaches, recognising the strategic value of these specialists. The data clearly indicates that set-piece coaches can be just as impactful as any other player on the pitch.
Strongest Set-Piece Teams
Let's delve into the set-piece prowess of some top teams from last season:
- Arsenal: Led the way with 25 non-penalty set-piece goals and only 8 conceded, resulting in a positive swing of 17 goals.
- Tottenham Hotspur: Finished second with a positive swing of 10 goals, thanks to the strategic brilliance of set-piece coach Andreas Georgson.
- Coventry City: The Championship's standout team from set pieces, with a positive swing of 16 goals, despite their eventual promotion to the Premier League.
Conversely, teams like Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, and Liverpool struggled with set pieces, allowing the most goals in this manner.
Key Players in the Spotlight
- Bruno Fernandes: Manchester United's star man, with 21 assists in the Premier League last season, setting a new record. His set-piece brilliance is a significant factor in his high FPL price tag of £12.0m.
- Dominik Szoboszlai: Liverpool's Hungarian talent, who often took corners from both sides of the pitch. His versatility and set-piece prowess make him a valuable asset, currently ranked sixth for projected points-per-game.
- Declan Rice: Arsenal's cornerstone, leading the team in corners, indirect free-kicks, and throw-ins. His set-piece expertise is a key factor in his FPL value.
The Impact of Set-Piece Coaches
Set-piece coaches play a pivotal role in a team's success. For instance, Tottenham's Andreas Georgson and Coventry City's set-piece strategy have been instrumental in their respective campaigns.
Set-Piece Receivers to Target
Understanding who benefits from set pieces is crucial. Virgil van Dijk, for example, stood out with his goal-scoring prowess after making the first contact on crossed corners.
Future Developments and Considerations
As the season unfolds, FPL managers must stay agile, adapting to changing set-piece dynamics. The arrival of new players and coaches will impact set-piece hierarchies, affecting player values and performance.
In conclusion, the 2026-27 Premier League season promises an exciting battle for set-piece supremacy. FPL managers who grasp the evolving landscape of set pieces will be well-positioned to unlock success and dominate their fantasy football leagues.
