Four draws, multiple player absences, and a weakened LA Galaxy team that preserved a clean sheet anyway. Yup, just another strange week during an international window.
Fortunately, we’re back to a normal schedule now and there are some excellent games with a lot of potential points. The biggest is our first #ElTrafico match between the LA Galaxy and LAFC, and the introduction of Zlatan Ibrahimovic ($10.0) into the MLS Fantasy game. I know he’s tempting and while I think both teams have the potential to put points on the board, Zlatan is too risky for my tastes due to a likely late entry that could result in a large value loss.
However, there are still plenty of other enticing options. Below if a list of some of my favorite players who I think have a shot at a great score for Week 5.
Goalkeepers
Welcome Back
Consider adding Columbus Crew SC goalkeeper Zack Steffen to your Starting XI or bench in his return from international duty. | USA Today Sports Images
Last week, the Vancouver Whitecaps' offense failed to impress at home against an LA Galaxy side missing several international players. This week, the 'Caps travel across country to take on a Columbus Crew SC side (3 pm ET | CTV - Full TV & Streaming Info) team now bolstered by the return of their starting 'keeper Zack Steffen ($7.0) This game looks like a potential 3rd clean sheet, but I recommend starting him on your bench.
Value Building
If you are willing to spend big money on a keeper with a good chance for a value rise, then consider Andre Blake ($7.0). The Philadelphia Union are visiting a Colorado Rapids side (9 pm ET | Full TV & Streaming Info) that have the lowest number of shots in the league, and Blake is on a two-game clean sheet run.
Defenders
Offensive Option
I’m sticking with the Columbus defense this round, but this time I’m leaning towards a more offensive player. Crew SC have been favoring the left side for their attack and that’s already resulted in 1 goal and 1 assist for Milton Valenzuela ($7.0). With a clean sheet also possible against travel weary Vancouver, I think he’s worth the high price tag.
Surprising Value
If you’re looking for a value defender, then consider Ike Opara ($5.1). The Sporting Kansas City defense has struggled at the start of the season, but Opara has still been generating key defensive stats. With almost 70 percent of D.C. United’s shots coming for the middle of the field, I believe Opara will literally be in the perfect position to reap the benefits on Saturday night (8:30 pm ET | Full TV & Streaming Info).
Midfielders
Hot Differential
Consider Vako, left, as a potential bargain for your fantasy midfield in Week 5 | USA Today Images
If you’re looking for an under-owned player with the potential for a good score, then consider Vako ($10.0). In his first two games, he’s been one of the San Jose Earthquakes’ most dangerous attackers scoring three goals and earning two assists. He’ll be going against a New York City FC defense on Saturday (8 pm ET | ESPN 2, TSN 2 - Full TV & Streaming Info) that has allowed several goals on the road and could reward those managers who take the risk.
On Fire
While the SKC defense may be struggling, new offensive midfielder Felipe Gutierrez ($9.7) has brought the offensive power they have needed. For his bargain price, you get a player who has scored four goals over his last three games and has already seen a $1.7 price increase. More goals seem possible this week, and as long as SKC are at home, Gutierrez should not be overlooked.
Forwards
Under Owned
Houston’s Alberth Elis ($10.5) has scored a goal or earned an assist in each of his first three games, so it’s shocking to see that he’s owned by fewer that nine percent of managers. If you think his hot streak is going to come to an end, then I’d say wait one more week. He looks primed for more goals against a New England team that has allowed 5 goals over their last 3 games and has yet to score on the road (8:30 pm ET | Full TV & Streaming Info).
Go-to Man
LAFC have already shocked many fantasy players this season with their road success. So if you’re looking for the perfect player to take for their game against the Galaxy (3 pm ET | FOX, TVAS2 - Full TV & Streaming Info), then I think Diego Rossi ($10.2) is your guy. He’s scored three goals and earned three assists over his first two games and has already built a dangerous connection with Carlos Vela ($10.5). Look for both players to impress this weekend, but I expect Rossi to be the main target man.
WHICH PLAYERS are you considering for Round 5?
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