The Rise of a Fantasy Premier League Contender

Imagine being ranked 66th out of 11 million players globally in Fantasy Premier League (FPL), just 51 points away from the top spot. This is the reality for 19-year-old Nathan Bannister, a Nottingham Forest fan and apprentice at BBC Sport. In this deep dive, Nathan shares his journey, strategies, and the mental toll of climbing to the top 0.0006% of FPL teams worldwide.

The Life of an FPL Enthusiast

When I meet new people now, I'm often introduced as the FPL guy. I've played the game for five years, and this season has been my best by far. Last season, I finished around 13,000th, which is still impressive but nothing compared to my current standing. Being successful in FPL requires a significant commitment to research and analysis.

In previous seasons, I'd casually scroll through X (formerly Twitter) on a Friday and make my transfers. This season, FPL has become a major part of my life, influencing my mood and daily routine. Over the weekend, I watch as many games as possible, focusing on the performance of my players.

Strategic Planning and Community Engagement

The first couple of days of the week are dedicated to reviewing my decision-making process from the previous weekend. By Wednesday and Thursday, I'm digesting content from FPL creators. On Friday, I scrutinize every club's press conference for injury updates. I make my transfers at 10:30 on Saturday, ensuring I have the most up-to-date information.

Engaging with the FPL community is vital. My brother and I spend hours discussing teams and strategies. I also plan five gameweeks ahead, considering fixtures and potential transfers. I'm planning to use my wildcard chip in two weeks, and I've already prepared about 10 draft teams.

Trusting Instincts and Building Relationships

I trust my gut instincts, remembering that FPL is ultimately a game meant to be fun. My favorite aspect is the community's passion, where everyone shares opinions and strives to create the 'optimal' team.

My Nottingham Forest fandom has influenced my team selection, with goalkeeper Matz Sels, defender Ola Aina, and striker Chris Wood being consistent picks. I've developed a trust in Aina and Wood, often defying popular opinion.

The Impact of FPL on My Life

Being 66th in the world in FPL and seeing Forest third in the Premier League is beyond my wildest dreams. This season has changed my perspective on football. I now watch games primarily as an FPL fan, with my love for football as a fan taking a backseat.

As the season concludes, I'll reflect on my decisions and strategies, aiming to replicate my success in the future. The absence of international tournaments this summer will make me miss football even more, and I'll be eager to prove my consistency in FPL.

Conclusion

Nathan Bannister's journey in FPL showcases the dedication, strategic planning, and community engagement required to excel in Fantasy Premier League. His story is a testament to how FPL can transform the football viewing experience and become an integral part of a fan's life.