This is when the Fantasy Premier League could return

The 2019/20 Fantasy Premier League season is over - long live the 2020/21 season. 

Whether your previous campaign was a triumph or a disaster, it’s time to start prepping for the new season, which kicks off in just over a month’s time. 

Though fixture lists are still to be released and the transfer window is just hotting up, the most dedicated FPL managers will be looking forward to the new season.

Here’s everything we know about the 2020/21 Fantasy Premier League. 

When will the new FPL season launch? 

Last year the Fantasy Premier League launched on June 27, six weeks prior to the kick-off of the new season. 

That doesn’t mean that FPL managers should expect a similar six-week build up this season.

Typically the FPL platform is launched when fixture lists have been released, and according to reports, fixture lists could be released just three weeks before the new season kicks off. 

According to The Sun, August 21 has been earmarked as a release date for fixture schedules. If this is the case, it would be reasonable to assume that the FPL platform will be launched between then and September 12. 

The fixture schedule will not be released any earlier than August 4 when the Championship play-off final takes place. 

How to approach the start of the season

The 2020/21 campaign will be a season like no other due to the delay caused by the coronavirus pandemic. 

With the European Championships set to take place next summer, congested fixture lists will be commonplace for the whole season. 

Selecting players guaranteed to start in the opening Gameweeks with teams competing in either the Champions League or Europa League likely to adopt a rotation strategy from the off.

What’s more, Gameweek 1 could be a blank one for team’s which go the distance in the continental tournaments meaning it could be worth avoiding Man City, Man United, Chelsea and Wolves players depending how their European journey pans out. 

Consider targeting players who will benefit from time off in the build up to Gameweek 1 such as Tottenham, Southampton, Leicester City and Liverpool. 

Who could I recruit from promoted teams? 

Leeds United and West Brom both offer much to ponder for the FPL manager. 

Leeds United have delighted with their relentless brand of attacking football and could impress on their long-awaited return to England’s top tier. 

Spanish veteran closed out the season in style with crucial goals and assists – consider recruiting him as a cheap attacking option. 

Full-back Luke Ayling cropped up with four goals and four assists and could be a solid option in defence. 

Matheus Pereira has arguably been the best player in the Championship this season scoring eight and assisting 16 times. Expect him to be a hit with FPL managers looking for an affordable option in midfield.