Fantasy Football Focus: The Tigers Stars to Watch in FPL

The Championship may not be the Fantasy Premier League's primary focus, but for Hull City fans, the return of the Tigers to the second tier brings with it a renewed sense of optimism—and a chance to unearth some genuine FPL bargains. After a season of dominance in League One, where they finished top with 89 points, Grant McCann's side are now preparing for the rigours of a relentless 46-game campaign. But which players from the MKM Stadium could make a real difference to your fantasy squad? Let's delve into the data, the tactics, and the potential hidden gems that could boost your points tally.

The Creative Hub: George Honeyman

At the heart of Hull's midfield lies George Honeyman, a player who has become synonymous with the club's resurgence. The 26-year-old, who joined from Sunderland in 2019, was instrumental last season, contributing 10 goals and 12 assists from an advanced midfield role. His set-piece delivery is a constant threat, and with the physical presence of Mallik Wilks and Josh Magennis in the box, Honeyman's dead-ball expertise could translate into assists and even the occasional goal. In FPL terms, he offers excellent value as a mid-price midfielder who is on penalties and corners—a rare combination that could yield consistent returns.

The Prolific Forward: Mallik Wilks

If there is one name that should be on every Fantasy manager's radar, it's Mallik Wilks. The 22-year-old forward, who arrived from Barnsley in 2020, was a revelation last season, netting 19 goals and providing 8 assists in League One. His pace, power, and direct running make him a nightmare for defenders, and he has already shown he can step up to the Championship level, having scored 6 goals in 21 appearances for Barnsley in 2019-20. Wilks is likely to be Hull's main attacking outlet, and at a bargain price, he could be a differential pick that sets your team apart. His ability to play across the front line adds flexibility, but his most effective role is cutting in from the right flank—a position that often leads to goalscoring opportunities.

The Defensive Rock: Jacob Greaves

Defensive assets from promoted teams are often overlooked, but Jacob Greaves is a name worth remembering. The 20-year-old centre-back, who came through the Tigers' academy, was a standout performer last season, earning a spot in the League One Team of the Season. Greaves is comfortable on the ball, reads the game well, and has a knack for scoring from set pieces—he bagged 4 goals in 2020-21. In FPL, defenders who offer goalscoring threat are gold dust, and Greaves could be a cheap route into a Hull defence that, under McCann, has been organised and resilient. With the added bonus of potential clean sheets against struggling sides, Greaves could be a shrewd investment.

The Veteran Presence: Richie Smallwood

While not a glamorous pick, Richie Smallwood is the kind of player who can provide steady, if unspectacular, FPL returns. The 30-year-old defensive midfielder, who joined from Blackburn Rovers in 2020, is the engine room of the team. He breaks up play, dictates the tempo, and occasionally chips in with goals—he scored 5 times last season. However, his real value lies in his consistency and low ownership. As a budget enabler, Smallwood could free up funds for premium assets elsewhere in your squad, while still offering a reliable base of points through appearances and the occasional bonus. He won't set the world alight, but he could be a smart pick for your bench.

Historical Context and the Road Ahead

Hull City's return to the Championship is a significant milestone for a club that has experienced its fair share of turmoil in recent years. Under the ownership of Acun Ilıcalı, the Turkish media mogul who took over in January 2022, there is renewed hope and investment. The MKM Stadium, once again a fortress, will be rocking as the Tigers aim to establish themselves as a competitive force in the second tier. Historically, Hull have always been a club that punches above its weight—remember their FA Cup run in 2014 and their Premier League campaigns under Steve Bruce. The current squad, a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced heads, has the potential to surprise.

As the season progresses, keep an eye on the fixtures. Hull's early schedule includes home games against teams that struggled last season, which could provide a platform for early FPL points. But beware—the Championship is unforgiving, and consistency is key. For Fantasy managers, the strategy should be to identify those players who can deliver points throughout the season, not just in the opening weeks. George Honeyman, Mallik Wilks, and Jacob Greaves are the standouts, but don't overlook the impact of new signings. With Ilıcalı's backing, McCann may add further quality to the squad, and any new arrivals could quickly become essential FPL assets.

In conclusion, Hull City offer a treasure trove of potential FPL gems. The key is to strike while the iron is hot—before the wider public catches on. With a blend of proven performers and emerging stars, the Tigers could be the surprise package of the Championship, and your fantasy team could reap the rewards. So, as you tinker with your squad ahead of the big kick-off, spare a thought for the boys in black and amber. They might just be the difference between a good season and a great one.