The importance of including differentials in your teams cannot be underestimated. With the end of each gameweek it becomes more apparent that analysing and selecting players with low ownership leads to a much higher chance of gaining a competitive advantage, instead of simply selecting the obvious picks who do not guarantee a high number of points to be returned to your teams.

Goalkeepers

Vaclav Hladky (Burnley) 

Burnley’s Václav Hladky (G) was a standout differential goalkeeper in gameweek 3. Starting in place of James Trafford (G), he helped secure a clean sheet in Burnley’s dominant 4-0 win over Cardiff City. Hladky's performance earned him a total of 13 points, including +5 points for the clean sheet, +2 points for four saves and +5 points for the clean sheet. 

If you’re one of the 15.2% of managers who own James Trafford, Hladky might be a surprising but potentially rewarding differential for your goalkeeper spot. With just 0.4% ownership, Hladky offers a unique opportunity to capitalise on his recent impressive performance and Burnley’s defensive solidity.

Defenders

Callum Brittain (Blackburn Rovers) 

Blackburn's Callum Brittain (D) is a hidden gem in fantasy football, owned by only 0.5% of managers. Despite his defensive role, Brittain has already contributed two assists (+6 points) in two full matches for Blackburn. He's also been solid defensively, with 12 total clearances (+4 points) and two tackles (+1 point). Given his impressive 13-point total and Oxford United's inconsistent form, Brittain could be a valuable differential pick this week.

Ibou Touray (Stockport County)

Stockport County have enjoyed a flying start to the League One season, winning their first two matches without conceding a goal. Defender Ibou Touray has been instrumental in their success, earning a remarkable 19 points so far. 

In his recent match against Blackpool, Touray earned a total of 13 points, including a clean sheet (+5), an assist (+3), three clearances (+3), and four tackles (+2). With his strong defensive performances and attacking potential, Touray is a valuable asset for Stockport. Their upcoming match against Bristol Rovers presents an opportunity for attacking and defensive returns.

Midfielders

Ben Whitfield (Burton Albion)

Ben Whitfield (M) is another favourable differential, especially after his excellent performance in Burton Albion’s six-goal thriller away to Mansfield Town. The match ended 3-3, but Whitfield played a pivotal role in the middle of the park, contributing both a goal and assist (+9 points) alongside two interceptions (+4), two key passes (+1) and two shots on target (+1). He also featured for 83 minutes, which provided his fantasy backers an additional two points. Overall, he returned 17 points and with Burton hosting Stevenage in gameweek 3, Whitfield could be involved in the action if the Brewers are to secure their first win of the campaign. Owned by 0.1% of managers, he could be the perfect candidate in gameweek 3!

Taylor Allen (Walsall)

Taylor Allen (M) has impressed for Walsall this season, earning his Fantasy managers a promising 11 points in last week's fixture against Swindon Town. The Saddlers returned home with all three points after putting four past the Robins, and Allen had a huge impact on the match providing both a goal and assist (+9 points). The midfielder also managed to score in gameweek 1, which brings his tally now to two goals and one assist in just two matches. 

Last season, Walsall went unbeaten against Tranmere, including a 3-1 comeback win at Prenton Park. Tranmere, meanwhile, have struggled to create scoring chances, drawing both of their matches 0-0 this season. Given Walsall's recent form and Tranmere's offensive woes, backing Allen for returns seems a great decision. 

Forwards

Josh Koroma (Huddersfield Town)  

Josh Koroma (F) is a fantastic differential pick this week, owned by only 0.6% of fantasy managers. Huddersfield Town are strong favourites to beat Shrewsbury Town at home, and Koroma has been in good form. He has contributed a goal (+5 points) and an assist (+3 points) across the two gameweeks, earning an impressive eight points in his match against Stevenage. The Terriers are brimming with confidence after winning their first two matches and will be looking for a dominant victory against the Shrews. Koroma is likely to play a key role up front and could be a valuable addition to your fantasy team.

Armando Dobra (Chesterfield) 

Chesterfield have exceeded expectations in their first few League Two matches. After a draw against Swindon Town, they showcased their attacking ability in a dominant 5-0 win away at Crewe Alexandra. While Will Grigg (F) was influential, team mate Armando Dobra (F) is a standout differential option this week. 

Dobra has scored in back-to-back matches against Swindon and Crewe, earning a 15-point return across the two gameweeks. With only 0.7% ownership compared to Will Grigg (2.9%), he offers a high-reward, low-risk opportunity and could be a key player in Chesterfield's upcoming match against Salford City (H).  

Insights provided by the team at Fantasy Football Scout Homepage] the leading voice in fantasy football who’ll be providing coverage on teams, player picks and strategy for the Fantasy EFL game throughout the season here and on their own dedicated EFL channel here.