As the new FPL season approaches, many players might consider using the Auto Pick feature to set up their initial team. However, this feature has its pros and cons. This article explores the nuances of FPL Auto Picks, providing insights into its effectiveness and alternatives.

The Mechanism Behind FPL Auto Picks
The Auto Pick feature in FPL is designed to automatically generate a team based on predefined algorithms and criteria. It is a convenient tool for beginners or those who might not have the time to meticulously research players. The feature aims to balance the team within the budget constraints while ensuring a mix of players across different positions. A squad consists of two goalkeepers, five defenders, five midfielders, and three forwards, all within an initial budget of £100.0m.
Common Criticisms of Auto Pick Teams
- Overinvestment in Substitutes: One of the most significant criticisms of the Auto Pick feature is its tendency to allocate substantial funds to substitute players. In FPL, substitutes generally have a zero multiplier for most weeks, meaning they do not contribute to the weekly score unless a starting player does not feature. Therefore, spending beyond the minimum requirement on substitutes results in poor return on investment (ROI). For instance, an Auto Pick team might look robust on the surface but often fails to deliver competitive scores due to this inefficiency .
- Suboptimal Point Accumulation: Another issue is the suboptimal point accumulation from an Auto Pick team. An Auto Pick squad can result in a team that looks good at first glance but performs poorly in practice.
Reasons People Use Auto Pick
Despite its drawbacks, there are several reasons why FPL managers might choose to use the Auto Pick feature:
- Quick Setup and Early Registration: Using Auto Pick allows managers to quickly set up their teams and secure a lower team ID, which can be beneficial for various administrative reasons within FPL. This is particularly useful for those who want to lock in their participation early and make adjustments later.
- Convenience for Casual Players: Casual players who do not have the time or interest to research and select individual players might find the Auto Pick feature convenient. It provides a ready-made team that they can tweak as the season progresses.
- Initial Framework for Tinkering: Some managers use Auto Pick as an initial framework, allowing them to make further changes and fine-tune their team closer to the season start. This approach ensures they have a complete squad while retaining the flexibility to optimise it based on pre-season developments and player transfers.
Conclusion
While the Auto Pick feature in FPL offers convenience, especially for beginners and casual players, it has notable limitations that can hinder competitive performance. By understanding its mechanisms and common pitfalls, managers can make informed decisions on whether to use Auto Pick or manually curate their teams. For those committed to optimising their squad, strategic player selection and careful budget allocation are key to achieving success in Fantasy Premier League.