Premier League Last Man Standing Tips

Last Man Standing is one of the most exciting ways to enjoy the Premier League. It's simple: pick one football team to win each gameweek. If they win, you stay in. If they lose or draw, you're out. The catch? You can only pick each team once.

To win a Last Man Standing game, you need more than luck. Here are some practical tips – backed by stats and strategy – to help you make smart picks and stay in the game longer.

1. Check Team Form – But Look Deeper Than Just Results

A team's recent results are your starting point. If a team is on a 4- or 5-match winning run, that's a green flag. But don't just look at scorelines – ask how they won.

• Did they dominate or edge it with a late goal?
• Were they playing weaker sides?
• Are they improving or just getting lucky?

For casual players, checking the Premier League table and recent results is a quick way to gauge form. For those into data, dive into metrics like xG (expected goals) and shots on target to spot teams that are playing better than the results suggest.

2. Use Bookmaker Odds – But Don't Rely on Them Blindly

Odds are a great reference point. If a team is priced at 1.30 to win, they're heavy favourites for a reason. Use odds to shortlist picks – but always double-check for context like injuries or rotation.

Top tip: Some bookmakers also offer "To Win to Nil" or "Anytime Goalscorer" odds, which give extra clues about clean sheet chances or attacking threat.

3. Home Advantage Still Matters

In the Premier League, home teams consistently win more than away teams. Even mid-table sides tend to perform better on their own turf.

Check the home/away split in the form table. If you're choosing between two similar teams, lean toward the one playing at home – especially if their ground has a strong atmosphere (like Anfield or St. James' Park).

4. Use Key Data: xG, xGA, and More

If you're into stats, use them. xG (expected goals) shows how many quality chances a team creates. xGA (expected goals against) shows how well they defend.

Look for teams with:

• High xG and low xGA
• Strong home xG, if they're playing at home
• A gap in xG compared to their opponent

Sites like FBref, Understat, or WhoScored can give you this info fast.

5. Beware of Fixture Congestion

Top teams playing in Europe or domestic cups often rotate in the league. Champions League matches on Tuesday/Wednesday and Europa League on Thursday can affect weekend lineups.

Avoid teams with tired legs or second-string squads – even if they're favourites.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on the team's fixture calendar. If they've got a cup semi-final or derby match coming up, they might not go full strength against a mid-table side.

6. Watch for Key Injuries or Suspensions

One missing player can shift the odds. If a team's main striker or playmaker is out, their chances drop significantly.

Check injury news on Friday or Saturday mornings. Some players are game-time decisions – avoid the risk where you can.

7. Travel Distance Adds Up

It's often overlooked, but travel affects performance. If a team had a long midweek away game – say, in Europe or even a long domestic trip – fatigue can creep in.

Premier League teams with shorter turnaround times and longer travel often rotate more. This is where stat-heads can gain an edge.

8. Think One Week Ahead

It's tempting to pick the strongest team this week – but think about the future. Saving Man City for a tougher week where there are fewer options might be the move that wins you the pot.

Plan your picks 2–3 gameweeks ahead. Note who's playing Luton, Sheffield United, or teams in poor form and save your stronger clubs for those fixtures.