With the new FPL season approaching, defensive rotation could offer managers a smart way to maximise favourable fixtures without spending heavily on premium defenders.

Several combinations stand out for the opening Gameweeks.

Manchester United–Brighton is one of the strongest early rotations, offering favourable fixtures through Gameweek 7 and avoiding last season’s top-six sides during that period.

Everton–Fulham provides a longer option through Gameweek 10. The pair can avoid the top six across the opening 10 Gameweeks, with most fixtures coming against promoted or lower-half teams.

For managers looking at a longer-term strategy, Manchester United–Tottenham offers an attractive run through Gameweek 15, with only one fixture against a last-season top-six side.

Budget-conscious managers could consider Nottingham Forest–Coventry, with Milan van Ewijk providing a potential £4.0m option. The rotation can be used through Gameweek 13 while avoiding top-six opposition.

Three-way combinations such as Everton–Forest–Coventry can provide even greater flexibility, allowing managers to select the defender with the best fixture each Gameweek.

The key takeaway is simple: rather than picking defenders individually, managers should consider defensive combinations and fixture rotation. Pre-season minutes, transfers and team selections should ultimately determine which players make the final squad.