How do players score points in FPL?

How do players score points in Fantasy Premier League (FPL)?

We answer this question below as part of our FPL Training Academy series, covering all the basics of the game. Our How to Play FPLpage covers everything you need to know.

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Last updated: 18/07/25 (new defensive contributions points for 2025/26)

Scoring points in FPL: A full breakdown

There are a number of ways to score points in FPL.

Typically, goals, assists and clean sheets have been the main routes to points.

But in a change for the 2025/26 game, FPL has announced additional routes to points that should particularly benefit centre-backs and defensive midfielders.

In theory then, there should be a wider pool of potential players to choose from – in the past, defensive midfielders for example have been ignored in favour of those who score and assist.

Players can also score minus points. Bonus points are also allocated to the top-performing players – you can read more about bonus points here.

Here’s a breakdown of how players score points in Fantasy Premier League:

New for 2025/26: Defensive contributions added

Any defender who manages at total of 10 clearances, blocks, interceptions and tackles in a single match will score two points. This is the maximum additional points score through this addition per game.

Midfielders and forwards will also be able to earn extra points this season.

As well as clearances, blocks, interceptions and tackles like defenders, ball recoveries will also be counted.

This is particularly aimed at rewarding defensive midfielders – through actions like being first to a loose ball – although any midfielder or attacker is eligible.

Midfielders and forwards will need to complete 12 of these actions in a single game to earn their two extra FPL points.

Important points to note about scoring points in FPL

A clean sheet is only awarded if a player plays 60 minutes or more (not including stoppage time). If a player is subbed off with a clean sheet and his team then concedes a goal, his clean sheet will stay intact.

If a defender or goalkeeper receives a red card, then they will continue to be penalised for goals conceded by their team.

An assist is awarded for the player who makes the final pass before the goal is scored, rebounds, own goals, and for earning a penalty or free kick (that is subsequently scored).

Points awarded in-game are subject to change. Amendments can be made up until one hour after the final whistle of the last match of any given day. No adjustments will be made once points have been updated on that day.

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