They might protect the goal and make those last-ditch tackles, but defenders are so much more than that. They're running the lines, dictating the play, and plenty of times, they're scoring goals too. It's for this reason that a good defender on your squad should be treated as an investment rather than a cost.
But before you get carried away, there's one small hurdle to overcome: your team budget. To come out on top, you'll need to use your £100m budget carefully – and that's where this article comes in. Ahead of our 2024-25 launch on Saturday 31 August, we've put together this list of some of the defender prices you can expect this season.
PS. Can't spot your favourite defender? The full list of prices will be available once the game has launched.
Katie McCabe - 7.5M
Katie McCabe was a highly sought-after player for Fantasy managers last season; with a selection rate second only to Mary Earps, Katie comes at a premium this year as a result. If she can stay away from those yellow cards, she could be a very effective choice for your squad.
Anna Patten - 5.0M
Since making the move to Villa Anna Patten has made her mark, racking up a respectable number of Fantasy points across the season. Her strong defensive skills combined with her keen attacking ability are sure to create results this time around.
Jorelyn Carabalí - 4.0M
She may not be top of your list, but Jorelyn Carabalí is one to keep in your back pocket. The talented Colombian international is looking to continue her growth at Brighton this season, and we know that she has assists in her arsenal.
Millie Bright - 6.5M
Need we say more? Despite being out for a lot of last season with injury, Millie Bright is back in form, and we think this will be a popular pick for Fantasy managers. She's a rock in the Chelsea defence, and she's got a few goals in her too. This is a bargain.
Isabella Sibley - 4.0M
Isabella Sibley may be new to the WSL, but she's got an impressive youth record. Having trained with Chelsea's youth teams alongside a stint in the US, Sibley could be a great budget option for favourable matches.
Megan Finnigan - 5.0M
Megan Finnigan racked up points to rival a forward last season, so at 5M, this is a steal. Everton continue to bolster their ranks and work their way up the table, so having Finnigan in your back line is a stable source of points throughout the season.
Sophie Howard - 4.5M
Another reliable mid-table choice is Sophie Howard. She clocks up the minutes and has an incredible defensive record, particularly when it comes to interceptions and aeriel duels, putting her in the running for Bonus Points on a good fixture.
Grace Fisk - 6.5M
By the end of last season, there were few Fantasy managers who didn't have Grace Fisk on their squad. The Queen of the Bonus Points, Fisk is an incredible talent, who deserves the price put on her name. She'd be a key member in any Fantasy WSL squad - but can you afford her?
Laia Aleixandri - 8.0M
'8M for a defender?!' we hear you exclaim. We get it. But Laia Aleixandri earned an impressive 93 points last season, putting her on par with some of the finest attackers in the WSL. You get what you pay for.
Maya Le Tissier - 6.5M
Maya Le Tissier is the newly-crowned captain of Manchester United, and for good reason. Not only is she a superb defender, but her work on the ball earns her serious bonus points, which is guaranteed to give you the edge on your rivals.
Ashleigh Neville - 5.0M
Ashleigh Neville is a seasoned defender who doesn't mess about. 5M feels like a steal for the anchor of the Spurs backline. She's a seriously good option for those looking for rotation in their squad, particularly when Spurs have a good fixture.
Kirsty Smith - 4.5M
Although West Ham spent most of last season at the bottom of the table, there's plenty of talented players in the team that come at an excellent price. Kirsty Smith is one of them – her passing variety and take-on ability mean she could be a great option for your squad this season. Watch this space.
Images: Courtesy of clubs
