The seventh round of MLS Fantasy Soccer is the last chance for any managers trying to reach the top 50 in the first stage of Champions League qualifying. Vancouver Whitecaps are on a bye week and beware of players missing out due to international callups.

Goalkeeper

Must Have

Despite conceding a late penalty against Atlanta United, Stefan Cleveland (Seattle Sounders) is still ideal for the second part of a keeperoo as the Sounders face Austin FC at home.

Think About

Other reasonably priced keepers with decent home games are Bobby Shuttleworth (Chicago Fire), Tim Melia (Sporting Kansas City) and whoever starts for Real Salt Lake in the absence of David Ochoa.

Defenders

Strongly Consider

Again, Seattle defenders should be in your thoughts. Brad Smith and Alex Roldan are obvious choices.

Another defender with attacking potential is Brooks Lennon (Atlanta United). Despite missing out on a clean sheet at Seattle last week, Lennon picked up points for earning a penalty, key passes and crosses.

Think About

Other teams to look at for defensive options include Columbus Crew, Philadelphia Union, Sporting Kansas City and don’t rule out Nashville despite an away game at Atlanta.

Midfield

Must Have

Averaging more than 10 points per game, Carles Gil (New England Revolution) is the best midfielder in the game at the moment. He should be able to create opportunities against FC Cincinatti.

Strongly Consider

Many of the usual big hitters such as Eduard Atuesta (LAFC), Jamiro Monteiro (Philadelphia Union) and Joao Paulo (Seattle Sounders) have favourable home fixtures and should prove to be solid choices this week.

Think About

He hasn’t brought many returns away from home (other than two attacking points last week) but Caden Clark has managed three goals and an assist in three homes games – and he’s at home this week. With an early fixture he could be a useful bench option.

Beware

While his numbers may look impressive, Lucas Zelarayan is part of a Columbus Crew that isn’t delivering from open play. He may pick up some bonus points but don’t rely on him scoring free-kicks every week.

Forwards

Strongly Consider

With a plethora of striking options this week, selecting the right front three is essential.

Raul Ruidiaz continues to be a good choice if you haven’t used your Seattle allocation elsewhere.

LAFC have Carlos Vela back but he was outscored by Diego Rossi last week. If you’re looking to make up ground to reach the top 50 then don’t rule out doubling up for the game against NYCFC.

Think About

Chicharito (LA Galaxy) will like his chances of at least one goal against San Jose Earthquakes. However, if you prefer a striker who will provide points even if they don’t hit the target, then consider Alan Pulido (Sporting Kansas City) or Gustavo Bou (New England Revolution) instead.

If Pulido is out of your price range, consider his teammate, Daniel Salloi, as a cheaper alternative. The Hungarian has scores of 10 and 12 in his last two games and is still only $6.6m.

And don’t forget about Rubio Rubin (Real Salt Lake) who scored again last week.