Jamie "Jamboo" Rigden knows what it takes to challenge for the ePremier League title so his advice for gamers is worth taking on board.
Representing West Ham United, Jamboo reached the ePL Xbox semi-finals in 2019/20, before losing in extra-time to the defending champion and world No 1 at the time Donavan "FnaticTekkz" Hunt.
"The ePremier League is the best tournament we have here in England by far," Jamboo says. "It’s the one we all want to get to."
The online qualifiers for this season's competition start on Monday 4 January, and Jamboo recommends that all players of FIFA 21 in the UK should register to take part, as qualifying will offer them a valuable opportunity to improve their game.
'Learning curve'
"One of my main tips to get better at FIFA is trying to practise against better opponents," he says. "Even if you play in ePL and take a few beatings, it's a valuable learning experience.
"It’s not every day you get to play against pros and higher-level players, so take it as a learning curve.
"Don't get down if you lose – just take what the higher-level players are doing and add it to your game."
'Enjoy the ride'
The ePL offers the opportunity to represent your favourite Premier League team in the finals in March which will be watched by millions. There is also a share of £40,000 prize money up for grabs.
"Take your time with it and enjoy the ride," Jamboo says. "Just pick your favourite team and try and have fun with it.
"I find I play my best FIFA when I'm enjoying it, so enjoy representing your club and have a good time."
Registration is 𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒏 🎮
— Premier League (@premierleague) December 3, 2020
Got what it takes to become 2020/21 #ePremierLeague champion?
Get involved ➡️ https://t.co/B6SLrgl88D pic.twitter.com/348wGVMbIH
This is the third season of the ePL and Jamboo sees it getting bigger and bigger.
"The Premier League getting involved completely changes the dynamic of esports," he says. "The scope and potential for it to grow is just massive, so as a pro player I'm very excited for the future.
"The ePL is a tournament I really would love to win at least once in my career, so I'll do everything I can to go as far as I can, and I'm really looking forward to it."
