Player Review
86 - ShowDown
First and foremost, I am a United fan, so I was always going to this SBC with all the fodder I have. I got his red pick in WL rewards a couple weeks ago, loved it, so I was happy to see this come out. I already had a formidable CDM in Kante, so for this review I'll be comparing the two. Both are on Shadow with 10 chem, so let's get into it.
Pace - Practically the same. Both felt rapid off the mark and were quick to close down their man or break away.
Dribbling - Now because I play with two CMs, my defensive CM has to sometimes be able to progress with the ball and beat a man or two. McTominay is far better than Kante in this regard. He turns well (not as good as Kante), powers through the midfield with ease, and the 3* skill moves is actually a blessing.
Passing - McTominay and it's not even close. My biggest complaint with Kante was his lack of passing ability, which I felt heavily coming from Fabinho. Too often Kante would win the ball back in a crucial area and give it right back with an errant ball. Long balls weren't even an option with Kante. McTominay is a tremendous asset in that regard, he is able to function as a ball-playing CDM, with great short passes and exquisite long balls.
Shooting - I don't really shoot much with my defensive CM, as they are commonly on 'Drop Between Defenders', so I can't get into this aspect too much.
Defending - Now we're into the real meat and bones of this review. Kante still remains an absolute defensive menace. He's still a better destroyer than McTominay, and you'll notice it. That's not to say McTominay isn't good at defending per se, but because his Def. Awareness and Interceptions is lower than Kante's even with Shadow, he's not going to pop up everywhere and just intercept everything in sight like Kante.
Physical - Which is okay, because this man is a physical demon. His aggression and strength make him a menace. So if he's not in the right place, he can close down the attackers and knock them off balance or off the ball. What did Rob Holding say, brick something something house? :)
Overall, I'd say the card as it is very good and usable. He is quick, turns on the ball well, and moves with general power and ease. However, this is probably the riskiest Showdown this year, simply because it is a kinda expensive SBC that can easily become a waste without the +2 upgrade. If your playstyle relies heavily on your CDM being able to destroy everything in his path or you want to avoid the risk that comes with Showdowns, go with Kante. If you are a United fan, need your CDM to win and dish, or just want to play with a fun card in general, McSauce will not disappoint you.
Passing - He can ping some absolute beauties.
Physical - He's a demon.
Dribbling - Glides through the midfield. Doesn't feel clunky at all.
Defending - His H/H WR and Def. Awareness/Interceptions aren't deal breakers, but he won't be a destroyer as much as you'd like.
Agility/Balance - Yes he glides through the midfield, but that is because he's a physical beast. He's 6'4 with 75 agility and 68 balance. Just beat your man and dish it off to the better dribblers on your team, he is still a CDM at heart.
Risk - This card has so much potential riding on Sunday's result.