Player Review
87 - Flashback SBC
Had to do him because I just love Kante! I figured whether 87 or 90, it is still going to be Kante - will defend like Kante, will pass like Kante. I've played all of 5 games or so with him thus far and he has quite honestly improved my midfield - paired with Allan (took Fabinho out the starting 11).
My advice, only do this card (first) if you have a passion for the player or the style of play. If you're enthusiastic about the card, then having the fodder makes it all the more easier. Again, I love this guy so playing with him after completion made it even better!
A dream to play with! If you have strong tackling prowess in game, using pretty much anyone will be effective but using Kante just makes it all the while easier. Always in the right place for me and even if I L1 & X and he comes out of position, that boost in pace allows him to drop back in possession with the help of raised aggression stats via chem style cards. I personally use Architect and after 5 games he hasn't misplaced a pace, especially in transitional play.
First game with him, I knew I had to get used to him and how he adapts with my team mates - especially after 2hrs doing his SBC - so call it rust or whatever.. long story short, after being down 2-0, I was running out of ideas in the closing 15mins of the game. Ball drops to Kante, lays off a clean pass (an exciting pass even) and all of a sudden I felt the tide turn. Kante makes his way upfield and gets the ball back to score a long range effort from outside the box - you damn right I clipped it!
One might argue height? I dunno, I dont really use him as a target man or for aerial duties so always ground passes to him. I might be biased but I dont have a con. Architect chem style ensures his aggression, a neat touch and an accurate pass off the dribble so no, no cons as such in terms of gameplay as I can compensate for those by other means.
"It costs a lot to do" yeah I hear that but sorry its The N'Golo Kante, do you know what I mean? Strong links in being French, Ballon D'Or nominee, World Cup winner, CL winner - and sorry not everyday stats - sometimes, just play with the player to get a proper feel of them.