Player Review

Hey everyone! For those of you like me who can't quite get trading right and are hovering around div 3/4, I thought I would give him a try. I haven't had this much fun with a card this year! Also, a (10/10) means Pele so I am trying to scale it better.

Pace (7/10)

Okay, he ain't no Dembele or Son, but he can latch onto through balls and spin a defender to get 3-4 yards. I score 60% of my goals by keeping Ilicic as a False 9, holding the ball, and playing a through ball as he makes his run, which seems to be pretty effective.

Shooting (8/10)

If you use him as a RS he is perfectly fine lashing shots far-post, which I feel is OP this year, but his best quality is the heading. With strong crossers, you can get onto most crosses and smash them in!

Dribbling (6/10)

I like to play on the 18 and in the box with quick one-twos so he is mostly used for a rebound pass or a one-time shot. He does hold the ball up against smaller CBs but if Kimpembe sneaks up on ya, forget about it. Try to keep him to one or two touches.

Passing (4/10)

With 80 passing with Hunter it is manageable. Again, keep it to short quick passes with this guy, don't expect a crazy through-ball every time. He did surprise me with some through-balls to the wingers on a counter but that has been rare.

Defending (6/10)

I like to manually defend at the front, for some reason this guy wins the ball every time I close down a short pass from the GK or a lobbed ball to the outside backs, it has been a huge help.

Physicality (9/10)

Very well balanced but nothing to crazy, he can get bodied by much stronger defenders, but he can also hold the ball up briefly. BUT JUST LOOK AT THAT JUMPING, I mean c'mon!

Is he worth it: For basically discard value, yes. It is also a great option to change up your playing style and try a 2 ST formation, with an emphasis on crossing. Try a Marksman or Finisher!

Comparable: If you like players like Aurnautovic or Haaland, give him a try.

Alternatives (maybe better options): Lauturo obviously, or Milito if you can spare 100k