FIFA Ultimate Team; search on webapp doesn't work!

How broken is searching?!
No wonder I've not been able to find any!

In these two gif's you can see me searching for IF Bendtner yet on one search none show; suddenly loads pop up.

20 mins in, 8k-29k; none found.

But this time, 15mins in, 8k-30k search....loads found...qué?!

I increased the upper bid figure by 1k but it's happened a few times where no IF's showed no matter how many times I searched.

Here I searched 25k-30k and hey presto, they all showed!

Search really doesn't work.

Also I built my first All IF almost discard team and it's actually quite fun; I am building another to back it up so I'll post them just after New Year.

FIFA 14 - High pressure, unbalanced

I'm a football fan; the expression and creativity that can be achieved in the game make it a worldwide phenomenon and is mirrored by the popularity in football games.

In FIFA 13 it was clear that team-mate press was dominating the opposition and was made more effective by auto-tackle; FIFA said in 14 auto-tackle would be barely noticeable (and it is less of a feature) but when you face an opponent that uses high pressure auto-tackle is twice what is was in FIFA13 and more annoying due to the different dribbling in this edition.

I personally like the new dribbling motion, it's more realistic, but high pressure make games a real chore and for the vast majority of players a ridiculous feature to play against.

If you have one of those games where you simply can't get past the opposition, especially in the middle of the pitch, and need to put together 20 or 30 passes, or many switch of plays just to work your way up the park you're probably playing someone using a custom tactic of high pressure and aggression.

Basically this custom tactic tells his computer controlled players to get in your face, and if you've ever played single player mode on Legendary or Ultimate difficulty you'll realise how excellent the CPU AI is at closing down play and getting the ball.

If by this point you're shouting 'bloody hell yes, what's up with those games?' you're probably losing them to counter goals that usually finish with a lobbed ball, this is the other problem with high pressure, it is a constant counter creator. Mix those facts with how awful change player is and you're getting a raw deal from the game.

For those of us who don't contain defend this is even more frustrating as we struggle to change to the correct man, who is usually lying down on the floor after a barge from the opposition.

So what can be done? Well throughout FIFA13 I was present on the EA FIFA forums and continually made the point to the community manager Robb (decent guy actually) that one idea would be to drain the containing or pressuring players stamina by huge amounts.
Or to reduce their concentration stat/increase their error rates. In real life when players pressure highly they do lose concentration, do get tired and do make mistakes yet EA and FIFA haven't seemed to realise this.

So what are FIFA/EA's options?

1. Highly drain the stamina of containing and/or high pressuring players.

2. Reduce concentration/increase error rates.

3. Remove auto-tackle entirely thus an onrushing player is useless unless selected.

4. Make every high pressure player miss the tackle entirely unless selected

5. Remove the high pressure option

6. Remove custom tactics

I have listed them in preference order, personally I'd destroy the concentration and stamina of those people using high pressure and contain and I'd also continue punishing contain until it became the same as defending by selecting a player. Some AI is fine, but all AI is dictating how the game should be played and creativity is the beauty of our beloved game.

FIFA needs to change, the football is dwindling and we've been left with a gamers game, if Konami are around perhaps it's not just about licensing; someone needs to put the football back into football games.

Welcome to the Cheap Seats

Before I unleash my FIFA Ultimate Team review I'd like to post the teams I've been using over the last weeks, unfortunately I haven't had time to trade like I did last year and so I'm back to making discard teams, this time the cheap gold variety.

The two teams I'm posting are the ones I've been using in seasons and they've done well for me. Once again folks I do not contain, long ball or use that horrible auto-tackle so hopefully the reviews I make are a fair and honest assessment of how a player might perform for you.
The first team I chose because I wanted to use some higher rated player and couldn't afford the high costs of BPL, Bund and La Liga players. I have made a few Russian league teams too but the draw of Galatasaray was too much. Interestingly a few of my players have chemistry styles, I don't pay much extra for these (200coins) so it's worth looking at if you have a player who lacks somewhere.

Mandanda - Needed for chemistry reasons but a decent addition to any team. I added Cat chemistry because I wanted his positioning improved, his height can cause problems from long shots and so far he's only let in a couple. Also he is terrible on the ball, throw or kick the thing don't drop and make a little run....it's a sure fire way to give someone a chance. (7.5/10)

Nkolou - The FIFA 13 wretch is back, still with pace but with less ability to defend. He got sentinel chemistry, as did the other average defenders. Quick, strong enough, misses a few headers but overall god enough to start in a team. He covers Wesley who plays higher up for me but he's the sum of the parts and not the rock; great at rushing attackers though and I recommend you use his for that as the rock Chedjou will cover missed tackles. (7.9/10)

Chedjou - Though FIFA is extremely pace based 14 is less focused on this and so someone with a defensive brain is really helpful. His tackling is great, heading strong unless it's a high ball, positioning brilliant and tracking excellent; very strong too. He is often the last line of defence and I'm always happy with that because he rarely make a mistake and mops up those horrible through balls. He can defend so Anchor chemistry gave him more pace to make sure he could do that little more with the Ibarbo's of this world. (8.5/10)

Bedimo - An interesting player, his pace and strength lets him get back and cover pesky through balls but he does wander forward and out of position more than I like. He does a job, and to be honest as a possession player that suits me fine. Great tackles in the box due to his strength and this is imperative in FIFA. He does love to run forward and overlap. (7.5/10)

Sarioglu - The most interesting player in my team, I was going to use Eboue but with a M/M workrate I decided the trade off between height and pace made him my first choice. His positioning is very good, and reminds me of Rafael from FIFA13, his pace lets him chase back and put off crossers and his crossing itself is great. His height and strength is a problem for sure but Chedjou next to him helps a lot, he is always available for a pass which I find fantastic plus he seems to make intelligent runs forward and his pace turns him into a great second winger. (7.9/10)

Melo - Melo is epic and always everywhere. He is a defensive monster, an attacking threat and a good passer for a CDM. The H/H work rates suit this formation brilliantly especially as Sneijder is a lazy bugger. Not much more I can say about him as he is practically perfect. I will put a Chemistry card on him and I think it will be to improve either his dribbling, shooting or passing. (9/10)

Inan - Feels very similar to his TOTS card in FIFA13; strong on the ball, great passer, good long shots (if you can get them off) but a bit laboured on the ball. He really is a M/M guy, he stays in the middle of the park and when he gets forward struggles to get back. I do like him and sometimes he is incredible for me but in an attacking sense I can't seem to consistently make use of him and he usually covers a charge forward/wandering Bedimo. Great defensive positioning. (7.5/10)

Sneijder - In silvers I use a lot of 4star skill players but they are too costly in golds, in this position I would much rather a more skilled player but Wesley is one of those interesting sorts who can win games due to fantastic passing and great snap shots. Amazing set pieces help. He is neat on the ball, but not that strong, has a mean shot and superb pass and spends his time in the final third. He makes good runs to find but sometimes if you're coming out of your own half he's difficult to get the ball to. His 5* weak foot is great for me and should be used. (8/10)

Amrabat - A good all round player who makes decent runs and is a real thorn in the side for my opponents. He is right footed, which can be annoying when crossing, but 4* skills makes cutting inside fun plus he has H/L work rates and 90 pace which means he's always getting away down the wing. He is strong enough to get away but I stuck on Deadeye Chemistry because I find his shooting below par, especially finesse shots. and it has helped but to be honest he makes plays (not chances) for better players especially as he is so good on the ball. (7.5/10)

Huntelaar - This team was based on Galatasaray and I needed a formation that would suit full chemistry, I couldn't afford Farfan at the time but felt the chance to get two high rated players for less than 3k was well worth investing. Huntelaar started slowly for me because I am more used to playing like Arsenal but I soon changed my approach and use his devastating shooting and incredible positioning to better effect. So far he gets at least a goal a game for me and anywhere in the box he is lethal. Pretty damn handy from outside too, if you get a chance. Also he is great to get forward, strong and available to hold up the ball as others get forward. All round a great player and even if he's not that quick I use wingers if I need to run away with the ball. (9/10)

Farfan - I chose Farfan due to chemistry and I was very happy to see his price was less than 3k, 2.3k later I had my man and suddenly I realised why he was rated so highly. For me he is excellent, he is very strong, has a mean shot, more than enough pace and a devastating cross. He gets assists for fun and goals when I decide to get one. His is a 4* skiller which is great but the M/M work rates can leave him chilling behind Sarioglu, which is fine as Sarioglu can cross. When you get alongside your man Farfan usually comes out with the ball and I find his link with Huntelaar translates in game as Hunt gets many goals from his guys work.(9/10)

The fitness team, I had a Russian league team and Diakite so I decided to make it a party. It's fun, very fun.

Abbiati - Brilliant keeper; makes the occasional mistake but generally is a terrific shot stopper. Good distributor too. Not much more to say about him but that he'll always be in contention for me squads. Solid. (9/10)

Mexes - Great defender, good in the air and strong everywhere else. Isn't the quickest but is pretty strong which means he can drag someone back as someone else covers. He is decent on the ball and able to pass which is a real help. A great discard defender. (8.5/10)

Diakite - The heading machine; he wins everything in the air and makes Drogba shirk with confusion. He isn't the best tackler but he does get back quickly, and powerfully which is good as Debuchy enjoys a venture forward. He does wander from his position and is quick poor on the ball but he stays back which is really helpful. (7.9/10)

Ansaldi - Ansaldi is average; he doesn't feel pacey even if he is, he is strong enough but nothing spectacular and he wanders around like he is sight seeing. Sometimes this is perfect as he's always available for a pass but sometimes it's baffling to watch his 'runs'. He is another guy who does a job but isn't spectacular, even if he has a good cross and overlaps well, maybe the fact he is quiet for me is a good thing...this team has done very well for me. (7/10)

Diarra - A hilarious player to use; a mighty midget who thinks he can do everything. He comes back for keeper passes, is regularly there for the last pass but can't really shine in front of goal or behind the back line as his shooting is poor and passing sub-par. No complaints though as defensively he is great; he wants to help out and that's fine...maybe one day I'll move to assisted-shooting and make the most of him. Used in a 4231 too and he was great. (8.3/10)

M'Villa - A strange concoction of brilliant and useless; he has scored some wonder goals for me and missed some sitters, similarly his passing is either brilliant or awful. Decent on the ball and very quick but nothing special in terms of a midfielder and used for his defensive abilities and occasional attacking luck?.. (7.9/10)

Britton - I needed a solid RW link to help Diakite fit and Dyer was my choice. I was a bit apprehensive using Britton but after 45mins I was sold. He is a good passer, neat on the ball and has a good shot. He does a lot of the link play for me and with Dyer is a good attacking outlet. All round he surprised me a lot and my enjoyment of this team comes from the right hand side which really does step up and perform. Britton is an interesting player that should be tried as he is always available for a pass and has a quick one touch lay off. (7.9/10)

Dyer - Dyer is brilliant and his work rates and pace make his useful everywhere. Don't get in a physical battle with anyone unless you're charging away and getting pulled back but do use those 4* skills and bamboozle defenders before making a pass to make a run. His passing is more than adequate, shooting useful and crossing very good. He is weak, and using him helped me learn how to shrug of the silly jockey/jostle technique that is abused but he is literally always available for a pass of some short. He simply isn't all pace, you just have to use him properly. (8/10)

Danny - Another player who doesn't quite hit the mark but does add a lot to your team. He is strong enough on the ball to hold someone off once, with excellent skills and a nice finesse shot but he doesn't score as much as I'd like even if he's brilliant at moving away from his defender in attack. I'd like him to get forward more but he has a Medium attacking work rate which can leave him behind the line, in this formation you do need you winger to make a run forward but I do like using him. When I improve my skills his silky dribbling will be really effective. (7.9/10)

Cisse - An all round great player who as a CF lacks a little in terms of passing but is a bull on the ball with a fantastic header. His dribbling is average even with 4* skills but if you get a straight line run, then run to another straight line run, he's very good. I used him in a 451 as a striker and he was decent but since going CF he has scored a lot more for me. I think a chemistry card with passing would help him a lot as his link up is either great or poor and usually dictated by whether the pass is with his back to goal. (back to goal good, on goal, poor) (8/20)

Silvers; some teams.

Many people on the EA forums have asked to see my Silver teams and I felt I should post them here too.
None of them are overly expensive but I found them all fun to play with and more importantly successful.

For those who are unaware I never contain or team-mate press and throw in a lofted ball when they should be played not because it's easy. I try and recreate football in real life and so I have tried to build teams that allow me to enjoy the game and enjoy my play.

Multiple silver cup winners; dynamic, great passers and quick. Destroys 352 and is good on the ground and in the air. The midfield keeps you safe, defence solid and attack dangerous...what more could you want.
Also very cheap!

My fun skills team; my midfield is solid in defence but could do with some more attacking options, Baier pulls the strings...just about. When the ball goes to the front 3 I can absolutely dominate. Power header up top and natural footed crossers with 5* skills. Quincy on the right is a monster. I made this to learn how to skill wing containers, it has really helped me.

The silver dominator's; I didn't want to make one of those horrible 352 Belgium Pro League teams so made this; discussed in a previous post it's fantastic and the skills in the front 4 make game play very enjoyable

This is the fitness team to my 4231 above; plays really well and is enjoyable. Not as dynamic as the Norway hybrid but it's just as fun and probably more enjoyable on the deck.

I spotted and 8k silver IF and thought...hmmm, Denmark...so I made this! I also had the back 3 lying around never used and thought I'd try and hybrid them. It plays well even though the CAM needs better ball control. You can get away with that by Playing Mikkelsn on the left and Thygesen as CAM.

I needed a cheap 352 fitness team so made this; plays well, is strong everywhere and pretty easy to get victories. I'm not a 352 fan though because it becomes too easy to go defensive and just hold midfield winning the game on counters. The front 3 are incredible.

This was my first ever silver team and it cost me pennies; it's great fun and still down well for me. I think Romulo on the right needs replacing but other Brazilian RM's are very expensive.

After many attempts I finally won a silver tournament with a combination of these two teams. Players are out of position now as I have tried them elsewhere but I made it as workrate responsive. Two full backs who stay back, a rapid CM who does the same and quick wingers complemented by a creative force in Melikson and pure pace and hard shot from Oliech.

This is the fitness team I used with the team above, it was every bit as quality as the Ligue 1 451 and I managed to rotate them in when fitness reduced on the team above.

I wanted to make another national team but Ghana had some problems in defence, however making this team rekindled my desire using cheap players. It's great fun and people regularly as me who the hell my striker is. Boakye is his name and he's an odd combination of an unskilled doorstop who makes stunning runs and finishes from anywhere when he decides it's his time. Lass on the right is a gold killer; he's very direct.

This was my first ever serious hybrid. I added the IF GK later on. It's great fun to use but had to add Pasquato for Marilungo on the left due to nobody being able to take a freekick. It's definitely sound defensively but don't do any dribbling with Enoh! Very quick up front and amazing in the air.

I needed a fitness team to the 4222 hybrid above...this team....well sometimes it's devastating and something its size really lets it down. It's always fun to play with and cutting in is a joy. I am only just at the level of being a decent skiller so I'm going to come back to it, though I am now using Quintero in a 4231 Colombian team so I'll go to Valdez...who is good but oh so weak.

If anybody wants mini player reviews, or to know their names I'm happy to do that; leave me a comment asking for it and I'll be happy to edit the page.

Silver 4231 Chemistry; some hybrid ideas

4231 has always been a fun formation for me, and with the right players can devastate the opponent.

In an earlier post I have an IF Ligue 1 4231 team and since then I've made a lot more, apologies for not updating my IF teams; I've had perhaps 15 since then; but last week I decided to use untried silver players in a 4231 formation.

This is what I came up with, and it's great fun to play with.

I'll do a run down of the players but this post is about chemistry and some great 4231 examples to help you along.

The 4231 formation needs a few key components to make it work well; a CDM who defends and plays the ball off, another who can but also passes well, wide men who are quick or skilful, and a striker who can finish well, and even better, with both feet.

As a quick run down, Holebas is excellent and feel very tall, he might come forward but he's quick enough to get back; Whittaker is similar but he seems to keep his positioning a little better.
Mariappa is brilliant and is complemented by the high quality Federici, Manolas is poor on the ball but a decent defender who stays back excellently.
Maniatis is always coming back to support the CB, which is very useful and though he isn't the best dribbler his passing is more than adequate, Tettey is similar but he's more of a ball chaser which he does brilliantly. His passing is a plus for me, though when I am able to play the ball to Drage I prefer to use him.

The combination of Drage, Huseklepp and Tettey lets me work the ball around well, and when on Fetfatzidis' side I use his 5* skills to beat a man and either make a run or find Huseklepp or Elyounoussi who is always on the move.
Elyou and Hus are incredible finishers, from every angle, though Hus isn't a playmaker in any way he is more than able to play CF , though I am tempted to swap him with Drage, who's passing is superb.

That's the team run down but this is my main attraction; chemistry.

Sometimes when you make teams you find you don't have quick enough full backs or centre backs, or even CAM's. Hopefully this guide will help you eliminate those annoyances and find perfect chemistry links with good players.

If you look at my South African build I am using two Germans to create full chemistry; South Africa lacks a good goalkeeper, and Sangweni the CB is good but other options are thin on the ground...I needed a solution as I really like my SA team.

These two Germans are Kirchhoff and Muller from 1. FSV Mainz 05, Bundesliga.

Both suit the roles well, Kirch is quick enough and a great defender and Muller is excellent. 99 Chemistry.

The following teams are full chem examples of players that would suit 4231 in either CAM, LB/RB, CDM, CF or ST and have the work rates and qualities to do so.
Interestingly if you have a CAM and CDM, same nationality/club your full back just needs one green link and one orange, this is very useful in using excellent players such as Fagner.

Attacking combinations. (CDM M/M)

Defensive combinations - CDM L/H

I have tried to include the correct positions, so for example you would play Sansone as CAM and Meggiorini as ST to give you full chem between those players. Sansone as CF wouldn't work.
Tyson for example is left footed and a wing player, perfect for this formation so go hunt down a cheap CF>CAM card. (ST>CF cards are free aren't they)

Many more examples exist, of these well suited silver players. Ledesma for example has been bossing the defence and attack of my Argentina 433 team and is a brilliant player.

I haven't gone for the most expensive players in each position because I feel many people want to try out various silvers without the hassle of spending loads of coins.
Kayal, Brown, Izaguirre are good trio options, Izco, Alvarez, Dybala are others  but you'll find CDM players like Brighi, Richarlyson, Toro, Weis and Allan all offering brilliant options for green lines within their league.

I stick to the following rules, one CDM 69 pace plus, ideally 73+, the other good all round player, quicker.
Both CAM's above 80 pace, and with good acceleration if under 85 pace and a CF above 75 pace, dribbling ability with either finishing/play making as the main strength, 4* WF if possible.

Hopefully the teams above have given you an insight in to how a hybrid 4231 could be set up with those sorts of players.

If anybody wants any Bronze teams shown do let me know, I have some great ones.

Bundesliga/Serie A IF's

I spent a little bit more on this team but felt Campagnaro was a good purchase for future teams, especially as Garay got an IF.
Three of these players have been reviewed in the first IF team and you can find those reviews here, happy to transfer them here though.

Sorrentino - 13k - Good keeper but not spectacular, have been beaten from silly angles which is annoying but he is a decent stopped who rarely costs me the game and has also kept great clean sheets. Good Italian keeper for cheap chemistry but it doesn't matter too much in this formation. (8/10)

Cannavaro - 10k - The legend has found himself a position that suits him, his heading is excellent despite his height, his defending fantastic and his desire to stay back admirable  I would pull him back as much as possible because it's rare anyone will skill/turn past you. Give up a yard and it feels like 10, but he's great and nostalgia put him here...that and cost. (8.5/10)

Campagnaro - 39k - I spent big but he is decent. His work rates do find him coming forward and he isn't the quickest but he also isn't the slowest and with good positioning and use of the barge he will strip the ball from anyone. His passing is decent, and control average so I have no real problems with him. I have used him at 4atb too and he's quality. He doesn't struggle with 3atb and does a good job for me. (8/10)

Inler - 13k - Feels slightly slow and cumbersome but when you take that on board he is a quality defensive player. His tackling is fantastic, passing more than adequate and positioning brilliant. This is very useful as Hunt isn't the best defensively. His shooting is decent and strength when shrugging off a man great which makes him dangerous on the edge of the opposition box. He doesn't comeinto the final third a massive amount but he'll make an intelligent run if you 1-2. In 352 he's brilliant, bit quicker and he'd be epic; I'll try the 2IF at some point. (8.5/10)

Bonaventura - 9k - Great winger with a good cross. What more do you want from a LM! He is quick, strong enough, decent in the tackle and has an okay shot. His passing is absolutely fine considering his rating and adds a solid left side to this team. (8/10)

Arnautovic - 13k - He was a striker as a NIF and he feels like one, his strength and pace allow him to cover the right well for me and defensively he is solid but I find him difficult to run with and his touch feels laboured and more suited to inside the box. When you get the ball under control he is very strong, and has some decent skills and attributes including shooting and crossing. Passing wise he could be better as through balls are not that effective for me but when in the box it's worth have a crack; and he will try and get forward. (7.5/10, but I feel I am the problem not him)

Montolivio - 39k - I bought him and sold him after 10 games due to cost. He has a great pass, great cross, brilliant shot, good positioning but you'll notice his lack of pace. When the ball is being moved to him he is very good but I find when it's being played around my players he can be difficult to find. When you do find him he links play very well and has a tidy touch, but it feels tidy and not incredible. I plan on purchasing him again because it can take time to get used to players but he didn't wow me like others have done. (7/10)

Pazzini - 11k - Initially I used him in 451 and it didn't work very well for me, in 352 he is a lot better and available in the right positions. His strength is great but it feels like he is barging rather than using his shoulders to muscles past; his shooting is good and he will find the back of the net from tight angles but at times I find it difficult to slot the ball into the corner. His touch isn't incredible but he'll take it down easily enough and give you a chance at passing or shooting. His crossing is okay but not anything special; but when he's in the box his heading is noticeable and his movement very good. He isn't prolific for me but others rate him very highly (8/10)

Gomez - 28k - I managed to get him cheaper during a happy hour and I used him in a variety of roles before deciding on this one. I wanted Ibarbo but the cost was ridiculous and Gomez has that high attacking work rate the cheaper Serie A IF's don't have. Gomez has a great cross, good touch but doesn't always feel blisteringly quick as his stat suggests. His turning and shooting in the box is very useful and I find his right foot great. I have used him on the left wing in the past and he is great here, this is why I chose to play him as a striker in a 352 and Pazzini's head/scoring rate is now benefiting.
Short and long passing is better than average, but he's rarely a pass master, skills are strong and ability to chase down the ball strong; unlike him.
I have tried him as a CF but he didn't quite work that well for me, perhaps I'll try again in the future but as a 352 striker he is an effective player and you don't notice the lack of strength too much. (8.5/10)

The Ligue 1 victors

I am slowly updating this thread as I have built many cheaper IF teams but recently I used those coins to build a team that I am
1. Keeping, and 2. Really enjoying

Ruffier - 16k - Great keeper but prone to being a bit confused on corners. Good one on one stops, tip over the bars and rarely palms it to a striker but he is all round and not spectacular like IF Adler. (8/10)

Kone - 18k - I read a few reviews on this guy and thought he sounded decent; he really is. Strong, quick enough, great tackles and a man mountain. Sometimes his control bounces the ball around the back, conceded a few that way, but I'm placing it down to FIFA and not him. His heading is good, his mobility decent and his defensive desire strong. We all like high def work rates but being in the right place at the right time is as important. (8.5/10..almost 9)

Chedjou - 12k - I was cautious due to his pace but decided on him either way and I'm really not disappointed. He isn't quick but he is agile enough to get into a defensive position and either stop cut backs or make crosses awkward. He isn't the tallest or the strongest but his tackling is great as is his positioning; on the ball he rarely makes and error. A solid player who is very capable when paired with a quick full back. (8/10)

Tremoulinas - 20k - I did say I'd get him for 20k and I did. In fact like busses two came along at once. He really is good, I like in NIF and his IF is just as decent. He is always available for a pass, quick enough to dispose of the quickest and agile enough to make that tackle when his strength isnt enough. In attack he is everywhere and has a decent cross, if you hold up an attacking player with a midfielder he will usually track back in time. (8.5/10)

Revelliere - 12k - I also have Fanni but Rev feels better on the ball and better at defending. His ability to tackle is evident, as is his inability to head but his pace makes up for a lot and he is able to get back and cover his position very well. He feels more like a midfielder than an overlapping full back but that suits because he plays on the same side as Pitropia which means I have an outlet pass. Though he looks like he might be a push over his is strong enough to battle for the ball and dedicated enough to do so, always good when players battle for the ball. (8/10)

Barton - 12k - Now I really didn't want to buy Senor Barton but his stats forced my hand and his performances have impressed. Strong, quick enough, great tackler, aggressive and determined but doesn't come back enough. His passing is absolutely fine are he doesn't misplace too many though I don't through ball with him much. I don't shoot from distance too often but he does have a good shot and his corners are decent enough. As a CDM he is brilliant as he is constantly involved and does a great job breaking up play; I loathe to recommend such an arrogant man but he's great. (8.5/10)

Cohade - 10k - Great player who would be world class with 5 more pace points, 1 more weak foot stat and a through ball trait. His passing is first class, his shooting decent and his tackling and involvement superb. He outclasses Barton in every match. In the opposition half he is always around for a pass, able to find his man, and turns plenty quick enough. In his own half he is always making challenges, is positioned brilliantly for counter attacks and players run off him well. All round for 10k he is unbelievably good....I had planned an upgrade for this team but it's a hard choice because Cohade is so effective and Barton so useful. (9/10)

Traore - 21k - He isn't a CAM but he is a good player...which makes him decent enough to play in midfield. It is a tricky one, he has a good shot and decent cross but lacks the pace and trickery to take on his man. His work rates also make him a tad ineffective in attack but when forcing him to run he does an excellent job, is great on the turn and is a better than average short passer. He is strong enough to keep the ball and does find the overlapping Tremoulinas with passes to the outside. It's a good way to make use of the medium/medium work rates.
I would like to play him as a CF, and Martin as CAM but I have Marvin in another team and I'm not sure how much better he'd be. Traore's free kicks and corners mean he is staying in this side but perhaps as a CF he'd be better...its serious competition for that position though. Not in any way disappointed with him but he isn't really a CAM in a 4231 and is better suited to CF or * in a pair. (7.5/10...in this team)
Worth every coins though; don't be put off as he is a well rounded player.

Gomis - 17k - He is brilliant as a CF and while it'd be nicer if he defended some more (only makes tackles in the final third) his shooting is great, control decent enough, pace adequate and positioning fantastic. Always in the right place he works really hard for me in attack and has a decent pass too. He is very strong and able to hold the ball in a variety of scenarios (back to goal, man on you etc) and bullies people at will. His heading is noticeable especially if you hit a long clearance need someone to nod it back/forward to relieve the pressure. At corners he is great and he regularly scores braces for me. The best CF I have used so far....which is weird as I thought the work rates would be all wrong. Top scorer in this team with 15 goals in 16 games. (9/10)

Pitropia - 36k - I needed something quick in this team and here he was, converted to CAM I thought hmmmm, quick and rubbish I bet. He's actually not that bad, I play a passing game and he fits in well. He is obviously quick enough to outpace most, I was running Alaba everywhere this afternoon...no cut backs...just wanted to tire him out.
He can cross well enough, has a decent enough shot, excellent footwork and a strong desire to make a run. His first touch is sometimes sublime sometimes head turningly bad but he makes up for it with blistering pace to pressure his mistakes. In the air he is decent and although lightweight has the agility to get around his man for tackles/5050's. He makes up for the slow pace in the middle and that is a useful balance, you can rush forward with him but he's actually more than just 90+ pace. (8.5/10)

Bance - 17k - Bought him for my Bund team but with them Burkino boys I felt he had to be added. Not overly quick but very strong when you don't run with the ball.  He can score with both feet which was a surprise because he is so bad controlling with his left but he plays well with his back to goal and I've found he has a better sidestep than most when in the box. I am still using him on 6 chemistry as I am saving to afford his Bund replacement Mandzukic but so far he has 15 goals in 14 games in this team. His shooting really is great as his desire to get forward but his passing is average and you need to keep it short unless a player is completely free; I bought him on someone's recommendation and I'm not disappointed at all. He really is a good player.  (9/10)

This squad has been updated to include Matuidi -

Matuidi - 30.5k - Excellent player but lacks a little obvious strength; he is quick enough to catch most attackers, has the aggression and defensive ability to get the ball but sometimes you will find yourself bouncing off the bigger man and struggling to get in front to make a tackle. His heading is decent but his height poor which means it's more 50/50 if you win the header, or whether you can position yourself well enough. He is agile though so it makes a difference when coming for a header. His tackling is great and is a mini-brick wall in this respect, passing is absolutely fine and simple through balls are perfect. Being left footed helps in this formation especially when bursting through midfield with his pace. His shooting is underwhelming but square it to Traore or Barton and you'll be fine.
All in all if he had a high defensive work rate and was bigger he'd be a star player but he is terrific nevertheless.  (9/10)

La Liga IF's, slow but fun.

Caballero - 11k - A decent keeper who makes excellent stops from close range and good leaping dives from long shots, his kicking is decent enough too and his throwing hasn't caused me many issues. He can palm the ball straight to the opposition or close to him and does lack the speed to pick the ball back up but he seems to leap to his destination which can cover his errors. He isn't the greatest but so far I am happy with his performances because I didn't expect a lot and I now have him in two sides. A worthwhile Chemistry player and actually will keep you in games. (8.5/10)

Geromel - 12k - Geromel is unusual, sometimes he incredible and at times he forgets he is playing football. I guess that's his 'Concentration - Low' trait. Even when you select him he can miss headers and be slow to react but when he is ready he is quick enough to deal with most, very strong, makes excellent tackles and feels like a 80 defender. Good passer too. I can't really complain about him in any way, his automatic tackles are great and it's only the concentration that lets him down. (8/10)

Adriano - 19k -Adriano is very good but mostly because he has the pace to get back and support. His tackling is decent, heading okay and passing strong; he isn't spectacular but he does a fine enough job as a full back and also gives Geromel good chemistry. He does get forward and his crossing is good enough to be relied upon, with his footwork you'll find it a temptation too. (8/10)

Varane - 9.4k - Tentatively I decided to keep the player I got for a bargain and actually he is quite decent. He isn't the slowest and is one of the strongest in the tackle, when in auto mode he regularly knocks over attackers and comes away with the ball; he is a decent passer and has a good header but you do need to have pacey cover which is why I use him on the left with Monreal. There's not much to complain about and you'll be happy with the defending, his pace will leave you open but make sure you either drag him/full back back or keep your finger on the 'keeper' button. (8/10)

Monreal - 11k - This is going to be my shortest review - He is excellent; quick, good feet, good tackler, average in the air, brilliant work rates, good cross and very quick. I have both his NIF's (non in-forms) and both his IF's (in-forms). I really need a third IF. If you don't have him then buy him asap as he is the best natural left back in the game. (10/10)

Benat - 12k - Free kicks are incredible from any distance, corners too. He isn't slow on the ball exactly but he isn't extremely quick on the turn. His pace can be a let down in this formation but it isn't a massive hindrance unless you're chasing an attacker. He is strong and can tackle, all in all a decent player though I'm having real trouble getting my long shots off as he feels so slow to shoot with and I am trying to play nice one touch passes with these three passing legends. (7.5/10)

Prieto - 9.7k - His pace really lets him down and don't bother chasing anyone, he'll barely stay on the screen. Very good short passer but longer ones feel average, his turn is incredibly slow, like a boat, and unless he is passing the ball away he can be a hindrance to my team. Has no desire to defend but is strong winning the ball...he just can't get to it afterwards. I've tried shooting but it's not been brilliant for me. (6/10)

Verdu - 10k - Good touch, good pass, decent shot, just about enough pace to get away from a defender....not two. He is well positioned for me, gets forward and back, passes well and finds his man with ease. All in all I have no issues with Verdu and he doesn't really let me down despite my desire to play quick passing football. Don't shoot with his left...it's awful unless you're passing. (8/10)

Castro - 10k - He is decent but not incredible; he puts in good crosses, has a rasping shot and passes well enough but I find he tucks himself in very tight and isn't available wide too often, obviously the formation dictates some of this. In my team he is very good but perhaps that's because my team is rubbish. He isn't strong though so expect to lose physical battles. Without him though my team would have less options in attack. (8/10)

Simao - 12k - Simao is Negredo and Negredo is Simao. So far 6 games, 5 headed goals. I just can't understand it. I'm finding him difficult to use, he doesn't feel that quick, he doesn't feel blow you away with his skills (though he does has an excellent turn and I'm not skiller) but when he does get away he put in great crosses and can use both feet to shoot and pass.
His passing lets me down a tad and I find he is better at short passes than anything else.
I find Joaquin's shot better and Simao gets me corners rather than troubling keepers. I think I need a few more games with him because due to cost I had to use Joaquin for a while. (7.5/10..probably a solid 8 when I use him a bit more)

Negredo - 10.25k - What a player but what a liability too. If you have a yard of space move it left and shoot....jesus christ does he enjoy finding the net. He is very slow but not unmanageable and when charging down the wing you'll see him tripping over himself but still keeping the ball. His jumping is excellent but as yet I haven't scored any goals off his barnet. I find it's useful to pass from his headers up top as he finds a man with ease this way and people do not expect it.

For me he has been Castro/Simao and has 5 assists from crosses to Simao's head. His left foot seems absolutely fantastic and I really hope a pacey cheaper IF La Liga/Spanish striker gets released as they'd be a lethal combination. I feel everyone has to try him as he's a really interesting player, perhaps his lack of speed does suit 4321 because he can have passing options when he is facing 2 defenders, in 433 perhaps the lack of options would cause me to lose the ball. Don't use his right. (8/10)

This team is slow though, which is why 433 might suit a little more (excellent sideways passing would widen the opposition's defensive shape) but for the price and experiment it was quite fun and when you win you really do feel like you deserve it. Plus Geromel, Adriano and Caballero are great chemistry players if you decide to use a back 4 involving

Portuguese/Bund IF Team

This was my first use of 4321, apart from the first week the game came out, but I felt with the players I had only 4321 or 433 would really work for me, and 433 cards are just too expensive. 

Alex Sandro - 12k - Great player and keeps his shape quite well if you don't drag him forward; when you do he is great in attack and strong enough to push off defenders to put in crosses. His passing is adequate, I've never really shot with him, and his general ball control is decent. (8/10) 

Danilo - 17k - Well I had him as a NIF, my first Brazilian rb and I really liked him but is IF feels a little different. He seems a tad slower, slower on the turn and he does like to stray forward. Sometimes he is unbelievable and sometimes average but people seem to stay away from my right side so I've not done a lot of defending with him. He does overlap though. To be fair Moutinho and Danilo do close down defenders very well for me so perhaps people give up and go down the left. (Probably 8/10 if I get to defend with him) 

Viana - 13k - Strong enough, good pass, good shot and quicker than Matic. That has been helpful because he is just as lazy as Matic at defending but he can just about chase people or make them rethink where they are running. He gives Mossoro a green link which is handy if you're planning to upgrade your right/left back to a different one in the future, plus he gets a green one to Moutinho too. Viana is definitely an upgrade on Matic and is worthy of a place in your IF squad, he might be another player you need to drag back a fair amount but he can defend and find a man when possession gets tight. (8/10) 

Mossoro - 12k - Great player with a good touch, quick feet, long shot and worthy pace. He isn't the strongest and bumping off players will cause you to lose the ball but he does seem to be quick at winning it back. He makes himself available for a pass, can cross well and arrives late in the box. Passing is great and he feels like a team player even coming back to help every now and again. (8.5/10) 

Moutinho - 34k - Great player he really is and he does everything well. Passing is excellent, shooting good, crossing decent, touch fantastic, balls skills effective, defending brilliant and positioning perfect. If I am being overrun in midfield I swap him to CM, take Matic off and bring on Labyad. Works well as Moutinho is absolutely everywhere. (9/10..too costly for that extra half point) 

Gaitan - 13k - Quick, good shot, good passing, good crossing and nimble around the box. He was a bargain too which was nice. His skills do help and his medium/medium work rates, though not perfect, allow some staggered attack which means I can find him with Mossoro with ease, perhaps he just has good positioning but I can usually find him wide. All round he is a good player and although tiny you do notice those in game stats when you're against a Dede or Santana. (9.5/10) 

Salvio - 10k - Interesting player; sometimes he can be found in wide positions and has a great cross but he is quick enough to run wide instead, he is tiny but good at taking the quick touch to cross and he has a decent attitude in the box where I find him making late supporting runs and being quite troublesome. With Danilo running forward it does make up for his lack of wing play. He hasn't got the best shot but it isn't the worst, just cross or run. (8/10)

Martinez - 14k - At first I brought him on in my 352 Bund team for a bit of pace up front but he didn't seem to position himself that well and his shots seemed slow but since putting him in this formation he's been much more effective. 
His work rates mean he's always available on the edge of the box for a pass, his passing is okay but not amazing, same can be said for his crossing (which is annoying because he shouldn't be in crossing positions), his shot is accurate and he can shoot powerfully or accurately to both corners, his touch is good and is combined with good strength. 
His trying to beat the offside trap trait is evident which is probably why he is always available to cross and he has the pace to get to the through balls before the Dede's of this world, even pushing them off easily. 
Finally his heading is brilliant and he can jump...what more would I want...(high attacking work rate) (9/10) 

Adler - 10.25k - Brilliant but not incredible, for the price he is; best IF Bund GK I have used so far but I've not tried 2IF Steggen, better than IF Steggen and loves to make one on one saves as well as tipping long shots. Not seen him get injured just yet but I'm sure his time will come. Not much more I can say, he is solid and definitely worth the low asking price now his NIF is a higher rating. (9/10) 

This team has now seen and update and looks like this - 

You can find reviews on Geromel, Adriano and Caballero on the La Liga page but I will drop the Garay one beneath.

Garay - 14k - Garay is an excellent defender who in attack and defence can be relied upon, His pace upgrade has made him a worthwhile purchase but he isn't going to catch Neymar. Where Neymar would struggle is 1 on 1 with Garay because his strength and tackling is consistently brilliant. In auto mode he strips most opponents and his passing allows him to move the ball around with ease. He does get forward a decent amount but he can get involved in those one touch moves and I found it a good way to involve him but not keep dragging him forward. His positioning around his box is great but perhaps when pushing up he can wander a tad; still apart from pace he is fantastic and a great card to have. Oh and his free kicks make up for losing Viana and including Matic for Chemistry reasons.

First FUT IF Build

This was the team that started it all off and although it started as a 451 I got Ya Konan and Arango for cheap and so I thought hmmm, why not try a whole IF Bund team even though pace wise it's a bit of a concern.

Sokratis - 13k - Quick, strong but small and likes to be out of position; has a high defensive work rate so does well sitting back and not helping attacks. I like him as he is mobile but he is cumbersome and feels quite small. (7.5/10)

Matip - 11k - Feels huge; strong, quick when he gets going and shoves people with ease. On the turn he is slow and passing/ability on the ball isn't fantastic but he is a defender who stays back and gives good protection. (7.5/10)

Hunt - 14k - Good but not great player even though defensively he isn't the best; good passer, decent on the ball, not brilliant but quite decent running with the ball, better than good passing but not excellent though seems to be involved in everything. (7.5/10)

Meier - 10k - Got him at a bargain as he is usually a CAM but he's an interesting player; sometimes he is amazing and every pass goes straight to his man but other times I cannot believe he is a footballer. Makes important challenges though and is very strong; any short dropping long balls are yours no matter who they have as he is a monster in the air. Don't dribble though; pass away or take a touch and pass as he is very slow and dribbles in stages rather than in motion. Other options I would rather try but I can't afford them and at 10k I really can't complain. Oh and he has a decent long shot but in the box he's terrible because his shots take forever to wind up and even outside it that wind up can see the ball getting stripped. I think I need to change the way I play with him. (7/10...just about)

Ya Konan - 10k - 352 might not suit him in the middle of the pitch but coming back and in the final third he is very useful. He gets tired quickly and is a little slow to control the ball but when released with a bit of space his shot is very dangerous from many angles and his crossing is okay. He has good pace but is caught by the quickest full backs and sometimes he's not making runs when he should be all in all for the price paid he's a bargain with lots of good attributes to make your team tick. (8/10)

De Bruyne - 14k - Great player and a strong attacker with some desire to help in defence. Good long shot and decent finish and his passing will release players even if mine make strange runs. Overall I am very happy with him and he was a great cheap alternative to Holtby who seems like a decent player even though he is expensive. Another one for the future. (9/10)

Arango - 13k - What a player! Shame he has absolutely no pace whatsoever and no skill moves. He certainly does avoid using his weaker foot though his passing and crossing really is a joy. I am still trying to get used to using him in 352 as you just cannot take on a defender with him (well I can't) but his inside passes and balls to strikers are brilliant which does make up for the lack of paace. If only he had high attacking work rates because his pace makes the long shot difficult to get off and it would be useful if I could find him consistently in the final third. Probably better in a 4321 but I will continue to play with him to work it all out. (7/10...just about)

KieBling - 11k - So slow, so every so slow but a bull and when chasing a ball next to a defender and he usually strips them for a chance to shoot. His shooting could be better even though he does have a lot of power, his heading is excellent and his movement quite amazing...don't through ball a chasing ball though he won't make it but he will drag defender which for De Bruyne is a good thing. Involved in everything but up front you have to be clever rather than quick because his touch for a shot can be laboured and he can seem cumbersome. Passing is decent though not amazing. Needs a quick partner and I have Bance....hmmmm....other option was Ibisevic ha. With someone quick near him he could really be useful simple due to those incredible runs and constant movement...gets tired quickly. (7.5/10)

Bance - 17k - Bought him because someone said I should and I am starting to get used to him. He is available for passes in midfield, as KieBling is, but it can be difficult to run away from defences unless you're going to the corner. Quicker that KieBling but his shot isn't quite as good even though it is quicker to get off. He can score with both feet which was a surprise because he is so bad controlling with his left but he plays well with his back to goal and I've found he has a better sidestep than KieBling in the box. Again with a quicker striker I think he could be quite useful because he is strong, absolutely brilliant in the air and will hold the space between the striker and midfield quite well. Again this has been a good way for me to use the quicker De Bruyne because I lack someone out and out quick in my team. (8/10)

Ter Steggen - 13k - At first I really liked him but he is very inconsistent and can make some shocking decisions such as palming the ball to defenders or missing the ball entirely. On occasions he is unstoppable but since I have bought Adler and he is absolutely brilliant. (7.5/10)