Pure Fun; for the purist/brave

This squad has given me the most enjoyment of any of my squads so far; it can be hard work at the back but plays fantastically and with an amazing ability to produce the spectacular; if you struggle with defending I wouldn't recommend it.

Ricardo - 13k - Great shot stopper, excellent throw and decent keepers but he does get caught out of position and can let in the softest goals. He copes pretty well though considering his two centre backs are the slowest of the slow and his natural desire to charge out of goal can be of great benefit even if at times it's a serious hindrance. I've had him for a while but didn't think I'd have a chance to use him; a third IF would be nice as he does lack a little but all in all he complements the team even at his pretty short 6"1. (7.9/10)

Carvalho - 10k - I put a shadow on him and it was needed! In the air he is a force, on the ground his tackling is superb and his passing good but the lack of pace does show and so does his positioning which is great 90% of the time but on occasions leaves you very exposed. He isn't the tallest but he is very strong and aggressive and he has the right chemistry to use some less used players. All in all he's a solid defender and if he was around 65 pace would be extremely good. I can see why Jose liked him so much. (7.9/10)

Garay - 11k - Garay is a monster; he might not be quick but he's great fun to use, always in the right place, makes amazing tackles, beats most players in the air and seldom lets an attacker past even if they are 90 pace. He isn't quick, but he is wide which means players have to go around him. This is a help as a long ball does leave him exposed but if that long ball is over Carvalho I find he often stands just in the right position to make a block or take the ball from the attackers feet. He's a genuine monster of a defender and I really enjoy using him. Defensively he's great but his passing, free kick taking and penalties are a joy too; what more can be said, with 70 pace he'd be the best defender on the game without a doubt. (8.9/10)

Pereira - 15k - An interesting player who needs a little more pace to make him top notch but a good one nevertheless. His passing is strong, dribbling superb and all round play very good. Defensively the lack of pace means he can struggle to get back (no shadow card just yet) and in the air he can struggle as he is 5"8 but he's strong and aggressive and is a force coming forward. He does come forward, lots, but on the ball he is very good and his crossing is great too, with Salpingidis tracking back that's a help and so fits nicely within this team. His tackling is good too, though not superb, but if he gets close he is going to hold up his man even if they are tricky or pacey. (7.9/10)

Bedimo - 19k - Bedimo is strong, quick, good in the air and very solid. He does come forward but not as much as Pereira and he's good cover for the slightly crippled Carvalho, His crossing is very good though I don't use it all that much as he rarely ventures that far forward, his dribbling is average so I try not to bomb him on, but he does what a good full back does, defends well with an attacking trick or two. I have no complaints with him as he can tackle, head, defender and attack; pretty much perfect and I prefer him to Digne. (8.7/10)

Toulalan - 12k - I made this team for him  as his stats suggested I had a gem on my hands and I was right. Defensively his tackling and positioning are excellent and he's always stripping the ball from attackers, offensively his passing is absolutely amazing and through balls constantly split defences which is a real help because he makes plenty of interceptions and allows me to create great counters, especially to Salpingidis. His dribbling is also very good, heading decent, but his shooting is atrocious and I tend to find someone else rather than letting him test the keeper. So far no goals but lots of assists. He is also a very big player which means the opposition rarely flattens him and needs to go around him; he stays back but also comes forward at the right time. An absolutely great player. (9/10)

Dominguez - 10k - Great shot, great pass, excellent corner, good player. Goal wise from distance he is deadly, up close he is neat, he has good dribbling and his passing is strong both short and long (better short). He is small but seems bigger than 5"8, he helps out in defence more than his low work rate suggests, and plays as a good central midfielder should. He was my main worry in this team but he's not the weak link and in fact does a very good job for me. Though not the greatest 442 CM he is very good and I think of real benefit to my attacks especially on the edge of the box. He gets goals and assists and puts himself about too. He isn't the quickest but he is effective and in a CM you need ability more than pace. He also has a great weak foot. (8.5/10)

Bautheac - 10k - In this formation he is effective but not brilliant. He is very left footed, feels a little slow but has a good cross and decent pass. He plays his part but I really would appreciate a better option if and when one comes around. His dribbling is decent enough, short passing is good but long passing just about average; he is very much a player who uses one foot even though he's scored a few lucky right footed goals. I do like him as a player but he lacks many qualities to truly test defences and only on occasions has he managed to confidently burst away from attackers. 83 pace? Really doesn't feel that way, 77 perhaps, plus he is weak so gets flattened quite easily. So far he doesn't hinder me he just doesn't set the team alight. Worth the discard price but he needs to be used in a particular way rather than expecting him to perform adequately at everything. Oh, he puts in a nice corner but his free kicks are poor unless very close up. (7.7/10)

Salpingidis - 14k - Run forward, run back, run forward, run back; tired yet? No? Well score me a goal then. This is Salpingidis in a nutshell; his crossing is average but his shot is superb, he is a workhorse with ability. Dribbling wise he is decent and short passing good, he makes good runs forward and tracks back all the time but when released to take on the keeper he is absolutely deadly. I initially bought him for a future 433 but realised I couldn't use Mitroglou in one just yet, in 442 he makes my attacks deadly and my defence strong (which is a help with my pace at the back) and even at 5"7 feels like like a bull desperate to get the ball back. He might not be the most skilful but he will improve many teams and let your more creative players use their talents, the 88 pace is a real help, pace always is, and you'll find him part of a lot of good moves both in your half and in the oppositions. (8.7/10)

Mitroglou - 17k - At first he annoyed me, he simply couldn't win a header for toffee but after a few games and less crossing I started to use his four precious attributes. Outside of the foot shot, weak foot dribbling, 4*skills and devastating left foot finishing. He scoop turns/skills excellently, is extremely strong on the ball and isn't as slow as the 64 pace suggests. When he gets a chance the top corner is his friend but in this formation I do feel he is better suited to playing on the left as his right foot finish isn't much to write home about. So far he's my main goal scorer and he's scored some absolutely fantastic goals, only 1 with his head, and I look forward to an IF that lets me use him in a 433. A superb player who can dribble, finish, push off a defender and even though price fixed is a fun addition to any squad. Oh his passing is very average, keep them short and simple, this is a little annoying as his positioning  to receive the ball is excellent. (8.7/10)

Lacazette - 23k - Definitely better on the right, so far he has made my attacks count rather than finished them off. His dribbling is very good, finishing decent and weak foot surprisingly useable though he does seem to make goals and attacks rather than finishing them himself. His positioning is good, pace superb and he can usually burst away from the defender with his neat turning and abilities on the ball. His heading is average but his agility means he is dangerous from any angle, he is stronger than most 5"8 players and has a real desire to get forward but so far he's not made me think he's anything spectacular even if he doesn't cause me any problems in attack. Definitely an improvement on the NIF but I didn't really like that card anyway. I think with a better LM he might be more deadly but he often gets to Toulalans passes which allows me to be really positive up top. (8/10)

4222 All IF's; lots of fun

After the BPL 4231(2) success I had a Ligue 1/La Liga fitness team alongside it, it didn't work and the players simply didn't suit so I knew I would have to use them somehow.
Following on from a 4222 team with IF Milito and IF Pandev I decided to use this fun formation for the previously beleaguered players and with great success and entertainment.

 Dida - 18k - Dida is a great keeper with a god awful right foot. From distance he's rarely beaten, unless the shot is low, he punches a fair amount but he's incredibly quick which means mopping up long balls and his rushing at attackers is fantastic. His throwing is quick and accurate and his kicking very good, just use his left foot, his right really is atrocious. His shot stopping is amazing and the crosses he likes to come for actually get taken. I haven't used the best IF keepers from this game but so far Dida has been my favourite IF keeper, and one of my favourite keepers in the game. Mistakes are few. A great buy especially for chemistry. (8.9/10)

Marquinhos - 26k - A must for future teams due to his chemistry in Ligue 1 and Brazil. He isn't the tallest but he is one of the quickest and that pace will really help you out. His heading isn't the best but fortunately his pace lets him cover those mistakes, which is good because his tackling is excellent. Positioning wise he's good and he's not as weak as you might think when looking at him. He doesn't come forward that often and he passes excellently; so far I haven't got many complaints apart from his heading and I'm glad of him in my teams. (8.2/10)

Miranda - 40k - Expensive but due to chemistry worth it. For my playstyle he's a silent assassin; he makes very few mistakes, wins many headers even against the tallest and is great at covering the back line; maybe it's the pace. I really can't complain, I have used in many of my teams and his tackling, awareness and strength really shows. His passing is average (not bad) and he's another shorty at 6 foot but don't let that put you off; he might be 40k but he's fantastic in game and for team creativity. (8.9/10)

Carvajal - 13k - Carvajal stay in your position! That's my only complaint. He's a mini bull due to his lighting pace, his tackling is very good and his agility lets him make headers awkward for the opposition, though he doesn't win all that many. His passing is superb and his crossing is brilliant and that's good because he never stays back and if not charging down the wing is probably helping out in central midfield. For some reason I don't mind though as he's a good defender and he plays a quality part in my attacks. Well worth the coins, plus Spanish and at Madrid; that has to be a good thing for chemistry. (8.5/10)

Digne - 24k - A great defender but also a guy who likes to get forward so sometimes caught out of position, he's never in central midfield though. Not quite as devastating as Carvajal when in the final third but better alongside an attacker when heading and making tackles. He's a strong enough player, he has enough pace to cope with many of the quickest and he has some decent passing and crossing. A left back who does what an all round full back does, defend and attack. (8.5/10)

Raul Garcia - 10k - In FIFA I feel dribbling goes a few ways, the excellent dribbler, the poor dribbler who thinks he's Messi and the boat. Boats are interesting because they force you to be thoughtful with your movement; Garcia is one of those, but what a boat. When forward he has the quality to move away from a defender and pass/shoot, in defence he has the strength to hold off the man and roll the opposition; he's an interesting player indeed. His shooting is good but not excellent, always on target not always testing, though it can take a while to get the shot off. His passing is brilliant and playing through balls is great fun, his short passing is strong too as it means you can play tiki-taka with a beast. He's great in the air, strong and good in defence and in general he's involved in everything good. He is a CAM who is a better CDM; for me that's a great compromise in attack and defence. (8.5/10)

Matuidi - 42k (risen hugely since, should drop....) - A good player who supports everywhere but doesn't feel as strong or as mighty as his NIF; he is still strong though. His passing is improved and his shooting feels like a real shot, still not very good though, but all in all he does a CDM's job excellently with great tackling, sudden bursts of destroying 4 or 5 of the opposition and a constant willingness to support his team mates. His ball control is pretty decent for CDM too, which means taking a touch and run is good fun, especially in this open formation. I really like his NIF and for different reasons (his ability on the ball) I like his IF just as much. Don't expect to win too many headers but do expect to tackle the hell out of the opposition. (8.7/10)

Cabella - 18k - I had used him in a 4231(2) team and he was decent, though very weak, so I was excited about having him less isolated. His 4* WF and Skills show, his touch is very neat and his dribbling superb but he gets bullied off the ball unless you shield the ball, strangely though I've done this quite successfully even with this tiny guy. His passing is great and his runs are brilliant; and I know in some ways I can always beat a man either passing and making a run or dribbling past them. When you beat the first man the second usually clobbers you but knowing this allows you to adapt your game. His crossing is superb and his free kicks good when close to goal, he also likes to beat the offside trap which is a blessing as smaller players find it harder to make an extra yard by shouldering the defender off them. I like Cabella, if he were 2 inches taller he'd be a star as it is he's just excellent. (8.7/10)

Dos Santos - 31k - I had his 1IF (first in-form) and he was very good, but I thought for the same price I'd go for the second one and there is an improvement. His dribbling is sublime and his pace is a real bonus, his skills come off easily (4* WF/Skills) and although I used him on the left in another team he is very good on the right too. He seems fairly strong on the ball, passes extremely well and creates a sense of relaxation when you get him on the ball. On the left his crossing was devastating but on the right it's still very good; his shooting is great too so cut inside, use those skills and get a shot off. His work rates mean he doesn't defend and he can't always be bothered to go forward but it's fine, he has skills and Carvajal has the willingness. All in all he's a brilliant CAM and I'm sure a brilliant striker; a bargain so get that 2IF before someone decides it's worth 50k+. (9/10)

Ben Yedder - 15k - An interesting player with some great and very average abilities. Finishing wise he is absolutely lethal, when taking one touch and a shot he scores so very often, and he also makes excellent runs despite having medium/medium work rates. He does have the beat the offside trap trait, though blink and you'll miss them so he does get called offside a decent amount. His pace is good at getting past a man but seems average when running away from someone. His dribbling to get past a player seems very average and his ball control isn't always the best but his passing is very strong for a striker which can be very useful and he is able to use a skilled dribble very well. He is 5"6 though so you won't be barging your way through anyone; and although he has good heading it feels very difficult to beat a defender in the air. (8.3/10, on his finishing alone)

Javi Guerra - 20k - Guerra is a hidden gem, his has unusual work rates for a striker M/H but don't let that fool you; his attribute is making critical runs. He is strong, quick enough and has a great header as well as a good finish but isn't anywhere near as clinical as Ben Yedder. His runs are superb and is always arriving at the right time for a header or late pass but he does have one flaw, very poor dribbling, though it is manageable you need to think about what you're about to do instead of reacting. His passing is okay and his defending excellent which is good in this formation as in 4222 the middle can feel lonely. I really like using him and I think he's a star, much as he was in FIFA13. A fantastic bargain silver, especially when you consider silver IF's can be very expensive. (8.5/10)

Part 3 - All IF BPL

I am skipping past part 2 because I wasn't completely happy with my team and am waiting till the end of the week before buying a replacement, however I did make a team I was happy with all thanks to the great Team of the Week 18.

Firstly prices on higher priced IF's (around 30k) have halved, now is a good time to buy before the horrible price fixers raise the prices again and everyone builds the same cheap Serie A team.

The BPL Guys

Guzan - 11k - As a Villa fan I was excited for this card but so far he's made life very difficult for me; top corner shots he's great with and his throwing is brilliant but low shots and handling are miserable, 4 of the 6 goals he's conceded were entirely his fault. He has the limpest wrists of any keeper I've used and can't seem to push the ball away at all (unless it's to push the ball in the goal), he also comes for the ball on crosses but stays in his poor position and so rebound goals are always likely. He looks small despite being 6"4 and feels to have no real presence. A real let down which was a surprise. I need a new keeper and Adrian will be next in line. (6/10...because I'm a Villa fan)


Caulker - 19k - Sadly Caulker is now around the 30k mark, but Brown is a good alternative if you're on a budget. Caulker is tall, strong, quick and mobile; that suits me fine. His tackling is great, positioning very good and there's not a lot to complain about. He does what a good defender does; defend. He's no world beater but he'll keep you in games and when you see that spammed long ball you'll feel less bothered. Passing is decent enough too and he doesn't get caught on the ball like other defenders can. (8.5/10)

Winston Reid - 12k - Tall enough, strong enough, quick enough and with good work rates but isn't the best defender you'll use. His defending is more than adequate but you get the feeling he's going to miss a tackle or be slow to turn, and then it happens. His pace is perfect and allows you to cover mistakes but I don't like making mistakes and so I keep him back to make the tackles rather than meeting the attacker. He blocks the ball well so that's a bonus and as a BPL IF he's a bargain at 12k. (8/10)

Figueroa - 10k - He's a left back now! Always getting IF's that attacking centre back has probably found his best FIFA position even if he's not quite Baines. He wins headers, can pass, shoot, dribble and strike a ball but he's a jack of all trades who gives you options rather than quality. He's definitely a centre back playing left back rather than a true LB but I think that can be helpful with the right attacking option in front; sadly I have Sigurosson but that's a different review. His chemistry potential is a pain, so hybrids need Koren, but he's just as annoying so you're better off with full BPL. All in all though he's fun to see on the pitch, does things well enough and is extremely cheap. (7.5/10)

Riether - 15k - Tiny, weak but angry. He's quick enough for a right back but needs to stay back more as he's no Abate when getting back into position. When getting under the body of the opposition he's very good but he's a last ditch tackler as people regularly knock him down and go straight through him. He is nippy and agile which means he can make unusual tackles but he's not the best defensively and with Johnson not caring about defending can leave the right side exposed. His crossing is good as is his passing and when he gets forward usually creates danger in the box. Also he has green chemistry with Per Mertesacker which is good for those who like slow Germans. (7.5/10)

Barry - 10k - Who cares about pace when this guy is patrolling the midfield! His tackling is great, bursts forward brilliant and positioning excellent; you don't need a lot more in a CDM. His passing from the back is strong but getting forward he can play some lovely intricate balls to running teammates, his shooting is very average. So far so good for Mr Barry, he's a great tackler who is strong and well equipped to stop an attack, plus he can pass. 10k very well spent and not much more to say! He also has high defensive and medium attacking work rates. (8.9/10)

Cabaye - 25k - So small but so good at it all. He can defend well enough, he passes brilliantly, strikes a ball well from distance and dribbles nicely. His height is his only real downfall, though a bit more pace would be nice, plus better work rates, though he makes up for it by playing sumptuous passes and testing keepers at ridiculous ranges. He's another jack of all trades but a master of passing and shooting, his free kicks are immense and his corners great though he does get bulldozed off the ball if you don't use his neat dribbling, which with high aggression can be a pain,;but he can pass so find a man instead! Don't go for headers. (8.8/10)

Sigurossen - 20k - Gylfi is a great player in real life and I've always wanted to try his IF but sadly he's not quite Jurado on the left and I am still getting used to using him. He doesn't make crucial runs all that often (M/M work rates), seems less nimble on the ball than past FIFA's but still retains a hammer shot and superb free kicks. When he makes a run he's strong enough to keep a defender from abusing his lack of pace and when you're on the edge of the box he really comes alive giving you options of nice passes, good crosses and an excellent shot; however in 4231 it can be tricky to get a slow M/M work rate player to get forward. He's a front man who is probably better suited to 433 but he doesn't disappoint, he just doesn't add enough to make him irreplaceable. (7/10)

Johnson - 10k - 4* skills, yey! Though he's pretty weak and doesn't get forward enough I was happy to have his guy in my squad and using a scoop turn to evade the opposition. He's by no means quick but he has a neat turn, with strong shooting and excellent passing, plus he has a 4* weak foot which gives you good options to go inside or take the man on outside. Under high pressure he too gets steamrolled but he dusts himself off and next time draws a foul. Nothing to criticise really apart from a tad lack of pace and poor work rates but he's dangerous in the final third and definitely a keeper. Eventually he like Gylfi will go to a 433 team. (8/10)

Lallana - 19k (price fluctuates a lot) - More skills even if he is tiny. Sadly he doesn't have anything spectacular apart from skills and a strong weak foot but all the same he's a guy who likes to get forward and has enough attributes to be a danger. His shooting is adequate with a good finesse attempt, his turning on the ball is handy and short passing excellent but he doesn't play the best through ball. His new position though is a bonus and allows his natural attacking flair to shine a little more. He takes up good positions but unfortunately can get knocked down before receiving the ball. In 4231 I do prefer my CAM to be a little more robust but it just means I am practicing skills and dribbling instead; Adebayor can be my strong man. I'd say he adds to my team and when playing well he's a constant danger which allows my wide men a chance to get involved. (8/10)

Adebayor - 18k - Having used his NIF many times I knew what to expect and so far I don't feel there's a huge improvement over his already great NIF. In the air he's fantastic, in front of goal a monster but sometimes he prefers to be a CF and not a ST. He does however let me scoop turn and perform other fun skills and with his decent passing he is extremely useful. Apart from the work rates and lack of agility he's a really great striker but give him some time to get forward and he'll score for fun. He's strong, neat on the ball and deadly from distance/with finesse, goals come easily to this man especially on the volley, I can see him in lots of my future teams. Get one now before people decide he's worth 40k. (9/10)

Team Analysis
It's a great team to use but relies on passing abilities up top rather than always taking on the man, your full backs can prove very useful in this formation but make sure you're aware of where you wide men are when the FB's come forward. A wide man who wants to get forward would be a bonus and as the year develops hopefully a new cheap IF will offer that, but so far so good for wins, goals and entertainment. I really enjoy playing with these guys even if you're likely to get an Ibarbo SHHHH! along the way; I have my own robot dancing Adebayor!
If I could replace anyone it would be Guzan, Sigurossen (for better work rates) and Reither due to height; everyone else plays their part very well.

Cheap all IF Team - FIFA14 Ultimate Team (the first one)

It's been a long time since I made an all IF team and things have changed slightly. A fair few of the players are close to discard but in general there has been a lot of effort by groups of traders to keep usual discard IF prices at 20k.
This is a real shame as it restricts the amount of teams that can be made, especially for those without millions, but there are still great players close to discard that you should consider picking up.
When I began making this team I hoped to base it on IF Miranda, who was 30-40k, however as I sold a few cards his price rose to 50-60k and I was let scratching my head at alternatives.
Well fear not, a good team was created and for those who defend manually a great team; get ready to back up those centre backs.
My favoured Chemistry on each card is listed after each mini-review, I trade all the time so my teams change as I make small profits and get my players back for less coins.

The Frame

Esteban - 5.8k - Esteban is a decent keeper with two pretty annoying flaws; terrible reflexes and poor diving. His positioning counters this as he does seem to be in good positions for saves but he can cause some real problems at the back as your neat intricate play gets undone by a stupid long shot from 35 yards that he misses entirely. Considering other options I was happy with the coins spent; he's not that bad but he's certainly not that good. (6/10) Cat Chemistry due to improved speed and reflexes.

Godin - 11k - What a player; strong, powerful, decent passer, good in the air and well positioned. He's not that quick so I would suggest a shadow card but you're getting a good defender here and one who will make sure the Ibarbo's of this world aren't always on the end of the through balls. He's better at heading in his own box than the opposition and his ground tackling is a joy, not one easily skilled. A good defender. (8/10) Shadow Chemistry for extra pace

Arribas - 11k - He really surprised me and is a bit of a gem; he doesn't feel 59 pace as he competes with quicker players, he's a bull when making tackles and his passing is really good. He takes up good positions, is quite decent in the air and seems to make fantastic tracking back runs. Not many negatives with him despite his card stats looking problematic. A solid defender. (8/10) Shadow Chemistry for extra pace

Fernandes - 12k - I think he is great; strong, stays back, quick enough, good passer, good crosser and generally a bit of a defensive monster. I was going to try for a cheap Maicon but what's the point, I have Mario Fernandes. His only drawback is he doesn't feel agile, but that's fine, the man ahead of him is and his job is to defend and support when necessary, which he does well. His heading is good, strength apparent and tackling great. Not much to complain about though his dribbling isn't brilliant. (8.5/10) Anchor/Sentinel Chemistry for extra defensive qualities

Kombarov - 13k - Look at this stats and you probably think you have a world class left back but after many games with him I am yet to see his best. His tackling is decent, his heading is okay, his positioning is forward and his passing surprisingly average. He can cross, takes good set pieces and gets forward well but perhaps because I use Jurado's skills I miss out on his supportive runs. At times he has been amazing for me, but at times anonymous which as a left back can be slightly frustrating. A solid but underwhelming player, perhaps I'm expecting too much. He'd probably make a great wing back. (6.9/10) Anchor/Sentinel Chemistry for extra defensive qualities

Jurado - 10.5k - Everyone should try this guy, he is fantastic. In my opinion he only has one negative and that is inconsistent shooting, but for me that is it. He could do with more pace but it's manageable because of his dribbling and passing. In tight situations he nips past defenders with ease, finds good passes and makes great runs. His finesse shot is good but his shooting in general needs some thought instead of just blasting the ball. He has 4* skills/weak foot and it's a real help; he has won me games by himself and he must really annoy my opposition as he slowly makes his way through their defenders. He's also not that bad in defence both on the ground and in the air, but won't be scoring any headers in attack. (8.5/10) Catalyst Chemistry for pace and passing or Maestro for an all rounder.

Tosic - 11k - A small, nippy player with 4* skills, what's not to like? His tendency to use his left foot that's what! In 4411 his weak foot can be a real problem as I do like to take on my man down the wing. Tosic seems to always use his left foot which means I am passing it inside or back to the full back instead of making my way down the outside. He makes decent runs forward and has a neat first time pass but he gets pushed over a lot of the time. When you can skill he is a joy and cutting in is great fun because of this; definitely have a shot both long and finesse because his left footed finishing is strong. His left footed crossing is very good and his right is distinctively average but actually Tosic is a good player who would work very well in a 433. I have a lot of time for him and enjoy using him; plus with my midfield his forward runs can be found with ease. (8/10) Deadeye Chemistry for the passing and shooting boost.

Raul Garcia - 10k - In FIFA I feel dribbling goes a few ways, the excellent dribbler, the poor dribbler who thinks he's Messi and the boat. Boats are interesting because they force you to be thoughtful with your movement; Garcia is one of those, but what a boat. When forward he has the quality to move away from a defender and pass/shoot, in defence he has the strength to hold off the man and roll the opposition; he's an interesting player indeed. His shooting is good but not excellent, always on target not always testing, though it can take a while to get the shot off. His passing is brilliant and playing through balls is great fun, his short passing is strong too as it means you can play tiki-taka with a beast. He's great in the air, strong and good in defence and in general he's involved in everything good. He is a CAM who is a better CDM; for me that's a great compromise in attack and defence. (8.5/10) Artist Chemistry for super passing and neater turns.

Ruben Pardo - 10k - Firstly Pardo is a poor dribbler who thinks he's Messi; sometimes he is incredibly smooth then you become confident and one of his legs shortens to which he falls over. Very frustrating especially as his short passing is excellent and his long passing great. Playing next to Tosic means I have a reason to play some defence splitting through balls and he's slightly nippier than Garcia so I can dribble before making a pass, rather than moving sideways and making one as I do with the beast. His shooting is surprisingly decent and though finishing stats are poor he's scored a decent amount of long shots for me. He's a bit weak but nothing horrific, and his defending is average, I don't win too many headers with him. Worth a look though until better options occur. (7/10) Powerhouse Chemistry so he gets stuck in a little more.

Sergio Garcia - 11k - I like my CF to have three things, shooting, weak foot and passing; Garcia only has one of those qualities; shooting, but what a shot. His weak foot is obvious, it's terrible, his short passing is very average and his long passing poor (which is hard as he's part of a triangle of good passers) but his movement and right foot is a joy to behold. He pops up in unusual places, makes late runs and finishes with aplomb. From just outside the box he's deadly, his dribbling is good and his close range goals are a tap of the button. His heading is better than average despite being so small and he's always getting braces and hat-tricks for me. If only he had a better weak foot I'd make use of deadeye chemistry, but he doesn't so he's my goal machine. (8.1/10) Deadeye Chemistry so he's truly lethal with better passing, Artist if you want to dribble.

Movsisyan - 15k - He's a perfect striker; high/low work rates, great shot, good in the air, strong and very quick. His finishing is brilliant both from distance and close up (not quite as good as Garcia's up close) his passing is okay and his positioning good. Sometimes I wish he'd make more forward darts but perhaps my slower play means I miss his runs. There's not a lot more to say about Movsisyan, he does what a striker does and does it well. He has three star skills so roulette's well, his dribbling is good for a striker and he shrugs off defenders with ease. Seems to score in every game. (8.3/10) Sniper Chemistry because he's fast enough and could do with being a little more lethal

I have really enjoyed using this team, and it didn't cost the earth as many all IF teams will; if you build it you need to use Movsisyan and Tosic's pacey runs forward, utilise the skills of Jurado and the passing abilities of Pardo and Raul Garcia. Forget about Sergio Garcia and just admire him popping up to get the winners. Drag those centre backs back and revel at the moments your sub 70 pace centre backs make Ibarbo look like a bronze player.
If you remember your midfield will keep the ball the team plays well, with super aggressive/high pressure teams you have the armoury to keep the ball moving and the players to hit a defence splitting pass.

I'm in the process of building a second/third/fourth team to play alongside these guys; so I'll report back as soon as I can. With TOTY it's a good time to buy some IF's and start building your potential teams; be creative because the more of us that are the better the FIFA community becomes.

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)

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.