The Unlikely Heroes of FM2017's World Cup Mode
As any Football Manager 2017 veteran will tell you, the World Cup mode presents unique scouting opportunities. While everyone chases the usual suspects, I've uncovered five English-named players who became absolute bargains in my 150+ hour save.
"These aren't your typical wonderkids - they're battle-tested warriors who outperformed their attributes when it mattered most."
1. Tyler Roberts (Wales/Leeds United)
This physical striker shocked me by scoring 4 goals in 3 group stage matches despite having just 12 finishing. His work rate (16) and strength (14) made him perfect for counter-attacking tactics.
2. Cameron Carter-Vickers (USA/Tottenham)
The American center-back held his own against world-class attackers. His 15 determination and 14 tackling made him a rock in my USA semi-final run. Available for under £5m in season two!
| Player | Nation | Key Attribute |
|---|---|---|
| Reece Oxford | England | 16 Positioning |
| Kyle Walker-Peters | England | 18 Acceleration |
The Tactical Secret
These players thrive in 3-5-2 formations where their physicality compensates for technical limitations. I found success using them as:
- Target men with "run at defense" instructions
- Ball-winning midfielders with "get stuck in"
- Overlapping fullbacks in counter systems
Remember: In FM2017's World Cup, hidden attributes like consistency and important matches matter more than star ratings. That's why these English-named gems outperformed their flashier counterparts!
*All observations based on FM2017 v17.3.2 with default database. Your mileage may vary with different patches or custom leagues.