On Abate, I think he could be a useful wingback. While his defensive characteristics aren't quite strong enough to play as a fullback on a great team, I have no doubt that his pace, skill, and above average defensive capabilities (compared to a midfielder would make him quite useful. He had an excellent 2010-2011, and frankly any player on Milan looked terrible last year, other than Nigel De Jong (who seemed to be the only player who could defend at times).
I would want to bring in two players though if Lichtsteiner leaves. You don't want to rely on him as your only option.
Licht if he does leave I bet goes to Munich. That team needs fullbacks because they want Lahm to play midfield, and they wanted him for Shaqiri apparently.
On a sidenote: Anyone watching Graziano Pelle? He is a straight up beast. He's going to get called up by Conte for sure.
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Seeing how failed wingers like Gervinho, Menez and Iturbe tear this league up, I think we need to get our hands on one. How about that Aaron Lennon. Or Ashley Young. Or whatever else trash is available out there.
- Menez got replaced lol. I think he's pretty good, and has been lights out as a false-9 for Milan so far. In PSG, you either play well with Zlatan or you don't. I'm guessing he didn't. Since has an inferior league to Italy I certain wouldn't chalk it up to being a failed winger.
- Iturbe is too young to be a failed winger lol. He's 21. We've seen players bloom much later than 21 (Cerci, Pelle, Immobile, etc.) Pelle, the failed striker is currently lighting up the EPL.
- Gervinho wasn't bad but just tended to have issues finish. He was lights out in Lille. Wenger lost faith with him, and then Gervinho lost faith with himself. Then his coach from Lille went to Rome, handpicked Gervinho, which brought up his confidence and the rest is history. Also, some of it has to do with the playing style of the player. You run less in Serie A, while in the EPL its essentially an ice hockey game on a field. Players with individual skill I feel shine more in Serie A or La Liga. If you're always gassed from sprinting you won't be able to showcase your creativity.