Sporting Kansas City midfielder Ilie has stepped up in a big way in 2021, filling in at center back and now running the show in the middle as a holding midfielder. Following Sporting KC’s 2-0 victory over LA Galaxy and ahead of Sunday’s match at Minnesota United, Ilie joined Rob Brenton from 610 Sports Radio to discuss a host of topics on The Nutmeg Podcast.
In his fifth year with the club, Ilie has been a mainstay in manager Peter Vermes’ lineup no matter what line he starts on. Ilie stepped up this season by playing centerback, making 20 starts in central defense despite predominately playing midfield for most of his career. With his 27 appearances, Ilie ranks third in MLS in passes successful with 1080 completed passes and is fifth in the league in +/- with a +25-goal differential while on the field.
Sporting KC is back in action against the club's rival to the north, Minnesota United FC, on Sunday. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. CT on ESPN, while ESPN 94.5 FM and La Grande 1340 AM will carry the game locally on the radio.
