Happy To Pléa-se

Mario Balotelli enjoyed an excellent debut for Nice, scoring twice in a 3-2 victory but the bookmakers are aware of his talents and it is his strike partner who provides the value in the anytime goalscorer market.

Alassane Pléa scored 6 goals in 19 league matches last season and the 23-year-old is only getting better. Against Marseille he had five shots, including two big chances but was unable to convert whilst Balotelli got the plaudits. However, if he keeps getting in position he will score.

So far this season Plea is averaging 3.8 shots per90, the second largest shot volume (per 90min) in Ligue 1, for players who have played three or more games. Plea’s shooting locations are also good, 3 per90 are in the penalty area with a further 0.3 in the six-yard box.

With Schalke’s attentions likely to be focused on Mario Balotelli, Alassane Plea is a good bet at 11/4 (Betfred) to score anytime.