i think that is normal...the recommended player always suck in the first season you got them... (at least all of mine did the same....).... but after that...they will get better...so, i usually play them as a sub at least 6-8 matches before playing them as the first 11.... so far, my ST/AMR and AMC./ST recommended as the first 11 play well in the last three season...only did really bad in four season ago...which is the first season i got them....
i have an other AMC/MC...also did really bad in the first season but last season he is doing fine.... but he is in my sub team while i already has two good MC...
my another ST/AMR also play as sub... but 8 of 10 time i put him on... he score and he is the only recommended player out the 4 playing good at the first time i got him....
(all of mine are 79 token each....) and i think i am not going to get another one in this season as I already have a very good team (at least i am feeling good with my team...)