Ilic started his English career at Charlton Athletic in November 1997 and was the hero at the end of the season when they drew 4-4 against Sunderland in Play-Off Final in which the Australian keeper made the save in a penalty shootout which sent the Valley club to the Premiership.
He played a game for West Ham United on loan before his transfer to Zalaegerszeg in August 2001, he stayed there until February 2003 where he moved back to England to play for Portsmouth after a successful loan sopell.
Only 7 appearances were made at Fratton Park but with Shaka Hislop as competition even Paddy Kenny would have his work cut out. He left Pompey upon their promotion to the Premiership and joined Barnsley in Division 2.
He eventually had a fall out with the Oakwell club and stormed out leaving the Blades to sign Ilic on a free transfer after his trial with Bradford City became unsuccessful.